14 Game-Changing Safety Tools Every Solo Traveler Needs
For many, traveling solo is the most thrilling and possibly life-changing experience. It gives you the freedom to see and do everything the way you perceive it. Whenever hiking remote trails, wandering bustling city streets, or backpacking through a foreign country, it’s a good idea to be prepared. Using proper safety tools will make all the difference in your safety.
Whether crossing the Andes by bus, camping under the stars in Namibia, or exploring the wild in Iceland, here are 14 essential safety tools to ensure you stay safe and confident. Using these tools will give you peace of mind, knowing you are ready, no matter what.
Personal Safety Alarm
Put a nominal personal safety alarm somewhere that you can easily reach. They’re compact and emit mighty sounds—up to 140 dB—which are deterrents or calls for help if things go wrong in an emergency.
The National Crime Prevention Council says that if an alarm makes enough noise, 57–68% of assailants will stay away—a vital fact worth considering.
GPS Tracking Device
A GPS tracking device lets your friends or family track you in real-time. Spot Gen4 or Garmin inReach Mini is a good tool in places with zero or limited cell reception.
These devices work even for emergency SOS signals. This could be your life-saving route if you’re hiking remote trails or going off the grid.
Portable Door Lock
A portable door lock will enhance your security and privacy if you’re staying in a hotel, hostel, or Airbnb.
Easy to install and compact, these locks keep you worry-free while you rest. Many reviewers on travel forums have recommended them, and they have become one of the most reassuring tools for solo stays.
RFID-Blocking Wallet
The rise in digital pickpocketing incidents is essential because travelers are soft targets who are easily victimized.
With an RFID-blocking wallet, you’ll be armed to protect sensitive information. No traveler wants to deal with that kind of identity fraud abroad, and the FTC notes that 2.8 million cases of identity fraud were reported in 2021 alone.
First Aid Kit
If you’re hiking in the wilderness or exploring the commotion of the urban alley, you’ll want a compact first aid kit.
Adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, medications for cellphone allergies and motion sickness are some basic supplies to include in your emergency kit. These prevent a minor mishap from turning into a trip-ruining one and put you in a better position to deal with an emergency later.
Portable Charger/Power Bank
Low battery? Please don’t risk it. Of course, if you’re traveling to places where you can’t always be sure of access to regular outlets, a portable charger should be part of your travel kit. A single run will charge several devices, so choosing one with at least 10,000mAh is recommended.
Water Purification System
You cannot count on getting clean water everywhere, especially in remote or underdeveloped areas. However, waterborne diseases, which affect 2 billion people globally, are no longer a problem when you can bring proper tools to stay hydrated, such as LifeStraw or a portable UV purifier.
Travel Insurance
While not a “tool,” travel insurance is a critical safety net for solo travelers. This backup will cover medical emergencies, canceled plans, and lost luggage.
According to a news release from the US Travel Insurance Association, you are 43 percent more likely to survive financially after unexpected events if insured.
Emergency Whistle
Never underestimate the power of a whistle. A low-tech ‘ultimatum’ that will indeed trigger that lifeboat. A whistle is a great way to alert others if you’re lost in the forest or an emergency.
Flashlight or Headlamp
If you travel alone, a good flashlight or headlamp just when you need one is essential to making it and getting to where you need to go.
It will help prevent accidents, light your way in the dark streets, help during unexpected power outages, and aid your immediate safety.
Multifunctional Tool
A Swiss Army knife or an equivalent multifunction tool is a real long-serving savior during expected and unexpected situations.
These prolific little tools are essential. Vogue Travel Guide calls this tool “an indispensable travel companion for the prepared.”
Earbuds or headphones with noise–cancellation
These are more personal comfort items, but they hold some place in safety. Noise-canceling headphones are perfect for overnight train rides or other slightly noisy accommodations, ensuring you can sleep enough. In public places, use them carefully so that you remain aware of your surroundings.
Translating App
They say traveling alone is more challenging with language barriers. An excellent translation app—Google Translate with an offline mode—will save you a lot of headaches. Communication is key: ask for help, look for directions, or make local friends.
Hidden Money Belt and a Backup Cash
Make sure you create a backup cash supply somewhere other than your pocket. Keeping backup cash is a practical, non-negotiable safety practice for solo travelers. Carry it in many places, including a hidden money belt, so you won’t be stuck if your wallet is stolen.
FBI records show that tourist spots are the most popular places for petty theft, with a very high rate. Petty theft is a common crime for travelers.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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