1. Walk in groups, especially if you’re a female at night.
In a new city, it is better to be overly cautious than not. Some parts of the world are safer than they might seem, but this is difficult to realize the first day/night you are there. Until you have a better idea of general safety, we recommend making friends and walking in groups so you have safety in numbers. 

2. Be aware of your surroundings.
This may seem like an obvious tip, but it is an important one and easy to forget amidst the excitement of traveling. Be aware of your surroundings and notice if your GPS is taking you into a shadier area of town. In these areas, it might not be the best idea to pull out your smartphone and start using Siri. Hiding these items will give criminals less reason to target you. In crowded areas, something as simple as putting your hand over your bag can deter thieves from pickpocketing you. Using common sense will take you a long way. 

3. Before entering a taxi, take a picture of the license plate number.
Entering a car with a stranger can be dangerous, even if it’s a taxi cab. There have been many instances where an Uber or taxi driver has harmed their passengers in cases of rape and violence. By taking a photo of the license plate number, you’ll be sure to have information on the driver to catch the assailant in case anything happens. 

4. Store important numbers in your phone. 
Storing numbers like that of the U.S. Embassy, local police department, and your hotel/hostel in your phone will allow you to access them when you’re in a pinch.

5. Makes copies of essential information. 
Scan and email a picture of your passport and driver’s license to yourself. Most likely you will be completely fine, but just in case you find yourself in a situation without identification, you want to be able to access these!

6. Get travel insurance and Global Travel Plus.
Especially if you’re traveling longer term, it is a good idea to get travel insurance and Global Travel Plus. From lost luggage to accidents and injuries, you never know what can happen while you’re abroad. Make sure you’re covered so you can travel with a peace of mind. 

7. Put locks on your backpack zippers. 
When traveling solo, you may be staying in shared housing like hostels. To make sure that all your belongings are safe, we recommend carrying locks for your backpacks, suitcases, and hostel lockers. If your hotel or hostel has a safe, it may be a good idea to keep valuables like extra cash and your passport in there too. Locks on backpack zippers also make it harder for thieves to steal from you especially in target areas like crowded metros.  

Following these tips will allow you to worry less and play more as you’re traveling solo. We hope these pointers have been helpful and would love to hear yours as well! Feel free to share in the comments and discover more travel tips at www.mewanttravel.com.

Sharon and Heesun are 2 friends from the Bay Area, California who are obsessed with travel. Their blog aims to encourage young professionals to follow their gut, live for themselves, and see the world. They are contributors to Global Travel Plus's Travel Blog.