Travelling alone? If so, you should be aware of the potential dangers that face solo travellers, especially in foreign countries. Being prepared and aware of these dangers can make your holiday much more pleasant and more importantly, safe.

Let your family know your itinerary

One of the first things a solo traveller should do to ensure safety while on holiday is to leave your itinerary with a friend or family member. Your airline information, hotel numbers, and journey information should be included.

Think about setting a time to call and check in so your family will know you are doing well. It is important to have all of your paperwork. Passports, visas, and any other documents required by the country you are visiting should be kept together and kept securely in your hotel safety deposit box.

Common sense with valuables

Try not to carry valuables with you. It is not a good idea to wear flashy jewellery and carry expensive items with you. Any valuables you have could be stolen while on your person or in the hotel room. As for not wearing expensive jewellery, it is important to blend in with other locals and flashy jewellery is an open invitation to criminals.

Solo travellers will need to think about carrying money. You should never carry large amounts of money with you. Small denominations are much better to pull out of a wallet or purse when paying for items. Credit cards are also acceptable but do not count on them being accepted everywhere.

Be aware of criminals

When putting your bag down on the floor to take a photo or sitting in a café, remember to put your foot through the strap. Not only will it be impossible to snatch, you also won't forget it, criminals are always on the lookout for tourists who are distracted.

Beware of groups of people crowding around you, it could be that a group of criminals are trying to pock picket you or other tourists around you. Stay clear of crowds or make sure you are aware of the people around you.

Try not to look like a tourist

Asking directions is usually a sure sign that you are a tourist and do not know the area. Not looking like a tourist is more difficult in some destinations than others. It is recommended that solo travellers carry a detailed map and only look at the map when they are in private.

You do not want to appear lost by walking down the street looking at a map. If you find yourself in a situation where you are forced to ask directions the best and safest person to ask is a woman with her children. You may be in a country where you could not possibly blend in as a local, but it is always a good idea to look confident and as if you know, where you are going.

Advantages of travelling alone

You will find that travelling alone increases your confidence and communication skills, but one of the biggest advantages of travelling alone is the flexibility, being able to travel on your own path, in your own time. You'll also find people approaching you as most people are likely to approach a solo traveller, so you get to meet many people from all corners of the world.

Dining out on your own

Eating alone comfortably is a skill you will quickly develop. Choose a lively cafe or bistro with lots of people. Consider sitting at the counter and watch your food be prepared. Take along reading and writing material, people watching is also good fun.

If you are travelling solo and follow the above rules you will be able to avoid danger in most situations. The most important tip is to be aware of your surroundings at all times and appear confident and self assured.

The article was first published by Travel Rants. All rights reserved.