When you travel alone—for work or on vacation—you must be extra careful about your personal safety.
Here’s some advice to keep in mind when you’re traveling solo:
- Study unfamiliar locales ahead of time. If you’re traveling outside the United States, learn about your destination’s political and cultural scene to figure out how the locals treat people of your gender, race, or age.
- Research your destination’s transportation system. Learn the main types of public travel—buses, subways, etc.—and determine the safest way to go.
- Pack light. Don’t bring more suitcases than you can easily carry by yourself. You won’t be relying on a companion to keep watch over luggage when you need to ask a quick question or use the bathroom.
- Nap wisely. If you get sleepy on your flight, or on the bus, make sure your belongings are secure before you doze. Use your purse or backpack as your pillow, and tuck larger bags away in positions that would cause you to wake up if anyone were to move them.