HelloMates

Solo travel safety checklist

19 practical checks for travelling alone: before you leave, on arrival, when you meet new people and on nights out. Tick them off as you go; your ticks stay on this device.

By the HelloMates team. Updated October 28, 2026.

Before you go

Save the emergency number and the tourist police line for every country on your route (see the emergency numbers list).
Share your itinerary, flight numbers and first night's address with one person at home.
Photograph your passport, visa and insurance policy and keep the copies offline and in your email.
Buy travel insurance that covers medical care and evacuation, and save the insurer's 24 hour number.
Sort out mobile data for arrival, so maps and messages work from the airport.
Carry a second bank card and some cash in a different bag from your main wallet.

When you arrive

Take a registered taxi or a ride-hailing app from the airport, not an unofficial driver who approaches you.
Send a short message home once you reach your accommodation.
Learn the address of where you are staying in the local script, or save a screenshot of it.
Check the nearest pharmacy, hospital and ATM on the map while you have Wi-Fi.

Meeting people

Meet new people in public places for the first time, and in small groups where you can.
Tell someone where you are going and who with, or set a check-in time.
Keep your own way home: know the last train or how you will book a ride.
Watch your drink and leave if you feel uncomfortable. You do not owe anyone an explanation.
Do not share your accommodation's room number or exact address with people you just met.

Nights out and late returns

Charge your phone before you go out, and carry a small power bank.
Set a check-in hour with someone who will notice if you miss it.
Keep valuables to a minimum and your phone out of easy reach on busy streets.
Agree on a meeting point if you get separated from your group.

Why a check-in matters most

Most of this list is about one thing: someone should know where you are and notice if you do not come back. That is what Arm it in HelloMates does. Pick a check-in hour and the people who should hear from you. Check in on time and nothing is sent. Miss it, and they get your message with the local emergency number. It delivers your message; it does not contact emergency services for you.