June 1, 2020
Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with travel dates on or after
Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with effective start dates on or after
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Travel can be an incredibly freeing and meaningful experience. But it doesn’t come without risks, particularly for women who travel solo, or even in a group. Women are more likely to be victims of certain types of crime, such as sexual assault, particularly while traveling. But women can take many precautions to protect themselves and others during their travels. Read on for tips on how to stay safe while traveling as a woman.
Read about the cultural norms of your destination. Do women generally dress modestly in certain areas of the country? Is traveling alone or drinking in public uncommon for women nationals? How does your destination regard the rights of transwomen? Learning about the country’s norms can help you avoid unwanted attention.
Learn some essential phrases and greetings in your host country's language. Hire a local, reputable guide in places with considerable safety risks. Reevaluate your travel plans and consider choosing another destination if crime or other hazards put you at an unreasonable level of risk.
You should also investigate how often women are victims of gender-based crimes in your destination, and overall incidences of crimes committed against travelers, regardless of gender. Lonely Planet is a good place to start for a general guide to your destination’s safety for women. The U.S. Department of State also publishes resources for women who are travelers.
Don’t share your travel plans, such as where you are staying and the next stop on your trip, with people you’ve just met in your destination, particularly men. Trust your instincts and leave uncomfortable situations immediately. Don’t post your travel plans on social media until after you’ve left the destination.
Additionally, you should always let your travel companions know your plans if you are separating from your group for some independent sightseeing. Whether you’re traveling in a group or solo, let loved ones back home know your plans and schedule check-ins. If you don’t make the check-in, your loved one can take action just in case something has gone wrong.
Consider carrying pepper spray where legal. Shop for personal safety alarms, which can deter attackers, including this discreet jewelry alarm. Crossbody bags and money belts can help prevent theft. A portable safe can keep your travel documents and valuables safe back at your accommodations. Pack only what you need, because overpacking can make you a target for theft.
Consider enrolling in self-defense training before your trip.
Group travel, whether with loved ones or a booked tour can be considerably safer than solo travel. Numerous group travel tour companies also host women-only trips.
Travel insurance is essential for international travel. You should know that your domestic health insurance plan may not protect you if you experience a medical emergency abroad. An Allianz Travel Insurance plan with emergency medical care and transportation benefits may help you fill health insurance gaps while on your trip.
We can reimburse certain non-refundable expenses if you experience a medical emergency included in your policy. We also offer trip cancellation and interruption benefits. All of our plans include 24/7 Assistance services, which can help you with travel snags. Need to quickly book a hotel because your Airbnb wasn’t what you expected? We can help with that.
Consider avoiding alcohol if you are traveling solo and moderate your drinking or abstain if you’re traveling in a group. Never leave your drink unattended.
Staying out after dark, particularly on foot, is dangerous. If you must travel at night, do so in a group and not under the influence of substances.
Thoroughly research safe accommodations in your destination. Read reviews and check out expat, solo and women traveler pages online for your destination for suggestions on safe places to stay. Reputable, international chain hotels may often be a safer choice.
Incidents of women being assaulted by rideshare drivers have made headlines in the U.S. and abroad. Take precautions such as not riding in the front of the car. Ride with a friend if you can or have a friend on the phone with you while in the vehicle. If you’re going alone, let someone know your whereabouts.
Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment program for updates from the U.S. Department of State on weather, health, safety and security in your host country. Know the location of the nearest U.S. Embassy. Follow online groups for expat travelers and women travelers for your destination.
Get a quote today to find out how we can help you travel safe and smart.
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Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.
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