15 Common Mistakes Solo Female Travelers Make (And How to Travel Like a Pro) - Part 1

As a fellow solo explorer who's been around the block (or should I say, the globe?), I've gained some insight on common mistakes solo female travelers make. This is part 1 of 3 - 5 mistakes for today

Before getting started, let's take a moment to appreciate you, my future fellow explorer. You're that brilliant, independent woman who's ready to do something different and take on the world, one adventure at a time. I may not know you in person (yet) but I’m OH-SO proud of you for doing what you’ve been afraid to do - explore the world on your own!

So, grab your favorite travel mug, fill it with your beverage of choice (mine's a hot cup of Raspberry Hibiscus Tea today!), and get comfortable because you’re gonna want to pay close attention to these 15 common mistakes and how to avoid them.

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1. Overpacking: The Eternal Struggle 

A common mistake that even the most seasoned among us can fall prey to is overpacking. I'm guilty of it, too. I've learned the hard way that it's not just a matter of lugging around a heavy suitcase, but also a mental burden that can weigh you down throughout your trip.

Think about it, when you're carrying around a ton of stuff, you're not just carrying clothes and toiletries, you're carrying stress and anxiety. You're worried about losing something. Or not having enough space in your accommodation, or worse, having to haul it all around while trying to navigate unfamiliar streets.

So, how can you avoid this mistake?

First, take a step back and think about your trip.

Ask yourself: Do you really need five pairs of shoes for a week-long trip What's the weather going to be like? What activities do you plan on doing? What's the dress code for your destinations?

Once you have a clear idea of what you need, make a list and stick to it. Pack clothes that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits, and don't be afraid to do a little laundry along the way.

And remember, you can always purchase what you need when you arrive at your destination. Trust me, you won't need that extra pair of shoes or that bulky hair dryer.

By packing light, you'll not only save yourself the hassle, but you'll also free up mental energy to focus on what really matters - soaking up the sights, sounds, and experiences of your amazing solo adventure.

2. Neglecting Safety Precautions 

Safety first, always!

As someone who's passionate about empowering women to travel safely and confidently, I want to share with you a crucial lesson I've learned along the way.

Neglecting safety precautions is a common mistake many solo female travelers make, and it's often due to a combination of factors - being in a new environment, feeling overwhelmed, or simply letting our guard down.

But, the truth is, safety should always be our top priority. So, how can you avoid this mistake?

Start by doing your research before arriving at your destination. Look into local customs, laws, and potential safety concerns. Make sure you have all the necessary contact information, such as your country's embassy and local authorities.

I know, I know - it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of exploring a new destination and forget to take necessary measures to protect yourself. But trust me, it's crucial to prioritize your safety, especially when traveling alone.

We’ve heard about it time and time again: solo female travelers letting their guard down, thinking "it won't happen to me." But the truth is, it can happen to anyone, anywhere.

Photo by Jude Al-Safadi on Unsplash

Avoid traveling at night whenever possible, and stick to well-lit and populated areas. Don't carry large amounts of cash; instead, use credit cards or mobile pay apps.

And please, for your own sake, keep your valuables secure - use a money belt secured under a jacket or vest (somewhere not easily accessible by others) or a secure bag, and never leave your drinks unattended.

By taking these simple precautions, you can minimize your risk and enjoy your travels with peace of mind.

Remember, safety is not just about avoiding danger; it's about being prepared and responsible. So, go ahead, explore the world, and do it with confidence and caution.

By taking these simple steps, you'll be well on your way to a safe and enjoyable solo travel experience.

3. Forgetting to Inform Someone of Your Itinerary 

I know you're independent, but let's not forget the importance of having a trusted contact who knows your whereabouts. It's extremely important to have a trusted contact who knows where you're going and when you plan to return.

Think about it: if something were to happen to you, wouldn't you want someone to know where to start looking?

So, how can you avoid this common mistake?

It's simple: choose at least one person you trust - a family member, a close friend, or even a colleague - and share your itinerary with them.

Make sure they know your flight details, accommodation information, and your planned activities.

Oh! And don't forget to let your bank know, too, so they don't flag your transactions as suspicious and temporarily block access to your funds.

Taking these precautions will help you have peace of mind knowing that someone has your back, and you'll be able to focus on enjoying your trip.

Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Stay connected with your loved ones back home, and consider sharing your itinerary with them.

Your safety is worth it!

Pro Tip: Don’t share your travel locations and details online in real-time. Wait until you’ve moved on (or returned to a safe place) before sharing if you choose to share at all.

4. Not having a plan for emergencies 

As you think about your next adventure, I want to share with you a common mistake that many solo female travelers, including myself, have made in the past: not having a plan for emergencies.

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of exploring new destinations and meeting new people, but the reality is that emergencies can happen without your permission.

Whether it's a medical issue, a lost or stolen passport, or a natural disaster, being unprepared can turn a minor setback into a major crisis.

You can avoid this mistake by taking some time to research your destination and identify potential risks.

For example:

• Are you traveling to an area prone to natural disasters or political unrest?

• Are there any specific health concerns you should be aware of?

Once you have a better understanding of the potential risks, create a plan for how you would respond in an emergency. This might include identifying local emergency services, such as hospitals or embassies, and having a way to communicate with family and friends back home.

It's also a good idea to have a backup plan for your travel arrangements, such as knowing the nearest airport or having a list of trusted transportation services.

5. Not Learning Basic Phrases in the Local Language 

A little effort goes a long way. Taking the time to learn a few simple phrases can make all the difference in your journey.

Think about it: when you arrive in a new country, you're already navigating unfamiliar surroundings, customs, and cultures. Not being able to communicate with locals can add an extra layer of stress and anxiety to your experience.

But, on the other hand, being able to say "hello," "thank you," and "where is...?" can open doors to new connections, experiences, and memories.

You can avoid this common mistake by downloading a language learning app like Duolingo or another free language learning app based on the language you will need, and commit to practicing for just 10-15 minutes a day.

You can also look up common phrases online and practice them with a language exchange partner or tutor. And, when you arrive at your destination, don't be afraid to ask locals to correct your pronunciation or help you with phrases you're struggling with.

Remember, the key is to be willing to learn and make mistakes - and to have fun with the process!

Join me tomorrow for Part 2 of this 3-part guide as I share 5 more common mistakes that solo female travelers make.

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The world is waiting for you, and I can't wait to hear all about your adventures.

And if you’re still on the fence about how to plan your dream trip, I got you. 

Before you pack your bags (and your newfound knowledge), let me help you get ready for an adventure that's uniquely yours.

We will brainstorm your perfect adventure.

No travel agents. Just two passionate explorers planning your next big move.

In this free 30-minute call, we'll:

- Uncover your dream destinations (hidden gems included!)

- Align your travel goals with your professional aspirations

- Tackle any solo travel jitters with pro tips and tricks

- Sketch out a rough itinerary that'll make you ready to leave like yesterday

Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality? Click here to schedule your free "Design Your Dream Trip" call.

With these strategies in your travel toolkit, you're well on your way to a safe, enriching, and unforgettable experience.

Safe travels, and don't forget to send a postcard (or at least a DM) from your next destination!