In a perfect world, there wouldn’t be any risks or worries associated with walking around or problems staying safe when traveling alone after dark. Unfortunately, in this world, those risks are very real, with statistics showing that many personal attacks and other crimes occur in the evenings and at night, with solo travelers often a major target.
Reports show that muggings, assaults, and sexual crimes tend to be greater in number after dark, and if you are traveling alone, walking around, or trying to get home alone, you can be at an even higher level of risk. This is why it is absolutely vital for everyone to look after themselves and follow smart safety tips to get to wherever they need to go, safely.
Staying Safe When Traveling: 4 Tips to Keep in Mind
Avoid Traveling Alone Whenever Possible
One of the best ways to avoid the risks of traveling alone after dark is to simply not do it. Whenever possible, whether it’s dark or not, you should avoid traveling alone. If you are planning a night out with friends, for instance, talk to them beforehand and figure out if someone can give you a ride home afterward or suggest a rideshare for you and your buddies.
There are often various ways you can get out of having to get around alone, and it is worth exploring every option available to you before actually making the decision to go solo. And, don’t be afraid to ask your friends or family if they can help you get home safely, rather than putting yourself out there in a potentially dangerous situation that could have been avoided.
Be Safe with RideShare Apps
These days, one of the most common ways for people to get around is with rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft. These apps are highly useful and are really very convenient for getting from place to place comfortably and as soon as possible.
However, these apps are not foolproof, and there are some risks to take into account whenever you request a ride from your preferred service. For instance, standing on the side of the road with your phone in your hand while waiting for your ride can make you a very easy target for thieves, so try to remain indoors or be around people until your car arrives.
When your rideshare does arrive, make sure to confirm the make, model, and license plate of the vehicle before getting in the car. This is one very important and easy tip for staying safe when traveling, even if you’re not alone. And do not forget to buckle up, as even professional drivers can get into accidents.
Keep in Touch with Friends
You might not always be able to share a ride home with your friends, but there are several ways that your nearest and dearest can keep an eye on you, and vice versa, as you make your way home.
Keeping in touch with your friends helps to ensure that you get to your destination safely, as well as provides you with much more peace of mind and an added layer of security or protection as well.
There are also various personal safety apps that offer these kinds of features and functionalities, allowing your friends to track your exact location at all times. They also give you the option to issue an emergency alert or even ask your friends to call the cops at the touch of a button if something goes wrong.
Learn Some Self-Defense
Another great way to feel more confident and assured when traveling alone or walking around, as well as to give yourself a better chance of avoiding any possible danger, is to learn some basic self-defense.
You can take self-defense classes, join a club, or even pick up some simple techniques from online articles and video tutorials, so you will know what to do if someone tries to grab or harm you.
Of course, physical conflict should be avoided in general, and nobody should feel invincible just because they know a few karate moves, but having at least a fundamental understanding of self-defense can help you in more ways than one. After all, in addition to being helpful in some emergency situations, it is a good way to keep fit.
Ultimately, the best way to staying safe when traveling alone is to stick with friends, family, and people you trust, and try to minimize the time you are totally alone. However, since it is not always possible to be with loved ones, be sure to keep these safety tips in mind, especially if you tend to find yourself traveling alone or walking home alone on a regular basis.
Remember to always trust your instincts too, and if you have a gut feeling that a certain street does not quite seem safe or a certain taxi is not the one for you, follow those feelings and do not put yourself in any situations that might lead to danger. Don’t let being in a hurry keep you from staying safe when traveling alone.
