1. Always make a hotel or Airbnb reservation for two people
Most of the time, a hotel or Airbnb could care less if the reservation is for one or two people. It doesn’t fluctuate the price and it can be a simple deterrent. It makes you seem less vulnerable.
2. Stay in the highly populated public areas
In most cases, incidents happen when you’re alone in a dark alley or desolate area. If you keep to the main streets and densely populated areas, there are always people around to be a potential witness. It is recommended to avoid acting like a tourist to not stick out from the locals. This could be as simple as holding up a map or wearing flashy, expensive jewelry.
3. Never mention to anyone you meet that you are alone
Although they could have good intentions with engaging you in conversation, you never know the full motive behind an interaction. If you’re out alone sitting at the bar and someone asks,“are you here alone?” never answer with yes. Always have a good excuse for why your friend or significant other isn’t with you. This could simply be they ran to the restroom, they’re in the hotel room freshening up before meeting you, or anything that alludes to you having company and knowing your whereabouts.
4. Always carry a tracking mechanism and keep phone fully charged
With modern day technology, there are several ways to share your location. Before you head off on your own, make sure you are sharing your live location with a friend or family member. Make them aware of your itinerary so they could notice if something seems off.
If it’s easier, travel with an Apple Air Tag. That will pick up your location 24/7. It’s small, portable, and inexpensive to purchase. You can stuff it in your purse or even clip it onto your clothing.
In addition, battery packs are imperative. It’s easy to drain your battery while you are out exploring, so make sure it’s fully charged before you leave. A portable battery could be a life saver in the event you’re out longer than expected.
5. Trust your instincts
If something feels off, it’s likely because it is. Trust your intuition. If someone is being overly pushy or offering a deal of a lifetime “just because” make a run for it. It is possible that it is nothing, but if you’re getting a bad feeling, it’s better to be cautious. Safety is always important so do what is best for you even if it feels uncomfortable in the moment.
