Travel & Leisure

How To Stay Safe as a Solo Traveler

Rent.is is a great place to check out rentals whether you’re an experienced or first-time solo traveler. Adventuring somewhere on your own can be a daunting and scary experience, especially if you are traveling in an area you do not often frequent, or maybe have never been to at all and are surrounded by many unknown people.

Between trying to plan the itinerary, making sure you don’t miss something important, catching your flights and checking into your hotel on time, you may find that traveling is exhausting. With all these new stressors and experiences comes a greater risk for vulnerability, so here are some easy ways to mitigate as many dangerous situations as possible.

Carry a Self-Defense Item

There are lots of everyday items that can be used in self-defense situations. It can be something as simple as a pen or some kind of weighted object. These items can come in handy if, heaven forbid, you ever are in a position where you need to defend yourself physically.

A gun is the most lethal kind of self-defense item and can easily be held in concealed carry shorts. If carrying a gun, however, and not a normal everyday item, make sure you have all the training, skills, certifications and documentation needed first.

Take Self-Defense Classes

Taking in-person self-defense classes can be very beneficial. Taking classes not only helps you to learn what to do in a physically threatening situation but also provides you with a whole new level of confidence. That type of confidence shows through just in how you carry yourself as a person. You are less likely to look vulnerable or confused in a new situation or area and, therefore, less likely to be picked as a potential victim.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

Situational awareness is vital to staying safe, especially when traveling alone. Being distracted or having your head in the clouds makes you an easy target for someone with less than ideal intentions. Simple actions, such as not having your earbuds in when you’re alone or not keeping your head buried in your phone constantly, can make all the difference because they show you are aware of your surroundings and will not be easily caught off guard. It is also a good idea to make sure at least one person knows your whereabouts at all times, be it a friend or a family member. Set a specific time each day to check in with that person so they know you are safe.

Even though new adventures may come with new uncertainties, traveling by yourself is an exciting and rewarding experience. Taking these few tips with you will only enhance your travel time by decreasing any nervousness you may feel about being alone. By following through with these suggestions, you will be able to enjoy your time to the fullest and still be able to come back home safe and sound.