Is traveling solo on top of your 2026 bucket list?
Solo traveling as a woman can be scary, especially if you’re used to traveling with your loved ones, where you always had someone to count on, whether it’s to prepare travel documents, take your photos, or help you figure out foreign currency and directions.
But traveling solo is also one of the most liberating things you can do as a woman. There’s a different kind of confidence you develop when you get comfortable with exploring a new place alone, taking in the sights, and even taking photos alone.
As a female traveler, there are even more factors to consider, with safety on top of the list. Traveling can already be tricky with the amount of packing and preparation you have to do, so it’s best to keep it safe when choosing your first (or next) solo travel destination.
What are the top safety factors that you should consider when choosing your next destination?
Travel and exploration platforms Topologica and Solo Female Travelers Club rank destination safety based on the following:
- Overall safety, or which places have low crime rates, low harassment risk, and less risk for scams
- Infrastructure, or which places have available night transport, emergency services, and a high healthcare quality
- Entertainment, or what places offer a lot in terms of culture, activities to do, and well-built tourism structures
- Practicality, or which places are easy to navigate based on the usage of English
Raring to plan your next solo adventure?
Here are some places to consider for your next solo flight.
Singapore
Singapore may be constantly ranked as one of the most expensive countries in the world, but it also boasts low crime rates and a very efficient public transport system. A multi-cultural country, you can enjoy a wide range of food from kaya toast to laksa, learn more about Peranakan culture, or explore and shop at the Gardens by the Bay.
Taiwan
Taiwan is another destination to consider for your solo trip, as its crime rate is low, and the locals are known for being helpful. Public transportation in Taiwan is also reliable, so it’s easy to get around, whether you want to see the natural rock formations in North Taiwan, explore old cities like Jiufen, or just enjoy street food at the numerous night markets in Taipei.
Thailand
Thailand is a very tourist-friendly country, making it another good choice for solo female travelers. Despite the potential language barrier, since most locals speak Thai and little English, locals are friendly and helpful. Thailand is also an affordable destination, where it’s easy to find cheap but decent hotels, and be able to explore the capital, Bangkok, and Thailand’s famous beaches for a low cost.
Japan
Japan has something for every kind of traveler, whether you’re a foodie, a fashion lover, or a nature enthusiast. You can eat your heart out at restaurants and konbinis, shop in the streets of Shinjuku, bask in nature in Kyoto, or try to get a glimpse of the famous Mt. Fuji. Since Japan is known for its polite culture and a culture that respects personal space, you’ll feel safe as a solo female traveler.
Iceland
If you’re looking for jaw-dropping natural sights, then Iceland is the place to go. Iceland tops the gender equality ranking by the World Economic Forum, so you can expect to be treated fairly while exploring the country. It may be easier to rent a car, though, so you can hit the road to see majestic glaciers, beautiful waterfalls, and soak in the country’s capital, Reykjavík.
If you’re excited to start exploring even more destinations, worry not, because other solo female travelers have built resources that you can take advantage of when choosing your next destination!
You can check the Solo Female Safety Travel Index by Solo Female Travelers Club, check travel reviews and personal experiences of fellow female travelers on the Travel Ladies app, and prepare yourself for the journey with safety tips from Topologica.
Traveling solo as a woman isn’t just about ticking destinations off your bucket list, but about discovering how capable, resourceful, and resilient you truly are. Growth happens when you realize you can navigate the world on your own terms. Whether you start in Singapore, wander through Japan, or chase waterfalls in Iceland, your solo journey might just be the most transformative adventure you ever take.
Happy travels!
Bio:
Sanne is a marketer by profession and a writer by passion. When she’s not working, she’s either working through her TBR pile, planning her next trip, or forcing her cats to cuddle.
