As spring rolls around the corner, adventure-seekers are lacing up their boots, packing their bags, and hitting the outdoors—and for some, this journey is a solo one.
Solo traveling can be an exhilarating experience, combining independence and self-growth with the beauty of the outdoors. But for women, this independence can be dangerous– an experience so freeing yet requires careful planning and consideration.
What is solo traveling?
Solo exploration, also known as solo travel, can consist of various activities, all of which are done alone. Solo exploration fosters a sense of autonomy, personal growth, and reflection.
Travel influencer and solo-traveling enthusiast Halley Sherwood began her traveling career a few years back. With experience traveling coast to coast in the United States and internationally, Sherwood acts as a resource on social media for others interested in traveling.
Is it safe to travel solo as a woman?
Sherwood understands the struggles or fears of solo exploration that can deter many women from doing it. Despite this, she still encourages women to get out of their comfort zone and try.
“You cannot wait until you’re not scared anymore to do something…you can’t let the fear and the anxiety get in the way of you doing something you want to do,” says Sherwood.
Sherwood assures others that being a woman always comes with the instinct to be aware of one’s surroundings. She says this is part of the reason that fuels her to continue traveling solo.
“We’re women. You kinda have to be the same level of vigilant everywhere you go…as women, we’re used to being vigilant and watching out at all times,” Sherwood continues.
“Yes, it’s new, and it’s something to adjust to, it’s something to learn, but at the end of the day, remember that as women, we gotta keep our heads on a swivel no matter where we are. So don’t let that stop you from traveling ever.”
With these reminders, Sherwood remains adamant about ensuring a safe trip while enjoying herself wholeheartedly.
Go-To Safety Tips
For Sherwood, traveling solo means enforcing some guidelines before, during, and after her adventures. She emphasizes the importance of having self-defense weapons on hand like pocket knives or pepper spray. Though they may never be used, she refers to them as providing some “peace of mind.”
Additionally, Sherwood encourages women to share locations with friends and family and to avoid posting pictures of the location until after they have left the premises. For places with no cell service, Sherwood recommends Garmin inReach, a satellite communicator that works in off-grid areas.
Loyola University Maryland senior Emma O’Reilly is a student leader in Loyola’s Outdoor Adventure Experience Club. This club focuses on allowing students to participate in various outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing.
O’Reilly, who has traveled independently through Europe in the past year, has her set of non-negotiable tips to abide by. She explains that you should look into the places you are traveling, research thoroughly, and pack properly for the weather. She heavily emphasizes trusting your gut instincts.
“I have learned to trust my gut because it will always tell you when something is off…those survival instincts are there for a reason and are trying to keep you safe,” says O’Reilly.
Similar to Sherwood, O’Reilly strives to still enjoy her trips despite the potential fear surrounding them.
“I still make sure to enjoy my travels because it is not worth stressing constantly and having that ruin the experience of your trip,” O’Reilly continues.
“Taking precautions and making sure you do things the safe way helps ease those anxieties and assures you will have a good trip.”
Benefits of Solo Traveling
For many, these experiences are the first time in their lives that they are 100% in control. Being able to decide when, what, and where you are going to go is a feeling unlike any other and can be incredibly fulfilling and validating.
“It is so important for everyone, especially women, to be comfortable with traveling alone and being confident in their independence,” O’Reilly states.
“It is a huge opportunity for growth when you solo travel, and it helps you learn things about yourself and gives you lots of great experiences you can take and apply in so many places of your life.”
Sherwood has similar sentiments to express.
“As women, we spend a lot of time taking care of other people and prioritizing other people in our lives, and putting our wants, needs, dreams, and ambitions on the back burner…solo traveling was the first time that I’ve ever been able to do exactly what I want,” says Sherwood.
“The biggest thing I gained from solo traveling was getting better at listening to what I need and what I want to do.”
So, with the right research and vigilance, the next time you plan a trip, you might want to think twice about booking that plus one!
Blinter Magazine 