The solo travel aspirations of women have become more and more important in the travel industry. On top of this, the safety concerns of women travelers have been more of a priority in general society (relatively speaking). With the increase in women’s earnings and the promotion of recreational activities, there has been an explosion in the popularity of solo travel. Hashtags like #solofemaletraveler, women becoming solo travel influencers, and more content related to women’s independent adventures have surfaced in recent years. But, of course, not all of the buzz around independent travel has been good. Check out the new study that provides a look into the world of women’s solo travel and what adventurers can take away from it.
What Did the Study Say About Female Solo Travelers?
The recent study was conducted by Monastaries.com. The specialist accommodation finder is a way in which many people have sought asylum. From travelers to pilgrims, monasteries worldwide have housed women for centuries. They are commonly located in central areas of the most highly visited places in the world. Women assume they will receive hospitality and a convenient place to stay if they choose to stay in one.
The perceived safety and security of places like this (abbeys, monasteries, and convents) is why the study was initially conducted; to see how accommodation options like monasteries were popular in relation to solo travel and if they compare to traditional hotels. It was found that women travelers outnumber men in solo travel, by 67% to 37%. This may not seem strange since technically there are more women in the world’s population, but the interesting thing is that women typically overcome more to be able to solo travel.
Of the women solo travelers surveyed, 88% felt that their safety was threatened in some way by traveling on their own. Overcoming those fears to explore the world independently is a feat, knowing the potential dangers in this world. This is also a testament to women’s strength and resilience. Solo women travelers pave the way for themselves to learn more about the world and as a result, themselves. Of course, safety remains a huge concern for women going on solo traveling trips.
Is Traveling Solo as a Woman Safe?
Yes, generally speaking, solo travel is safe for women. However, this is nowhere near a universal notion. Much of women’s safety even in their own homes and towns depends on multiple factors, sadly. So here are a few things that will help women trying to branch out and enjoy solo travel.
Ways for Women To Feel Safer During Solo Travel
Much of the concern with women’s travel safety has to do with societal and structural issues. However, women do have some control over their experiences. To secure their personal safety, there are a few things that women going on solo trips can do. They can book accommodations in areas with high safety ratings, stay alert in public areas, and exercise safety precautions to secure their personal belongings.
A big factor that impacts the safety level of women travelers also has to do with where they are going. Women solo travelers may be wise to avoid destinations they do not feel women are safe in. This might include places that do not have the legal, societal, and cultural standards that they find acceptable. This is particularly true for standards and policies concerning women’s rights. Travelers should also research their potential travel destinations. Relying on trusted travel advisories is a smart way to get the most up-to-date information. They often include a section that touches on women’s safety.