More than two in five Britons are planning a solo holiday this year (Image: Getty)
Searches for “” have rocketed by a dizzying 250% in the last month, underscoring the growing popularity of going it alone.
More than two in five Britons (42%) plan to embark on a this year, with women in the vanguard, making up 71% of all solo travellers, according to a Virtuoso report.
But while the thrill of solo travel is undeniable, ensuring your safety should always be a priority.
Whether you are an experienced explorer or planning your first solo journey, the security experts at Locksmith Watford have compiled six essential safety tips to help you travel with confidence which Express.co.uk shares below.
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Go Incognito: Don’t Advertise That You’re Travelling Solo
Avoid openly sharing that you’re travelling alone, especially when asked about your plans. If necessary, create a fictitious travel companion or say you’re meeting friends later. Keeping a low profile can help you avoid unwanted attention.
Be cautious about your social media posts while travelling. Avoid sharing photos of your location or accommodation in real-time, especially if your account isn’t private. Public posts and geotags can inadvertently reveal your whereabouts.
A user shared their experience.
They said: “When I was around 19, I’d post as I went. Then I had a dangerous encounter with a stalker. Now I always stagger my posts. For example, if I’m posting a photo of a hotel room, I wait until I’ve left the hotel.”
Travellers have been urged to check locks to make sure they have not been tampered with (Image: Getty)
Avoid Ground-Floor Rooms and Keep Room Numbers Private
Ground-floor rooms are more vulnerable to intrusions, especially those with balcony access. Rooms at the ends of hallways or with adjoining doors can also pose security risks, so consider avoiding them.
If your room number is announced aloud by staff, request a new room to maintain discretion. Hang the “Do Not Disturb” sign on your door throughout your stay to deter attention. If your room number is written on your key card envelope, take a photo for reference and use a blank key packet to avoid exposing your details.
One user said: “I once asked about Wi-Fi for my laptop at a hotel in London. The front desk staff said our room number aloud, and someone overheard. Later, our room on the second floor was broken into through the window while we were out for dinner.”
It’s also an idea to watch out for hidden cameras (Image: Getty)
Enhance Your Hotel Room Security
Hotel key cards can sometimes be bypassed with master keys. If your room lacks secondary locks or latches, pack a portable door lock or an alarmed door stopper.
These cost less than £5 and add an extra layer of security.
Ensure peepholes are covered, as tampered ones can allow outsiders to peer in. Use tissue or tape as a temporary fix.
Double-check that windows and doors lock securely, and if anything feels amiss, don’t hesitate to request a new room.
It’s also an good idea to avoid solo nights out after dark (Image: Getty)
Inspect for Hidden Cameras
While rare, hidden cameras are a concern, with 11% of travellers reporting discoveries. Conduct a thorough check of your room, focusing on common hiding spots like smoke detectors, air vents, alarm clocks, and furniture.
Shine a torch or use your phone’s flashlight to detect reflections from camera lenses.
If your phone’s camera detects infrared light (test this by using a TV remote), scan the room in the dark for blinking or reflective lights.
For added reassurance, consider investing in a portable camera detector.
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Prioritise Safety Over Budget
While solo travel can be more expensive than travelling with a companion, don’t compromise on safety to save money. Extremely low-cost accommodation can sometimes come with hidden risks.
Research thoroughly, read recent reviews, and check the safety of the surrounding area. Spending a bit more for a safer, well-reviewed property is an investment in your peace of mind.
A user said: “Check the crime rates in the area! I once booked a cheap room near a concert venue without researching properly. The place was dodgy, and even my Uber driver waited until I got inside before leaving.”
Avoid Solo Outings at Night
Limit venturing out alone after dark, as the risks can be heightened during the night. If you need food or supplies, consider delivery services or dining within your hotel.
Always tell a friend or family member of your plans and expected return time. Activate your phone’s location services so loved ones can track your whereabouts in real-time. These small steps can significantly enhance your safety while providing reassurance to those back home.
By taking these precautions, you can embrace the freedom and joy of solo travel without compromising on safety.