Airbnb’s Spring 2025 Travel Trends Report has revealed a whopping 90% year-on-year increase in solo travel searches, with an average of 17 nights booked per solo spring trip. In fact, more than 2 in 5 Brits (42%) are keen to travel solo in the next 12 months, with female wanderers leading the charge, making up nearly three-quarters (71%) of all solo travellers.
While the excitement of solo travel is undeniable, staying safe on your journey is key.
Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or embarking on your first solo trip, the security experts at Locksmith Watford have got you covered with six must-know hotel safety tips to help you travel confidently.
- Go incognito: Don’t advertise you’re traveling solo
Avoid openly revealing that you’re traveling alone when asked about your plans. If necessary, make up a fake partner or mention that you’re meeting friends later. Keeping a low profile helps reduce the chances of drawing unwanted attention, keeping you off the radar of potential threats. Be cautious about what you share on social media during your travels. Don’t post pictures of any location or your accommodation while you’re still there – especially if you don’t have a private account. Public posts can be seen by anyone, and location tags can reveal exactly where you are.
A Reddit user shared their experience:
“When I was around 19 I would post as I went, then I had a dangerous encounter with a stalker. Ever since I’ve made sure that I stagger them. If I’m posting a photo of a hotel room, I won’t do it until I’ve left the hotel, for example.”
- Don’t accept ground floor rooms or room numbers being announced
Avoid accepting ground-floor rooms as these are easy targets for intruders – especially those with easy access via balconies. Rooms at the end of the hallways or those with adjoining doors are also best skipped for added security. Moreover, be discreet with your room number and don’t hesitate to request a new room if hotel staff accidentally says it out loud. Hang the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on your door once you enter your room and leave it up until you check out. If your room number is written on your key card envelope, snap a photo of it to remember the number and stash it in a blank key packet to protect your room details from wandering eyes when you’re out and about.
Another Reddit user shared:
“Don’t mention at the front desk that you have valuables or anything. I once asked at the front desk if they had wifi for my laptop at a big tourist hotel at Piccadilly Circus in London and someone obviously heard me (front desk guy said our room number aloud). We were on the second floor but someone came in through the window when we were out for dinner. That was back when laptops were so big they didn’t fit in the safe.”
- Amp up your hotel room security
Hotel key cards can sometimes be overridden by master keys. If your hotel room lacks a secondary lock or a latch, consider packing a rubber or alarmed door stopper, or a portable door lock – most cost under $10 and add an extra layer of security to keep unauthorized entry at bay. Don’t forget the peephole – tampered ones can be reversed, letting outsiders peer into your room. If there’s no built-in cover, simply stuff some tissue into it for a quick fix. Lastly, check that all doors and windows lock securely from the inside and can’t be accessed with a key from the outside. If anything feels off, trust your gut and ask for a new room – it’s worth the peace of mind.
- Sweep your room for hidden cameras
11% of travelers have discovered hidden cameras in their lodgings. While rare, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Start by visually inspecting your room – scan for odd decor, stray wires, or anything out of place. Pay close attention to common hiding spots like smoke detectors, air vents, alarm clocks, and even furniture or bathroom amenities. Shine your phone’s flashlight to check for reflections as camera lenses often glint under light. If your phone’s camera detects infrared (IR) light (test this by pointing it at a TV remote and pressing a button to see if a purple light appears), scan the room in the dark for blinking or reflective lights. For extra peace of mind, consider investing in a portable camera detector to identify hidden devices more accurately.
- Don’t sacrifice safety for budget
Solo travel can definitely be pricier than traveling with a companion, but that doesn’t mean you should skimp on safety to save a few bucks. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest accommodation you can find, a rock-bottom price can sometimes come with hidden risks. Take the time to do your research, read recent reviews, check the safety of the surrounding area, and get a feel for the type of guests the place attracts. A small extra cost for a safer, more reliable option is always worth it when it comes to your wellbeing – always choose safety first!
This user on Reddit said:
“Check crime rates in the area!! I’m always booking a cheap room to stay overnight for concerts in different cities. I just got back from Raleigh, NC and wish I knew what this hotel I booked was like, but I focused on the $$. There was definitely shady activity and even my Uber driver was like “I’ll wait to leave until I see you’re inside.”
- Avoid solo outings at night
It’s crucial to be mindful of the time and avoid venturing out alone after dark. While anything can happen at any hour, nighttime carries an extra layer of risk, especially in unfamiliar places. If you’re hungry or need supplies, consider using a delivery service or grabbing a bite at the hotel. Before leaving your room, always do a security sweep, ensuring windows and doors are locked. When heading out, inform a friend or family member of your itinerary and expected return time. This simple step creates a safety trail should anything go awry. Additionally, activate your phone’s location services so your loved ones can track your whereabouts in real-time. Keeping them informed is a small effort that can provide a big sense of security.
