As a woman,
traveling solo may be wonderfully empowering, full of experiences,
opportunities for personal development, and new relationships.
While hostels
are frequently the best option for visitors on a tight budget, shared spaces,
particularly restrooms, can occasionally feel uncomfortable or frightening.
Staying safe
in shared restrooms is necessary, whether you are traveling through Southeast
Asia or Europe on a backpack.
Here are some tips for staying safe while yet making the most of your hostel stay.
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| Stay Aware, Stay Safe - Every Door Tells a Story. |
How to Stay Safe in Shared Bathrooms in Hostels as a Solo Woman?
1. Choose Hostels with Good Reviews and Safety Features
Spend some
time reading hostel reviews on reliable websites like Hostelworld, Booking.com,
or Google Maps before clicking the "Book Now" button.
Pay
particular attention to evaluations written by women traveling solo that
highlight safety, cleanliness, and ease of access to the restroom.
Paying a bit
more for hostels with round-the-clock security, locked separate restrooms, and
consistent cleaning schedules is worthwhile.
Pro tip: Look out hostels with private restrooms in the rooms; these seem to feel more secure than shared bathrooms down the hall.
2. Choose for Female Only Dorms and Bathrooms When Available
Dorms and
even floors or restrooms reserved for women are available at many hostels.
These areas
have the goal to provide greater comfort and privacy for female guests.
A female-only
hostel typically has quieter, cleaner bathrooms and fewer awkward interactions.
Selecting
this option improves safety and frequently includes considerate extras like
complimentary sanitary items or cosmetic mirrors.
3. Use a Bathroom Caddy and Keep Essentials Handy
You may
reduce the amount of time you spend juggling things in a shared area by keeping
all of your necessities in a single, waterproof shower caddy or toiletries bag.
Make sure you
bring everything you'll need, including shampoo, soap, face wash, a toothbrush,
and deodorant, so you can get in and out fast.
Bonus: By keeping your belongings together, you can avoid the frequent issue of unintentionally leaving anything in the shower.
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| Solo, Not Unsafe - Smart Travel Begins with Caution. |
4. Time Your Visits Strategically
Early in the
morning and around dinnertime are typically the busiest times for restrooms.
When the
restrooms are less full, try taking a shower later in the day or at midday.
You will have
better access to outlets, mirrors, and hot water in addition to more peace and
quiet.
Hygiene and
privacy may be maintained with a little preparation.
5. Wear Shower Shoes or Flip-Flops
In hostel
restrooms, never go barefoot. The flooring could be slick, damp, and
bacterially contaminated.
Any hostel
visitor must have a pair of quick-drying shower shoes or rubber flip-flops.
These simple
shoes can stop warts, athlete's foot, and even potentially harmful slips.
6. Lock the Door Securely and Avoid Unattended Items
When using a
private shower or stall, always make sure the door is securely locked. Inform
the hostel staff if the locks are weak or damaged.
Valuables
like your wallet, room key, and phone are easy targets, so keep them out of
sight.
Avoid
becoming sidetracked by music or texts when in public spaces.
7. Dress for Coverage and Comfort
Think about
spending money on a quick-dry sarong, towel wrap, or lightweight robe.
Without having
to worry about unintentional slides or wardrobe malfunctions, these can keep
you comfortably covered while you make your way to and from the restroom.
Additionally,
these boost your self-esteem, particularly in situations with co-ed hallways.
8. Avoid Using the Bathroom Late at Night Alone
Before it is
too late, if at all possible, use the restroom. If something goes wrong, there
may be fewer witnesses because there are fewer people around.
Notify a
friend or roommate if you must leave during the night, or have your phone with
emergency numbers close at hand.
Safety in
numbers is a strategy, not just a motto.
9. Trust Your Instincts and Speak Up
Trust your instincts
if anything feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Talk to the hostel staff about any
unusual activity near the restroom or amenities that fails to stick to safety
regulations.
The majority
of respectable hostels will take action because they care about the safety of
women.
Never ignore
your instincts; they are your best defense.
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| Lock the Door, Hold Your Phone, Own Your Space. |
Conclusion – Prioritize Your Safety without Sacrificing Adventure
Traveling
solo does not have to mean sacrificing security. You may enjoy the flexibility
of hosteling without having to worry about shared restrooms if you plan ahead
and take a few wise steps.
If you stay
alert organized, and self-assured, it is not only achievable but also powerful
for a woman traveling solo to stay at a hostel.
Be mindful,
pack sensibly, and avoid a desire to allow fear stop you from seeing the world.
Read: Unknown Mountain Villages in South America
Where Solo Women Feel Welcome
