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As solo female travelers, we go on trips not only to explore the world but also to embrace our strength and independence. However, there’s no denying that women traveling alone can present more than a few challenges and safety concerns. The statistics speak for themselves: 73 percent of women traveling alone are concerned about their safety while on the road.
Although alarming, these statistics show that feeling unsafe on a solo trip is something almost all women can relate to. In an unfamiliar environment, we know how it feels to feel vulnerable. We know that we must rely on ourselves to ensure our personal safety and our procession. We know that it pays to be prepared when arriving at a new destination.
But here’s something else we should know too; With the right knowledge and preparation, we can turn these concerns into empowering experiences. With that in mind, I’d like to share with you some safety tips I’ve learned over the years as a solo traveler. I hope these tips empower women everywhere to embark on their next adventure with confidence and strength.
Planning the trip
A successful journey isn’t just about the destination, it’s also about the path you take to get there. When you plan your trip, spend some time thinking about the route you will take. An ideal route should be efficient. Have a good trip and has beautiful scenery.
If you anticipate a long road trip, your chosen route should have frequent rest stops that are well-populated and well-maintained. Not only will these locations provide an opportunity to stretch your legs, but they will also provide a layer of security in terms of numbers.
Before arriving at your destination, know exactly when and where you are going Park your car. This is important because if you know you’ll be arriving after dark, you’ll need to make sure the parking lot you choose has plenty of lighting and security guards.
If the parking lot is fairly large, try to park your car as close to the entrances as possible. Places with 24-hour staff are also a big plus, as these people can help you out – and provide an extra layer of security – when you need to top up your battery or change a tire.
Also be sure to share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. Make sure they know your intended route, stops and expected arrival times. This not only allows someone close to you to know where you are, but also creates a lifeline in case any unexpected situations arise. If your plans change along the way, communicate these changes to your contact. It’s a small thing but it can go a long way in making your trip feel safer.
Your car insurance
Once you park your car, take a few minutes to make sure it will stay safe while you are away. While personal safety tends to be the first thing we think about when planning a safe trip, it’s also important to consider your car’s security against theft or break-ins.
Make sure all doors are locked and the alarm system is active. Remember, the piercing sound of a car alarm is not just an annoyance, it is also a signal to security guards that the vehicle is being tampered with.
Another thing to be careful of is leaving any valuables in your car that might attract thieves. While jewelry and electronic devices tend to be what we typically think of in this case, valuables can also include personal documents with your home address written on them.
A thief who can get this will know you’re not home, making him an easy target for burglary. Also, don’t trust that your valuables will stay safe in a locked glove box, because as the saying goes – a lock is only good for keeping honest people out.
Final thoughts
Planning a safe trip isn’t just about securing your belongings and physical safety, it’s also about securing your peace of mind. The above tips will allow you to achieve all of this, ensuring that your next trip is filled with confidence and a strong sense of security. With this, you will be able to focus more on enjoying your trip to the fullest.
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Author’s biography: Melissa Ruiz, a Miami native who holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Florida International University, leads all marketing activities for cheap airport parking, driving growth and success in the industry.