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We all know that not all places are safe for women traveling solo. Even the most independent woman needs to be vigilant when it comes to safety, especially when embarking on a road trip.
When it comes to India, the past few years has seen an increase in the number of women traveling solo and with the number of attractions and cities to see, it is not uncommon to choose driving as the means of transportation when exploring the country.
While this can be quite an adventure, caution should be taken when doing so. Here are a few tips for planning a safe car journey. and be confident and smart while solo driving.
1. Choose Early Morning For Departing
When it comes to India, the past few years has seen an increase in the number of women traveling solo and with the number of attractions and cities to see, it is not uncommon to choose driving as the means of transportation when exploring the country.
While this can be quite an adventure, caution should be taken when doing so. Here are a few tips for planning a safe car journey. and be confident and smart while solo driving.
1. Choose Early Morning For Departing
If are going on a solo ride then early morning is the best time to head out on the road. With the light of the day, it is of course much safer and moreover, starting the day off with a lovely glimpse of the rising sun is a great way to begin your journey.
2. Wear Comfy Clothes And Shoes
If you are going on a long drive, comfortable, loose clothes are the way to go, not to mention footwear that will be kind to your feet, for driving and walking about if you are stopping along the way. Sneakers are probably the best bet and allow for quick walking and running for safety purposes.
3. Know How To Change The Tire
2. Wear Comfy Clothes And Shoes
If you are going on a long drive, comfortable, loose clothes are the way to go, not to mention footwear that will be kind to your feet, for driving and walking about if you are stopping along the way. Sneakers are probably the best bet and allow for quick walking and running for safety purposes.
3. Know How To Change The Tire
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Basic car safety and skills are key on any road trip and tire changing is one of them, especially if you are driving alone. Long road trips can result in mishaps along the way and should you get a flat, you will avoid being stranded or at a stranger’s mercy.
4. Keep Pepper Spray & Handy Weapons
Though many may not want to think about the prospect of being in danger or heaven forbid, faced with an imminent threat of attack, it is worth planning for the worst. Pepper or red chili spray is wise to keep handy as well as other items that can be used to ward off an attack quickly so you can get away.
5. Trust Your Instincts
Often, our instincts are our best protection. If you are suspicious that someone is stalking you or is up to no good while driving near you, don’t panic and absolutely, don’t stop. Speed up and head to the nearest police station or a crowded area. Additionally, dial emergency numbers for help if you feel unable to handle the situation on your own.
6. Keep Important Numbers Handy
All the important and emergency numbers should be pre-programmed into your phone. Additionally, most highways throughout India have signs with emergency contact numbers, which you can also add to your phone should the need arise.
7. Always Have Your Cell Phone Charged
Today we are fortunate enough to have immediate access to anyone at any given time with cell phones. Make sure you are never without a phone charger and that your battery is fully charged at all times. It will not only be a necessary lifeline if needed but it will give you security along the way.
8. Leave a Copy of your Travel Itinerary with Loved Ones
4. Keep Pepper Spray & Handy Weapons
Though many may not want to think about the prospect of being in danger or heaven forbid, faced with an imminent threat of attack, it is worth planning for the worst. Pepper or red chili spray is wise to keep handy as well as other items that can be used to ward off an attack quickly so you can get away.
5. Trust Your Instincts
Often, our instincts are our best protection. If you are suspicious that someone is stalking you or is up to no good while driving near you, don’t panic and absolutely, don’t stop. Speed up and head to the nearest police station or a crowded area. Additionally, dial emergency numbers for help if you feel unable to handle the situation on your own.
6. Keep Important Numbers Handy
All the important and emergency numbers should be pre-programmed into your phone. Additionally, most highways throughout India have signs with emergency contact numbers, which you can also add to your phone should the need arise.
7. Always Have Your Cell Phone Charged
Today we are fortunate enough to have immediate access to anyone at any given time with cell phones. Make sure you are never without a phone charger and that your battery is fully charged at all times. It will not only be a necessary lifeline if needed but it will give you security along the way.
8. Leave a Copy of your Travel Itinerary with Loved Ones
(photo credit: travelocity.com)
Always leave a detailed travel itinerary with family members and/or significant others. This includes daily plans, visits, roads being traveled and of course any and all accommodations. With cell phones, a quick text every few hours is a good way to allow them to keep track of your whereabouts without announcing it to the world.
9. Don’t Let Strangers Know You Are Traveling Solo
Be smart when stopping along the way not to let strangers know that you are traveling alone. Keep a confident air about you and be as independently prepared with directions and where you are going to avoid asking for help.
And if you are looking for a reliable resource for accommodations along the way or at your final destination, EaseMyTrip Hotels is well worth checking out!
9. Don’t Let Strangers Know You Are Traveling Solo
Be smart when stopping along the way not to let strangers know that you are traveling alone. Keep a confident air about you and be as independently prepared with directions and where you are going to avoid asking for help.
And if you are looking for a reliable resource for accommodations along the way or at your final destination, EaseMyTrip Hotels is well worth checking out!
This article was written by Abhishek, an avid traveler who loves to be on roads less traveled. Both a nature lover and hardcore foodie.
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