Things I do for safety that my male travel mates never think about

Travelling solo as a woman means an extra layer of constant awareness that men genuinely don't experience.

I research neighbourhoods before booking accommodation and pay more for "safe" areas. I share my location with someone back home. I make fake phone calls when walking alone at night. I wear a cheap fake wedding ring in conservative countries. I avoid ground-floor rooms.

I never accept drinks I didn't watch being made. I keep emergency cash hidden separately from my wallet. I've also learned to check accommodation security features - proper locks, 24-hour reception, well-lit entrances, staff who actually pay attention to who's coming and going.

I choose higher floors when possible because it feels more secure. I read reviews specifically from other solo women travellers to see if they felt safe.

I still love solo travel, I just wish I didn't have to do this constantly.

Other solo women travellers - what's on your safety checklist?