10 Tips for Solo Female Travelers

Solo travel is a fantastic opportunity for self-discovery and adventure, but for Muslimah travelers, it comes with its own set of challenges. From dietary and cultural considerations to navigating unfamiliar environments, careful planning is essential. However, the rewards of solo travel — freedom, empowerment, and personal growth — far outweigh the challenges.

Before I got married, I traveled extensively, embarking on trips at least once every two months. My travels were a mix of professional duties and personal explorations. As a tour manager, I had the privilege of guiding students on overseas adventures, while my personal journeys allowed me to explore new destinations at my own pace, embracing the freedom and spontaneity that solo travel offered. However, my lack of preparation and awareness sometimes led to difficult and challenging situations.

Reflecting on my experiences, I realized the importance of careful planning and consideration, especially as a Muslim woman traveling solo. There were numerous lessons I learned the hard way, from understanding the cultural nuances of a new place to ensuring my safety and comfort. Back then, the world wasn't as welcoming to people who looked different, particularly in smaller towns or suburbs. It was rare to see a woman walking alone with a cloth wrapped around her head. Now, Alhamdulillah, more and more people are aware and inclusive towards Muslim travelers.

With these insights in mind, I aim to share valuable tips and advice for fellow female travelers — these tips are applicable whether or not you are Muslim. Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or looking to enhance your travel experiences, these ten tips will help you navigate the unique challenges and maximise the rewards of solo travel.

10 Tips for Solo Female Travelers

1. Research Your Destination

Thoroughly research your destination to ensure it is safe and culturally sensitive to your needs. I remember when I first traveled to Perth, I didn’t realize how rare hijabis were in some areas. Finding the nearest mosque became an adventure in itself!

Websites and travel forums can be great resources for this kind of information. I usually deep dive into TripAdvisor forums or drop a question for local recommendations in Facebook groups like Muslim Solo Travel, where there are many others like me. These communities offer invaluable insights and tips from fellow travelers who understand your needs.

2. Plan Ahead

Advance planning can boost your confidence and ease travel anxiety. This really differs based on different travel personas, but personally, I prefer to have everything in check before going to unfamiliar places. While being spontaneous is fun, the last thing you want is to be stuck in a foreign country with nowhere to stay for the night. I usually leave the spontaneity to the activities that I am doing on a day-to-day basis.

On my trip to Beijing, having hotel reservations and a rough itinerary saved me a lot of stress, especially since I was dealing with language barriers. Knowing where I’d stay and how to get around helped me relax and enjoy the experience more.

3. Stay in Touch

Inform a trusted friend or family member of your travel plans and how to reach you in case of an emergency.

As an iPhone user, I use the "Find My" function to share my location with my family back home. It gives everyone peace of mind and makes me feel safer knowing someone knows where I am. Even when I'm not traveling, this app helps me anticipate when my mum is coming over so I can get the house cleaned—LOL!

For non-iPhone users, you can always download a travel safety app to achieve the same thing.

4. Dress Modestly

No Muslimah was born with the hijab on, and for me, I only started wearing the hijab when I was 26. But dressing modestly is relevant whether or not you wear the hijab. Adhering to modest dress codes is crucial, especially in conservative countries, and it could save you from unwanted attention. As much as we hate how some males cannot control their gaze, dressing modestly can help mitigate uncomfortable situations.

Whenever I travel solo, I make sure to pack long pants and loose tops. Not only do I feel comfortable, but it also shows respect for the local culture, which makes interactions much smoother. I noticed that my modest attire helped me blend in better and avoid unnecessary stares, making me feel more at ease exploring the city.

5. Stay in Muslim-Friendly Accommodation

Whenever I can, I try to seek out hotels and guesthouses that cater specifically to Muslim travelers. In Krabi, I stayed at this Muslim-friendly hotel that offered halal food and had prayer facilities, and when in Manila, I stayed in a female only hostel near a mosque. It was a small touch that made a big difference in my comfort level.

However, that's not always possible in most countries, and that's okay! In those cases, I either stay near a mosque, which usually means there are many halal food options nearby, or I stay near a halal restaurants or a huge grocery store so I can easily order in or cook my own meals. This flexibility ensures that I can maintain my dietary needs while traveling comfortably.

6. Learn Basic Local Phrases

When I was working in South Korea and Vietnam, my limited knowledge of Korean was enough to order food and ask for directions, which made my trip much more enjoyable. Even a simple “thank you” in the local language can go a long way.

Knowing a few essential phrases in the local language can be incredibly helpful, especially in countries where English is not the first language. If not, always have your phone ready with you so that you can use the Google Translate app if necessary. This way, you can navigate conversations and situations with ease, even if there is a language barrier.

7. Respect Local Customs

Respecting local customs and traditions is paramount. During my visit to Jogjakarta, I learned firsthand the importance of observing local dress codes and cultural practices, especially when visiting temples. It was also surprising to discover that entry fees for cameras were required at some temples.

Understanding and adhering to these local rules and customs, even when they seem unfamiliar or inconvenient, is essential. It demonstrates a willingness to engage respectfully with the local culture, fostering positive interactions and enriching your travel experience. By embracing these customs, you can immerse yourself more fully in the culture and traditions of the destination, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local way of life.

8. Stay in Well-Lit, Busy Areas

Prioritize your safety by avoiding quiet, poorly lit areas, especially late at night. Wherever I go, I always ensure to stay in well-lit, bustling streets after dark. This straightforward precaution has always provided me with a sense of security, enabling me to embrace the vibrant city atmosphere without any apprehension.

9. Use Caution with Public Transportation

While public transportation is often convenient and cost-effective, it's crucial to remain vigilant, especially in unfamiliar environments. Firstly, ensure that you board the right bus or train, as language barriers can sometimes make it challenging. It's always wise to confirm with the bus driver or train conductor, to avoid unintentionally ending up in a completely different area than intended.

Additionally, maintain awareness while onboard public transportation and keep your belongings close to you at all times. Despite the tempting distractions outside the window, always ensure that your belongings are within sight. Avoid traveling alone late at night whenever possible, as it's important to prioritize your safety. These cautious measures have always helped me navigate new places safely and confidently.

10. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

In Malay, we have a saying, "Malu bertanya, sesat jalan," which literally translates to "if you’re shy to ask, you will get lost." If you need assistance or have questions, don't hesitate to ask. As a stubborn independent lady, this was something I had to learn the hard way because I was always so embarrassed to ask around, and I did get lost many times.

However, during my trip to El Nido, I was amazed at how helpful people were when I asked for directions or recommendations, even though we spoke different languages. The people we met in the Philippines were incredibly kind, and I'm thankful that I gathered enough courage to open my mouth. Not only did I receive the right directions, but if I had kept my mouth shut, I wouldn't have experienced the kindness and friendliness of the Filipino people. Since then, I never hesitate because reaching out can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Solo travel as a Muslimah can be both exciting and empowering, provided you take the necessary precautions and plan ahead. By choosing Muslim-friendly accommodations, respecting local customs, and staying safe, you can ensure a successful and fulfilling solo adventure. Remember, you don't have to navigate this journey alone — numerous resources and support systems, including online communities and travel groups for Muslimah travelers, are available to help you. Embrace the opportunity to explore the world, experience new cultures, and discover your own strength and resilience. With careful planning and preparation, solo travel as a Muslimah can be an incredibly rewarding experience.