Adventuring around the world on your own gives you a freedom that group travel simply cannot match. With no one else to worry about, you can go at your own pace, follow your instincts, and concentrate entirely on what you want to do. And it is more popular than you might think — according to Graeme Buck, director of communications at ABTA, around 14% of travellers choose to see the world solo.

That said, travelling alone does pose unique challenges and risks. So here is Gap Year Survival's guide to staying safe while you do it.

Preparation is Everything

As with any type of travel, preparation is the foundation. That is, in part, why you are reading this.

Do your research on your planned destination before you go. The Post Office Travel Safety Index is a good starting point. Also check the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) website — it publishes up-to-date travel advice for every country in the world, including entry requirements, local laws, and areas to avoid.

Get Proper Travel Insurance

Buy decent travel insurance before you do anything else. To find out how to choose the right policy, take a look at our Travel Insurance guide. Insurance is absolutely essential when you are travelling alone — should something go wrong, you need to know that you have comprehensive cover and someone at the end of the phone to help you.

Pack Light and Pack Smart

After sorting insurance and paperwork, get stuck into the practicalities. Pack with particular care. You will not have anyone to help you carry things or watch your bags, so keep your pack light and make sure you have all the essentials.

A good general rule: never pack more than 20% of your body weight. Preferably a little less. We have a full packing list elsewhere on the site.

Pay particular attention to security. Nobody will be watching your back — other than potential petty thieves. It is worth investing in small padlocks to secure your rucksack pockets, and consider wearing a discreet money belt for your cards and cash.

Arrivals: Take No Chances

On arrival at the airport, it is usually best to arrange a collection through your accommodation rather than hailing a random taxi. It might cost a little more, but it gives you security at a moment when you are likely tired and potentially disoriented. There will always be people looking to profit from new arrivals — do not make it easy for them.

Stay Connected

Make sure a reliable friend or relative at home has your travel plans. Share your itinerary, hotel bookings, and any planned adventures with them. Keep in contact daily — buy a local SIM card if you can, or use the Wi-Fi at cafes, bars, or your guesthouse to call or message home.

If you feel under threat, or you are unwell, do not be afraid to let someone know. Once staying in touch becomes second nature it will feel less like a chore and less daunting.

When you head out for the day, tell someone at your accommodation roughly where you are going and when you expect to be back. You do not need to be precise, but give enough detail that help could be found if you did not return when expected.

Keep Documents and Backup Payments Safe

Keep essential documents safe — and copy them. Save photocopies and photographs both on your phone and on paper. Email clear scans to yourself and to your contact at home. With luck you will never need them, but this simple precaution costs nothing and takes minutes.

Keep a backup form of payment somewhere separate from your main wallet — a second bank card tucked into the lining of your rucksack, for instance.

On Loneliness: Do Not Worry

There will probably be moments when you feel isolated or a little low. That is entirely normal. But it is usually easy enough to connect with other travellers, especially those also travelling alone.

One of the best ways to do this is to book into a hostel occasionally rather than always staying in hotels or guesthouses. You will inevitably meet others, share ideas, and the people you encounter on your gap year may well become lifelong friends. It has happened to everyone on the Gap Year Survival team.

Carry a book — you can always swap it with someone when you finish it. Keep a diary. Learn a few words of the local language: at minimum, hello, please, thank you, yes, no, and "I don't understand." Politeness, respect, and genuine connection are three of the most important elements of a successful gap year. When you are travelling alone, they matter even more.

Respect Local Customs — and Be Careful with Alcohol

Be particularly respectful of local customs. Take care when drinking excessive alcohol or using any form of illegal drug. Both can leave you vulnerable — either directly through exploitation, or potentially through encounters with law enforcement in countries where the consequences are severe.

A Note for Women Travelling Solo

Travelling as a woman requires the same core precautions as travelling solo as a man. Statistically, women are at less risk of coming to harm than men — though that may partly be because men tend to take bigger risks and drink more. There is no question, however, that women travelling solo need to be more cautious and astute in certain situations.

A few specific points worth noting:

• Never tell strangers — including taxi drivers — that you are travelling alone.
• Be more aware of local customs around dress and behaviour than you might need to be at home.
• Plan arrivals in advance, particularly the transfer from the airport.
• Follow personal recommendations when booking accommodation.
• A small, lightweight rubber door wedge is a worthwhile investment — it means you can be confident your room door is secure at night, as long as the door opens inward.

Rounding Off

By researching your destinations, customs, and risks in advance, you should be able to prevent most problems from arising. But you also need to be able to recognise when something is wrong, accept it, and deal with it. Be positive and proactive. Have plans in place.

The chances are that nothing negative will happen — but it is always best to be prepared.

Most importantly: be open-minded and have fun. Do not let the thought of travelling alone hold you back. Make the extra precautions second nature, try not to dwell on them, and then soak up every experience. This trip is all about you — make the most of it.