How to Stay Safe in a Hostel as a Solo Female Traveller!

I've stayed in a few hostels, and the most important thing for me before embarking on a solo endeavour like that was: will I be safe? You hear the classic worries: "women shouldn't travel by themselves," "if they do go somewhere all by their lonesome, they should stay in well-reputed hotels, no hostels or airbnbs," and "hostels are dangerous." These all come from well-meaning places, yet the world has evolved a lot, and there are techniques that can keep you quite safe while solo-travelling. Even though it will likely never become a truly 'safe' activity, you aren't necessarily in any more danger than your regular life. I've compiled a short list of tips I think will aide you, should you choose to brave a hostel as a solo female traveller. These aren't exhaustive, and I'm always learning new things about the dynamic world of travel, but I do hope something on this list keeps you safe. Or at least gives you and your loved ones some peace of mind. And remember the most important thing about travel: use your common sense and trust your gut. If a situation feels wrong, just get yourself out of it. 

1. Try to stay in a female-only dorm. Mixed dorms are usually fine, but I personally feel a lot safer in female-only dorms.
2. Make sure you keep your valuables locked up. Best place to have your valuables is on your person, but since that isn't always possible, lock up your bag and keep it in the locker that's usually provided in your room. I always carry a couple of locks, just for peace of mind. 
3. Keep your phone with you at all times. Keep it charged and make sure you either have a cell connection or wifi available. Even in "safe" cities or areas, you never know when you'll need to make an emergency call or text. Yes, even in the shower, just have it nearby.
4. Toss an AirTag in any bags with valuables. I do this with my camera bag especially, because those things are too expensive to lose!!
5. Don’t bring too many valuable things you don’t need! You don't need all your jewelry or fancy purses. For me, this often means limiting to one camera (which can be a struggle, but I wouldn't want to lose everything together!)
6. Learn your roommates names. This can come in handy at unexpected times, and also helps humanize you to them- just in case!
7. Keep your eyes and ears open. Just stay aware of your surroundings, because things can change suddenly in such a transient environment. 
8. Make sure someone, either a parent, friend, or sibling, knows where you’re staying, when you’re planning to check out, and what your room number is. You probably won’t need to use any of that, but it’s just better to be safe. 
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I hope these tips can help you feel a little safer and more comfortable while travelling, because it is such a freeing experience to explore the world all by yourself!
Happy adventuring, my friends!
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