Today, I’m talking about something that everyone has felt at some point — fear of loss. loss.
We all have fears, things we worry about that might happen. But the truth is, fear shouldn’t stop you from living your best life.
You can’t always avoid what you fear, but you can manage it and take control.
And when it comes to solo travel, taking responsibility for your own safety and protection of what’s important, is a big part of that. You can’t rely on others to always look out for you — so it’s about being prepared, aware, and confident.
Today I’m sharing a common concern from Robert – worry about being a victim of theft.
Recently, I received a message from Robert, a seasoned traveller who’s been all over the world — with friends, with partners, in groups.
He told me he’s thought about travelling solo, but he’s worried about being robbed.
Now, that’s a valid concern — and it’s one a lot of people share.
But here’s the thing: the risk of theft or scams exists whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or even in a group tour.
In fact, sometimes being with others can make you less aware — you might get distracted, let your guard down, and assume someone else is paying attention when they’re not.
When you travel with others, you often rely on them — maybe for directions, or to hold your bag, or to remember the details. With others, you may become lazy, careless, and complacent.
But when you travel solo, you’re in charge of your own safety and wellbeing — step up and take responsibility, and that can be incredibly empowering once you get the hang of it.
Let’s look at it this way — being robbed or losing something is always unfortunate, but how you manage it makes all the difference.
If it happens when you’re with others, someone might lend you money, share their phone, or help you find your bookings.
But when you’re solo, it’s all on you. That’s why it’s so important to have backup plans and safety habits that give you peace of mind.
have backup plans and safety habits that give you peace of mind
👉My advice, is to take responsibility for yourself and your things whether you are with others or solo, same action plan.
So, let’s talk about two key things every solo, and non-solo traveller needs to do:
- Reduce the likelihood of being robbed, scammed, or targeted.
- Have a plan in case it does happen.
Reducing the liklihood of being robbed
Here are some simple habits that can make a big difference:
- Use a cross-body bag with concealed zips. Keep your belongings tidy, organised, and out of sight.
- Don’t keep valuables in your pockets.
- Use confident body language — stand tall, walk with purpose, and look aware.
- Stay alert to your surroundings.
- Blend in — dress simply, and avoid standing out as a tourist.
Plan for events and loss
Have a plan in case the worse happens. And remember, this isn’t just about theft. Things can be lost, damaged, or broken — or you might simply misplace something. either way, its gone.
So think about what’s essential and how you can protect it.
Three step back up plan
Step 1. What is essential and important?
Make a list of what’s essential, what is important that you have with you, and don’t loose? On my list is:
- contact details of people
- flight bookings, accommodation, tour bookings
- visa and customs details
- money – cash and finance cards
- insurance details
- passport
- photos, videos
- medical and eyeware/glasses prescriptions
Step 2. Have backup plans for each of these
- Contact details – they are in your phone, but in case you loose that, have a printed list
- Flights, accommodation, tour bookings, Visa and customs documents, insurance details– they are in your emails, digital, accessed via your phone, in case you loose that, have printed copies – back home with family and 2 copies with you in different bags.
- Cash – in your wallet, only carry minimal cash for the outing, your wallet in case it is lost or stolen. The rest of the cash is stored securely at the hotel, and spare cash hidden securely
- Bank cards – one in the wallet, in case it is stolen or lost, you have another 2 cards, secure at the hotel, one hidden securely
- Passport – have printed copy of your passport. It doesn’t replace your passport, but will help you if you need to get a new passport at the nearest embassy.
- Photos, videos – in your phone, on your camera sd card. Back them up – to cloud storage, or another hard drive each day.
Printed documents – you need multiple copies of these in case a copy gets lost, or stolen in a bag; and protect in plastic ziplock bags to protect from water damage – it rains, a drink leaks – it happens.
Step 3. Tell someone of your intinerary and daily plans
Share your itinerary with family or a friend back home, and each day, check in with them. Let them know you are safe. let them know where you are going for the day, when you’ll be out of wifi range for hours, on a tour, transiting to where and how. So if you do go missing, someone knows where to start looking for you.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the goal isn’t to live without fear — it’s to acknowledge your fears, take action, and then relax knowing you’ve done what’s in your control.
When you’re prepared, you can move through the world with confidence, independence, and calm.
Because here’s the truth: with a little planning and a lot of awareness, you’ll find that solo travel isn’t about facing danger — it’s about finding freedom.
At the end of the day, the goal isn’t to live without fear — it’s to acknowledge your fears, take action, and then relax knowing you’ve done what’s in your control.
Weekly Challenge
A challenge for you this week, be aware that even in your home town you may be robbed, pickpocketed or you may loose your wallet or phone. Take action to keep things safe in your bag that is secured closed. Dont have your phone in your back pocket, put your bag across your body, not loosely over your shoulder . Practice keeping your things safe with you, even in your home town, and feeling more confident about being solo.
👉Share this with someone who is dreaming of travelling solo but feeling a little unsure.
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Until next time—enjoy the journey, every moment of it, and go solo. Stay safe. – Linda
Linda Marie Travel 