Solo travel is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have — the freedom to go where you want, when you want, at your own pace. But it also requires more careful planning than group travel. This guide covers everything you need to know to travel solo safely and confidently in 2026.
Before You Leave: Essential Preparation
Good preparation is the foundation of safe solo travel.
Share your itinerary. Give a trusted friend or family member a copy of your travel plans, including accommodation addresses, flight details, and contact numbers. Check in with them regularly.
Register with the FCDO. UK travellers can register their trip with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office's LOCATE service. This means the government knows you're in a country if an emergency occurs.
Get comprehensive travel insurance. This is non-negotiable for solo travellers. Make sure your policy covers medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and theft. Read the small print carefully.
Research your destination. Read the FCDO travel advice for your destination. Check recent traveller reports on forums like TripAdvisor, Reddit's r/solotravel, and Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree.
Accommodation Safety
Your accommodation is your base — choose it carefully.
Read recent reviews. Focus on reviews from the last 3–6 months. Look specifically for mentions of safety, neighbourhood, and staff helpfulness.
Choose well-located accommodation. Staying in a central, well-lit area means you're less likely to be walking alone in unfamiliar streets late at night.
Hostels are generally safe. Despite their reputation, reputable hostels are usually very safe for solo travellers. The social atmosphere also means you're rarely truly alone. Look for hostels with 24-hour reception and secure lockers.
Use the hotel safe. Store your passport, extra cash, and backup cards in the room safe when you're out.
Staying Safe on the Street
Most solo travel safety comes down to awareness and common sense.
Look confident. Walk with purpose, even if you're lost. Appearing uncertain or confused makes you a target for scammers and pickpockets.
Keep valuables hidden. Use a money belt or hidden pouch for your passport and large amounts of cash. Keep only what you need for the day in an accessible wallet.
Be aware of common scams. The "friendship bracelet" scam, the "found ring" scam, the "distraction" pickpocket — research the most common scams at your destination before you arrive.
Trust your instincts. If a situation feels wrong, leave. You don't owe anyone an explanation.
Digital Security for Solo Travellers
Your digital life needs protecting as much as your physical one.
Use a VPN. Public Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, and airports is a security risk. A VPN encrypts your connection and protects your data. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are reliable options.
Enable two-factor authentication. On all important accounts — email, banking, social media. Use an authenticator app rather than SMS.
Back up your documents. Scan your passport, insurance documents, and travel bookings. Store copies in a secure cloud service (Google Drive, Dropbox) and email them to yourself.
Be careful what you share on social media. Posting your location in real time tells potential thieves that your accommodation is empty.
Transport Safety
Getting around safely is a key concern for solo travellers.
Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps. In many countries, unlicensed taxis are a significant safety risk. Use Uber, Bolt, Grab (Southeast Asia), or official airport taxi ranks.
Share your journey. When taking a taxi or ride-hailing car, share the trip details with a friend via the app's share function.
Night buses and trains. These are generally safe but take precautions: keep your bag close, don't accept food or drink from strangers, and try to sit near other passengers rather than in an isolated carriage.
Research local transport. Some cities have excellent, safe public transport. Others are better navigated by taxi or ride-hailing app. Research before you arrive.
The Safest Destinations for Solo Travellers in 2026
Some destinations are particularly well-suited to solo travel.
Japan — Consistently ranked as one of the world's safest countries. Low crime, excellent public transport, and a culture of helpfulness towards lost-looking tourists.
Iceland — Tiny population, almost zero violent crime, and stunning natural scenery. Perfect for solo adventure travel.
New Zealand — Safe, English-speaking, with excellent infrastructure for independent travellers.
Portugal — One of Europe's safest countries, with a welcoming culture and excellent solo travel infrastructure.
Canada — Vast, safe, and English-speaking (in most provinces). Excellent for outdoor adventures.
