Travelling solo can be an empowering and enriching experience for women. Exploring new places, meeting new people, and gaining a sense of independence are just a few of the rewards. However, safety remains a crucial concern, especially when it comes to using taxis. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of a foreign city or simply getting a ride home late at night, here are some essential taxi safety tips for solo female travellers.
1. Pre-Book or Use Trusted Apps
Whenever possible, pre-book your taxi through a reputable service or use trusted ride-hailing apps like Uber or Lyft. These platforms offer added security features such as driver tracking, driver ratings, and the ability to share your ride details with a trusted contact.
2. Verify the Vehicle and Driver
Before getting into the taxi, verify that the vehicle and driver match the details provided by the app or the booking service. Check the licence plate, the driver’s photo, and their name. If anything seems off, cancel the ride and request another one.
3. Sit in the Backseat
Sitting in the backseat offers a layer of separation and gives you a better position to exit the vehicle quickly if needed. It also provides more personal space and reduces the chance of unwanted contact.
4. Share Your Ride Details
Always share your ride details with a trusted friend or family member. Most ride-hailing apps have a feature that allows you to share your trip information in real-time. This way, someone else knows your whereabouts and can monitor your journey.
5. Trust Your Instincts
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, ask the driver to stop in a safe, well-lit area and get out. It’s better to be safe and find another mode of transportation than to stay in a situation that feels wrong.
6. Avoid Sharing Personal Information
Keep conversations with the driver friendly but avoid sharing personal information, such as where you are staying, your travel plans, or details about your personal life. Keeping these details private helps ensure your safety.
7. Plan Your Route
Familiarise yourself with the general route to your destination. Use a GPS app on your phone to track the ride. If the driver takes an unexpected route or seems to be prolonging the journey, don’t hesitate to speak up and ask questions.
8. Keep Your Belongings Close
Always keep your belongings, such as your purse, phone, and any valuables, close to you and within reach. This minimises the risk of theft and ensures that you can quickly grab your things if you need to exit the vehicle in a hurry.
9. Know Emergency Numbers
Have local emergency numbers saved on your phone and know how to quickly dial them. In many countries, you can also reach emergency services through the ride-hailing app itself.
10. Report Any Issues
If you experience any issues during your ride, report them immediately to the taxi company or the ride-hailing app. Providing feedback helps improve the service and ensures that other travellers can stay safe.
Conclusion
While the majority of taxi rides are safe, it’s important to stay vigilant and take proactive steps to ensure your safety. Remember, your safety is paramount, and taking a few precautions can make all the difference in having a positive and secure travel experience.
Stay safe and enjoy your travels!