Travelling is more than movement; it is a shift in perspective, a chance to see beyond the familiar and immerse ourselves in the beauty and complexity of Allah’s ﷻ creation. As believers, we are encouraged to reflect upon the signs of Allah in the world around us, as the Qur’an reminds us,

“Travel through the land and see how He originated creation” (Surah Al-‘Ankabut 29:20).

Every journey whether short or long, becomes an opportunity for spiritual growth, self-discovery, and a deeper connection with the Creator.

We are all travellers on the journey of life, seeking purpose, growth, and connection. Solo travelling, however, takes these experiences to a new level. It is both empowering and humbling, giving us a chance to step out of our comfort zone and witness the world through new eyes. Travelling solo as a Muslim woman often comes with societal stigma and questions about safety. However, these challenges can be overcome with the right preparation, intention, and adherence to safe travel practices. Many Muslim women have successfully navigated these barriers, discovering that solo travel not only fosters personal growth but also deepens their faith and sense of connection with Allah.

Solo travel challenges us to rely on Allah, take responsibility for our well-being, and embrace the unknown with courage and tawakkul (trust in Allah). It allows us to savour the freedom of exploring on our terms while reminding us of our dependence on the Creator.

In this guide, I will share valuable tips to help you prepare for your first solo trip as a Muslim woman. Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back; with modern advancements and a growing emphasis on safety, travelling solo has never been more accessible. Let’s explore how you can make your solo journey safe and fulfilling! 

Start with a Small Trip

Solo travelling can be quite daunting especially if you have never done it, that’s completely natural. But don’t let fear hold you back from a potentially transformative experience! Instead of jumping straight into a long or international trip, consider starting with a smaller, more manageable adventure. A weekend getaway to a nearby town or a short staycation can be the perfect introduction to your first solo travel experience.

On this “trial” trip, you’ll get a feel for what it’s like to rely solely on yourself, both for logistics and personal enjoyment. This short solo journey will allow you to practise key travel skills like planning your itinerary, managing your time, navigating independently, and even trying out solo dining. You’ll gain confidence in your ability to make decisions, handle minor setbacks, and embrace spontaneity without having someone else to lean on.

Whether you love the freedom of being on your own or miss having company, this initial solo trip will help you understand your travel preferences and habits. Plus, as you become more familiar with travelling by yourself, thoughts of a longer, more adventurous solo trip will feel far less intimidating. 

Choosing a Safe Destination

When selecting a destination, consider places that are popular with solo travellers. While you might be tempted to seek a quiet, off-the-beaten-path getaway, a well-travelled destination can offer significant advantages, especially for a solo trip. Popular places typically have more established tourism infrastructure and a wealth of resources online, making planning, researching, and navigating much easier and safer.

Particularly as a visibly Muslim woman wearing a headscarf, you may feel more comfortable starting your solo travel in destinations with a high level of cultural or religious diversity or choosing destinations that are Muslim-friendly or have a significant Muslim population. Within the UK, consider destinations like Cornwall or Manchester, or explore neighbouring Scottish cities such as Glasgow or Edinburgh, which offer diverse communities and accommodating environments for Muslim travellers. Internationally, countries such as Turkey, Qatar, Oman, Indonesia, the Maldives, Malaysia, Japan, and Bosnia are excellent options. In these destinations, finding halal food and prayer facilities is often easier, allowing you to explore freely without compromising your faith practices.

Before deciding on a destination, define a clear budget for the trip. If you haven’t settled on a specific destination, consider destinations that align with your budget. Researching average costs for transportation, accommodation, meals, activities, and the duration of stay will give you a realistic picture of how much you need to save. If you are unsure, look for travel blogs with detailed cost breakdowns for specific destinations, such as Have Halal Will Travel or Muslim Travel Girl, which can be invaluable resources.

Another important factor to not overlook is the importance of transportation research. Look into how efficient, safe, and accessible the public transportation system is for female travellers at your chosen destination. For your first solo trip, it’s best to avoid destinations where renting a car is necessary, as navigating a new location while driving solo can add unnecessary stress and complications. Opt for a location where you can safely rely on public transit, safe ride-hailing apps, or licensed taxis.  

Itinerary Planning for a Solo Trip

When planning your solo trip itinerary, it’s smart to organise everything in one document, including your daily plans, transportation details, and accommodations. This makes it easy not only for you to stay on track but also to share the itinerary with friends or family so they’re aware of your whereabouts. Be sure to leave some flexibility in your schedule for spontaneous activities- some of the best travel moments happen unplanned!

Consider adding nearby mosques or prayer-friendly spots to your itinerary, along with dining options in advance. In some destinations, certain restaurants even offer prayer spaces. This preparation will save you the hassle of searching for places to eat or pray last minute, especially after a long day of exploring.

When it comes to accommodations, try to choose a well-established hotel or a hostel popular among solo female travellers, ideally in a central location close to the attractions you’re excited to visit.

This provides added security and convenience, as well as the chance to meet other solo travellers. It is better to avoid private Airbnb rentals when travelling alone, as staying in a more communal or reputable setting can add peace of mind.

While travelling solo can be incredibly rewarding, it can also feel isolating at times. The best way to combat loneliness is by joining female traveller Facebook groups to look for like-minded travel buddies in a certain city, participating in walking tours, joining a volunteering trip, and signing up for arts and crafts workshops or workout classes. These group activities not only enhance your travel experience but also create natural opportunities to meet new people and make friends along the way.

Safety Precautions and Tips for Female Solo Travelers

1. Start with Dua and the Right Intention: Always begin your journey with du’as to ask Allah for guidance and protection along with setting the right intentions for your journey ahead. 
2. Never Tell Strangers You Are Travelling Alone: While it can be tempting to chat openly with friendly people you meet, avoid mentioning that you’re travelling solo. Letting others know you’re alone may increase your vulnerability, so consider creating a “travel story” that implies you’re meeting up with friends or family shortly.
3. Research SIM Cards – eSIMs or Local SIM Cards: Staying connected is essential for safety. Look up SIM card options ahead of time; many destinations offer local SIM cards or eSIMs, which are easy to activate on your phone. 
4. Choose Minimal Outfits and Avoid Flashy Jewellery: Packing a modest wardrobe that doesn’t draw unnecessary attention helps you blend in and avoid standing out as a target for theft or unwanted attention. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or anything that might attract too much notice.
5. Always Trust Your Instincts: Your instincts are your best guide when travelling alone. If something or someone doesn’t feel right, trust that feeling and take action- whether it’s leaving an area, avoiding certain interactions, or seeking help.
6. Inform Friends and Family of Your Whereabouts and Share Location: Keep friends or family updated about where you are and your plans each day. Share your live location through your phone if possible, so they can check in on you if needed. 
7. Spend Extra to Stay Safe: Prioritise safety over cost when it comes to accommodations and transportation. Spending a bit more on a well-reviewed hotel in a safe area or taking a registered taxi is worth the investment for your safety and peace of mind.
8. Carry Safety Travel Gadgets: Consider bringing small safety tools such as a personal alarm, doorstop alarm for hotel rooms, or even a discreet pepper spray (if legally permitted). 
9. Make Copies of Your Passport & Keep Cash in Separate Places: Photocopy your passport and important documents, and keep them separate from the originals. Also, distribute your cash across different bags or pockets, so you aren’t left without funds if something goes missing. 
10. Bring a Small Journal for Key Addresses and Emergency Numbers: Carry a small journal where you can write down important information like the address of your accommodation, local emergency numbers, and contacts. In case your phone is lost or the battery dies, you’ll have all the essential information to hand.

Packing Essentials for a Solo Female Traveller

1. Pack Light: Avoid overpacking; keep it minimal to leave room for souvenirs and make it easier to manage your bags on your own.
2. Extra Battery for Phone: Carry a fully charged power bank so your phone always has enough battery when you are out and about. 
3. Tripod with Bluetooth Remote: Bring a small tripod with a Bluetooth remote to capture photos of yourself and document your adventures when no one is around to help.
4. Basic Medicines: Pack essential medications for common ailments like flu, headaches, and stomach issues in case of emergencies. 
5. Download Essential Apps: Pre-download necessary apps that can make your journey smoother. E-hailing and transportation apps like Uber or local equivalents are invaluable for getting around safely. Currency exchange apps like Wise can help you manage your finances efficiently, while tools like Google Translate can bridge language barriers and assist with communication. 

Solo travelling as a Muslim girlie can feel scary at first but once you overcome that barrier, it will be a life-changing experience. Not every solo trip has to be an ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ journey, but it can be as simple as enjoying time to yourself and being more present in your surroundings.

You will face situations where you have to step outside of your comfort zone, but that’s part of the personal growth that comes with solo travel. The more we travel, the more we appreciate the little things in life and feel inspired for stories to be exchanged throughout the journey.

Solo travel is empowering and freeing, giving you complete control over your agenda. Want to spend three hours exploring an art museum or take a day wandering a historic site at your own pace? Go for it- you’re in charge!

I hope the advice and tips I’ve shared will be beneficial for your next solo adventure. May your journey take you to inspiring places, fill you with an appreciation for the Divine’s creation, and leave you with beautiful memories and stories that last a lifetime, inshaAllah.