Traveling alone can be a very harrowing or a very rewarding experience – and often the difference is merely a matter of remembering to pack your common sense. So before you board that flight, make sure you thoroughly research your destination, and keep these 5 things in mind to ensure your safety when traveling alone.
Share Your Itinerary
In addition to your sharing your flight itinerary and hotel accommodations with friends and family before your trip, it’s a good idea to periodically check in with people back home throughout your stay. If text, email or Skype are not feasible, post regular updates on social media to let them know you are safe. If traveling alone in the wilderness, make sure others know when to expect you back, as well as your exact route, and then stick to it.
Choose Your Accommodations Wisely
If traveling alone on a budget, you may be tempted to stay in hostels or home shares, but these types of accommodations can put you at greater risk for theft and harm. Large hotel chains are a safer choice because they are usually located in the safest areas with a concierge who can advise you on places to avoid. For your safety, opt for hotels that use key cards instead of keys, and have security chains or bolts, as well as interior hallways.
Be Alert & Use Common Sense
Avoid using earbuds, having your nose buried in your smartphone and getting so swept up in taking photos that you lose awareness of your surroundings, and don’t flaunt your valuables. Leave jewelry in your hotel safe, and keep cash and technology in your pocket when out in public. Another important tip is to watch your alcohol consumption when traveling alone. Getting drunk in an unfamiliar place can put you in danger and get you lost.
Make Smart Transit Choices
Avoid walking alone or traveling by public transportation (subway, train or bus) at night, and beware of taxi scams at all hours of the day. If you’ll be traveling alone, ask your hotel concierge to call you a cab, or get the name and number of a reputable taxi company, and if you must walk alone at night, try to stay close to a couple or family. Uber is another transportation option available in many countries. The app tracks before you and the driver in the system, and because you pay through the app with a credit card, no money is exchanged.
Be Mindful in Parking Lots
Poorly lit hotel parking lots can be dangerous, and the same goes for airports. If possible, choose a hotel with valet parking, and consider a secured offsite airport parking lot with 24-hour surveillance. ParkRideFly offers valet parking, as well as safe and secure self-park facilities at most major airports. The lots are fenced in, well-lit with 24-hour surveillance and the self-park lots include on-demand shuttle service that brings you right to your car.
Safe Travels!
By making smart choices, trusting your gut and keeping your wits about you, traveling alone can be a safe and rewarding adventure.
Looking for more stress-free travel recommendations? Check out ParkRideFly’s air travel tips and resourcesand don’t forget to reserve your airport parking spot in advance. Pre-book onlineor call (866) 922-PARK.