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Call us: (910) 742-5324
I believe that learning how to use public transportation is a valuable skill when you travel. Even if you travel with a women’s only travel group like Sisterhood Travels, it is important to know how to get around during your free time. Public transportation is fast, economical, and in many cities you are just a short walk to a metro station. But for solo female travelers over 50, fear and public transport safety are top of mind. Buses, trains, and metros open up a world of adventure, but they also come with challenges. Whether you’re setting out for your first solo journey or you’ve traveled for decades, it’s normal to want practical safety tips for women.
This week let’s look at public transport safety for women over 50
Solid preparation is at the heart of travel safety for women over 50. A little planning up front can help you avoid trouble down the line and keep you feeling in control.
This is where I totally geek out. I always plan my route before leaving home. Checking schedules, knowing bus station or metro stop names, and mapping out transfer points give me peace of mind. It’s worth noting which areas are busy and which seem more isolated. I choose well-lit waiting spots that keep me visible to others.
I avoid isolated stations late at night. If I have to travel in the evening, I stick to routes with frequent service and bustling platforms. It’s like giving yourself a safety net; you’re less likely to run into problems where there are people and good lighting.
My bag reflects my focus on personal safety. I pack everything I might need, including:
Packing smart helps me react quickly if I need to yell and shout, fight back, or run for safety. Practice walking confidently with your bag so it becomes second nature to secure your belongings.
I’ve also found essential travel apps for solo female adventurers to be a game-changer. They help me navigate routes and stay alert to changes or delays. Some even let me share my location with family or friends for extra peace of mind.
My safety plan always includes staying connected. Before I leave, I:
This keeps me grounded and adds an extra layer of security, especially when traveling alone in unfamiliar places.
Once I’m on public transit, I stay aware of my surroundings and trust my intuition. I’ve learned that keeping my head up and my senses sharp goes a long way in keeping trouble at bay.
Where I choose to sit can make all the difference. I look for a seat near the driver or conductor, or in a spot with other passengers.
If possible, I avoid empty cars or bottom-level seats at the back of the bus. Being in a visible location keeps me noticed by staff and reduces distractions. Think of it as being on stage, where you control the performance.
If I need to pay for a ticket or answer my phone, I stay mindful of what’s happening around me. It’s much easier to make eye contact and establish boundaries if someone invades my personal space.
One thing solo travel teaches is to trust your intuition. If a situation feels off, I walk confidently to another seat, alert the driver, or get off at the next stop. There’s nothing wrong with saying no or creating distance. If anyone tries to bother me, I use a firm voice and look them in the eye. When your body language says confidence, people listen.
If I ever feel threatened, I remember it’s okay to say no, yell and shout, make noise, or fight back as a means of self-defense. Adrenaline is there to protect me, not freeze me. Traveling alone for the first time tips helped build this confidence.
Learning to navigate public transportation is another piece of the solo travel puzzle. Another avenue of empowerment. It enables you to move around a city easily. Practicing these public transportation safety tips will help give you the confidence to stretch yourself to new solo travel adventures.
Do you use public transportation when you travel?
Who are our Sisters? Well, we’re you! We value old friendships but love making new ones. We’re intellectually curious and love a unique adventure to parts unknown. We may be single, divorced, widowed, or simply have a partner who doesn’t want to travel. Most of all, We’re kind, compassionate women who look forward to cultural immersion, exclusive adventures, lots of laughs, and the magic of Sisterhood.
