Lonely? Plan it! - Safety and Other Advice for the Lone Female Traveler

As a solo female traveller most of the time, I know first-hand the perils and pitfalls of being a solo girl traveller on the road, as well as the amazing rush of freedom and independence. Some people paint the picture of the world just waiting to be explored, but the safety of solo female travellers is also a very real issue.

The fabulousness of a solo female traveller

Number one on my list of reasons for travelling alone is that I don't have to deal with anyone else's crap. I don't have to wait around for other people, rely on them for travel plans or put up with their mood swings. Obviously this was a terrifying prospect when I first boarded that plane from Edinburgh to Montreal all those years ago, but rest assured, your fears will generally be unfounded. Having been raised to believe there would be a murderer on every corner if I ventured out the house alone, I was pleasantly surprised to find people generally helpful and friendly. Always be willing to talk to people and ask questions, don't be shy! Most people love talking about their city and life.

As a solo female traveller, it's best to avoid package holidays as these usually come with a single person supplement if you travel alone. The best way to get a good deal is to use a comparison flight site like opodo.com and a similar site for last-minute or cheap hotel deals for a single room. Using this method, I've made trips to America for under £500.

The Pitfalls

First of all, be aware that the media blows things terribly out of proportion when it comes to...well, the world in general. With all the reports of rapes in India and murders of women in America, it can understandably be terrifying to venture out alone. The way I look at it though, is that any of this can happen anywhere, from Glasgow to the Galapagos. You will get some unwanted behaviour, but the best advice I can give you is to ignore it and walk away to the nearest safe place. Don't be afraid to alert authorities, either. I can promise you that any inappropriate behaviour I've encountered has been minimal.

If you want to travel solo, make that step. Your life will be changed forever, I promise!