Things You'll Need:
- Common sense!
- Time
- Cable lock with integrated motion alarm
- Appropriate clothing for the travel destination
- A tent that gives you privacy
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Step 1
Respect your intuition and instincts. You already know that well-dressed smooth talkers aren’t always who they appear to be, so don’t talk yourself into ignoring feelings you can’t explain when you travel. Respect those feelings and if you ever experience the hackles actually rising up on the back of your neck, just get the heck out of there.
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Step 2
Decide that embarrassment is not an option. If you think you might be being followed or in the least bit of danger, simply go tell someone that you’re worried and why. Call 911 at the same time. Even use your cell phone to take a photo of the person or vehicle in question. Nobody will mind if it turns out to be a mistake. In fact, they’ll think you’re smart.
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Step 3
Slow down! When you’re in a hurry you’re distracted, you’re not paying attention to your surroundings, and your intuition and instincts don’t have time to kick in. You’re also likely to get careless, leaving things behind or misplacing items. You may even be tempted to speed or ride after dark. Be willing to change your plans to accommodate a sensible pace.
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Step 4
The Bibler AwahaneeCarefully scope out your camping spot. You’ve logged a lot of miles and you’re tired, but don’t take first site you see and don’t camp away from the crowd. Take a couple or three spins around the campground and choose a site between families and retired people in tents, not between RVs and not next to the guys on a hunting trip cleaning their guns and drinking beer.
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Step 5
Targus DEFCON 1 cable lock and motion alarmBuy a cable lock with a motion sensor to secure your tank bag and other belongings and use it while you take even the shortest dash to the restroom. You can also hang it on your hotel room door, attach it to the zipper on your tent, or carry it in your pocket to activate in case you feel the need for a personal alarm.
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Step 6
Ask. People love helping others. They just don’t have enough opportunity to do it. The campers next to you, the locals at the breakfast joint… people love it when you’re interested in the places they know, and you’ll probably get tips on the best roads or even a personal tour of a special spot. (Of course, you’ll be using your instincts and intuition to decide whether to accept or not, right?)
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Step 7
Most of all, remember that a positive, open attitude can go a long way in collecting a lifetime of fabulous solo travel experiences. Most people are fascinated by the idea of a woman traveling alone, and you'll get a lot of respect no matter where you go. So just let these tips help you to avoid dangers or to resolve situations in the very unlikely case they cross your path.
Comments
EdenSharpe said
on 2/15/2009 Wonderful article. I've always wanted to take a motorcycle trip.#4 is the one I worry about. I think I'd add pack pepper spray (or something stronger :)) for defense.
genehoffpauir said
on 2/14/2009 Great article! 5*