Five Essentials for Women Traveling Alone

As a single woman who has traveled extensively for almost twenty years, many times women have asked me if I feel safe on the road by myself. My answer has always been a resounding "Yes!" In fact, any woman can feel safe traveling alone. While there are hundreds of gadgets that boast to be the best thing to have or the one thing that you absolutely can't do without, I have discovered that there really are only five essentials women need to travel safely on their own.

1. KNOWLEDGE IS POWER. Learn about the places you are going. Read about the people, cultures, animals, and environment. Take time beforehand to learn about the history and issues of that place. Some travel guides like Lonely Planet have sections geared towards women travelers. This is especially important in foreign countries where there may be cultural, economic, or political differences that could affect your safety. You will get more out of your experience, and you will be better prepared and able to make good decisions. For example, an understanding of a city's demographics can help you to avoid an unsafe or high crime area. If you are traveling to a wilderness area, knowing about the plants and animals, the climate, and other environmental factors could mean the difference between a fabulous trip or one with disastrous results. Correct information may also help dispel myths or fears you may have.

2. SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST. Build your survival skills inventory. You will have the confidence to travel alone when you know how to take care of yourself in many different situations. Good things to learn are basic auto maintenance, as well as camping, outdoor living, map reading, and first aid skills. A self-defense class will also provide valuable skills. If you are a backpacker, hiker, or any other type of outdoor enthusiast, take wilderness survival, rescue, and first aid classes, and any other classes pertinent to your outdoor field.

3. PLAN AHEAD AND PREPARE. Always keep emergency supplies with you. An emergency blanket is important, as well as emergency food and water, a flashlight, a weather radio, a first aid kit, warm clothes, and rain gear. If you are traveling by car, you could even invest in a small camping stove for boiling water and making hot meals. Keep a basic tool set handy, as well as a flare and a whistle. Plan your route and remain aware of your location while traveling. Be aware of situations that may occur, such as bad weather, and plan as much as possible for the unexpected. It is better to be over prepared than under prepared.

4. PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT. Build self-confidence by practicing skills. Regularly practice and build upon auto repair, camping and map reading skills. Even if you are not driving to your destination, have a map with you to keep track of where you are and what routes you are taking. You will know where you are and what is nearby to your location if necessary. If you need to practice map skills, get a map of a nearby town or neighborhood and start practicing how to find your way around with it. Even if you know where things are in that town, practice finding them on a map and orienting yourself to them. Go camping by yourself for a weekend. Become comfortable building a fire, cooking outside, sleeping in a tent, and being alone outside at night. Buy an auto repair manual and keep it in your vehicle for reference if needed. Practice changing your tires or oil, and locate important parts of your vehicle. Don't wait until you need a skill to find out if you have it. Practicing self-sufficiency in many different situations also enables you to improvise when necessary.

5. THINK PRIMITIVE. Rely on yourself instead of technology. Many people are lulled into a false sense of security by the abundance of modern technology. Many of the creature comforts we consider essential really are not. Don't rely on a cell phone, GPS, laptop, or other gadgets. If there is no cell phone signal or electricity these things will not work. GPS systems can be wrong. Consider the fact that humans have survived for thousands of years without these things. Practice living without technology even when it is accessible and you will feel more confident and self-reliant when it is not. If you don't feel comfortable leaving your house without a cell phone start out by running errands all day without your phone. Learn how to use a compass with a map instead of relying on your GPS. Unplug for a weekend trip. Relax and learn to trust yourself and your ability to survive without technology.

In addition to those five essentials, the most important thing a woman traveler needs to have is common sense. We women say we have "Intuition", so we need to be sure to use it. Learn to think things through and listen to your gut feelings. Observe and be aware of situations and circumstances around you. The best way to be safe is to avoid problems by using common sense. Keep valuables out of sight. Carry a small wallet in your front pocket instead of big purse. Also avoid being overly friendly. Avoid or ignore an uncomfortable situation if possible, but don't be afraid to come across as cold, rude, or bold if necessary. Safety is your main concern. After that, the only thing left is to get out there and have fun exploring the world. Happy traveling!