tips for solo female backpackers

15 Solo Female Travel Tips: Advice From Backpackers - South East Asia I mean, they might be alright, but as a solo female backpacker, you don't want to bet your life on it. Im also seeing the number of female backpackers increasing, which is awesome! But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Check out the local customs and laws as these will vary from country to country, but might inform your journey. ZGQwMTNlZTNkYzA1ZDI4ZjRhNmM1MTA2ZDQ0ODEyZmUzNjJhZTgyNWMzY2M2 Required fields are marked *. Carry an emergency / GPS device such as a Garmin InReach or. Tips for Planning Your Backpacking Trip (finding people, choosing a destination, mental and physical preparation) Safety for Women Backpackers Hygiene Tips for Women Gear Tips for Women Note: If you're totally new to backpacking, I encourage you to sign up to my free backcountry camping course. Never be afraid to ask for help when you feel uncomfortable. For solo female travel, those two words might fill their veins with wanderlust and bring light into their eyes. The idea behind using a pee rag is that it provides an alternative to the drip-dry method or using toilet paper. YjZmNGVmYmI5ZmRmZjkyMmM3M2RhZmQ1MWUwMDJjZWRiMTAzZjQ5ZWM3MGM1 Consider the political situation, the level of crime, and how women are treated in the local culture. But my reasons have nothing to do with reticence or fear (the healthy fear part of my brain might be impaired). Following the7 Leave No Trace principles will help you leave somewhere better than you found it. Washing your hands and cup is more challenging in the wilderness and then disposing of the contents can be a pain (you need to dig a hole to properly bury the blood like you would any human waste in the backcountry). ), Training hikes with a weighted backpack (increase weight and distance over time to build stamina), Resistance workouts to build strength and stability. Choose a relatively popular trail that is well marked, regularly maintained, and easy to follow. Another destination for adventure, Iceland is best known for the northern lights, glacial travel, and #vanlife. But some countries are definitely safer than others especially for female travellers. Essential Tips for Solo Female Travellers. By Lane Vasquez Published Feb 13, 2020 So, what can ladies do to feel confident and comfortable and safe while traveling solo? Live, laugh, love (or whatever shit they say). You can also learn more about my affiliate policyhere. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. First off, you need to pick your destination. alishamcdarris.com, Black Lives Matter Unequal Access to the Outdoors is Real, Backpacking 101: Our List of 10 Backpacking Essentials. Despite all the downfalls, with an open mind and a period of adjustment, India can also offer an extremely rewarding, life-changing experience. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Read on for some key tips from each hiker. When researching, its beneficial to look at other female travellers perspectives as well. Embrace the solitude: Being alone for days on end can be a challengeand also empowering. eyJtZXNzYWdlIjoiNmNlYmI5OTk5NGQ3ODFiM2MzZWM1YTM0MTI5ODQ1MWQ4 For example, in colder weather, you may wear your fleece or a wind jacket (featured in the section above). That's kind of the name of the game, after all. N2QzNDhlYzUwNzRkMmVmNDAxMDgxOTE1OWY4YWE0YjJiYzc2YjgwNjA1OWRm Find out everything female backpackers need to know to have amazing outdoor adventures! Every time I wanted to go backpacking there was always someone who wanted to go with me. Of course, hiking alone in the wilderness has its risks. My go-to water filter is theKatadyn BeFree 1L Water Filter Bottle. Specifically, matches, a lighter, and/or fire starters. Required fields are marked *. Skip sharing your plans and you could end up having to cut off your own arm with a dull pocket knife, First and foremost, dont attempt solo backpacking if youre brand new to backpacking. Never accept lifts or offers that involve you being alone in an unfamiliar place. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". On a long-distance trail, know ahead of time where your escape routes are to civilization if you get sick or hurt and need to cut your trek short. ZWE1ZGFkMTdhOTc0YzExYjg1MzZhMGQ4Yjc0M2Y0ZTBlNzQwYzNlYWZiZmQz NzFmYmYxZGYyODkxYTY0Mjk3OWYwNTA0YWIyZTVlNjFmMDI2MzlhYWE2YWEx In the beginning, consider sticking with fairly well-trafficked trails or trails with plenty of easy entry and exit points. Instead of rushing to get somewhere before a certain time, I prefer to go at my own pace and enjoy my surroundings instead of pounding down the path like my life depended on it. How Can I Enjoy Travelling Alone as a Woman? you are very inspiring! Make sure your gear fits and works properly: Make sure your pack is comfortable, you know how to set up your tent, you have a quality sleeping bag and pad, and you know how your stove and water filter work. Do research before you leave. Sun Shirts: Do They Really Protect Better than Regular Clothing? It's very common now (just look at all the people showcasing their travels on Instagram!). Frugal Tips for the Novice Solo Female Backpacker 8. Mosquito Avoidance. She completed a two year diploma in Environmental Landscape Management, is currently working towards her Athletic Therapy credentials, and is passionate about environmental sustainability and travel. Examine, but do not touchcultural or historic structures and artifacts. Be courteous. Choose your destination wisely. Alcoholic Drinks. 25 Tips for Solo Female Travel in Europe - Blond Wayfarer ZjFiMWQ5NTM3NWQ2ZmNlOTU0ZjdkNWYxYThiNzY1MzY5MjRlZDA5Mzc5ZjY4 And just like that I was taking my first solo backpacking trip. Mzc1ZjVkM2VmNjBjMDY4Mjg3OTE4MDA3ZGYxNzlkZmFlYzY4ZjUxNDI1MTZk These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Its also important to hit pause and take a solo refresh to actually think about what you need and what you like to do, backpacking or otherwise. 8 Tips for Beginner Solo Female . And whatever you do DO NOT WATCH OR LISTEN TO MURDER MYSTERIES! I highly recommend making yourself a small backcountry hygiene kit. For female backpackers travelling alone, the world has become a much safer and more accessible place. I personally bought a pre-made kit and then added a few extra items that were specific to my needs and the type of trip. Backpacking can be challenging, both mentally and physically. You will use your navigation system to help plan your trip/route, as well as to stay on track during your hike. You need to prepare yourself to be self-reliant, and you can do so by taking classes in wilderness medicine and navigation. Be ready if you encounter uncomfortable human interactions: The people who go out on trails for long distances tend to be friendly, helpful and generous. Depending on your confidence and street smarts, different accommodations will make you feel comfortable when traveling solo. One of the best things about backpacking is that it allows you to visit beautiful places that are not accessible to vehicles. It might be their worst nightmare. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Alternatively for a quieter setting, head up state into the Adirondack mountains for some fresh air and solitude. With lots to see and do, the amazing hospitality and tourist infrastructure, makes Nepal a great place for a solo trip. To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. OTllMzZjNmZhYWY1MjdmMmNlNTllMjQ5MjZmYmYwNWRmMGE5NjNhZjFhODBh In some countries women are required to wear certain clothing, particular when visiting religious sites or even when walking down the street. Wander on! For the same reason, you may want to also consider picking a place that speaks the same language that you do, or dont. Dang I wish I had done this years ago! ZDEyYWE5MDVhMmVkYjNiZGJhYTAwMDc3MWQxM2U0ZmIzMzBhNGIzNmM3OTNm Make sure to research your destination thoroughly: Where are the 'dangerous' areas located? Those "follow me" Instagram posts and sweet (and even risque) snaps of dynamic duos exploring the world is heartwarming. Well-established travel infrastructure offers convenience to solo travelers, and with low crime rates, safety is hardly a concern. Many travelers plan extended trips to indulge in this lifestyle, making New Zealand a great place to meet like-minded people. Still, keep an eye on your drinks, and carry a reusable water bottle when possible so that you can clear your head if the drinks get to be too much! It seems that the two things that scare women the most when thinking about backpacking are wildlife and men. Is it all right for a woman to look a man in the eye or to walk uncovered? By Hannah Baldwin. I know a lot of women are concerned about safety when backpacking and dont want to be completely alone in the wilderness. And for solo travellers, its one of those places where being alone does not take away from the adventure. If you prefer to backpack with someone else, especially as a newbie, find a partner through your own group of friends or local hiking clubs. What is the government travel advice? Make sure to do research on the area youre going to. Join once, enjoy forever. Traveling alone. You wont regret it. First Time Solo Backpacking as a Woman - Renee Roaming I was like, I dont want to do that anymore. That said, there are obviously some safety measures you should take if youre going to embark upon an outdoor adventure of your own whether its a simple overnight or months-long thru-hike. Basically, when it comes to safetyI echo the words of John Muir "Go quietly, alone; no harm will befall you.". Read next: How To Get Over Your Fears of First Time Backcountry Camping. If you need an all-in-one kind of carry-on backpack, we think this backpack's versatility makes it well worth the higher cost. People just want to warn you against potential dangers, no matter how low the probability! But things might change once you have already landed at your destination. It is best to be prepared physically and to take on a backpacking trip you feel confident completing, but there is zero shame in needing to turn around if you are struggling. There is absolutelyno shamein turning around if you feel unsafe or unprepared. Its always good to meet other people, even if you do want to do the trip solo. Backpacking can be incredibly empowering and fulfilling. Privacy Policy. Download the app . Because its awesome. If its a more quiet / lesser visited trail then you could consider going on a Friday or Saturday night, where the chances of others being around is higher. According to many of these women, while there is no limit to where to travel, as I have been saying over and over again, good preparation is key. Specifically, water and a water filtration method. What are the common travel scams? The experience that you have while travelling solo largely depends on you the traveller where the choices that you make and the way in which you interpret the world around you ultimately influence the experience that you will have. Tip #1: What Bag to Bring Should you go with a backpack or a suitcase? ODhiOWY2ZjljN2UyNDY4YTg1ZjQwZjI4OGFiMjcyYzczN2RlMzhiYTIwNzk3 As solo travel expert Ciara Johnson puts it, however, safety while traveling alone is never guaranteed especially for women. Each state has its own flavour and it can be interesting to experience a little taste of each culture. Also, before tackling a long-distance trail, practice short trips of at least a couple days. adventure over fear indeed! But when you're backpacking, you're not usually in any spot long enough to fall victim to such dangerous games. Why? I think this is because they are a nice middle ground when it comes to comfort, mess, waste, and ease of use. Should I be Concerned About Travel Safety as a Woman? So what are you waiting for? Specifically, a tent, space blanket, tarp, or bivy. I always wear a sun hat when hiking (lets make wide brim hats cool again!) Pack it in, pack it out (do not leave any trash int the backcountry). Solo Backpacking - How to go Backpacking Alone as a Woman - Terradrift That means knowing where you might be able to get cell service, having intimate knowledge of first aid (via, But maybe most importantly, always tell someone where youll be, where youre going, and when you expect to get there. Also, it's a matter of general preparation. Spiritual exploration is a popular reason to visit India, but there is so much more to this country than just that. As much as we support woman totally in their power to travel alone, we also encourage travellers to support ethical and sustainable practices while they travel. But there are still plenty of tips that women travellers can follow along the way. The USA is known for epic road trips so renting a trailer or van is definitely the way to go. NTVlZmI1YWYwNWNjZmQ0ODVhNWQ5NGMxODRlYmUxMjZjNmU2MGUwZjE4ZTBm Preparation is key! 7 Top Tips for Solo Female Travellers. For more information on how to be a Wakeful Traveller, feel free tojoin the Wakeful Travel newsletterorfollow Wakeful Travel on social. Don't be paranoid, simply use good judgement and common sense. Avoid camping on or near a game trail. I know it! Whether its animals or other people youre worried about, be prepared to defend yourself. The Southeast Asia trip typically encompasses Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Tylenol, Advil) and with heat. It's time to arm yourself with some essential solo backpacking tips so you can hit the trail all on your own! Your email address will not be published. And staying in hostels and room-shares can be a bit intimidating, especially if it's your first solo trip, let alone your first time traveling, ever. "It can be that much riskier when you're navigating a foreign . We have a few tips. In fact, most people are more likely to share negative experiences about backpacking rather than the positive ones. For real though, it was bad. TheWakeful Travel Journalis a great tool for solo travel. YTllN2IwNThkMDIxNTZmMThlZTIwOGNjZjZkM2E1MzhmMTg2OTE3N2UzZDdj Scan this QR code to download the app now. 53 Solo Female Travel Tips to Follow in 2023 - High Heels & a Backpack Adequate shelter will help protect you from severe weather conditions and exposure during an emergency survival situation. Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience. The more you associate with other people, the more you can build a network (however temporary) of fellow adventurers who will look out for you. Another great item to pack for day hikes or once-off backcountry bathroom breaks is an On-The-Go TP Kit. And to further the illusion of being alone, no talking unless its an emergency! If you're tired, stop and take a nap. This goes for all solo travel, especially for women who are more often taken advantage of. From conservation initiatives, to wildlife excursions and yoga retreats, Costa Rica is the place to reconnect with yourself and nature. Solace. London Backpackers shares tricks to stay safe and have a memorable trip. 7 Tips and Tricks for Solo Female Backpackers: Expert Advice Remember to drink water often and before you feel thirsty. Dont hesitate to use your safety whistle if the need arises 3 blasts is the universal call for help. for your first email from REI. Your email address will not be published. Kangpokpi, Manipur - A viral video from the Indian state of Manipur, showing dozens of men parading and assaulting two women who have been stripped naked, has triggered outrage in . Weve got you covered. Solo travel is the ultimate expression of wanderlust. For solo female travelers concerned about safety, rest assured, because Japan is super safe and many places offer female-only amenities like female-only train cars and female-only accommodations. Not every womanwants a travel partner. We've been sharing our passion for the outdoors since 1938. Paris is always a good ideabut especially . Glorious. We have a few tips. Here are our top 20 essential tips for backpacking as a solo female traveler. Whether you have a dream trip or destination in mind, or if you are totally flexible, there is a lot of choice for places to go. You want to understand your maps. -----BEGIN REPORT----- But once youre out three in the community, its just like walking down the street. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. Here are seven of our top tips for staying safe during your travels. A very popular option is Kula Cloth and I have heard Pacific Crest Trail thru-hikers rave about it! Choose the accommodation that's right for you as a solo woman. a days extra supply). Though keep in mind that youre safer when camping more than 1 mile away from a road or trailhead, so choose a sweet spot somewhere in between those.