How women can protect themselves while traveling

Travel can enlighten, enrich and transform us. And women are traveling alone more than ever.

The Skift Research 2024 Women Traveler report estimated that 64 percent of global travelers are women. And with a widely reported growing trend for solo travel, it’s essential that women always stay vigilant and have a full understanding of the cultural norms in their destinations, from what to wear to how to act, according to Kate Fitzpatrick, Regional Security Director for travel risk management specialists World Travel Protection, part of Zurich Cover-More.

“It’s important to note that, compared to men, women often have different safety considerations to think about when traveling for pleasure or for work,” she says.

Indeed, both the UK government and the U.S. State Department have pages with detailed, practical recommendations specifically for female travelers.

So with travel now back to pre-pandemic levels, and with major events like the Women’s European Football Championships in Switzerland this year, consider the following safety tips.

1. Research (and more research)

Before booking your trip, check your government’s latest travel advice for your destination. For instance, the UK government has an alphabetical list of 226 countries and territories and has flagged warnings.

And book accommodation and airport transfers in advance, particularly if traveling to a place where you don’t speak the native language well. “There’s no such thing as doing too much research before your departure,” Fitzpatrick says.

2. Be especially alert on transport

Travel in official taxis or an app-based rideshare and sit in the back seat. Keep your luggage close to you while on buses and trains. Sit near other women and avoid empty carriages. Don’t hitchhike.

“Before getting into a vehicle, ask to see their license and identification,” Fitzpatrick says. “If the taxi driver cannot provide their license, do not get into the vehicle.”

3. Think (and act) like a local

Be aware of common scams in your destination so you know what to look out for. Try to look like a local where possible to avoid sticking out or attracting unwanted attention. Carry a travel bag that slings across your body, rather than a backpack or loose handbag. Don’t tell people you are traveling alone – if asked, pretend you are meeting someone.

Join group tours and organized activities to meet other like-minded solo travelers. Check in regularly with friends and family and ensure someone has a copy of your itinerary and knows where you will be. Share your location from your phone whenever possible.

“It sounds obvious of course, but don’t flaunt your valuables when you’re away,” Fitzpatrick says. “Don’t take that expensive watch or ring. It just makes you a walking target for a petty, opportunist thief. Leave items of value in a hotel safe when you can and take the minimum that you need out.”

4. Stock up on women’s health supplies

Sanitary products and contraceptives may be difficult to purchase in some countries. It’s a good idea to stock up on supplies and medication before you leave.

“Tampons can be hard to come by in some countries, and their use can be frowned upon,” Fitzpatrick says. “We always advise women to stock up on sanitary products and take them with you, as you don’t know what you’ll be able to source on the ground. Also, if you’re questioned about tampons in your luggage, respond politely and calmly, as you might come across ignorance and hostility in some areas of the world.”

5. Socialize wisely

Be careful not to do anything that could impair your judgment or compromise your ability to maintain your senses or general awareness. It’s important to understand that different countries have differing moral and social standards and making yourself vulnerable may unnecessarily expose you to greater risks of harm. Avoid alcoholic drinks that are being sold from market stalls or any unlicensed setting. Check labels of alcoholic drinks. If in doubt, do not drink it. “And depending on where you are, you might want to avoid drinking in public,” Fitzpatrick adds.

“Make sure you’re thoroughly briefed on your destination, try not to draw attention to yourself and keep your wits about you,” she adds.

“Crucially, ensure you have the emergency contact details of your insurance and assistance provider programmed into your phone, and if they offer an app, like the Travel Assist app provided by World Travel Protection, Travel On app from Travelex Insurance, Cover-More app from Cover-More Travel Insurance or the Freely app - then make sure this is activated on your phone. Then if the worst does happen, you know where to get help, and we can locate you quickly and easily.

“But look, I’ve traveled all over the world for decades, and it has made for some of the best experiences of my life, so I always encourage women to travel.”

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