Smart Safety Tips Every Solo Female Traveler Needs to Know

Smart Safety Tips Every Solo Female Traveler Needs to Know

Beth Glosner  | 

Smart Safety Tips Every Solo Female Traveler Needs to Know

Hey there, adventurous soul! If you’re dreaming of your next trip or already packing your bag, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re diving into something every solo female traveler should feel empowered by—practical, real-life safety tips that’ll help you travel smart, light, and worry-free. Let’s Dig In.

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here

Why This Matters (Like, A Lot)

Let’s be honest: travel can be dreamy, soul-filling, and life-changing, but it can also get a little dicey if you’re not prepared. One small safety mistake can turn a magical trip into a stressful scramble.

But here’s the good news: with a few smart habits and the right gear, you can avoid most problems before they even happen. These aren’t boring lectures; they’re tried-and-tested tricks that women like you and I use all the time. And yes—they actually work.

Top 5 Must-Have Safety Essentials

1. Phone Lanyard: The Game-Changer

If you only get one thing from this list, let it be this. A phone lanyard keeps your phone attached to you, literally. No more fumbling, no more “Where did I leave it?”, and no more easy grab-and-go theft.. It’s a mini purse on the go and is less bulky under a jacket when trying to prevent pick-pockets.

 Travel smart with your phone always in reach and out of danger.

Pro Tip: Go for one that’s crossbody or wraps around your wrist with RFID protection for extra peace of mind.

2. Anti-Theft Bag: Peace of Mind, Packaged

Let’s face it, while a phone lanyard is handy, most of us carry more than just our phone and a few cards. From passports to power banks, there’s a lot we need to keep secure. Unfortunately, basic bags make easy targets for pickpockets, especially when traveling.

That’s where anti-theft bags come in. With innovative features like lockable zippers, slash-resistant straps, and RFID-blocking pockets, these designs keep your belongings safe without sacrificing style.

An anti-theft bag: where fashion meets function.

Top tip: Choose trusted brands that offer organized compartments and easy access—for you, not the thieves.

Street Smarts: Know Before You Go

3. Be Aware of Your Bag and Belongings

When sitting down to eat or rest, keep your bag on your lap or across your chest. Never hang it on the back of a chair (unless you have a chair lock) or place valuables on the table.

Pro Tip: Loop your bag strap around your leg if it’s on the floor to stop any sneaky snatching.

4. Avoid the ‘Back Pocket Black Hole’

That back pocket might feel convenient, but it’s an easy target for pickpockets. Keep essentials like your phone, wallet, or passport in a front zippered pouch or anti-theft bag. Save the back pocket for low-value items—think tissues, lip balm, or a pen (if it fits).

Bonus Tip: Add carabiners to zipper pulls to secure them.

Sidewalk Strategy: Watch Your Walk

5. Inside Track Rule

Keep your bag and phone on the inside edge of the sidewalk, not next to the road. Thieves on bikes or scooters have grabbed belongings and ride off into the sunset (minus the romance).

Keep your valuables on the inside and stay one step ahead.

Quick-Fire Safety Habits for the Win

  • Scan the Area. Always know where the nearest exit, safe space, or group of people is.
  • Trust Your Gut. If a situation feels off, it probably is. Walk away without hesitation.
  • Carry a Dummy Wallet. Keep a few small bills and expired cards inside. If someone grabs it, they don’t get the good stuff.
  • Use a VPN. Anytime you connect to public Wi-Fi, protect your data with a VPN app.
  • Let Someone Know. Share your plans with a friend or family member, even if it’s just a dinner reservation.

Want to know the best apps that make all this easier?
Don’t miss my blog on Top 7 Must-Have Travel Apps for Female Adventurers | Stay Safe & Organized, it’s packed with tools to keep you both safe and sane on the go.

Pack Like a Pro: Bonus Tools Worth Carrying

Style meets safety—keep your essentials close and concealed.

Safety Is Your Superpower

Being a solo female traveler doesn’t mean compromising on fun or freedom. It means being smart, observant, and prepared. You’ve got this.

Remember: safety tools aren’t just gear, they’re confidence boosters. When you feel safe, you explore more, meet more people, and collect better stories.

PRO TIP: Don’t just pack your bags, pack your instincts. They’re your strongest travel buddy.

Got a tip of your own? Drop it in the comments or share with your travel crew.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!


-Beth
How to Build Confidence While Traveling Solo as a Woman

How to Build Confidence While Traveling Solo as a Woman

Beth Glosner  | 

Confidence Hacks for Solo Female Travelers

Hey you—yes, you with the suitcase full of dreams and maybe a little bit of anxiety. If you’re about to hit the road alone (or just thinking about it), you’re in the right place. Courage doesn’t come from pretending you’re not nervous. It comes from knowing you’re capable—and I’m here to help you get there. Let’s Dig In.

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here

Why Confidence Is Your Best Travel Companion

Solo female travel is exhilarating, empowering, and let’s be real, sometimes intimidating. But here’s the deal: confidence is the passport to a richer, safer, and more joyful travel experience. It helps you read the room, trust your gut, and take up space unapologetically. When you feel solid in yourself, the world opens up wider than your airplane window.

I’ve zig-zagged across the United States of America alone from bustling cities to quiet mountain towns, and I’ve learned that courage isn’t born; you build it. So, let’s break it down and make it doable.

PS: If you’re still on the fence about traveling solo, check out Why I Love Solo Female Travel (And How You Can Too!). It’s the heart-to-heart pep talk you didn’t know you needed

The Fast Track to Travel Confidence

1. Know Your “Why”—And Let It Guide You

Before you pack a single sock, ask yourself: Why do I want to travel solo? Are you seeking adventure, healing, independence, or maybe just better food? Knowing your “why” is your inner compass. It helps you stay anchored when things get overwhelming, and they sometimes will.

Your “why” isn’t just poetic, it’s practical. Write it down and take it with you.

Pro Tip: When you know your reason, you make decisions more confidently. You’ll spend less time second-guessing and more time doing.

2. Do Some Light Recon (a.k.a. Travel Research)

Confidence blooms when you’re informed. Read up on your destination, the weather, the time of year you are traveling, dress codes, and safety norms (if you are traveling internationally), and even how the bus system works. You don’t need to be fluent in five languages to travel (depending on your destination), but knowing a few key phrases or gestures can be a lifesaver (and icebreaker!).

I have used a translator in the USA since there are people who predominantly speak Spanish

Pro Tip: Google Maps lets you download areas to use offline. Do it before you arrive. It’s a confidence game-changer.

Fake It ‘Til You Become It

3. Walk Like You Belong (Because You Do)

Head up. Shoulders back. Eyes forward. Walk into that museum, café, or beach town like you own it—even if you’re secretly Googling train schedules under the table or letting Google Maps whisper directions through your earbuds.

Confidence doesn’t mean knowing everything. It means trusting you’ll figure it out.

Pro Tip: Avoid pulling out maps in public. Step into a shop or café to reorient if needed.

4. Say “No” Like You Mean It

Whether it’s turning down a persistent vendor ( I see you, NYC) or skipping a group outing that doesn’t feel right, practice saying no. Confident travelers respect their own boundaries. And guess what? Others will too.

Saying no to others = saying yes to yourself.

Pro Tip: Have a few firm-but-polite phrases in your pocket. “No, thank you” goes a long way.

Bounce Back Like a Boss

5. Nerves Are Normal—Don’t Let Them Run the Show

Every confident solo traveler you’ve seen (myself included) has had a moment of panic. Mine? Driving the Redwood Highway for the first time, knowing I had to make a right turn somewhere, then the GPS cut out—just endless trees, no signs, no signal. Or quietly crying in a sketchy overnight stay. The difference? We didn’t let it stop us. We kept going.

Deep breaths fix a lot more than people think.

When anxiety shows up:

  • Breathe deeply. (Seriously, science backs this up and my years of yoga classes.)
  • Text a friend or family member.
  • Walk it off. Literally.
  • Treat yourself like a teammate, not a failure. (and a sweet treat helps!)

Pro Tip: Create a “comfort kit” on your phone—screenshots of supportive messages, photos, and inspiring quotes.

Next-Level Solo Confidence Hacks

  • Dress the part. Wear what makes you feel both comfortable and strong.
  • Use props. A book, camera, or journal makes you feel grounded in public spaces.
  • Try one brave thing each day. It could be asking for directions or dining solo.
  • Find a rhythm. A morning routine, even while traveling, gives you structure and comfort.

You’re not alone—you’re in charge.

Confidence Isn’t Magic, It’s a Muscle

Traveling solo as a woman is not about being fearless—it’s about being ready. Confidence comes with action. Every new street you navigate, every solo dinner you enjoy, and every decision you make stacks up. Soon, you’ll realize: you’ve got this.

Call to Action: Got a favorite solo confidence tip? Share it in the comments—or better yet, share this blog with a travel-curious friend.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!


-Beth
Explore McCloud Falls Restaurants & Activities: Your Ultimate Guide

Explore McCloud’s Falls, Restaurants & Activities: Your Ultimate Guide

Beth Glosner  | 

Hey there, wanderer! You’re in the right place if you’re planning a trip to McCloud, CA and want to know the best dining spots and fun adventures around. I’ve explored the waterfalls, tasted the local fare, and uncovered hidden gems—so you don’t have to! Let’s Dig in. You’re about to discover how to build an unforgettable day around nature, good food, and small-town charm.

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here

Here’s the quickest way to enjoy McCloud like a local:

  • Eat: Grab a hearty breakfast or local burger in town
  • Hike & Explore: Discover the Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls
  • Snack & Sip: Capture ice cream or coffee with mountain views
  • Bonus Activities: Bike, fish, and stargaze—all in one trip

By the end of this guide, you’ll leave smiling, well-fed, and ready to plan your next escape.

So, while I’ve just mentioned the top four highlights you can’t miss, let me break them down and dive into what makes each one special, from mouthwatering meals to scenic hikes. Trust me, these are the gems locals rave about—and they’re all easy on your budget.

 Best Restaurants Near McCloud

Want to know where to eat before or after chasing waterfalls? First up on my must-try list:

  • Sage Restaurant at the McCloud Hotel – Elegant farm-to-table dishes indoors and out, but only open for dinner.
Burger bliss after hiking at White Mountain Cafe, and yes, they have a Garden Burger here

What Makes These Restaurants Stand Out

  1. Local flavor & History

McCloud Meat Market is carried over from its original days as a meat market—cowboy hats optional.

Sage Restaurant sources local produce and invites guests to dine on the porch.

2. Laid-back, family-friendly vibe

White Mountain Cafe combines small-town charm with homemade comfort food, offering hearty breakfasts, lunches, espresso, and ice cream in a cozy, nostalgic setting.

3. Treat yourself

Remind yourself that no waterfall hike is complete without ice cream at Floyd’s Frosty.

Pro Tip: Call ahead for dinner reservations at Sage Restaurant—it fills up fast on summer weekends!

 Outdoor Adventures in McCloud: Trails, Waterfalls & Wild Skies

 1. Hike the Stunning McCloud Falls

  • Each stop has a swimming hole if it’s warm enough—just no cliff-jumping (hidden rocks!).
  • The parking lot is small and very busy in the summertime.
Middle Falls—nature’s own swimming pool (don’t dive, though!).

2. Bike & Trek the Great Shasta Rail Trail

  • Rent a bike and ride miles of old railbed stretching toward Burney.
  • Scenic, gentle terrain with numerous photo opportunities.
    Pro Tip: Pack water and a snack—it can get remote out there!
Sometimes you need time with yourself and your thoughts

3. Water Fun at Lake McCloud

  • Kayak, paddleboard, or fish on the calm waters of McCloud Reservoir.
  • Easy shore access with mountain views everywhere.


Lake McCloud —mirror water and mountain air.

4. Explore Historic Downtown

  • Heritage Junction Museum and nearby shops offer a peek into McCloud’s railroad and lumber past.
  • Quaint Main Street is perfect for browsing for souvenirs or a caffeine pick-me-up.
History is our best teacher.

5. Evening: Stargaze & Sunsets

  • Siskiyou County is a top-tier dark-sky location—perfect for packing a blanket and binoculars.
  • Watch wildlife come alive at dusk by the river.
    Pro Tip: Bring a flashlight with a red filter—you’ll thank me when your night vision kicks in!

Your McCloud Adventure: Eat, Explore, Enjoy

That’s your go-to guide for mixing waterfalls, meals, and memories around McCloud Falls. Here’s the final scoop:

  • Enjoy a variety of options, including burgers, farm-fresh fare, and ice cream.
  • Explore easy hikes, lakeside fun, and small-town charm.
  • Relax with sunsets, stargazing, or a cozy coffee stop.

Bonus Idea: Want to extend your adventure? Ashland is only an hour and a half drive away—perfect for adding theater, wine tasting, or more outdoor fun to your trip. Check out my post, 10 Top Things To Do in Ashland, Oregon, for ideas to keep your journey going.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!


 –Beth