40 Safety Items for Solo Female Travelers in 2024

Wondering how to stay safe while traveling solo? Look no further! Here are my must-have travel safety items for women in 2024

Solo travel is an incredible opportunity that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. 

However, to fully enjoy it, you need to figure out how to stay safe when travelling solo. And the best way to keep safe is to be prepared. 

That’s precisely why we’ve compiled the ultimate solo travel packing list for women featuring all the must-have travel safety products for your next solo trip.

We´ll cover everything from personal safety to health and wellness, accommodations, communication, and much more. 

Now, I know this list might seem extensive, but consider it an investment in your peace of mind. After all, when it comes to solo travel, safety always comes first!

So, here they are, the absolute best safety items for solo female travelers in Asia

Quick note: none of these travel safety products are affiliates, and I don’t receive any benefits for recommending them. While I haven’t personally tried most of them, they come highly recommended by fellow travellers. Because, at the end of the day, as women, we’re all in this together!

Travel Safety Items for Your Luggage 

I promise you, solo travel, when done right, is incredibly safe. The most common problem you might encounter is the possibility of your belongings getting lost or stolen.

But fear not, there are a few travel safety products you can get to ensure your travel essentials stay by your side throughout your whole solo trip. 

1. Anti-theft Backpack 

With no visible locks and a discreetly placed zipper against your back, this unique bag is specially designed to keep your valuables safe from pickpockets. 

Look for key features like cut-resistant materials, steel cable straps, a security clip, self-locking zippers, and RFID pockets.

Brands like Pacsafe and Travelon are popular choices among backpackers.

But remember, while an anti-theft backpack is an excellent safety item for solo female travelers, it’s not a must-have product when traveling on a budget. 

Just ensure your bag is comfortable and always use a padlock when on the move!

2. Bum Bag & Crossbody Bag 

When exploring abroad, always keep your travel essentials within arm’s reach, no matter where you are or what you’re doing. Better yet, secure them to yourself! 

Whether you’re napping, showering, or dining, never leave your belongings unattended – whether it’s on tables, beds, or anywhere else.

The Uniqlo bag is a top choice as it holds all your travel must-haves without weighing you down.

3. Money Belt 

While I prefer having my entire bum bag with me at all times, some travellers really swear by money belts. 

These discreet little pouches fit comfortably beneath your clothes, keeping your travel essentials safe and out of sight while you’re out and about.

Some items to tuck in include your passport or a copy, a bit of cash and a few cards, your phone, hotel keys, and emergency contact details of family and friends. 

You can find these at stores like Decathlon or Eagle Creek. Just ensure the fabric is soft and light, or you might end up leaving it behind.

Other similar options to keep your travel essentials safe include: 

• Bra Stash: A small  pouch that clips to the side or front of your bra, perfect for those who prefer form-fitting outfits.
• Hidden-Pocket Scarf: A stylish accessory with a pocket big enough for all your travel must-haves.It doubles as a pillow or a blanket on chilly nights.
• Scrunchies: clever accessories that double as a storage space for your travel essentials and help keep your hair in place. Brands like Smunchys
• Clothing with hidden pockets: Fellow solo female traveller, Christiane from Backpacking Bananas, offers some fantastic options  in her online shop. 

4. Dry Bag & Waterproof Phone Case

These travel safety items allow you to bring your travel essentials along for a swim at the beach or to any other water activity. 

They ensure your valuables stay safe and dry. No more need to leave them in the sand or ask a stranger to keep an eye on them. 

5. Combination Padlock

Unless your bag is in an anti-theft bag or tucked away in a locker, always secure it with a padlock. 

While most hostels do offer free lockers, you might need to pay to rent a lock.

Having your own padlock guarantees your backpack remains safe and out of reach at all times. 

Combination padlocks are even better to those with keys, which can easily go missing during travel. Just be sure to write down the combination!

6. (Retractable) Cable Lock 

These locks are super useful when you need to anchor your bag to a fixed object, whether you’re on the move or settling into your hostel bed. 

This is especially important if your hostel dorm doesn’t have lockers or if your bag is a bit too big for them. 

Plus, you can even loop them through multiple zippers in your backpack, making it even tougher for any wandering  hands to get to them. 

7. Apple Airtag

These indispensable travel safety products can be attached to important belongings like your backpack, wallet, and hostel keys. 

With Apple’s “Find My” app, you can pinpoint their exact location, if they ever get lost or misplaced. Say goodbye to those airport mishaps!

Continue reading: How to Get Back Lost Luggage – A Step-by Step 2024 Guide 

8. Luggage Tags

While Airtags are fantastic for recovering lost luggage, luggage tags can help you make sure it doesn’t go missing in the first place.

They help you distinguish your bag from others and prevent mix-ups while travelling solo. Plus, they also have your contact information. 

Read More: 12 Expert Tips to Prevent Lost Luggage at the Airport 

Travel Safety Items For Personal Safety 

While it’s important to protect your belongings, remember, they’re just things. Your personal safety should always come first, especially for us solo female travellers

There are a few travel safety products that can make a world of difference both abroad and back at home.

9. Personal Safety Alarm

If you ever find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, a quick press of a button or pull of a pin triggers an ear-piercing alarm. 

This sudden, attention-grabbing noise not only alerts those around you, but it can also startle any potential threat, giving you a crucial moment to escape. 

Just make sure to keep it easily accessible – maybe attach it to your bum bag? 

I don’t know if they are all sponsored but every single post I have ever read raves about the Birdie Alarm. So it’s definitely a must on my next solo travel packing list for women!

10. Whistle 

Out in the wild, a whistle can be just as vital as a personal alarm. Three sharp blasts on a safety whistle serve as a universal call for help.

These solo travel safety items are compact, lightweight, and surprisingly powerful. And who knows? You might already have one tucked away at home!

11. Pepper Spray

While I don´t carry pepper spray on my solo female trips, I can certainly see its value as a self-defence tool.

It’s a little canister filled with a non-lethal solution that temporarily incapacitates any potential threat. Remember to use these travel safety gadgets wisely – you don’t want to accidentally spray yourself! 

12. Kitty Keychain

This cleverly designed keyring is perfect for self-defence. Slide it onto your fingers, and those sharp ears become your weapon. Quick, discreet, and far more effective than a regular key.

Note: Just like pepper spray, be sure to check local laws before adding it to your solo travel packing list for women. It might not be allowed everywhere. Remember, neither of these solo travel safety items are suitable for carry-ons. 

Continue reading: How to Get Through Airport Security Faster in 2024

13. Swiss Army Knife

While a Swiss Army Knife won’t make it past airport security either, these iconic travel safety products can definitely help you stay safe as a solo female traveller. 

Beyond its versatile blade, it offers an array of handy tools that can be useful during your solo travels.  Need to open a bottle of wine? You´ve got your own corkscrew! 

14. Self Defense Classes

I’m a firm believer that everyone should have a basic understanding of first aid and self-defence, no matter where they are. 

You don’t have to be a martial arts expert. Even a few classes can do wonders for your personal confidence and teach you how to react in different situations.

15. Fake Wedding Ring

Whether you´re married or not, a subtle fake wedding band can help you avoid unwanted attention and even marriage proposals!.

 These safety items for solo female travelers allow you to say things like:  “Sorry, I’m taken” or “My husband is waiting  just around the corner.” 

Even if you do own a valuable engagement ring, consider leaving it at home. Instead, go for an affordable silicone band like Thunderfit – it sends the right message without drawing unnecessary attention.

16. Drink Cover 

The general rule is never to leave your drink unattended and avoid drinking from a forgotten one. 

But even so, consider using a reusable drink cover to ensure no unwanted surprises find their way in, especially when going out with people you have just met.

In the world of solo female travel essentials, a drink cover is a must-have. Famous brands include Nightcap and Cup Condom. 

17. Led Armbands

These travel safety items are super lightweight and ensure you’re both safe and visible when travelling solo. 

They are especially useful if you like waking up early to take photos or go for a run. 

Travel Safety Items to Stay Healthy on the Road 

Now more than ever, there are a few travel essentials you should include in your travel safety kit to avoid getting sick abroad. 

18. Basic First Aid Kit 

A basic first aid kit is a travel must-have for any solo traveller. Accidents can happen, and you need to be able to handle minor injuries on your own. 

You can either put together your own first aid kit or just buy a pre-made one. Just ensure it’s compact enough to fit comfortably in your backpack without taking up too much space. 

19. Medication and Prescriptions

If you take any prescription medication, make sure you have enough for your entire trip, plus a few extra days.

Remember to carry a copy of your prescription and split your medication among different bags, just in case you need a refill or something gets lost or stolen.

20. List of allergies

When travelling solo, I highly recommend having a list of your allergies written out in the local language. 

This way, you´ll know exactly what foods to avoid when ordering from a menu or dealing with street vendors. You don’t want to accidentally eat something that might kill you! 

21. Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is a must-have product on every solo travel packing list for women. It keeps you hydrated, saves money, and  helps reduce plastic waste—a win-win-win!

Consider brands like HydroFlask or LifeStraw, which allow you to purify water on the go. Plus, a steel bottle can serve as a handy self-defence tool if ever needed.

22. Face Mask

Long before 2020, you’d often spot many Asian people wearing masks, especially in crowded places like aeroplanes or public transport, to avoid contamination or getting sick. 

Now, I always ensure to have one in my backpack or carry-on. You never know when you´ll need one!

23. Travel Insurance

Now, let’s talk about travel insurance – another travel essential for every traveller, but especially us solo female travelers! 

You might not realise how crucial it is until you actually need it. Not only can it save you a substantial amount of money, but it also provides peace of mind, ensuring you’re protected in case of any emergencies.

Remember to do a bit of research and pick the policy that best suits your needs and the adventure activities you want to do (scuba diving, mountain climbing…). Many long-term travellers swear by World Nomads! 

Safety Items for your Accommodation

As a solo female traveller, I always try to stay in highly-rated hostels that take security seriously.

Nonetheless, there are still some travel safety products that help me relax and focus on making the most of my solo female trip.   

24. Door Locks

These travel safety items ensures no unwelcome guests can enter your hotel room while you’re inside.

It’s super easy to install—just slide one piece over the lock area between the door and the frame, and attach the other once the door is closed. No tools required, so you won’t have to worry about any damage to your hotel or Airbnb.

Personally, I did get one for myself, but ended up giving it away. I mostly stayed in hostels but even when I needed to recharge in a private room, I felt safe enough without the extra security.

25. Door Stopper (with Alarm) 

For an even simpler solution, go for a door stopper. Just slide it under the edge of your hotel room door, and it becomes impenetrable from the other side.

Some even come with a built-in alarm that blares if someone attempts to open the door. These travel safety items is perfect for solo female travelers.

Do keep in mind, though, that the alarm can be quite sensitive, so don’t be surprised if it goes off for room service or housekeeping. And, of course, remember to turn it off before heading to the airport to avoid any unexpected surprises!

26. Hotel Address

Alongside ensuring Google Maps is set for offline use, it´s always a good idea to write down your hotel address in the local language, just in case your phone battery runs low.

This way, you can show it directly to the driver when arriving for the first time or after a night out. 

27. Portable Travel Safe

While a money belt is great for smaller items, it’s just not big enough for bulkier valuables like your laptop or camera equipment. 

Enter the portable travel safe – a secure box or bag with a combination lock that helps keep your travel essentials safe and secure.

 You can lock it around any fixed object in your hotel or take it along to the beach or on public transport. You can find it on Amazon or from trusted brands like Pacsafe. 

28. Headlamp  & Flashlight

Having a reliable source of light is crucial for finding your way in the dark, whether you’re sneaking around a hostel dorm while everyone’s asleep or walking alone at night. 

Your phone’s flashlight might be enough but a sturdy flashlight can double as a self-defense tool or even work as a lantern on a flat surface when there’s no light. And you´d be surprised how often power outages happen in some parts of the world. 

For a hands-free lighting option, consider a headlamp. It’s incredibly useful for activities like climbing or exploring dark caves. I got mine at Decathlon.

29. Carbon Monoxide Detector 

Ever heard of carbon monoxide? It’s a dangerous gas that you can’t see or smell but can be deadly if not detected in time.

To stay safe, consider bringing along your own carbon monoxide detector. You never know if your accommodation will have this life-saving device. 

While I personally don’t pack one, it’s one of those travel safety gadgets definitely worth considering for that extra layer of travel safety.

Safety Items to Stay Connected Overseas When Traveling Solo

In today’s world, it’s absolutely essential to stay connected when travelling solo.  

Here are a few travel safety items to keep your electronic devices charged and your digital information safe during your solo adventures in Asia. 

 30. Phone & Backup

A reliable phone should be at the top of your travel packing list. It’s not just for staying in touch with loved ones, but it’s also a way to contact local authorities in case of emergencies.

Plus, having a phone allows you to use essential tools like Google Maps for directions and ride services like Grab. 

And of course, you can also use it to capture all the incredible moments of your solo travels.

In fact, I’m such a believer in its importance that I always bring along an extra, older phone as a backup. The last thing I want is to be left without a way to call for help.

31. SIM Card 

Having a phone is great, but it’s useless if you can’t use it. That’s why I make it a priority to get a local SIM card as soon as I touch down in a new country. 

Sure, it might be a bit pricier at the airport, but my safety is worth every penny. 

And don’t forget to keep your original SIM card safe, perhaps in that spare phone? You never know when you might need it, especially for accessing your bank.

Read More: Stay Connected Overseas: Best SIM cards in Asia

32. Phone Lanyard (Phone Strap)

This travel safety item ensures your phone is always within arm’s reach, allowing you to comfortably wear it around your neck or across your body. 

This makes it perfect for snapping quick photos without the worry of misplacing it, especially for those of us who have a tendency to leave our phones on restaurant tables.

 In places like Vietnam, where motorbike riders might try to grab your phone, having it securely attached provides an extra layer of safety. So add it to your solo travel packing list for females!

33. Power Bank (Portable Charger)

As explained, having a fully functioning phone is non-negotiable. However, with all the hours and photos, it’s easy for the battery to run low. 

This is why you should always carry with you a portable charger particulary in more remote locations where it might be more difficult to find an outlet. 

Keep in mind, though, that airlines usually have restrictions on power banks exceeding 20,000 mAh. Always double-check before you take off!

Continue reading: How to get through airport security FASTER – 8 must-know tips 

34. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN is a travel essential for digital nomads and anyone who values their online privacy. To put it simply, it encrypts your online activity, making it anonymous and virtually untraceable. 

This means you can confidently connect to public Wi-Fi and work remotely without the risk of someone stealing your passwords and personal information. Plus, it can also help you bypass government restrictions in countries like China. 

Just remember to install the VPN on all your devices before you set off, as it can be a bit trickier to do so once you’re in your destination. Personally, I’ve had great experiences with both Surfshark and ExpressVPN and highly recommend them!

35. Password Manager

A password manager is a travel safety tool that uses advanced encryption to securely store all your passwords, ensuring you can access them no matter where you are in the world.

What’s more, some even offer additional features like mobile syncing and an automatic password generator. Brands like LastPass or 1Password are excellent choices.

Say goodbye to the risky habit of writing down passwords on paper, in your phone’s notes, or even in a spreadsheet. Your digital life just got a whole lot safer!

36. Travel Safety Apps

While specific travel safety gear certainly has its place, sometimes the most valuable safety items are the ones you already carry with you – like your phone.

There are so many safety apps that you can download to keep you safe, whether you’re travelling solo or back at home.

• Life 360:  It allows you to share your exact location via GPS with anyone, providing them peace of mind about your whereabouts.
• Google Maps:  you can use it to ensure you’re on the right path and even download maps for offline use, completely free of charge. 
• Scream Alarm: it mimics a high-pitched scream, useful for situations where you might not be able to scream loud enough. 

How to Manage Money and Travel Documents as a Solo Female Traveller 

Last but not least, these travel products will help you stay organised and prepared for anything that might happen while travelling solo in Asia.

37. Money

When you’re out on your adventures, always make sure you’ve got some cash and an extra credit/debit card with you for emergencies. 

And remember to spread out the rest across different bags and locations for that extra layer of security. 

Continue Reading: How to Travel Asia With Cash and Money Management Tips for Credit Cards in Asia.

38. Travel Wallet

A travel wallet is a must-have for keeping all your solo female travel essentials organized and easily accessible in one convenient spot.  

Say goodbye to those heart-pounding moments of frantically searching for your passport or boarding pass! This travel safety gear is definitely both stylish and effective for solo travelers.

What’s more, some travel wallets even come with RFID-blocking technology to protect your personal information against electronic theft. 

39. Impenetrable Card Holder

If you prefer a more compact option than a full-fledged travel wallet, consider investing in a secure card holder. Not only do they keep your cards organised, but many also come with the same RFID scanning protection.

So, these solo travel safety items will help keep your cards stay safe from any unwanted scans or swipes.

40. Travel Registration

Now, this may not be a physical product, but it’s an important step when planning your next solo female trip. 

I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to register your trip with your government before embarking on your journey. 

It’s a quick, completely free process that won’t take you more than five minutes.

And in case of any unexpected events like a natural disaster or civil unrest, your embassy will be able to easily  locate you and provide you the help you need. 

41. Photocopies of Your Travel Documents

Having copies of your travel documents is an absolute a game-changer in the realm of solo travel safety gear.

This includes your passport, travel insurance, visas, medical information, vaccination records, and international driving permit. 

Be sure to print them out and store them separately from the originals. Also keep digital copies handy on your phone, whether it’s in your photos, on the cloud, or sent via email to a trusted friend or family member. 

This way, you’ve got multiple backups in case the originals get lost or stolen. 

Read More: Sri Lanka Visa – Everything You Need to Know in 2024

42. Pen and Paper

It might sound simple, but having a pen and piece of paper in your bag can be incredibly helpful. 

If you ever feel unsafe, you can use them to write a note to your server for assistance, or to record important details like a vehicle description or a taxi driver’s badge number.

If you don’t have a pen, you can always use your phone!

Recap: Best Safety Items for Solo Female Travelers in 2024

Alright, that’s a wrap! These are my top picks for travel safety items to keep you and your belongings safe.

Remember, you don’t need to buy them all. These travel safety gadgets do come with a price tag and take up precious space in your backpack. 

So, depending on your travel style, choose the ones that you are actually going to use for that extra peace of mind. 

Now, I’m curious, which of these travel safety products are you planning to add to your solo travel packing list? Share your thoughts below! 

Good luck and happy travels!

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PS: Now that you have all the solo female travel essentials, it’s time to put them to use! Dive into my comprehensive guides on Reasons to visit Thailand and Reasons to visit Sri Lanka in 2024!

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