We don’t get the right companion and at times our work and responsibilities don’t allow us to take a break. Travelling alone is a great way to explore the unexplored within and the world too. The woman of today must travel alone, but there are always some precautions one should take. Here is the list of such Do’s and Don’ts which one should keep in mind to avoid mistakes.

Do’s:

• Do gather knowledge about the destination: Pre-travel your destination through Google and read about the destination and other nearby locations before you start your trip, as this give you the confidence encouragement and to understand the risk assessment to start your solo trip.
• Do read about the weather condition, local transport, accommodation and culture. You should be prepared of any situations.
• Do try to get homestay with local ladies around.
• Do stay prepared with right outfits:  You should have the right shoes, right jacket and other things required as per the weather conditions of the destination.
• Do pack light and smartly: One smartly packed backpack is the best friend for a solo traveler. Having essentials like torch, portable charger, camera is more important than your unwanted clothes.
• Do keep copies of all important travel documents, in case the originals are stolen or lost.
• Do dress appropriately:  Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing flashy clothes or jewelry.
• Do maintain distance for safety: While travelling to a new destination always maintain a distance from unknown locals like tourist guides, taxi drivers etc. don’t be rude or over friendly with them. Avoid telling any kind of details.
• Do carry basic medicines for the common cold, fever, headache, vomiting, body pain etc.
• Do carry self safety equipment like pepper spray/Swiss knife.
• Do carry medication for Acute Mountain Sickness if travelling in the hills: High altitude treks, you need to be aware of AMS and its medication.
• Do travel in a public conveyance: Always better to travel in a bus with local people than travelling alone in a cab.
• Do try to travel during the day: As most of the assault and harassment tends to happen during late evenings and night.
• Do keep in touch: Be connected with your family, or your loved ones through calls or messages. If you are traveling to a remote location, research about the availability of the mobile network.
• Do you need a guide or a porter? If yes, always hire through the hotel reference or the Department of Tourism.
• Do keep your essentials handy and easy to access.
• Do keep yourself hydrated.

Don’ts:

• Don’t litter: Carry all your trash. Respect nature and she will bless you with abundant joy.
• Don’t run out of cash: Having no money in your pocket is a problem for any traveler. Hide some cash elsewhere.
• Don’t ignore the potential dangers: There are potential risks when travelling alone, listen to your internal alarms and be safe.
• Don’t get too intoxicated.
• Don’t ask for directions on the street: Go inside a shop or gas station.
• Don’t make things hard on yourself:
• Don’t be afraid to seek out familiar company.

Keeping theses precaution in your mind, “Go with the flow” and have one of the most incredible trips of your life. Cheers!