Traveling can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. However, as a woman travelling alone, you may need to be more vigilant.
Theft can occur in any country, city, or location. But with a few extra precautions and some helpful travel items, you can significantly reduce your chances of experiencing the local crime.
Before Booking: Research Your Hotel’s Safety Measures
To ensure your comfort upon arrival, do your research and only choose hotels in safe locations catering to tourists and families.
Check reviews and ratings (the good and the bad) and seek out information on the hotel’s security measures and reputation.
Evaluating the Location and Surroundings
Avoid hotels in high-crime or unsafe neighbourhoods. That fancy-looking hotel in the heart of downtown may be close to some very unfriendly areas. It’s worth paying a few dollars more for accommodations that offer higher security.
If you’re travelling to another country, the Government of Canada’s website provides important travel advisories you should always take into consideration.
In-Room Safety Measures
Just because your room has a lock on the door, that doesn’t mean someone can’t break in.
Always use the deadbolt and safety latch for extra protection whenever you’re inside.
When possible, place any chairs in front of the main door before going to sleep. Not only will it delay a stranger’s entry, but it could be the thing that wakes you up in the middle of the night (when hotel room theft often occurs).
Familiarize yourself with the hotel’s emergency exits upon check-in.
Don’t leave items of value out in visible areas.
Many seasoned travellers will bring extra locks to secure travel backpacks and other items to heavy objects (like tables, chairs, etc.).
When you first arrive, it’s wise to check the room’s locks, open up all closets and curtains, and look under the bed for anything that appears out of the ordinary. It’s recommended that you leave your curtains closed as much as possible to prevent people from spying into your room.
If something feels unusual or off. It’s okay to request another room. If things are really sketchy, you should explore alternate arrangements for your stay. Above all else, trust your instincts! Listen to that “NO feeling” should it ever arise.
Ensuring Personal Belongings Are Secure
To keep your personal belongings secure when you’re away from your hotel room, follow these safety tips:
– Use a luggage lock to prevent unauthorized access.
– Leave any sentimental jewelry or irreplaceable items at home.
– Invest in a good travel wallet and forgo the fancy handbag if possible.
– Have an alternate credit card (besides the one kept in your wallet).
– Keep valuable items like passports and credit cards in a hotel safe or locked suitcase.
– Utilize the built-in safe in your hotel room for added security.
– Avoid displaying expensive items or carrying large amounts of cash in public areas.
What Useful Products Enhance Safety While Staying in Hotels?
There are numerous products designed to enhance your safety while staying in hotels:
– Carry a portable flashlight for navigating emergencies at night.
– Security trackers that attach to your valuables can help locate lost items.
– Consider bringing a portable door lock or doorstop for added security.
– Use a travel safety door alarm to alert you to potential intruders.
Final Thoughts
Anyone travelling alone in a new place is a potential target for crime. As a woman travelling alone, you must take extra precautions to avoid trouble.
The most crucial step is the research you do before ever making a reservation.
Keep your possessions to a minimum, and make sure you do everything you can to keep them safe and out of sight at all times.
Whatever you can do to deter a would-be thief increases your chances of not being robbed.
The more difficult it is to scope out your belongings, enter your room, or quickly nab valuable objects, the less of a target for crime you’ll be. Visit Pack with Purpose to read more insightful tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your next business trip or vacation!
