So, you have
decided to go on a solo adventure. First of all: Yes! You are awesome, brave,
and about to enjoy one of life's most rewarding experiences.
But let's be
a little real. Along with the happiness, there is probably a small voice: "What if I am scammed? What if I am
charged more money? Will I look like a complete tourist? Will I be safe?"
This voice is
absolutely normal. Every solo
female traveler has this thought, I have too. The good news is that with a
little knowledge, you can silence that voice. Scams or overcharges are not inevitable;
they can be avoided with a little smart preparation.
This guide is like a friendly coffee chat where I share my practical tips and things I learn while traveling. Let's turn worries into confidence.
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| How to Travel Solo Without Getting Scammed or Overcharged? |
Before Your Trip: Build Your Armor Against Scams
Research your
trip beforehand; it's your first and best defense. A prepared traveler is more
powerful.
A) Do the Research Properly
Don't just
look at pretty Instagram photos. Go a little deeper.
Know common scams: Searching for "common scams in
[destination]" is a game-changer. Is there any famous bracelet scam where
someone asks for money by tying a string on your wrist? Are taxi meters often
shown as "broken"? Knowing the specific tricks of the destination
will help you identify them instantly.
Understand local pricing: What is the typical price of a short
taxi ride? How much does local beer or street food cost? Read travel forums and
blogs to get a realistic idea. I often take screenshots of average prices on my
phone for quick reference.
Download important apps first: Set up maps, transport and
ride-sharing apps (like Uber, Grab, Bolt) on Wi-Fi first. Appearing confused at
the airport increases vulnerability.
B) Learn the Art of Booking
The place
where you stay sets the tone for the entire trip.
Choose accommodation wisely: For the first few solo trips, choose
highly-rated hostels (many have female-only dorms), reputable guesthouses or
hotels. Read recent reviews of Booking.com or Hostelworld. I look for keywords
like "solo female" and "safe location" in reviews to get
the real scoop.
Pre-book the first night's transport: This is my golden rule. Getting tired
at 11 pm and then frantic haggling with taxi drivers is the biggest red flag.
Book airport transfer from a hotel or any reliable service, it is worth paying
money for peace.
Read: How
to Plan a 7 Day Solo Trip Step by Step for First Timers?
On the Ground: Smart Strategies for Solo Travelers
Now you have
arrived! Now it's time to walk with confidence.
A) Handle Money Like a Pro
Money-related
problems tend to overcharge a lot. Let's stop them.
"No" is a complete sentence: Is someone being overly helpful and
asking for money? Is the shopkeeper pressuring you? Firm, loud "NO, THANK
YOU" and walking away from there is very effective. If someone is making
you uncomfortable, you are not obliged to be polite to them.
Taxi tango: classic overcharge:
- Always insist on the meter ("meter?")
first. If he refuses, get off and take the next cab.
- Use ride-sharing apps where possible. Price is
locked and the route will be tracked.
- If you have to negotiate, research the correct price
and ask directly before getting in. "400 baht to eat on San Road. Yes
or no?"
Cash is king (but discreet): In some places cash is preferred. Avoid showing money. Keep small notes in an easy pocket for daily expenses, and keep bulk cash/cards hidden somewhere (money belt, hidden pocket, or secure bag).
B) Blend In a Little
The goal is
not to be invisible; the target is to be less visible.
Dress modestly and appropriately: Check local customs. Covering
shoulders and knees is not just respectful, it also avoids unwanted attention.
Plus, it doesn't hurt to look like a fresh-off-the-plane tourist.
Walk with a purpose: Even if you're lost, fake it till you
make it. It's better to go to a cafe or shop and check the map than to look at
a confused map on the middle of a sidewalk. Confidence is a powerful shield.
"Resting Bitch Face" can be
your friend: A
friendly smile is good, but a constant nervous smile can sometimes give the
wrong signal. Sunglasses and a neutral confident expression help you stay safe
on busy streets or in markets.
C) Trust Your Gut: Your Most Important
Tool
This is not a
cliché; it's your built-in superpower.
That feeling is real: If a situation, a person, or a
"too-good-to-be-true" deal seems off, maybe it is. You don't need to
be polite, you don't need to explain to anyone. Your safety is more important
than anyone else's feelings. Just get out of there.
The "Fake husband" trick: When you feel uncomfortable being
alone, a simple "I'm meeting my husband" or "My friend/group is
right over there" statement is a quick and effective way to disengage from
people who are rude.
You Will Do It - Your Solo Journey Awaits
Solo travel
as a woman is a very empowering thing. Yes, it is important to be aware, but
there is no need to dare. You will meet very kind and wonderful people in the
world, and the joy of discovering your own strength and capability will feel
like a transformed experience.
Scams and
overcharges? This is a small and avoidable part of the journey. With these tips,
you are not just a tourist; you are an informed, confident traveler who is
going to explore the world on your own terms.
Next step? Share your dream solo destination (or a past trip story!) in the comments. Let's create a community of fearless female travelers who support each other. Safe and happy travels!
Read: How
to Earn Money While Traveling Solo as a Woman?
