Backpacking is becoming safer and easier every year and as more and more females choose to travel alone hostels, travel companies and activity services have to do adapt and they are doing so quite successfully.
This doesn’t detract from that fact travelling alone, particularly if you are a woman, is more risky and potentially hazardous than going as a group. But the freedom and rewards it offers are unparalleled.
First and foremost, get insurance because as a backpackers you are the most ‘at-risk’ group of travellers out there. Many insurers also have 24-hour international emergency help lines that could prove invaluable in your time of need.
Secondly, keep in touch. Use email or your mobile phone to check in regularly with home and even fellow travellers. Make sure your phone’s roaming capability is activated and investigate whether your network provider offers any special discounts on international calling.
Valuable clothes and high-heeled shoes are completely pointless. You will be laughed out of the hostel if you turn up for a night out in stilettos and a LBD. Save luggage space for more useful items such as a first aid kit, a decent pair of trainers for walking long distances and a waterproof rain mac. Travelling clothes are now themselves a fashion statement, so enjoy the freedom of life without foundation, heels and a dress.
Toiletry wise, buy shampoo, conditioner etc when you arrive at your destination because it’s cheaper than at home, you’ll also save weight at the airport. Bare in mind however, sanitary items and medicines are worth buying at home, as in some parts of Africa for example, you’ll have problems finding these.
Hair straighteners are becoming more commonplace in a girl’s backpack; however, it’s worth noting that they’re only really useful if your travels take you to Europe, or Aus and New Zealand. Elsewhere the voltage will be too low and power unreliable so they’ll be a waste of space.
Hair-ties on the other hand are useful. Humidity and hair are not the best of friends, so keep your hair tied back and don’t opt for a centre parting as you could risk burning your scalp ouch!
In sum, travel as light as possible. You can cut back on clothes but not medicines and remember to save room for shopping.
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