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A lot of women are put off backpacking after hearing all the horror stories of women travelling alone in foreign countries, but this needn't be the case. Gender shouldn't stop you having an amazing time- so don't let it. In fact, sometimes being a solo female traveller can work to your advantage, allowing you access to cultural experiences that are often closed to mixed couples or male travellers. But still, attitudes towards women are often very different than in the UK and so again, the importance lies with research before you go then you at least have an idea what to expect when you arrive.
A lot of this advice is general knowledge and actually doesn't just apply to female travellers but solo travellers as well!
Travel
- Sit at the front when travelling on buses.
- Try and find a seat amongst other women, you are less likely to attract male attention that way.
- A headscarf is a good way to avoid stares, or rather to block them from your vision on long journeys!
- While it may be very tempting, don't accept any offers from people wanting to carry your bags for you.
- If possible, try and share taxis from busy bus/train stations with other backpackers. You can find websites online that are designed specifically for women looking for travel partners.
- Make sure you know where you are going before you get off. Nothing is more appealing to a harasser than a woman on her own looking lost. Even if you have no idea, walk purposefully away from the fracas to somewhere you can crack out your guidebook!
- Ask the hostel to book your transport or transfers if possible. Most places will be more than happy to do so…since it's probably their brother who works at the taxi rank!
- Never hitch hike or accept lifts from strangers.
Out and About
- Be prepared for some unwanted attention. Yes, it is incredibly annoying and, at times, embarrassing but don't let yourself get flustered. A firm rebuttal and stern look while walking away is the best way to handle it. If they aren't being polite, why should you be?
- You look different so you will be stared at- by men and women; again, act oblivious and soon you'll stop noticing it.
- Be confident. Body language is a great indicator of a vulnerable victim!
- Avoid eye contact with strangers- wearing dark glasses is always a good option.
- Wearing a wedding ring can deter male attention but make sure you concoct a convincing back story, in some countries, particularly in Europe, men are becoming savvy to this backpacker trick!
- If you genuinely feel in danger, don't be afraid to shout or make a fuss.
- Learning a few choice phrases like 'Hand's off!' or 'Shame on you!' are a good idea since they will alert other locals to your harasser's bad behaviour and will no doubt jump to your rescue.
- Do talk to local women and elders. They will often be more than willing to demonstrate their country's hospitality whether it be showing you around the city or inviting you to dinner, you are guaranteed to have a memorable day!
Clothes
- Look at what the local women are wearing and dress accordingly.
- Find out the local laws, in some countries- particularly in the Middle East- religious dress is part of the law and even as a tourist you will be required to wear the hijab (a scarf completely covering the hair).
- The age old rule is to cover your legs and arms when in public places. This will protect you from the sun and also ward off any unwanted attention. You could even buy some local clothes to shed that obvious tourist appearance and give you something unique to take home!
In the hostel
- When you book a hostel, give your first initial and avoid Ms/Miss/Mrs.
- Avoid ground floor bedrooms if possible.
- Check with the hostel about what time housekeeping comes round and be wary about opening the door at night if you aren't expecting company.
- Don't use the 'Please clean this room' sign; it lets people know you are out.
- Put a door wedge behind the door for extra security.
Eating Out
- Try and go to busy restaurants if you'll be eating alone.
- Choose a restaurant close to where you are staying then you don't have as far to travel back.
- Have a go at shopping alongside local women at the markets and cook in the hostel if you don't want to eat by yourself.
- Take your cue from other women; if they aren't eating alone at restaurants, you shouldn't either.
- Ask to sit in the family section if they have one.
At Night
- Always let someone know where you are going and what time you plan to be back.
- Avoid walking home alone at night or drinking alone in bars. Don't banish yourself to your room every night; make some friends by tagging along with others from your hostel.
- Never leave a drink unattended or accept a drink from a stranger.