Solo Female Travel Safety: Preparing for the Unexpected
We often plan our trips with rose colored glasses! We imagine everything going perfectly and expect nothing to go wrong. And, most of the time, things do go smoothly. Personally, I focus on all of the positive before traveling, but every now and then, the thought of “what if something goes wrong” crosses my mind. As travelers, we often don’t consider the possibility of a crisis or other situation interrupting our travel plans. But, solo female travel safety during a global crisis shouldn’t be a passing thought. In fact, it should be top priority.
Over the years, I’ve found myself navigating uncertain or even tumultuous situations while traveling. In those moments, being prepared, staying calm, and adapting to the situation became my most reliable tools for ensuring safety abroad. These experiences have shaped the way I approach every trip, reinforcing the importance of being ready for the unexpected. This mindset became even more important when I set off on what I called “The Cancer Victory Tour”.
The Cancer Victory Tour
At the beginning of 2020, I began what I called The Cancer Victory Tour. This would be a 5-month trip through 11 Southeast Asian countries. I planned for this trip in 2019 during my recovery from chemo and all the surgeries I endured. I would be turning 40 in 2020, and I wanted to commemorate reaching this milestone birthday, especially after surviving cancer.
Global Crisis And Decision-Making: To Go or Not To Go?
After consulting multiple travel agents, I sought advice from my travel insurance provider. Additionally, I reached out to the trip insurance offered by my credit card, only to receive the same response.
My travel insurance said they would not cover canceling a trip due to fear of an event. They would only cover an event after its occurrence.
So, I decided to proceed with the trip.
I started my journey in Thailand. Overall, it was an uneventful trip.
While traveling, plans for leaving Southeast Asia were something I kept in the back of my mind.
I watched the daily news, and according to the US National Library of Medicine, “no new cases were reported in Vietnam from February 27 to March 5, 2020”. This was what was being reported at the time and it seemed that Vietnam would have won the “battle against the outbreak”. I certainly felt safe while traveling from Hanoi to Da Nang and the news about how Covid was spreading elsewhere made me think that I would be safe staying a while in Vietnam. The Vietnamese government was very strict about contact tracing, mask mandates, quarantines and seemed to have Covid under control.
Navigating Border Closures as a Solo Female Traveler
A month into my five-month trip, the world began to shut down its borders. The news of the US closing its borders had been declared during a flight I took from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh. On my arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, my cellphone had hundreds of texts from friends and family, and the airport was pure chaos. Airline counters had people lined up by the hundreds. Some airlines even closed their counters and directed people to call the airline’s toll-free numbers. People were crying, and overall, the situation was pure pandemonium. There was a lot of panic because no one knew how long the borders would be shut, and being stuck in a different country was not ideal.
Solo Female Travel Safety During a Global Crisis: Essential Tips
In a country where I didn’t speak the language, with the world rapidly spiraling into uncertainty, it is easy for many people to succumb to panic. But in the eye of this storm, I remembered to remain calm. The steps I took before starting this trip served as my safety net, providing me with reassurance during moments of uncertainty.
Travel Insurance and Government Programs for Crisis Situations
STEP Program
I enrolled in the STEP (Smart Traveller Enrollment Program). If your country offers a similar program, enroll. You can research your country’s embassy or consulate’s safety and information program. This allows your government to contact you in case of an emergency, such as natural disasters, political unrest, or civil disturbances in your destination.
Comprehensive Travel Insurance for Global Crises
Research and buy comprehensive travel insurance that covers health emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings. No one likes to think about this, but make sure to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy, and if you have questions, contact the insurance provider for clarification. Keep in mind that the coverage of specific events can vary based on the insurance provider and the policy’s specific terms, such as terrorist attacks. Others will not be, like Covid 19 at the beginning stages of the pandemic.
Understanding CFAR Coverage for Solo Female Travelers
If you are concerned about potential trip disruption and want more flexibility, you can consider purchasing a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) policy. CFAR policies allow you to cancel your trip for any reason, including concerns about safety related to pandemics. These policies offer a higher level of coverage but may come with higher premiums.
Setting Up Crisis Alerts for Your Destination
Sign up for travel alerts or advisories from your government’s official travel website. These alerts provide real-time information about safety and security issues in your destination, helping you make informed decisions.
Stay Connected and Prepared
Creating a Digital Emergency Kit for Solo Travel
Create a detailed document that includes copies of your passport, visas you obtained for your travels, travel insurance policy, and any other essential travel documents. Share this document with a trusted friend or family member. Additionally, compile a list of emergency contacts at home and your destination. Ensure you know how to contact the police and emergency services if necessary. I included documentation of my cancer and prescriptions for my medications in case I was searched at borders and asked about the amount of medications I was carrying for 5 months.
Researching High-Risk Destinations as a Woman
Thoroughly researched the destinations, including their culture, customs, and any specific safety concerns for female travelers. Read travel blogs, forums, and guidebooks to gain insights. Be sure to research the political climate of your destination, but keep in mind that things can change very quickly. Protests, civil unrest, border closings, and even wars can happen while visiting a country.
Communication Plans for Solo Female Travelers in Crisis
I used an international phone plan from T-Mobile and had internet access through Travel Wi-Fi. Ensure your mobile phone is unlocked and capable of working internationally. Buy an eSIM, local SIM card, or an international phone plan to stay connected but make sure you have access to a working phone. If you have iPhone 14 or newer, your phone now serves as a satellite phone.
Staying updated during uncertain times is essential. While it’s important to use social media apps to stay informed about developments, managing your energy and emotions is equally vital. Seek credible sources, take breaks, and focus on self-care to stay strong and informed.
Emergency Preparedness: Your Lifeline in a Crisis
When preparing for international travel, it’s extremely important to safeguard your important documents. Make photocopies of your passport, visas, and other essential travel papers, storing them separately from the originals. For added security, consider creating a secure digital backup as mentioned above.
In case of unexpected changes or emergencies, it’s wise to establish open lines of communication with your transportation providers. Don’t hesitate to call, email, tweet, or use any available channel to reach out to your airline or other transport companies. This proactive approach will help you stay informed about their policies regarding cancellations or rescheduling.
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Being financially prepared played a huge role in my February 2020 trip. I set aside a separate $2,000 budget for emergency flights, knowing that if I ever needed to return to the U.S. quickly, I could cover the cost. Although no one could have predicted the full impact of the pandemic back then, I made sure I was ready just in case. This forward thinking became invaluable as the situation around the world quickly shifted, reminding me how essential it is to always be prepared for the unexpected when traveling. Luckily I found a flight back to the ‘States within my budget.
Crisis Navigation
During the chaos at the airport, I decided to remain calm and research what routes I could take back to Miami that were not closed. On March 11, the President announced that entry to the US through European countries was banned as of March 13. I had to find a way to return to the US through a country that was not banned yet.
I began to search for flights through the Middle East or other regions of the world. Luckily, I found a flight through Qatar Airways from Ho Chi Minh City on March 13. I had to somehow be lucky enough to make it through 2 separate flights, and flights were being canceled right and left. I prayed that these flights would not be canceled.
I took the first 8-hour flight without any problems. I had a hotel reservation in Doha, but women were kept from leaving the airport when we arrived. Luckily, I found a lounge that had space, and 24 hours later, I was able to take the longest flight I have ever been on from Doha to Miami (15hr and 23 minutes) without any further delays.
Staying Safe in Conflict Zones As a Solo Female Traveler
As a solo female traveler, finding yourself in a conflict zone or other crisis can be scary and challenging. Here are some advanced strategies to enhance your safety. Here are tips that you can use if you ever find yourself traveling in a country where conflict or uncertainty erupts during your travels:
Cultivating Local Connections
- Develop a network of trusted locals who can provide real-time insights and assistance
- Consider joining women-only or solo traveler groups or forums specific to your destination for shared experiences and support
- Learn basic phrases in the local language related to emergencies and seeking help
- Consider hiring a trusted local guide for necessary movements during heightened tension.
Leveraging Technology for Safety
- Use apps like SafetyWing or TripWhistle Global SOS for location-specific safety alerts and emergency services contact information
- Set up a VPN to ensure secure internet access and bypass potential communication restrictions
- Consider a satellite phone or messaging device for areas with unreliable cellular service
Behavior in Foreign Countries During Crises
- Keep a Low Profile: During times of conflict, it’s advisable to keep a low profile and avoid public gatherings or any demonstrations.
- Follow Local Laws: Respect and follow local laws and regulations. Be aware of curfews and other restrictions.
- Evacuation: Your embassy or consulate may organize evacuations for its citizens. Follow their instructions.
- Be culturally aware: In some countries, behaviors or gestures that are harmless at home might be seen as provocative. Research local customs in advance and practice cultural sensitivity, especially during high-tension times.
- Use gender-specific transportation options when available (e.g., women-only train cars).
Being Psychologically Prepared
- Practice situational awareness techniques to stay alert without appearing anxious
- Learn stress management and decision-making skills to maintain composure in high-pressure situations
- Prepare mentally for potential scenarios and visualize your responses
H3: Financial Crisis Management
- Distribute your money and valuables across multiple secure locations
- Have an emergency fund in a globally accessible account
- Carry a mix of local currency, US dollars, and a hidden credit card
In any such situation, maintaining a sense of calm is essential. Panic and fear can lead to unnecessary risks. While my journey took unexpected turns, these steps helped me stay safe and eventually return home. Traveling can be unpredictable, but with preparation and a level head, you can navigate challenging situations and return home.
Prioritizing Safety
While being prepared for international travel is crucial, one of the best ways to ensure your safety is to carefully research your destination beforehand. It is better to avoid traveling to places that recently suffered a natural disaster, are already in conflict or are experiencing significant unrest.
Travel can be an exciting adventure, but safety as a solo female traveler during a global crisis should always be a top priority. If a destination is known for instability or conflict, consider alternative locations for your journey. Your well-being and peace of mind should guide your travel choices. Choosing an alternative destination will provide a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
Resource List
? Subscribe to the blog and newsletter for exclusive content.
? For general travel tips, please make sure to read 10 TIPS FOR SAFE SOLO TRAVEL LATINAS
? Tips from the US Department of State specifically for Women Travelers.
? If this is your first time considering solo travel, you might find my Guide to Solo Travel helpful. It covers everything from planning your first trip and even Travel Hacking 101.
? For tips on being healthy while traveling, check out the CDC’s Traveler Website.
Wishing you Safe Travels,
ES