How to Stay Safe While Backpacking Solo

MG Quinn
Oct 22
4 min read

Traveling solo can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but it’s essential to take the right precautions to ensure your safety. Backpacking solo requires careful planning, smart decisions, and a focus on staying aware of your surroundings. Here are tips to help you stay safe on your journey.

1. Research Your Destination Thoroughly

Before setting off, do comprehensive research about the places you'll be visiting. Understand the local culture, safety concerns, areas to avoid, and emergency contacts. Check travel advisories from your government and learn about local laws, especially around things like alcohol, drugs, and photography. Reading reviews and travel blogs can also help you avoid tourist traps or unsafe areas.

Safety Tip: Download offline maps (like Google Maps offline) for easier navigation when you don’t have internet access.

2. Choose Solo-Friendly Accommodations

Look for accommodations that are well-rated by other solo travelers. Hostels are typically a great choice, as they often foster a social, safe environment and have staff available 24/7. Consider Airbnb or guesthouses with good reviews and places where you can meet other travelers. Always opt for a private room if you're concerned about safety, and lock your belongings securely.

Safety Tip: Use a lock for your backpack or locker when staying in dorms, and avoid keeping valuables in your room when you're out.

3. Keep in Touch with Someone Back Home

Make it a habit to check in with a family member or friend regularly, letting them know where you are and your plans. Share your itinerary and the contact details of your accommodations. This way, someone knows your whereabouts in case anything goes wrong.

Safety Tip: Set up location-sharing on your phone for added peace of mind. You can share your live location with trusted contacts.

4. Trust Your Instincts

One of the most important things you can do while backpacking solo is to trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation. Whether it’s an overly aggressive vendor or a quiet, unfamiliar street, it's always better to be cautious than sorry.

Safety Tip: If you’re uncomfortable with a person or place, don’t be afraid to leave. It’s better to act early than regret staying longer.

5. Avoid Walking Alone at Night

As a solo traveler, it's generally safer to avoid walking alone after dark, especially in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. If you must walk, stick to well-populated and well-lit streets. In more remote areas, consider using ridesharing apps or public transport instead.

Safety Tip: Always have a trusted taxi or ridesharing app on your phone, and never accept rides from strangers on the street.

6. Carry a Minimal Amount of Cash

Carry only the cash you need for the day, keeping the rest of your money securely locked away. Opt for credit or debit cards when possible, and be mindful of ATM locations, especially in touristy or isolated areas. Avoid drawing attention to your money, and don't carry large amounts on you.

Safety Tip: Use a money belt or neck pouch to keep cash, cards, and important documents close to your body.

7. Stay Healthy with Essential Gear

Having the right gear not only makes your journey more comfortable but also keeps you safe. Essentials include:

A first-aid kit (with basics like pain relievers, band-aids, antiseptic wipes)
A power bank (to ensure your phone stays charged)
A good-quality lock (for your backpack or hostel locker)
A whistle or loud alarm device (as a deterrent if you feel threatened)

Safety Tip: Carry a portable charger to keep your phone alive for emergency calls and navigation.

8. Be Mindful of Your Digital Safety

With your phone and online presence, take extra precautions to avoid cyber threats. Don't use public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like banking. Use a VPN when necessary, and keep your devices password-protected.

Safety Tip: Don’t overshare your travel plans on social media. While it’s tempting to post constantly, it’s safer to keep your location private until you’ve left a destination.

9. Blend in with the Locals

It’s important to avoid drawing attention to yourself as a tourist. Dress appropriately for the culture of the country you're in, and try to learn a few basic phrases in the local language. Speaking the language, even just a little, can help you in tricky situations.

Safety Tip: Avoid flaunting expensive gear or accessories, such as cameras or jewelry, in public places to prevent attracting unwanted attention.

10. Be Cautious with Alcohol

If you decide to drink, always keep an eye on your drink and never leave it unattended. Drink in reputable places, preferably with people you trust, and never accept drinks from strangers.

Safety Tip: Limit your alcohol intake while traveling solo, especially in unfamiliar locations, to stay alert and in control of your surroundings.

11. Use Safety Apps

Many apps can enhance your safety while backpacking. Apps like “Find My Friends” for location sharing, “Maps.me” for offline maps, and “TripIt” for organizing your travel itinerary can be life-savers. Apps like “SafeTrek” or “bSafe” let you alert a contact in case of an emergency.

Safety Tip: Download and set up your safety apps before your trip, and ensure they’re working properly.

12. Get Travel Insurance

Investing in comprehensive travel insurance is one of the best ways to protect yourself while traveling solo. Look for policies that cover medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and theft. Always keep a copy of your insurance details in case you need them.

Safety Tip: Keep both physical and digital copies of your insurance documents, passport, and other essential info.

What’s the one safety rule you always follow when traveling alone?