Traveling Solo for Women Over 50: My Tips for Safety, Savings & Confidence

Traveling solo over 50 is one of life’s greatest gifts. By this stage, you’ve got wisdom, self-awareness, and a better sense of what truly matters.

You also likely have fewer constraints. Perhaps the kids are grown, your career is stable (or you’ve retired), and you finally have the freedom to follow that long-held dream: seeing the world on your own terms.

But let’s be honest, whether you’re 25 or 75, solo travel requires preparation. And as women, we have unique considerations around safety, money, and comfort. With the right mindset and a few clever strategies, you can travel solo with confidence and even save money while you do it.

Drawing from my book, Traveling Solo for Women Over 50, here are six essential tips to make your journeys safe, affordable, and unforgettable.

Tips for Solo Travel for Women Over 50

A blond woman standing in a vineyard holding a glass of red wine — At a vineyard in Vienna

1. Master the Art of Smart Money Stashing

You’ve probably heard the old “don’t keep all your cash in one place” advice. But for solo travelers, especially women over 50, this is more than a cliché; it’s your safety net.

Here’s my tried-and-true system from years of travel:

Your main wallet: Keep your daily spending money here, but not all your cash.
Hidden bra wallet: You can get small, soft pouches that clip to your bra strap or tuck discreetly inside. I like to keep emergency cash and a backup credit card in mine.
Inside your shoe or travel belt: Slip a folded bill in a Ziplock bag under your insole. You’ll be glad you did if you ever lose your bag.
In your toiletries: I’ve wrapped small bills in tissue and tucked them inside a tampon wrapper or vitamin bottle. Not glamorous, but thieves won’t think to look there.

This layering system means that even if your purse is stolen, you still have resources to get back to your accommodation or arrange transportation.

2. Travel Insurance Is Non-Negotiable

A blond woman posing with Sri Lankan kids selling souvenirs — Solo travel in Sri Lanka

I didn’t worry about travel insurance at 25, when all I owned was a backpack and a few smelly clothes. At 50+, I know better.

Illness, injury, trip cancellations, and lost luggage happen, and they happen more often than you think.

Look for policies that include:

Emergency medical coverage
Medical evacuation (especially important if you’re visiting remote areas)
Trip interruption/cancellation
Lost or delayed baggage

Many seasoned travelers over 50 choose annual multi-trip policies, which can be more affordable if you travel several times a year.

I recommend and have used www.worldnomads.com for years, and they even fully replaced my Apple MacBook Pro when I dropped it coming out of a bus in Nicaragua.

Also Read: What to Look For in Travel Insurance

3. Prioritize Safety Without Losing Your Spontaneity

A blond woman in black shorts and a black top on a sandy beach holding a surfboard above her head — Surfing in Sri Lanka

The number one question I get from women over 50 who are considering solo travel is: “But is it safe?”

The truth is that most destinations are safer than you imagine as long as you follow a few common-sense guidelines.

Blend in: Avoid flashy jewelry or designer bags that can attract pickpockets. I’ve always traveled with bags and clothing that I like but also know it could get stolen and won’t be heartbroken if it does.
Choose the right accommodation for you: Well-reviewed boutique hotels, women-only hostels, or reputable homestays give you community and security. There are many options for lodging; choose where you will feel comfortable, safe, and close to transportation.
Trust your intuition: If something feels “off” on a street, in a bar, in a conversation, walk away with no hesitation. I tuck myself in early in the evening, unless I’m with a group I trust. Don’t walk down dark streets or alleyways late at night if possible.
Share your itinerary: Leave details with a trusted friend or family member and check in periodically.
Make yourself large: I always walk with purpose and hold my head high. I stay hypervigilant, pay attention to my surroundings, and put my phone away whenever possible. Keep your hair tucked in neatly and not in a ponytail for someone to grab (if possible).

💡 Safety Hack: I always carry a small personal alarm. They are lightweight, affordable, and loud enough to startle someone and attract attention. You can also get a doorstop alarm to use in hotel rooms. I will typically carry a small knife or mace if I’m checking my bag (and am traveling to a country where mace is legal).

Also Read: How to Stay Safe While Traveling

4. Save Money Without Sacrificing Comfort

A woman with a beige sun hat standing on a beach looking at the waves with a high cliff covered in greenery in the background — Even Hawaii can be visited on a budget

Contrary to popular belief, budget travel doesn’t mean sleeping in dorm rooms or eating instant noodles for every meal.

This is the number one question I get asked about. “How do you do it? How can you afford your travels?”

Here’s how I save money without compromising comfort:

Travel off-season: Europe in late September or early May has fewer crowds and better deals.
Book apartments with kitchens: Preparing even one meal a day saves money and lets you explore local markets.
Use senior discounts: Many museums, trains, and attractions offer discounts starting at age 50 or 60.
Leverage loyalty programs: Hotel and airline rewards can add up quickly, especially if you use a travel rewards credit card for everyday purchases.
Work/Stays: I love joining work-stay programs all over the world. It connects you to the local community, and you’ll receive lodging and sometimes food, too, as well as other perks depending on where you go. Last year, I did this for six months and saved my monthly income because I didn’t need to spend any money on anything, as everything was covered. My go-to website is: Workaway.info

💡 From my Book: In my book I provide worksheets to help you plan a trip budget that’s realistic and adaptable. Plus I share a list of discount programs specific to women travelers.

Also Read: How to Save Money While Traveling

5. Choose Your First Solo Destination Wisely

A steep street with a typical yellow Lisbon tram — Lisbon is a great solo travel destination for women

Your first solo trip is a milestone; it should be inspiring, manageable, and confidence-boosting. Here are a few destinations that are especially welcoming for women over 50 traveling alone:

Lisbon, Portugal – Affordable, friendly locals, walkable neighborhoods, and plenty of English speakers. Read: 10 Beautiful Places to Visit in Portugal
Chiang Mai, Thailand – Safe, spiritual, and full of culture with budget-friendly options for accommodation and food. Read: 9 Things to Know About Traveling to Thailand as a Woman
New Zealand’s South Island – Stunning scenery, excellent infrastructure, and locals who go out of their way to help. Read: The Perfect New Zealand South Island Road Trip
Seville, Spain – Vibrant culture, delicious tapas, and a slower pace that invites you to linger. Read: Things to Know Before Going to Spain
Vancouver Island, Canada – Beautiful nature, quaint towns, and easy access to hiking, kayaking, and whale watching. Read: Things to Know Before Traveling to Canada

💡 Why It Matters: A destination that’s easy to navigate and has a strong traveler community will boost your confidence for future adventures.

6. Embrace the Joy of Traveling at This Stage of Life

A blond woman smiling at the camera in a typical European city with a gray paved roads, several pedestrians and historic buildings — Salzburg, Austria

Traveling solo over 50 isn’t about proving something – it’s about living fully. You have the advantage of experience, perspective, and the ability to say “no” to things that don’t serve you.

Here’s what makes it special:

You can travel at your own pace. You can linger at a café, skip the must-sees if they don’t interest you.
You can choose trips that align with your passions, whether that’s art, hiking, history, or photography.
You can connect deeply with locals and other travelers because you’re not rushing to check off a list.

💡 From my Book: I share mindset shifts that help you embrace both the challenges and the beauty of solo travel after 50, from reframing loneliness to savoring the little moments.

Final Thoughts About Traveling Solo Over 50

The world is more open to you than you might think.

Yes, there are risks, but there are also incredible rewards. With some thoughtful planning, the proper safety precautions, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone, solo travel over 50 can be empowering, restorative, and downright fun.

If you want more detailed packing lists, money-hiding tips, budget planners, and confidence-building strategies, check out my book Traveling Solo for Women Over 50. It’s filled with resources and step-by-step guidance to help you make your travel dreams a reality.

So pack your bag, tuck that emergency $20 in your bra, and set off because the best journeys are the ones you permit yourself to take!

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