Traveling solo as a female is an exciting and empowering experience, and I would recommend it to everyone out there! I always travel the adventurous way, I love hiking and climbing across the most remote areas in the world! My unique adventure started 15 years ago when I decided to walk along the Indonesian Java island. Since then, my list of the best travel destinations for solo female travelers started to shape.
Surely, you should always prioritise your safety, but there are plenty of steps you can take to ensure a smooth and trouble-free journey. Besides, Southeast Asia is the safest destination that female solo travelers can pick. My travel guide is designed on the basis of my footprints to provide you with all helpful guidance and tips to make the most out of your solo trips.
The best travel destinations for solo female travelers.
This comprehensive guide is designed specifically for women who love to explore the world on their own terms.
If you are embarking on your first solo trip, this guide has everything you need to make your journey unforgettable – from safety tips, packing essentials to destination recommendations.
Southeast Asia would be probably the safest destination for female solo travelers. And another meaningful reason to chose this destination is wellness and spa retreats – which are a part of Asian culture. It is also a good solution for addresing the challenges in a healthy way. If
The benefits of traveling on a budget.
Traveling on a budget doesn’t have to be a hassle. My first travels were always backapcking adventures. My second trip to Asia was on a tight budget. I departured from my country with a one way ticket without any return plans. I was hoping to go for 6-12 months backpacking as an adevnturous traveler.
My daily spent fluctuated around $15-$25/per day, which 15 years ago was quite easy. Everything changed after COVID, the world went crazy with investments and prices.
Traveling on a budget doesn’t have to be a limitation but rather an opportunity to experience more of the local culture and enjoy unique experiences without breaking the bank. Two biggest benefits for independent solo traveling:
- More Authentic Experience – when you travel on a budget, you’re more likely to eat, sleep and travel like a local. This will give you a more authentic experience and allow you to connect with the local culture. Don’t be afraid of it – Asians are goodhearted and most friendly people on earth.
- Spontaneity – you may find unexpected options that you wouldn’t have considered if you had a big budget. When planning a trip on a budget, you have to be more resourceful, flexible and creative.
The safest countries for solo female travelers:
- ICELAND
- BALI (Indonesia)
- OMAN
- JAPAN
- CHINA
- THAILAND
- SRI LANKA
- LAOS
Besides, you will meet hundreds of solo travelers in backpackers hostels, and you will team up to travel around. It happened to me in almost every country – this will bring you:
- Time freedom removes the pressure and stress and allows you to enjoy the trip at your own pace.
- More Savings $ – traveling on a budget can put more money back in your pocket. By opting for budget or shared accommodations, meals, and events, you can save money and use it to extend your travel or for your next trip.
Enjoy the spiritual and welness retreatment.
Another reason to chose Asian destination is the fact they are highly affordable and offer incredible wellness and spa retreats – which are a part of Asian culture.
You will find different places for Mind, Body & Soul Wellness, whether it’s a sanctuary, massage places, spa salons or yoga centres. Thanks to google you can check the reviews and choose a quality place. Best massages I found were in Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar (the strongest ever!) and Vietnam. Sri Lanka – lack of knowledge and very poor quality of body treatment.
Sri Lanka - one of the top destinations for solo female travelers.
For the last couple of years, I spent months in Sri Lana, exploring the country, and it is definitely one of the best destinations for solo female travelers. Locals are known for their warm hospitality, frequently offering help to travelers. Heavy crimes against tourists are very rare.
The country is well-connected by scenic trains and buses.
Accommodation, food, and transport are on a moderate budget and stunning beaches are easily accessible by train. Jungle villas with a swimming pool visible in the photo below are available for $25/per night.
Getting ready for solo female traveling.
- It is always good to research your destination to gather some more information about the culture and local laws. This will help you understand the local customs and avoid any misunderstandings /especially in dress code for holy places like temples, pagodas, etc./.
- Download GoCity app to get a city pass and massive savings on all attractions!
- Plan your itinerary – develop a detailed itinerary that includes your accommodation booking for the first 2-3 nights, transportation options (mostly airport transfers), and places you want to visit. Share this information with a trusted friend or family member.
- Pack smart! 😉 Pack light and make sure to bring essential items like comfortable clothing, travel documents (make a paper copy), a good quality padlock, a money belt, and a portable charger. Of course all would depend on the character of your travel – if you are going on a beach vacation clothing would be different than for a hiking trip. Forany travel – avoid OVERPACKING!Especially if you are going backpacking! Remember Sheryl Straight & the Monster ;))) I made this mistake so many times, so many clothes that I wouldn’t wear even once..
- Stay connected: Consider buying a local SIM card or portable WiFi hotspot for affordable internet access while traveling.
- Get travel insurance! Protect yourself by purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost belongings. Don’t ever leave without a travel insurance. I’m telling you as an experienced traveler – don’t save money on buying medical insurance.
Philippines - top destination for solo travelers.
Philippines are one of the top destinations for solo female travelers due to its widely spoken English, warm hospitality, safe and fantastic budget-friendly island-hopping adventures.
The most popular destinations such as Coron, El Nido, and Boracay are generally considered safe for women traveling alone.
Safety tips for female solo travelers.
- Dress appropriately: Respect the local culture by dressing modestly, particularly in conservative countries. Research local dress codes in advance. You would need to cover your shoulders and knees while entering temples and shrines. Also for Arabic countries you would need to dress properly according to their culture and religious demends.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. Trust your instincts and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas, especially at night.
- Use reliable transportation: Opt for licensed taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transportation. Avoid hitchhiking or getting into unmarked vehicles.
- Stay in safe accommodations: Choose reputable accommodations with good reviews. Research the area’s safety ratings before booking.
- Blend in with the locals: Try to assimilate into the local culture to minimize attention. Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, be respectful, and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself.
Security Essentials.
I find these things highly useful during freestyle traveling:
- Portable door locks – this is a must!
- Flashlight – in some parts of the world electricity can be down.
- Secure backpacks: backpack with lockable zips will keep your belongings safe.
Tips on avoiding scams.
Scams happen and accept that. You will get to buy stuff that is wortless, you will probably experience a bad tour. That happens and as far you are safe, it does no harm to us. I remember i bought a batik in Yoguakarta (Indonesia) for $50, which I found the next day for $10.
I went on a disaster tour in Laos, where out bus crashed and we were late for out boats, and received no support and no money back. 😉 Just take it with a smile! It’s a part of dventurous traveling.
Personal safety tips.
- Share your itinerary with your family or friends is a good idea, informe them about your whereabouts and regularly update them on your plans.
- Keep a low-profile: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, gadgets, or large amounts of cash. Use a money belt to keep your valuables secure and keep a small amount of cash handy for daily expenses.
- Trust your instincts: If something feels off or unsafe, remove yourself from the situation immediately. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from local authorities or fellow travelers.
- Stay connected with others: Meet fellow travelers or join group tours to enhance safety and have company while exploring new destinations.
- Be cautious with alcohol: Drink responsibly and be mindful of your surroundings when consuming alcohol.
- Never leave your drink unattended.
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Middle East - exceptional place for solo female travelers.
The Middle East is a great destination for solo female travelers due to exceptionally low violent crime rates and strict safety standards in many countries. I loved Oman and Saudi Arabia. It felt like in another reality, where danger does not exist, where you can leave your bag on the beach and forget about it for a couple of hours. Such convenience is so rare nowadays.
Cities like Abu Dhabi, Muscat are frequently ranked safest in the world.
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