Tips for solo travelers

When you’re traveling solo, being prepared can help you travel with confidence. You can find tips to help you stay safe and connected so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

Before your trip

• Understand local norms. Research local customs, gratuity practices, any attire expectations or considerations, and other cultural norms to help you interact confidently and respectfully with local communities.
• Tap into local knowledge. Check travel forums, review sites, and social media to gather firsthand insights and multiple perspectives about your destination. You can also message your host for local travel and safety tips. They may know which neighborhoods may be more difficult to navigate alone, especially at night.
• Plan to stay connected. Research how you’ll access mobile networks and wifi at your destination. Consider e-SIMs if they’re compatible with your device.
• Check your digital security. If your mobile device has these features, consider enabling “Find My Device,” using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and maintaining cloud backups of important photos and documents. VPNs can also help protect your data when using public wifi while traveling.
• Map out your transportation. Know how you’ll get from your arrival point to your host’s place. Some hosts may be able to recommend an airport transfer service.
• Stay informed about your destination. Check travel advisories from official government sources, which can help you stay aware of weather events, public health notices, or other situations you may need to know about. For example, the U.S. State Department offers the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which sends push notifications to users about important security issues in their destination.
• Consider travel insurance. Research travel insurance options, which may provide peace of mind and protection if unexpected situations arise, such as needing medical care or emergency evacuation, or for assistance with and reimbursements for travel interruptions, like flight delays and cancellations.
• Pack smart. Consider bringing a back up credit card, and keep digital copies of key documents—like your passport, driver’s license and travel insurance—stored securely online or on your phone. Save an emergency contact list that includes people you’d reach out to in an emergency, along with essential information, like your travel insurer, local emergency services, and local embassy, as well as your host. Consider leaving expensive jewelry and other valuables at home.
• Share your travel plans. Before you go, consider sharing your itinerary and key details, like flight numbers, accommodations, and general travel plans, with someone you trust, like a family member or close friend. You can also consider enabling location sharing with a trusted contact so they can stay updated on your whereabouts. These steps may help ensure someone knows where you are in case of an emergency or if you need help while away.

Once you arrive

• Use trusted transport. Try booking reputable local taxi or rideshare services, confirm the driver and vehicle before getting in, and avoid accepting unsolicited rides. When using public transport, try to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
• Secure your valuables. Try to keep your valuables out of sight and always ensure doors are locked at night and when you leave the place you’re staying. Consider keeping some of your cash and cards on your person and, if possible, some secured in your accommodation. Putting your phone or wallet in your back pocket can make them an easy target for pickpockets.
• Be mindful about sharing information. Be careful about sharing your current location on social media if your accounts are viewable to the public. When meeting new people, exercise caution about the information you share, like the exact name or location of the place you’re staying.
• Take safety precautions when out. Try to avoid accepting drinks from strangers, especially if they’re unexpected and you haven’t seen them prepared, and try to avoid leaving your drink unattended. If you’re spending time with someone new, consider organizing your own transportation, letting a trusted person know your plans and expected return time, and arranging a check in with them.
• Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, try to remove yourself from the situation or seek help, such as from staff, local authorities, or other trusted individuals nearby.

Report issues to Airbnb

If there’s an emergency in progress, contact local emergency services or law enforcement authorities for assistance. If you're unfamiliar with local emergency services phone numbers, you can use Airbnb to dial emergency services.

In the unlikely event that you experience a safety issue during your reservation, you can also contact Airbnb through our dedicated 24-hour safety line, and we will support you as best we can.