Solo Female Travel Safety Guide: Safest Countries + Tips for Confident International Travel
Let's talk about something that stops so many brilliant, adventurous women before they even start packing: safety.
I get it. The fear is real. The headlines are terrifying. And for many of us, the idea of international travel feels like stepping into the unknown—especially when we're going solo or bringing our kids along for the adventure.
But here's the truth that nobody's talking about, the one that's going to change everything: According to the Global Peace Index, there are dozens of incredible destinations where you'll actually be safer than you are in your own backyard.
This guide breaks down the real data behind travel safety, reveals the safest countries for women, and shows you exactly how to prepare, protect yourself, and travel confidently using smart planning and strategic travel rewards. Because once you replace fear with facts, the world opens up in ways you never imagined.
Quick Take:
International travel is often safer than people think — especially for women who prepare strategically. The safest countries combine low crime, strong infrastructure, and gender equality, and with the right planning tools, travel insurance, and rewards credit cards, women can explore the world confidently and affordably.
The Safety Reality Check
Let's get real for a moment. The United States currently ranks 132nd out of 163 countries on the 2024 Global Peace Index—a significant decline that reflects increasing domestic challenges around public safety. To put this in perspective, that places the U.S. below countries like Malaysia, Tanzania, and Senegal in terms of overall peace and safety metrics.
And within the United States? The statistics are equally eye-opening. According to recent FBI crime data and per capita safety analyses, cities like Memphis, Tennessee; Detroit, Michigan; Baltimore, Maryland; St. Louis, Missouri; and Albuquerque, New Mexico consistently rank among the least safe for women, with elevated rates of violent crime and sexual assault.
I'm not sharing this to scare you—I'm sharing it to liberate you.
Because when we look at the data objectively, when we step outside the fear-based narrative, something extraordinary becomes clear: international travel isn't the risky proposition we've been conditioned to believe it is.
A Mother-Daughter Moment That Changed Everything
A few weeks ago, I was curled up in bed with my 11-year-old daughter, laptop open, dreaming out loud about where we'd go next. Her eyes lit up talking about Switzerland—she wants to go back. Portugal has been calling my name lately, whispering promises of sun-drenched coastlines and ancient cobblestone streets.
Here's what struck me in that moment: both destinations rank in the top 10 on the Global Peace Index. Switzerland sits at #7. Portugal at #6. Both are significantly safer than the United States.
My daughter wasn't just planning a vacation. She was learning that the world isn't something to fear—it's something to embrace, explore, and claim as her own.
And that's exactly what I want for you.
The Safest International Destinations for Women Travelers
When we talk about safety for women specifically, certain countries consistently rise to the top. These destinations combine low crime rates, gender equality, robust infrastructure, and a culture of respect for solo female travelers:
The Top Tier:
- Iceland (ranked #1 on the Global Peace Index): Virtually no violent crime, exceptional gender equality, and a culture that celebrates independence
- Singapore (#4): Incredibly low crime rates, world-class public transportation, and strict laws that protect residents and visitors alike
- Switzerland (#7): Safe, efficient, and stunningly beautiful with excellent infrastructure
- Portugal (#6): Warm, welcoming culture with low crime rates and affordability
- Slovenia (#9): Europe's hidden gem with safety ratings that rival its more famous neighbors
- Japan (#9): Exceptional safety, respect-based culture, and solo-female-traveler-friendly infrastructure
- Austria (#4): Sophisticated, safe, and absolutely gorgeous
- Denmark (#3): Progressive values, low crime, and bike-friendly cities
These aren't just statistics—these are places where women report feeling confident walking alone at night, where harassment is rare, and where infrastructure is designed with everyone's safety in mind.
Let's Talk Logistics (Because Practical Is Powerful)
Here's where we get strategic, because empowered ethical traveling isn't just about choosing the right destination—it's about setting yourself up for seamless success.
Crossing Borders with Confidence
I've exited and re-entered the United States several times over the past few months, and I want to share something important: despite the anxiety-inducing headlines, my actual experience has been smooth. No additional interrogations. No drama. Just standard procedures.
I hold a U.S. passport and I'm white, which means I move through the world with certain privileges. I acknowledge that completely. Others may have different experiences, and those experiences are valid and deserve consideration.
That said, there are concrete steps every woman can take to make border crossings easier:
Global Entry is your best friend. Several premium travel credit cards include Global Entry or TSA PreCheck as a benefit:
- Card #1 : $100 Global Entry credit, 3X points on travel and dining, primary rental car insurance, and travel insurance coverage
- Card #2 : Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit, 5X points on flights, comprehensive travel insurance, and access to airport lounges worldwide
- Card #3 : $100 Global Entry credit, travel insurance, and premium rewards on everyday spending
Global Entry allows you to re-enter the United States through expedited kiosks—shorter lines, faster service, less stress. And here's a bonus: when you enroll, your children under 18 can often receive complimentary Global Entry membership when linked to your account.
Smart Travel Credit Cards: Your Financial Safety Net
The right credit card isn't just about rewards—it's about protection. When choosing a card for international travel, look for these crucial features:
Essential Protections:
- Travel insurance (trip cancellation, delay, interruption)
- Emergency medical coverage abroad
- Lost luggage reimbursement
- Rental car collision coverage (primary coverage is ideal)
- No foreign transaction fees
- 24/7 travel assistance services
Top Cards for Women Travelers:
Top Recommendation: ($95 annual fee): Perfect for beginners—2X points on travel and dining, travel and purchase insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and points transfer to airline partners for maximum value.
Second Recommendation: ($325 annual fee): 4X points at restaurants (including overseas), travel insurance, and Amex's exceptional customer service when you need help abroad.
Third Recommendation: ($95 annual fee): Simple 2X miles on everything, no foreign transaction fees, and easy-to-use travel portal.
My Award Travel Starter System: From Overwhelmed to Boarding Pass
I know what you're thinking: "This sounds amazing, but where do I even start?"
That's exactly why I created my Award Travel Starter System. I was once exactly where you are—overwhelmed by points, confused by transfer partners, convinced this whole reward travel thing was only for people who had time to become hobbyist experts.
Spoiler alert: it's not.
My system breaks down into five simple steps that anyone can follow:
- Choose your starter card strategically based on your spending habits and travel goals
- Hit the sign-up bonus with everyday spending (no crazy manufactured spending required)
- Understand the value of your points (not all points are created equal)
- Master the transfer game to airline and hotel partners for maximum value
- Book your first award trip with confidence
I've taken all the research, all the trial and error, all the "I wish someone had told me this" moments, and condensed them into a system that actually works for real women with real lives.
Want to get started right now? Head to www.hertravel.club/reward-travel-system and download the complete starter guide. It includes:
- My exact card recommendation flowchart
- Point valuation cheat sheet
- Transfer partner sweet spots
- Booking walkthrough for your first award flight
- Common mistakes to avoid (so you don't have to learn them the hard way)
Because here's the truth: reward travel isn't some exclusive club. It's a tool. And tools are meant to be used by anyone who wants to build something—in this case, a life filled with adventure.
Essential Solo Female Travel Wisdom
Traveling solo as a woman is one of the most empowering experiences you'll ever have. It's also one that comes with unique considerations. Here's what I wish every woman knew before her first solo trip:
Before You Leave
Tell someone your plans. Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. Update them when you change locations. It's not paranoia—it's smart.
Book your first night's accommodation in advance. Arriving in a new country exhausted and trying to find a place to stay is when you're most vulnerable. Have that first night locked down.
Research transportation from the airport. Know whether you're taking a train, official taxi, Uber, or shuttle. Pre-book if possible. Screenshot directions and save them offline.
Download offline maps. Google Maps allows you to download entire cities for offline use. Do this before you leave.
Learn key phrases. "Help," "No," "Police," "I don't understand," and "Where is the bathroom?" in the local language go a long way.
Choosing Accommodation
Read recent reviews from other solo female travelers. Filter reviews and look specifically for comments about safety, neighborhood, and late-night arrival experiences.
Consider hostels with private rooms. You get the security of a staffed building and the social aspect if you want it, but privacy when you need it. Many hostels now cater to an older, professional crowd.
Location matters more than amenities. Pay more to stay central, near public transportation, and in well-lit, busy areas. A cheap hotel in a sketchy neighborhood is never worth it.
Use hotels with 24-hour reception. Especially important if you're arriving late or leaving early.
On the Ground
Trust your gut always. If something feels off—a person, a place, a situation—remove yourself immediately. Your intuition is data. Listen to it.
Dress somewhat locally. You don't have to completely blend in, but avoid clothing that screams "tourist" or violates local cultural norms. Research what's appropriate before you go.
The "wedding ring trick" is your friend. I know it's painfully annoying, but a simple band on your ring finger can deter unwanted attention. Mention your "husband" casually if needed.
Have a "safety contact" on speed dial. Your hotel, a local friend if you have one, or even a friend back home who knows your schedule.
Avoid telling strangers you're alone. "My friend is meeting me later" or "I'm meeting my group" works perfectly.
Be cautious with alcohol. This isn't about judgment—it's about staying aware. If you're drinking, stick to places where you can see your drink being made, and never leave it unattended.
Transportation Safety
Use official transportation only. Licensed taxis, ride-sharing apps where available, or recommended shuttles. Never accept rides from strangers, no matter how friendly.
Sit behind the driver in taxis. Makes it harder for them to reach you and easier for you to exit quickly if needed. Get dropped off in public areas- never parking garages.
Exit Elevators if you find yourself alone on an elevator with anybody who makes you uncomfortable. As a general rule, I always exit the elevator if I am alone and 1 man enters, and will not board the elevator if I will be alone with men/ one man.
Share your ride details. Most ride-sharing apps allow you to share your trip in real-time with contacts.
On public transit, sit near other women or families. Especially at night. Stay in well-populated train cars.
Keep one earbud out. If you're listening to music or podcasts, maintain awareness of your surroundings. The new Airpods have an automatic translator that is really fun to use in foreign countries and comes in handy.
Making Connections (Safely)
Join group tours or activities. Cooking classes, walking tours, and day trips are perfect for meeting other travelers in structured, safe environments.
Use social apps designed for travelers. Tourlina connects female travelers, while apps like Meetup help you find local events and groups.
Stay in social accommodations occasionally. Even if you prefer private rooms most of the time, joining a hostel pub crawl can help you meet travel companions.
Trust other women travelers. We look out for each other. Strike up conversations with other solo women you encounter.
Be open but boundaried. It's okay to enjoy meeting new people. It's also okay to say no to invitations, to leave situations, or to prioritize your own comfort.
The Confidence Game
Here's something nobody tells you: half of solo travel safety is projecting confidence.
Walk with purpose, even if you're lost (check your map discreetly, not obviously on a street corner). Make eye contact. Take up space. Carry yourself like you know exactly where you're going and belong exactly where you are.
Predators—whether they're pickpockets or worse—look for uncertainty, distraction, and vulnerability. You don't have to be aggressive or unfriendly. Just present, aware, and confident.
Practical Safety Essentials
Before you go:
- Research the destination's emergency number (France has 3399 for tourist emergencies; most EU countries use 112)
- Locate the U.S. Embassy or Consulate
- Make digital copies of your passport, credit cards, and important documents—store them in a secure cloud service
- Make physical copies and keep them in a separate bag from the originals
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. State Department
- Get travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage
While you're there:
- Carry valuables in a crossbody bag worn in front of you—never in pockets
- Use hotel safes for passports and backup cards
- Keep some emergency cash hidden separately from your main wallet
- Charge your phone every chance you get
- Take photos of important locations (your hotel entrance, landmarks near your accommodation)
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, remove yourself from the situation
Using Rewards to Make Dreams Affordable
Here's where it gets really exciting: credit card rewards can make international travel not just possible, but affordable—even free.
The Strategy:
- Choose a card with a generous sign-up bonus (Chase Sapphire Preferred currently offers 60,000 points after meeting minimum spend)
- Use it for everyday expenses you'd make anyway (groceries, gas, bills)
- Pay it off in full each month to avoid interest
- Transfer points to airline partners for outsized value (often 2 - 6 cents per point)
- Book award flights to your dream destination
Example: That 60,000-point Chase bonus? That's enough for several round-trip tickets to Europe in economy or a one-way business class ticket on some routes. I created a video walk-through here when I booked flights to Paris for just $12.
Chase, American Express, Capital One, and Citi all have transfer partners with major international airlines like Air France, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Singapore Airlines.
My Award Travel Starter System walks you through this entire process step-by-step. No more guessing, no more leaving value on the table, no more feeling like you need a PhD in points to make this work.
Get the complete system at www.hertravel.club/reward-travel-system and start planning your first (or next) international adventure today.
The Antidote to Fear
I'll be honest with you: the news cycle right now feels relentless. The political climate feels uncertain. The fear-mongering is everywhere.
But travel? Travel is the antidote.
Travel reminds us that people are fundamentally good. That not everywhere is like this. That humanity is far more beautiful, generous, and welcoming than our feeds would have us believe.
I cannot think of a more important time in our lifetime—or our children's lifetimes—to prove that the world is, in fact, a good place. That the majority of people want to do good. That kindness transcends borders and languages.
Just look at yourself. You're good, right? You want good things for others. You'd help a stranger in need.
So would most people. Everywhere.
Over the past several months of travel, I've witnessed something that has fundamentally shifted how I see the world: the vast, shocking difference between how media portrays humanity and how humans actually treat each other when we're face to face.
In France, a shopkeeper spent twenty minutes helping me find the perfect gift for my daughter, chatting about her own children, refusing to let me overpay.
In Switzerland, when I was clearly lost and overwhelmed, three different people stopped to help without being asked.
In Italy, a woman noticed I was struggling with directions and not only helped me find my route but also gave me recommendations for her favorite local spots, far from the tourist trail.
This is the truth that travel reveals: the average person is really wonderful. The average person wants to do good.
Your Invitation
So here's my invitation to you, beautiful soul:
Stop letting fear make your decisions. Stop letting headlines determine your dreams. Stop playing small in a world that's vast and welcoming and waiting for you.
You deserve to walk the cobblestone streets of Lisbon. To watch the Northern Lights dance across an Icelandic sky. To sip tea in a Japanese garden. To stand on a mountaintop in Switzerland and feel, truly feel, how big and good this world is.
You deserve to teach your daughters—and your sons—that courage isn't the absence of fear. It's choosing adventure anyway.
Here's your action plan:
- Get educated: Download my Award Travel Starter System at www.hertravel.club/reward-travel-system
- Get protected: Apply for a travel rewards card with Global Entry credit and comprehensive travel insurance
- Get moving: Pick one destination from the safe list above and start researching
You don't have to have it all figured out. You don't have to be an expert. You just have to take the first step.
Get that credit card. Pick a destination that makes your heart race.
And then go.
The world is so much safer, kinder, and more beautiful than you've been told.
And it's waiting for you.
Resources:
- My Award Travel Starter System: www.hertravel.club/reward-travel-system
- Global Peace Index: Vision of Humanity (visionofhumanity.org)
- Credit card comparison tools: NerdWallet, The Points Guy
- Solo female travel communities: Girls Love Travel (Facebook), Tourlina (app)
Because the most dangerous thing we can do is never leave home at all.