Is it a bad idea for a 26 year old female to go backpacking to other countries alone?

Question

I have the money, spontaneity, and freedom to go, but none of my friends can go and this is the only chance i'll have for this once in a lifetime experience. Just worried about getting lost or taken advantage of. Advice? (Will be traveling Europe/Central America)

Answer 1

100% Wrong!!!! Even though you are an adult, especially these days, I would strongly advise against it. Best to take at least one friend with you. Keep an eye on each other.

Take care.

Answer 2

Sure, just carry a 9mm or 40cal semi-auto. A woman who knows her firearms is a well protected woman.

Answer 3

h**l no it's not a bad idea! As u say it's a once in a life time chance, if you don't go u'll always regret it.

I went traveling round America & Australia with a mate in 2005 & on my way home I did Thailand on my own. I had the best time ever. I will admit the first day in Bangkok I hated it, I cryed & wanted to come home, I got conned by the tuck tuck guys & by some 'fortune teller'. But then I got wise to it & how they work & I was fine. You just need to be aware of your own safety & try not to put yourslef in an awkward situation where u feel uncomfortable. But if you did find ur self in that position be brave enough 2 walk away.

You'll find that u'll meet loads of like minded people that will either be goin a simlar route or ur plans will change. Alternatively get on the thron tree forum on Lonely Planet, there's loads of people on there that are travellin on their own lookin 2 meet up or to set off with.

Feel free 2 get in touch if u want any info/ got any questions about Thailand

Do it, be safe & have an absolute ball!!!

x

Answer 4

Many of my friends have travelled alone for the same reasons, so I dont think its a problem if you're careful and smart about it. Plus ALWAYS stay in crowded areas or in a group.

But if you dont want to travel alone, check out the site mangotree.com which pairs up solo travellers with similar interests. Check it out (I think I may use it too!!)

Best of luck!!

Answer 5

You shouldn't have a problem in Europe.  You will meet lots of other single females doing the same thing.  Central and South America is much more risky.  You are much more likely to be robbed for one.  These countries are poor and much less organized and don't have such good infrastructure if things go wrong.  Any western tourist is a soft target whether you are male or female.  You might be better finding a tour group to trave with there.  They have lower budget adventure tours for backpackers.  

If you change your mind about Central America you could think about going to Australia.  You will have a great time and it would be much safer.

Answer 6

personally i would say that its bad to go backpacking alone...... no matter where you are and even with company i would let people know where i am....i had a job interview that was unexpectedly in a house and texted my mom the address

Answer 7

provided you know how to protect yourself^^ there's actually quite a number of people doing that.. you can find out more at http://www.travbuddy.com/.. someone gave it to me...hope that this would be of help