Getting around as a woman traveler? Yeah, it’s complicated. I’ve been stranded at sketchy bus stops, had taxi drivers take “scenic routes” to jack up the fare, and walked way too far in the dark because I was too stubborn to spend money on a safe ride.
After getting lost, ripped off, and genuinely scared more times than I care to admit, I’ve figured out what actually works. Here’s the real deal on staying safe while getting from point A to point B.
Why This Stuff Actually Matters
Look, I hate that we have to think about this. But pretending transportation safety isn’t a thing for women travelers is just naive. I’ve had guys follow me off buses, taxi drivers who wouldn’t take no for an answer about stopping for “coffee,” and way too many uncomfortable situations on public transport.
The goal isn’t to scare you – it’s to help you move around confidently without constantly looking over your shoulder. When you know how to get around safely, you can actually enjoy your trip instead of stressing about every ride.
What Actually Works Out There
Every place I’ve traveled has different options, and honestly, some suck more than others. Here’s what I’ve learned works best:
Ride Apps Are Your Friend Uber, Lyft, Grab, Bolt – whatever the local version is, use it. I can see the driver’s face, license plate, and route before getting in. Plus, there’s a record of the trip if something goes wrong.
Random street taxis? Hard pass unless I’m desperate. Too many times I’ve gotten in and realized there’s no meter, no AC, and the guy doesn’t speak any English. Not fun when you’re trying to get somewhere specific.
Public Transport Can Be Fine (With Rules) Buses and trains are cheap, but timing matters big time. Rush hour is your friend – lots of people around, less chance of weirdness. I always sit near families or other women when possible. Empty train cars at 11 PM? Nope, I’ll wait for the next one.
Keep your stuff close and don’t zone out with headphones. I learned this when someone tried to grab my bag on the Rome metro while I was completely oblivious.
Private Transfers for Peace of Mind Airport pickups through your hotel cost more, but sometimes it’s worth it. Especially when you’re landing somewhere new at night. I’ve done the “figure it out when I get there” thing too many times – it’s stressful and often ends up costing more anyway.
Walking Works (When It Works) I love exploring cities on foot, but I’m not doing it everywhere. Well-lit tourist areas during the day? Great. Dark side streets at midnight? That’s a no from me. Trust your gut – if an area feels sketchy, find another route or grab a ride.
Do Your Research (Seriously)
I used to wing it with transportation, and that led to some seriously stressful situations. Now I spend 20 minutes before every trip figuring out the basics.
What I always check:
- Which ride app locals actually use
- If taxis use meters or you need to negotiate
- What public transport routes are safe at different times
- Facebook groups where women share real experiences
Reddit travel forums are gold for this stuff. Real people will tell you “don’t take the red line after 9 PM” or “that taxi stand at the airport is a scam.” Government websites won’t give you this info.
Day vs Night Is Everything
During the day, most transportation feels manageable. At night? Different story entirely. I’ve made the mistake of thinking I could handle anything, but nighttime changes the game.
When I have to travel after dark:
- I use ride apps, not random taxis
- Sit behind the driver where I can see everything
- Share my location with friends back home
- Keep jewelry and expensive stuff hidden
If a situation feels wrong, I bail. Better to be overcautious than end up in a bad spot.
Stay Alert (But Don’t Be Paranoid)
I see women travelers completely zoned out on their phones or with noise-canceling headphones, and it makes me nervous for them. You don’t have to be paranoid, but pay attention to what’s happening around you.
If someone’s acting weird or following too close, trust that feeling. I’ve gotten off buses and out of taxis when something felt off. Most of the time it was probably nothing, but the one time it wasn’t, I was glad I listened to my instincts.
Tech That Actually Helps
My phone is basically my lifeline when traveling. Ride apps are obvious, but I also use:
- Offline maps (saved my butt in rural Thailand with no signal)
- Safety apps that ping my emergency contacts if I don’t check in
- Translation apps for when I need help and don’t speak the language
Don’t rely entirely on tech though – batteries die and signals drop. Know where you’re going and have backup plans.
Money Stuff Nobody Talks About
Flashing cash makes you a target, especially in taxis and buses. I use cards or mobile payments whenever possible. When I need cash, I get small bills beforehand so I’m not pulling out a huge wad of money.
ATMs inside banks or malls are safer than random street ones. I learned this after getting my card skimmed at a sketchy machine in Barcelona.
When in Rome (Actually Learn the Local Rules)
Some places have women-only train cars or buses. Use them if they exist – they’re there for a reason. In conservative countries, I dress more modestly to avoid unwanted attention while traveling.
I also try to observe how local women get around. If they don’t walk alone at night or use certain transport routes, neither do I.
Plan for When Shit Goes Wrong
Travel insurance that covers theft and medical emergencies is non-negotiable. I also save local emergency numbers in my phone and know where the nearest hospital is in each city I visit.
I carry a small alarm and pepper spray where it’s legal. Never used them, but they make me feel more confident walking around unfamiliar places.
Learn from Other Women
The best transportation advice comes from women who’ve actually been there. I’m in several female travel groups on Facebook where people share real experiences – which routes to avoid, which drivers were sketchy, which apps worked best.
These groups saved me from making costly mistakes in Bangkok, Istanbul, and Mexico City. Other women will tell you the truth about what it’s actually like to get around as a solo female traveler.
Bottom Line
Transportation safety isn’t about being scared – it’s about being smart. I’ve traveled to 30+ countries and had way more good experiences than bad ones. But the bad ones taught me valuable lessons about staying alert and making good choices.
You don’t have to limit your adventures, but plan ahead, trust your gut, and don’t be afraid to spend extra money when your safety is on the line. A $20 ride is better than a dangerous situation you could have avoided.
The world is full of amazing places to explore. Don’t let transportation anxiety stop you from seeing them – just be smart about how you get around.
