International Women's Day: Why life is good for solo female travellers

The budget art of female solo travel

More female backpackers are travelling solo than ever before. Travelling on your own can be incredibly therapeutic and there are untold joys to be found on the road. As International Women’s Day approaches on March 8, there’s no limit to where you can travel.

For many female travellers, going backpacking can be a daunting prospect, but with some research, planning and common sense, it’s an incredible experience for the young and old.

International Women’s Day is about empowerment and freedom. There is no better way of living independently than going travelling on your own. Once you make your first trip, it can open doors to countries you never thought were possible.

While the most popular destinations for female solo travel are in Europe, there’s nothing stopping you travelling in Asia or South America if you're properly prepared.

Check our picks of the best destinations for women to explore solo, based on their safety value, activities, and the likelihood of meeting fellow female travellers. Book your holiday today — adventure waits for no one!

Copenhagen, Denmark

Image by Claus Tom Christensen (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Copenhagen is one of the safest capital cities in Europe. It boasts low crime rates, and the Danish capital operates at a relaxing pace due to the ‘Hygge’ factor (pronounced “Hooga”). The hygge lifestyle is cosy, warm and designer friendly, which tells you everything you need to know about Denmark.

Best visited during the summer months, when you can get up to 18 hours of sunlight per day. Solo female travellers can go on a cycling tour, explore the Nyhavn harbour and hang in out in bars firm in the knowledge that Copenhagen is a warm and friendly city.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Image by FaceMePLS (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Amsterdam might have a reputation for vice, but it’s one of the safest cities to visit as a solo female traveller. The city’s museums and cafes are ideal for women travelling alone. You can explore the Dutch capital easily on foot or bike — or even boat if you’re feeling fancy— and the city’s bars and clubs are always welcoming. You can also eat out on street food at one of the city’s many street markets. Cheap, friendly and affordable, Amsterdam is a picturesque city to celebrate International Woman’s Day.

Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong is a top destination for a female urban adventurers. It’s a bustling international city where East meets West in a spectacular fashion. Unlike most Asian cities, you can speak English when checking into a Hong Kong hostel, trying a new restaurant or visiting one of the city’s many tourist attractions.

Solo female travellers will also be able to sample some of the best street food in the region. As the gateway to China, you can travel here safely knowing you’ll be in good company throughout your stay.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Image by Nico Crisafulli (Flickr/Creative Commons)

The Croatian seaport is a medieval beauty with one of the best-protected city walls in Europe. Safe and vibrant in equal measure, the Croatian city is perfect for female travellers looking to explore the southern Mediterranean.

Go on a walking tour of the medieval walls, cable car hop across the city and eat out in one of the city’s fish restaurants. Loads of female travellers descend upon Dubrovnik every year, so even if you arrive on your own, you may well end up leaving with friends.

*Travelling solo can be a great and satisfying adventure for female travellers. If you want to save money travelling on International Women Day, then check out our budget friendly hostels today.