Traveling comes with various challenges, and safety is one of the most pertinent concerns for all travelers. Whether you are taking a solo trip, traveling with family, or with a group of friends, proper preparation can go a long way in keeping you safe.

How can you shake off the nerves and have fun on your next trip? Our women’s travel guide will walk you through the “dos and don’ts” of staying safe abroad, the safety precautions to take, and how to plan well for your trip.

Safety Issues When Traveling Abroad

Travelers may encounter a variety of risks influenced by local customs, laws, and socio-political contexts. Consider some of the most common safety challenges that often affect travelers abroad.

Harassment and Violence

A common concern for travelers abroad is the risk of harassment and violence. This can come in the form of unwanted attention, catcalling, physical assault, and more severe forms of violence. In some places, these risks are a result of local cultural norms and varying attitudes toward human rights.

Cultural Norms and Dress Codes

In certain countries, travelers may face unfamiliar cultural norms regarding clothing and behavior. A certain kind of attire can attract the wrong attention.

Traveling Solo

Traveling solo can offer a range of fun experiences, but it may also come with additional considerations regarding safety.

Personal Safety Practices When Traveling Abroad

No matter your surroundings, being vigilant and taking proactive steps can be a safeguard. Here are some safety practices to keep in mind when traveling abroad.

Stay Alert to Your Surroundings

Staying aware of your surroundings is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to stay safe. Avoid distractions from electronic devices or maps particularly in unfamiliar areas.

Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places such as tourist attractions, marketplaces, and public transportation. Walk confidently even when you feel uneasy and avoid appearing disoriented or lost. If you get lost, ask families for directions.

In local restaurants or pubs, never accept drinks from a stranger and always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid overdrinking as this could impair your judgment and make you more vulnerable to danger.

Keep Personal Belongings Safe

Petty theft is a common issue even in the world’s safest destinations. Use an anti-theft bag or a backpack and avoid keeping all cash and cards in one place.

Carry cash in a small cross-body bag or money belt that you can keep close to your body for easy access and security or wear clothing with secret pockets to prevent pickpocketing.

Use hotel safes or lockers if available and consider using a lock on your luggage to avoid tampering. Avoid wearing expensive or flashy jewelry as this could draw attention and make you a target.

Avoid Walking Alone at Night

Travel with a companion at night or use a safe means of transport such as public transit, rideshare, or taxis. If you have to walk alone, stay in populated and well-lit areas and avoid isolated streets and shortcuts. Stay close to groups of people.

Listen to Your Intuition

Your instinct or gut feeling is one of the best safety tools you have. If a situation or person makes you uncomfortable, do not ignore it. Leave uncomfortable social gatherings or change plans, and if you feel unsafe while walking in public, find a hotel or café where you can rest and reassess your options.

Stay in Reputable Accommodations

Choose hotels, hostels, or rental properties with good reviews and excellent security features such as a front desk, CCTV surveillance, and keycard access. When traveling solo, pick reputable neighborhoods that are known for safety, populated, well-lit, and connected to a variety of transportation options.

Always lock your room even when you are inside and do not leave windows open. Request the hotel to recommend a taxi service instead of hailing one off the street.

Share Your Itinerary with Someone You Trust

Inform someone back home about your travel plans including where you will be staying, the activities you plan to engage in, and any changes to your schedule. Regularly check in to let them know you are fine.

In the same vein, do not share personal information or details of your trip with strangers. While it is fine to make new friends, it is important to maintain some level of privacy.

Be Cautious About Accepting Help from Strangers

Be wary of unsolicited offers for help, particularly when they come with strings attached, like an invitation to a private location. Politely decline offers from strangers when you are in a remote area. If you need assistance, approach a hotel staff member, police officer, or a nearby shop.

Buy Appropriate Insurance Prior to Your Trip

When planning your trip, think about the kind of protection you may need for your health, belongings, and travel plans. This is an entry requirement for some countries and optional for others, but it is an important consideration. The last thing you want to think about in an emergency is how you are going to pay the bill out of pocket or how you are going to get home.

An international health insurance package will cover your medical emergencies and routine hospital visits for long-term trips. With a travel insurance policy, you get protection from flight delays, interruptions, and cancellations, as well as potential reimbursement for lost luggage and access to emergency medical services.

Safe Destinations Around the World

Everyone has different tastes when it comes to choosing the best places to visit. Our compilation of safe destinations is a great place to start whether you are traveling solo or with friends. These countries have a solid reputation for safety and other unique benefits that make them ideal for your next trip.

Switzerland

Switzerland consistently ranks as one of the safest countries for all travelers. It boasts an efficient transport system, low crime rates, and a stable political climate. The cities and towns are well-maintained and easy to get around and the country has excellent healthcare and emergency services.

Beyond safety, its famed Swiss Alps is an ideal spot for adventurers and if you would rather unwind and relax, it has plenty of tranquil and scenic locations.

Austria

The perfect blend of safety, a rich culture, and plenty of natural beauty make Austria another great destination for travelers. It has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe and is known to enforce harassment laws and regulations strictly with hefty penalties for non-compliance.

Austria’s major cities like Vienna, Innsbruck, and Salzburg are orderly and their public spaces are well-lit, even after dark. For travelers who love outdoor activities, art, and music, this country has plenty to offer.

Costa Rica

This Central American gem is a magnet for travelers thanks to its strong tourism infrastructure and focus on safety. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and generally respectful to visitors.

Furthermore, the country’s tourism board has gone the extra mile to launch the RED SOFIA program. This program promotes safer tourist environments for all travelers and seeks to prevent and eradicate violence and harassment.

There is something here for everyone, from warm sandy beaches and wildlife viewing opportunities to a strong wellness community, marine reserves, and lush jungles. The cuisine is exceptional and the cities are known for their vibrant nightlife.

Thailand

Thailand is heavily reliant on tourism and has therefore made an effort to keep things safe for all manner of travelers. It has great infrastructure and well-worn tourist trails with experienced travel agencies and tour guides for every possible activity and destination.

The country is known for its friendliness and respect and there are many tour and accommodation services catering to different types of travelers. If you love to party, people in Phuket and Pattaya are often up all night and you will never find yourself alone on the street.

There are plenty of travel options for luxury travelers, backpackers, and mid-range travelers and the language barrier is minimal. It is a pocket-friendly destination where most visitors can afford to spend a little more on good accommodations and transport to feel more secure.

Norway

Norway is considered one of the safest places to travel in the world with extremely low crime rates and outstanding social progress and inclusivity. It is among countries where visitors typically feel safe walking alone at night and has become extremely popular for solo travelers.

The country’s General Court gives both residents and visitors the “right to roam” meaning that you can walk, pitch a tent, and pick berries anywhere apart from marked farmlands. No matter what part of the country you visit, Norway is full of nature experiences, adventure activities, rich culture, and delicious seafood.

What to Do in an Emergency

Even with the best preparations and precautions, emergencies can still happen. Knowing how to respond beforehand can make a significant difference in how well you handle the situation. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

Medical Emergencies

If you experience a medical emergency, go to the nearest hospital or healthcare facility. Contact your insurance provider – most have 24/7 hotlines to guide you on how to access medical care and handle expenses. Some offer direct billing options so you would not have to make upfront payments.

Remember to keep all documents such as medical receipts, prescriptions, and reports. They will be required for insurance claims.

What to Do If You Are a Victim of Theft or Assault

Move to a safe location, preferably a populated and well-lit area, and contact law enforcement immediately. File a police report as soon as possible and keep the documents safe for insurance claims and legal purposes.

Remember to bring identification and provide as much detail as possible. In case of a language barrier, request for an interpreter so as to submit a clear and accurate report.

Contact your embassy for support in replacing lost passports or connecting with local services. Seek help from relevant organizations or hotlines if you have experienced assault. Many countries have resources for victims of crime.

Getting Local Support: Women’s Shelters and Emergency Resources

Before traveling, find out about local shelters, crisis hotlines, and NGOs that specialize in providing help for visitors in distress. If you are unable to identify them, seek assistance from your embassy. You can also get additional support and advice in emergencies from tourist forums, expat groups, and social media groups.

Getting the Right Coverage with Friendly Global

Friendly Global understands how important peace of mind is on any globe-trotting adventure. Whether you choose to travel solo or with friends, having the right coverage can go a long way in protecting what you value most.

We help you figure out the best policy for your next international trip by asking you a few questions and using your responses to suggest recommendations. Our team has been working in the insurance industry for the past 25 years and we have established solid networks with the finest insurance providers. With our easy-to-use service, we remove the guesswork by helping you understand insurance and secure a custom solution.

Are you undertaking a short-term trip to a favorite destination or planning to enjoy a travel experience for an extended period? Connect with us today and let us help you get the right international health insurance or travel insurance policy for your trip.