How Women can be Safe When Traveling Alone
Traveling around our city or town is a necessary thing for all of us and most of us have found ways to do it safely as we go to work, go shopping, go out to eat, and visit friends.
When you are woman traveling and you are on your own, you can go just about anywhere and get done whatever you need, but you must take some precautions because it is simply more dangerous for women to travel alone. Here are some tips to help you keep safe.
Be smart when you are in an unfamiliar location or at night
When you are in an unfamiliar place, you have to keep in mind is that you do not know the mood of a place until you have spent time there and gotten familiar. The locals know the notorious hotspots that should be avoided and it could be a simple as a wrong turn down the wrong street that puts you into danger.
If you must travel alone, there are two things you need to do. The first is to ask someone about the neighborhood where you are going. Is it safe for a single woman? This can save you from some bad situations. Also, use technology to help you learn about any neighborhoods you might be going through. Apps like Streetography can give you an idea of a neighborhood before you enter it and give you a sense of whether it is safe. Use it before you go to the neighborhood. Also if it is as night, you need to be even more cautious about dark areas and certain parts of town. Avoid both and you will increase your chances of being safe dramatically.
The next thing is to use common sense. When you in an unfamiliar place, you should always err on the side of caution because you are a woman, you should be more cautious. Stay on the main streets and avoid any side streets that are not busy. Stay away from any places that look sketchy and if you find yourself in a bad looking neighborhood, leave as fast as you can. Keep Uber on speed dial and get a car there fast.
Blend in with the surroundings
Wherever you are going, dress like you belong in that neighborhood. You don’t want to look out of place or like a tourist. Avoid expensive handbags if there is a chance you might be in a rough neighborhood and do your best to blend in.
Travel with only the cash and cards you need
When you travel, only bring small amounts of cash and the credit and debit cards you must have. Leave the rest at home. Keep your cash and cards in a hip pocket, or a pack close to you. No purses or backpacks that are easy to steal. Consider putting your cards in different clothing items like your sock or even bra. This way if you get robbed you will still have money to get yourself home.
Sometimes it does not matter how cautious you are, you can still be bothered or even injured by someone. When this occurs you need to get medical attention and also call and attorney who may be able to get you compensation from someone who injures you. If you are injured in the UK a law firm like Slater Gordon Lawyers who specialize in personal injury claims can get you relief and a settlement.
You might also want to consider some self-defense classes which can help if you are ever attacked.
Traveling alone as a woman need not be a hassle or unsafe, but it can be, so you need to take these precautions. And again, if you are injured call a good attorney.
