Smart, Social and Safe

Hello and welcome back to Travel Hints for Women Over 60!

I’m Sue, and today we’re talking about something every traveler should have on their checklist — staying safe, confident, and connected while travelling solo.

Because while travelling alone can feel a little daunting at first, it’s also one of the most empowering and joyful experiences you can have. With a few smart habits and the right attitude, you’ll not only stay safe — you’ll have the time of your life!

Start with SmartTraveller

Before any trip, my first stop isn’t the airport — it’s the Australian Government’s SmartTraveller website (smartraveller.gov.au).

It’s a goldmine of up-to-date advice on destinations, local customs, entry requirements, and any safety alerts you should know about. You can even register your travel plans, which helps the government reach you or your family in case of an emergency abroad.

A quick check before you go means peace of mind once you’re on the road.

Share Your Itinerary — and Keep It Current

Once my trip is mapped out, I load everything into the TripIt app — flights, hotels, transfers, tours, the lot.

TripIt automatically organises it into a simple, easy-to-read itinerary that I can share with family or close friends. That way, if anything changes or if someone needs to reach me, they’ve got the latest details at their fingertips.

Travel tip: double-check that your emergency contact details and mobile number are up to date in TripIt before you go. It’s a tiny step that makes a big difference.

Confidence on Tour

If you’re joining a tour — whether it’s for a day or a few weeks — confidence is key. And here’s the secret: you don’t have to wait for people to talk to you!

Smile, start a conversation, ask where someone’s from, or compliment their scarf — little gestures go a long way.

When breakfast rolls around, don’t always sit with the same people. Mix it up! Join a different table each day. You’ll meet more travelers, hear more stories, and probably end up with dinner invitations before you know it.

And when your tour guide asks for volunteers for something fun — put your hand up! I did this once in Hungary when the guide asked for someone to dress up in traditional national costume. It didn’t kill me — in fact, it broke the ice on the very first day, gave everyone a laugh, and from that moment on, everyone knew who I was. Sometimes you’ve just got to be brave and say “why not?”

I’ve found that when you make yourself the fun one — open, upbeat, and easy to talk to — people naturally want you around. Before long, you’ll be part of the tour family.

Dinners & Down Time

Evenings can sometimes be tricky for solo travelers. Don’t wait to be asked — be the one who says, “Anyone fancy dinner tonight?”

If you put yourself out there, you’ll rarely dine alone unless you want to. And if you do feel like some solo time, that’s perfectly fine too — a quiet meal with a glass of local wine can be its own kind of bliss.

Staying Safe, Staying Seen

A few more practical tips that I always follow:

• Keep your hotel details and emergency contacts written down somewhere not in your phone — just in case.

• If you’re heading out solo for the day, let someone know your plans, even if it’s just a quick text to a family member or a tour mate.

• Avoid flashing valuables and always trust your instincts — if a place or situation doesn’t feel right, walk away.

• Stick to well-lit areas at night, and consider using rideshare apps instead of hailing taxis on the street.

Wrap-Up

Travelling solo as a woman — especially over 60 — is liberating, inspiring, and more than a little addictive. With a bit of preparation, the right apps, and a dash of confidence, you can stay safe while having the time of your life.

So check SmartTraveller, share your TripIt itinerary, and then step out there with a smile.

Be the one who laughs loudest, chats easily, and volunteers for the silly stuff — because that’s how the best stories (and friendships) begin.

Your trip, your pace, your adventure — and it’s going to be amazing.