Traveling alone is completely different than traveling in a group. Female travelers have to be more careful about things like trusting people they just met, oversharing information with strangers, posting travel plans on social media, and traveling at night. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and make smart choices while on the road.
Women, in particular, traveling alone have to pay special attention to safety for their motorcycle luggage, their gear, the bike and themselves. First, beware of the problems and try to prevent them but be ready to manage and deal with them if they arise. Regardless of how preventive you are things may still happen, but planning your trip ahead of time can alleviate the anxiety of riding alone, and will ensure that you’re ready to handle any challenge that comes your way.
Is traveling solo safe?
Preparing for Solo travel safety commences before departure. Planning ahead will help ease your anxiety about a solo ride. Of course, traveling with an organized group and guides is undoubtedly safer, but you can travel safe on a solo mission.
Know your strengths and weaknesses
Solo travelers would have different issues than group travel. Before you take off know your strengths and weaknesses and plan the travel accordingly. We recommend starting with a short-distanced trip. Get to know your bike before you go. Get any necessary maintenance before you leave and set any maintenance appointments you might need during your trip before you get on the road. Calculate your fuel mileage and plan gas stops at major truck stops or gas stations. These are usually open 24 hours and have a steady flow of traffic.
Plan the first stay
Knowing your destination ahead of time can greatly improve your travel experience. Choose your accommodation and visit carefully. Plan ahead the first stay at every destination and reach every destination before sunset. This will help you find the hotel easily, change the accommodation if you want to, and unpack your motorcycle saddlebags easily in daylight. Consider communicating your plans with loved ones, and using tracking apps such as Glympse to allow your family and friends to follow you along the way.
When Traveling Abroad
Knowing the hotels, routes, vaccination points, unsafe areas, currency etc. will protect you from the danger. Your government travel website would have all the information like documents and other important things required. I usually keep all of these documents like insurance, ownership, license, registration in my tail bag so I can have quick and easy access. If you live in the US check here for details on government travel alerts abroad.
Pack light
Packing light is the key to a safer, cheaper, and happier travel experience but it requires more planning. With experience and time as you experiment, you will get used to taking only essentials on your ride. You’ll find you don’t need nearly as many pairs of shoes as you think you do!
Keep your accommodations to yourself
Keep your accommodation to yourself, don’t tell strangers about it and don’t let any stranger stay with you. It is your safe heaven out there. This means paying attention to what you share as you ride on social media. Don’t ever drop your exact location to strangers.
Buy travel insurance before you go
Travel insurance is one of the must-haves. If you travel abroad, check with the insurance companies where you can buy after you leave your country if you are already on tour. However, buying insurance before you leave your country is safe and easy.
Always secure your valuables
Of course, keeping important documents safe is one of the most important tasks. First, you should pack all the important documents. Second, have backup copies with you and at home. And when traveling on a bike you must have your license, registration, and ownership documents with you. Always take your key, cash, and cards with you at every gas stop. I’ve heard horror stories of someone leaving a tank bag on their bike with their cash and credit cards, while they went into the restroom. When they came out, it was gone. Beware of pickpockets and keep things where you can easily find and access them. A waist-bag with a zipper is a good place to keep cash, credit cards, keys, sunscreen, lip balm, and more. Don’t keep all of your cash and cards in one place. Never leave your gear, luggage, and bike open. It is better to either take the luggage off your bike or empty it at night.
Meeting others
Meeting other travelers is a pleasing experience. You can build friendships with others, especially other women travelers. This can be your gateway to international friendships. But remember not to trust anyone with everything and do not trust anyone blindly. Don’t share hotel info or personal details, and never share a room with strangers. Never stay at the home of someone you just met. Take extra precautions to stay safe.
Stay local
Traveling brings the opportunity to connect with local traditions, culture, food, and people. You’ll find hidden gems and can save money when you plan ahead. This way you would be supporting the local economy, getting exposure to local crafts, food, culture and people.
Take a break from technology
As women, we have a busy life. Riding brings the opportunity to relax and tune out the noise of life. Try to enjoy your wind therapy by living in the moment as much as possible. It’s often hard to resist posting that new state line picture, or a great photo during the ride. I used to “go live” a lot while I was riding too. My mom told me it freaks her out when I go online while riding, because I’m not paying attention to the road. She has a point. So, now I try to post updates at a prolonged stop or after I’ve settled in for the evening.
No matter how much you prepare and prevent there will still be some difficulties along the way. Don’t panic when anything happens, think wisely and get proper help. Regardless of how safe the place is, always take safety measures regarding your luggage, cash, gear, and bike. Traveling alone brings out a lot of confidence and you will feel empowered. Be wise, be safe, and happy travels!
Learn more at our Free Long Distance Rider Prep Workshops, coming soon near you!
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