Is solo travel dangerous? U.S. media outlines 8 ways to stay safer

▲ Solo travel offers great freedom and is loved by young people. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

By Rita

"Solo travel" has become a globally popular way to explore in recent years—no itinerary pressure, no disagreements with travel companions, and the freedom to see the world on your own terms. However, traveling alone in an unfamiliar country does come with certain risks. The Huffington Post compiled "8 ways to make solo travel safer," helping adventurous travelers enjoy their journeys while staying protected.

1. Resist the adrenaline rush
Rock climbing is thrilling, but be careful not to get injured—you wouldn’t want to miss sharing the beauty of your trip with friends. Extreme sports are best done with a travel companion, and never skip essential travel insurance.

2. Stay in touch with family
No matter where you go, try to use the internet to connect with other travelers and keep updating your travel route. At the very least, let “someone” know which hotel you’re staying at tonight or which city you plan to visit next. You can also post some photos online.

3. Take off your headphones
In an unfamiliar city, listening to music can actually make you less alert. You need to stay vigilant at all times—save the music for when you’re back at your accommodation.

4. Don’t flaunt the fact that you’re traveling alone
"Traveling alone" may sound incredibly exciting, brave, and even sexy—you might be eager to share it with others. But wait—do so via email or Facebook, and definitely don’t reveal it to strangers you meet at a bar.

5. Watch your drink
Remember: only order beer that is “still sealed,” or watch the bartender make your drink. Protect your drink as carefully as you would your “passport.”

6. Dress and behave according to local customs
Be mindful not to openly signal “I’m a tourist” (of course, using a map to navigate is unavoidable). Before arriving, learn a bit about the local culture—for example, fashion-conscious Italy may refuse entry to those wearing “flip-flops” at certain restaurants and churches; in Ukraine and Russia, scuffed shoes or wrinkled clothes might draw frowns. If you’re planning a more flexible itinerary, pack a few “large scarves.” They can serve as shawls, skirts, head coverings, or even blankets during long trips—very practical.

7. Register your itinerary
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free U.S. service that allows American citizens to register with the embassy before traveling abroad. In emergencies (such as natural disasters or political unrest), the embassy can then contact you.

8. Keep an open mind to make friends
Look for hostels that encourage interaction among global travelers, ask the hotel owner if they host any events, or check Meetup.com for potential travel companions. "Volunteering" is also a great way to engage with local communities—Idealist.org lets you search for volunteer opportunities. If you're eager to learn the local language, keep an eye on activities hosted by the local embassy and museums, which sometimes organize language exchange events.