Following on from the importance of sharing your itinerary in advance, another powerful tool for solo travellers is real-time location sharing. While an itinerary gives your contacts a snapshot of your intended plans, a GPS tracking app allows them to follow your actual movements, offering an extra layer of reassurance throughout your journey.
Several apps make this remarkably easy. Platforms like Life360, Google Maps’ live location sharing, or bSafe enable you to share your whereabouts with selected people at all times or for a set period. Some apps also include built-in safety features such as SOS alerts, scheduled check-ins, or even discreet ‘panic button’ functions. These tools can prove invaluable, especially when travelling through remote areas, embarking on long hikes, or simply navigating unfamiliar cities.
Of course, not every solo traveller will want to broadcast their exact location constantly. The key is finding the right balance. Many apps allow you to customise who can see your location, when, and for how long. You might choose to share your location only during long journeys, solo excursions, or late-night outings, and turn it off at other times. Openly discussing your preferences with your trusted contacts before your trip can help set expectations and avoid misunderstandings.
Before you depart, take the time to test your chosen app and ensure your contacts are familiar with how it works. Verify that your phone settings allow continuous location sharing and invest in a good power bank to keep your device charged during long days out. For particularly remote adventures, a portable satellite tracker may offer additional peace of mind, as it works beyond the reach of mobile networks.
While GPS tracking might feel like an extreme precaution, it’s simply another tool that allows you to enjoy the freedom of solo travel with greater confidence. Having someone who knows where you are — not just where you planned to be — can make all the difference in case of an unexpected situation. The goal isn’t to feel monitored, but to ensure you’re never truly alone, even when travelling independently.
