Hey there! If you’re new here— welcome :)

My name is Jess and I have been traveling solo in my camper van for the last two years. I've learned so much traveling alone that I wanted to write a blog to help other solo (female) travelers. It can be terrifying at first but it's the most empowering thing when you get out there on your own. Here are some of the things I do to keep safe on the road.

1. Carry self defense items

Whatever items you feel comfortable using and is allowed in the areas you are traveling through. Have something on you at all times in your bag or and in your van. I always have:

• pepper spray

• a few knives

• a hatchet

• bear spray

2. Use iOverlander to find safe and legal camping

I find a majority of my camp spots through this app every night.

• read the reviews

• try to go to the spots that were recently reviewed

• a quick search online before you stay in the area

Free app that shows paid + free camping, hook-ups, showers, laundry, water refill and more!

3. Get to camp before dark

I don't always follow this rule but I try to for the most part because it's a really important one. It's always more sketchy and difficult to find free camping in the dark so I recommend getting to your spot well before the sun sets. It gives you time to scope out the area as well and notice anything or anyone that looks suspicious.

4. Camp with service (a personal preference)

I do go off grid completely from time to time but I typically camp where there is service even if i'm out in nature. It makes me feel more comfortable and in case I need to reach someone or get some work done, I am able to use my hotspot.

5. Keep driver's seat clear AND keys close

When you're parked up somewhere day or night, keep your keys nearby for easy access and your driver's seat clear in case you need to leave abruptly. If I am parked with friends for more than a few days, I will let my guard down and put things in the front to create more space in the back. I will also share a blog post about making friends on the road.

6. Be discreet when parked up

When parked up somewhere during the day or night, try not to go in and out of your van too much to make it obvious you are alone. It's not always doable but staying stealth is the key for safety. Again, the only time I will set up my outdoor area and be outside like this photo below is when I am with a group of friends I feel safe with.

7. Share location with a family member or friend

If you're venturing out into the wild or just around a city, drop a pin to a loved one so they know where you are. There’s also the ‘find my friends’ app where you can share your location automatically at all times. I have this feature on with my mom and some other close family members.

8. Don't geotag on social media until you've left the area

This is an extra step for safety. You never know who may be lurking online so in my opinion, blowing up your location on social media for everyone to see isn't always the best case. Once again, if I am with friends and feel safe, I sometimes post in real time. This is also the case if the location is recognizable like Yosemite.. kind of hard to hide that granite!

9. Stay aware of your surroundings

Anything bad can happen anywhere at anytime whether you're with someone or alone. Out of all my tips, I think the most important is to simply stay aware of your surroundings. If something or someone feels off, don't question it and just leave.

10. TRUST YOUR INTUITION!

The more you travel alone, the easier it will be to listen to your own intuition. You already know best, you just need to trust yourself. I was terrified when I left and I still feel scared at times but I am much more confident in every part of my life, not just traveling. It is empowering to get out there on your own but don't be afraid to ask for help.

If you’re thinking about getting out there on your own, I hope this blog helps a little bit! If you have any specific topics you’d like to read more about, drop a comment, an Instagram DM or an email. As always, thanks for being here :)

Van Life Safety as a Female Solo Traveler