Solo travel offers freedom and personal growth, but it also demands smart preparation. One of the most effective safety habits is to share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. If anything unexpected happens, having someone who knows your plans can make all the difference.
Sharing your itinerary isn’t just about flights and hotel bookings — it’s about creating a simple safety net. Include accommodation details, travel routes and any scheduled tours or activities. Tools like Google Docs, TripIt or Google Calendar make sharing easy and allow updates on the go. You can also use Google Maps’ live location sharing or apps like Life360 for real-time check-ins.
Take this a step further by agreeing on a check-in routine — for example, sending a short message every evening. You might also set up a “safe word” system: a pre-agreed phrase that signals something’s wrong if used in a message. Share emergency contacts both digitally and in your wallet, and make sure your designated contact has access to booking confirmations and a copy of your ID and insurance info.
Don’t forget to include transport details, not just flights but also buses, trains or car hires, especially in areas with limited phone signal. If you’re meeting local contacts or joining a tour, share those names and numbers too.
This simple habit doesn’t just enhance your safety — it adds peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the joy of discovery. Being solo doesn’t mean being untraceable. With a few proactive steps, you’ll travel smarter, safer and with more confidence.
