The global workforce is evolving rapidly, with women increasingly taking on leadership roles and international business trips. As a result, the number of solo female business travellers has surged in recent years. While this trend is empowering, it’s essential to prioritise safety when venturing into unfamiliar territories. This blog post offers practical tips to help solo female business travellers navigate the world confidently and securely.

Understanding the Landscape and Trends

The number of women in the global workforce has steadily increased over the past few decades. According to an annual survey by the Solo Female Travellers Club, online searches for the term “solo female travel” has increased 6-fold during the 4 years preceding the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and since the beginning of 2024. This shift directly correspons to rise in the number of female business travellers, both domestically and internationally.

Here are some stats from the 2024 Survey.

• Women as Travel Influencers: Women make most travel bookings for themselves, their families, parents, their colleagues and friends and represent 70% of hotel website visits. 
• Solo female travel worries: The top concerncs for women travelling solo include:
  • 70% – Personal Safety 
  • 65% – Higher costs vs splitting costs with a travel companion
  • 40% – Something bad happening
  • 39% – Language barriers
  • 34% – Getting lost
  • 32% – Feeling lonely
  • 20% – Worry about dining alone.

• Best international destination for a first solo trip: European countries (56%) are the best destinations for a first solo trip. The top countries are the UK, Italy, Spain, Thailand and Portugal. These are the same countries mentioned in the previous year.
  
  
• Safety devices:
  • 24% of respondents carried self-defence items when they travelled in 2023. 
  • 30% used anti-theft bags on their trips. The older the traveller, the higher their likelihood of using one (Boomers 48% vs. Gen Z 23%).
    
    
• Insurance: On their solo trips in 2023, 52% of respondents bought travel insurance and 47% bought medical insurance.  
  
  
• Dangerous situations: 25% of solo female travellers have feared for their safety in the last 12 months during a solo trip. 1% of the respondents did not manage to keep themselves safe.  

This trend is driven by a desire for independence and the ability to focus on work without distractions. However, travelling alone can also pose unique safety challenges.

Essential Safety Tips for Solo Female Business Travellers

1. Research Your Destination: Before embarking on your trip, thoroughly research your destination. Understand local customs, laws, and cultural norms. Be aware of areas to avoid.
2. Share Your Itinerary: Inform a trusted friend or family member of your travel plans, including your flight details, hotel reservations, and itinerary. Consider using a travel tracking app to share your location with loved ones in real time.
3. Choose Safe Accommodation: Opt for reputable hotels or accommodations in safe neighbourhoods. Look for properties with security features like keycard access, surveillance cameras, and 24/7 front desk service.
4. Trust your insticts: Be aware of your environment and avoid places and/ or situations that make you feel uncomfortable.
5. Avoid Isolated Areas: When exploring a new city, stick to well-lit and populated areas.
6. Use Reliable Transportation: Use trusted transportation services, such as official taxis or ride-sharing apps with safety features. Avoid accepting rides from strangers.
7. Learn Local Phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases in the local language can be helpful in communicating with locals and navigating unfamiliar situations.
8. Keep Valuables Secure: Carry your passport, credit cards, and other valuables securely. A popular option is to use a money belt to keep your belongings safe.
9. Be Cautious with Personal Information: Avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Be wary of unsolicited offers or invitations.
10. Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you feel threatened or unsafe.

Additional Considerations for Solo Female Business Travellers

• When in Rome: While it’s important to respect local customs, dressing modestly can help you blend in and avoid unwanted attention.
• Stay Connected: Keep your phone charged, have a backup plan in case of emergencies, and purchase a travel eSIM.
• Consider Travel Insurance: Travel insurance can provide financial protection in case of unexpected events, such as lost luggage or medical emergencies.
• Join a Women’s Travel Community: Connecting with other female travellers can provide support, advice, and a sense of community.

By following these safety tips, solo female business travellers can confidently explore the world while minimising risks. Remember, with a little planning and awareness, you can enjoy a fulfilling and safe travel experience.