Best Personal Safety Devices for Solo Travelers in 2025

Solo traveling is one of the most liberating experiences you can have in this lifetime, but it comes — like many worthwhile things — at a risk. With only yourself to rely on, it’s worth making sure you have all the information and all the right gear to make the trip both worthwhile and safe. Over the past 14 years of exploring the world on my own, I’ve learned that preparation and awareness are your best allies when solo traveling. While the thrill of independence and self-discovery makes it all worthwhile, it’s crucial to equip yourself with the right tools to stay safe and confident, no matter where you’re headed — from a quick weekend getaway to a weeks-long adventure across the world.

Here, I’ve rounded up some of the best solo travel essentials to pack for staying safe and prepared on your next trip.

She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm 

In my opinion, every single person should have one of these (especially women traveling solo). This alarm is relatively affordable, latches to your bag or keychain, and sets off a loud siren and strobe light when the top is pulled. (It’s deactivated by putting the top pin back in.) It can be used multiple times and lasts for 40 continuous minutes on one battery, which is also replaceable. It comes in a slew of colors, and I appreciate that five percent of She’s Birdie’s profits are donated to partner organizations that support women’s safety, shelter, and health. There’s a new version, too, that has a 24/7 call rep (with a subscription to their app) as well as new emergency call features. Whichever one you go with, you’ll have more peace of mind stepping out and exploring. 

Otterbox Defender Series Pro XT for Magsafe Case

This one might sound silly, but I’ve seen too many people with no phonecases out in the wild. When you are traveling solo, your phone is not only your lifeline, but it’s your most essential safety tool: it’s your navigator, flashlight, translator, calculator, etc., so you need to protect it like it’s gold. A sturdy, shock-absorbent case can prevent damage from accidental drops, and a waterproof one can be a lifesaver in unexpected weather or outdoor adventures. This one’s Magsafe as well, so you can charge on a charging pad easily. 

Apple AirTags 4-pack

AirTags are a travel must-have at this point, especially when you’re heading out by yourself. You can add them to your luggage, wallet, and more to keep track of all your possessions easily. You’ll see them in your Find My app, and it’s ideal for easing the anxiety of travel. Whether it’s keeping tabs on your checked baggage or ensuring your valuables stay close, AirTags are a small but mighty investment for any solo traveler.

Anker Portable Charger

If your phone is your lifeline while solo traveling, then a portable charger is an absolute necessity. (In fact, I always pack two — one to keep fully charged for true emergencies like power outages or travel delays where outlets are not to be found, and one for daily use.) Running out of battery while navigating an unfamiliar city, using translation apps, or staying in touch with friends and family can quickly turn a great day into a stressful one. A reliable portable charger ensures your phone stays powered up, giving you the freedom to explore, capture memories, and stay connected without constantly worrying about finding an outlet. Look for one with fast charging capabilities to keep you covered for the entire day, like this Anker option that has rave reviews. 

Athleta Crossbody Bag

Look, I love a cute little handbag as much as the next gal, but when it comes to solo travel, you want to consider two important features in a purse: one, is it easy to hide under my coat (or clothes if need be)?; and two, is it a crossbody? If the answer to both is yes, then you’ve got yourself a winner. I love this Athleta crossbody because it’s water-resistant, easy to wipe clean (I’m a coffee spiller), and has a front pocket for things that should be within reach (like a hotel key card) plus a bigger compartment to hold even more. You can wear it around your waist as a fanny pack or body as a crossbody bag, and it’s great for keeping your stuff on you when you’re working out as well. 

Calpak Battery-free Luggage Scale

A handheld luggage scale is a game-changer for any traveler but it’s especially useful for traveling solo. Why? Not only will it help you avoid overweight baggage fees, which saves both money and time, but it also means you know exactly how you’re going to maneuver the bag in every situation. You’ll be able to safely navigate new-to-you streets or easily get to an off-the-beaten-path Airbnb (and for carry-on travelers, it means making sure to avoid the baggage carousel, where you could get pickpocketed like one traveler I know). This Calpak scale is the best because it’s battery-free and requires absolutely no charging. It’s great to throw in your personal item and will help you stay prepared, independent, and in control throughout your trip. 

Cuyana Cardholder 

A slim cardholder is a must, must, must when solo traveling: one, you can easily put it in your front pant pocket for a quick coffee trip (especially when staying at hotels with key cards — it’s all you need!) without pulling out bulky wallet (aka you’re less likely to be a target); two, it keeps you organized with just the essentials of an ID, a credit card, some cash, and your room key. Plus, cardholders, like this sleek Cuyana one, are lightweight and take up minimal space in your bag, making them perfect for minimalists or travelers trying to pack light. 

Carbon Monoxide Detector

A portable carbon monoxide detector is one of those things that once you start traveling with it, you won’t be able to sleep without it. These detectors are super easy to pack, take up little space, and could save your life. Whether you’re staying in a hostel, hotel, or Airbnb, this little gadget will give you (and your family) peace of mind. I love the ones that plug into outlets, but others including battery-operated ones work just fine as well (and they may be great for hopping around countries with different outlet capabilities). 

Pill Case

A pill organizer is ideal for not only keeping your regular medications and supplements on hand but also for having emergency meds should the worst happen — you get truly sick. Clearly labeled compartments will keep you organized, and you’ll have everything on hand. (Or as I like to say, you’ll have a moving pharmacy on hand.) As someone who has been there, nothing is worse than being sick and disoriented in a new place, hoping to find a pharmacy. I keep two of these pill organizers on hand — one is for said pharmacy, and the other is for my everyday pills; plus, it’s the perfect size for keeping in a toiletry bag. Pro tip: Even if you don’t suffer from allergies, packing an antihistamine can be a lifesaver. You never know when you might encounter unexpected allergens like a new food, plant, or even a bug bite. 

Welly First Aid Kit

Speaking of emergencies, a first aid kit is also a must-have for travel; this Welly kit is not only useful, but it’s also cute and compact to boot. With bandages, hand sanitizer, and antibiotic ointment, you’ll have everything you need on hand for any scrape, paper cut, or blister. Its design makes it easy to toss into your bag without taking up much space, so you’re always prepared for minor mishaps … like terribly fitting shoes. It’s an affordable essential you won’t want to travel without, trust me.

Lifestraw 

As a solo traveler (and human) staying hydrated is essential, but ensuring your water is safe to drink is equally important — and this is especially true in remote areas or destinations with questionable water quality. (Particularly if you plan on staying in a hostel or Airbnb.) A Lifestraw removes bacteria, parasites, and even microplastics, giving you access to clean water wherever you go. The straw is the best to keep in your personal item at all times, or you can opt for the Lifestraw water bottles that feature the same filtration system — they’re particularly fantastic for things like hikes and day-long hangs. (Just make sure to change the filter out after about two months of use.) 

Door Stop Alarm

No matter what, any solo traveler should have some sort of extra lock or protection for their doors at night. This one features an alarm setting you can turn on or off, with three levels of sound. It also can be used in the “off” setting as a regular door stop to prop doors open if needed or to keep doors extra secure. It comes two in a pack, which is especially great for hotels with patios or other entry doors. They’re lightweight and easy to keep on hand. 

Fireproof Lockbox

Keeping your valuables safe is a need for all travelers, and this option is great for solo adventurers who pack light or want to keep their items on hand. Not only is it compact — fitting in a bag, suitcase, or as an extra security measure in a hotel safe — but it’s also waterproof and fireproof, adding another layer of protection you may not have thought of. Store your passport, extra cash, or jewelry in this case with its three-digit lock that other reviewers rave is “perfect for travel.” 

Drink Cover

This reusable drink cover helps keep anything unwanted out of your drink. Period. I love this scrunchie version that can live on your wrist or in your hair until you need it; just can pop it out, and it goes straight on the cup. The scrunchie stays attached so you won’t lose it, and there’s a place for a straw. It’s perfect for beach clubs, bar stops, or anywhere you want to get a drink solo. 

Everbrite Mini Flashlights 3-pack

These mini flashlights are perfect for keeping in your carry-on and purse for emergencies. Not only will they help find anything (or illuminate that address you just can’t seem to find), but they can also be a great defense weapon — something that can temporarily stun or blind an attacker and can be a blunt object in case you need to protect yourself. They can also help signal for help should you get lost or your phone dies. Small and compact, they’re easy to keep on hand and could be an actual lifesaver. 

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