Travel Hack #3: Safe travelling as a solo traveller

7 things you can do before you travel

There are journeys where you lose yourself - and those where you find yourself. Travelling solo is usually one of the two. It's a brave step out into a world full of possibilities - but also full of uncertainties. This makes it all the more important to be prepared. Not just with sun cream and tickets, but with a plan that gives you freedom because it gives you security. Here are seven things you can do at home so that you can concentrate on the essentials while travelling.

🔒 1. The digital safety folder

Even before you shoulder your rucksack, you should create a place where everything important is stored - digitally, securely and accessible in an emergency. A Google Drive, Dropbox or iCloud folder is perfect for this. Upload your passport copy, visa documents, insurance numbers and your planned itinerary. Don't forget to give a trusted person access. It's incredibly reassuring to know that even if something happens to you on site - someone has an overview.

📍 2. Activate live location - selectively and consciously

Technology can be a real lifesaver. The ‘live location’ mode on WhatsApp or Google Maps is a valuable tool, especially when travelling solo. Don't share your location around the clock, but share it in a targeted way - for example when you're hiking, exploring a new city or going home late at night. A quick click and your trusted friend will know. You are travelling alone - but never really alone.

🧳 3. AirTag in your luggage - small investment, big impact

A lost rucksack can jeopardise an entire adventure. But with an AirTag or a small smart tracker in your luggage, you can stay relaxed. The devices are discreet, reliable and cost little - but they give you the good feeling that your belongings won't simply ‘disappear’. A great help, especially when changing trains, on night trains or at bus terminals.

📝 4. Emergency card in the local language

You wouldn't wish it on anyone - but if something happens, every second counts. A small emergency card in your wallet or rucksack can literally save your life. Write down your name, blood group, any medication you can't take and the address of your accommodation - in English and in the language of your destination. It will cost you five minutes, but will help you immeasurably in an emergency.

📲 5. Be prepared when offline - preload maps & apps

Wi-Fi is not everywhere, and the network is even rarer. But if you're prepared, you can still stay confident. Download offline maps for Google Maps before you leave, save important addresses and mark your accommodation. Google Translate also works offline if you download the appropriate language pack beforehand. 

Bonus tip: Apps such as ‘Flush’ show you toilets, ‘TripWhistle’ the local emergency numbers. Practical, isn't it?

🔐 6. Check two-factor authentication and PINs

Sounds boring, but it's worth its weight in gold: before you set off, check whether your most important accounts (email, bank, social media) are protected with two-factor authentication. Change your most important passwords before travelling and write down security-relevant information offline - for example in an encrypted password manager or on paper, well hidden in your luggage. A lost mobile phone does not mean a loss of control.

💡 7. Saving emergency contacts - but the right way

Have you ever thought about how a hospital should contact your best friend or family if your mobile phone is locked? In your mobile phone, you can save contacts in the emergency information (e.g. in the Health app on iPhones or in Android settings) that are visible in an emergency - even if the screen is locked. There should also be a contact on your travel document or in your notebook who can respond in such moments. Better twice than not at all.

✨ Conclusion

Travelling alone doesn't mean being alone - it means feeling free. And that's exactly what you do best when you have the feeling: I'm prepared. These seven steps may cost you an evening. But they will give you a whole adventure full of ease.

And let's be honest: if you can look after yourself, you're not a stranger anywhere.