Things You Should Avoid Wearing When Traveling Solo

Though it might seem daunting to some, solo travel brings a unique kind of freedom that can be life-changing. Seeing the world on your terms without having to compromise on itineraries, accommodation, or budgets is an unforgettable experience and the ultimate opportunity for growth. But there are downsides, from not having anyone to watch your bags while you're in the bathroom at the airport to occasional bouts of loneliness. One of the biggest challenges is feeling unsafe, especially as a solo female traveler. But we've got a few tips to help you stay safe when solo traveling, including packing the perfect wardrobe. 

They might not seem that powerful, but the clothes and accessories you pack can help you avoid certain kinds of danger. According to Joanne McNellis, founder and CEO of Travel Safety Solutions, you'll want to pack your suitcase with the intention of blending in as much as possible. "When traveling alone, particularly in unfamiliar or international destinations, it is essential to avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself," she exclusively advises Glam. "Dressing discreetly and blending in with the local environment can help!" This means leaving anything that catches the eye at home, including super-daring fashion (such as the sheer trend, which got a bold upgrade in 2024) and garments that don't align with the culture of the destination you're visiting. Additionally, a solo trip isn't the time to wear uncomfortable or impractical pieces, as the last thing you need is to make yourself more vulnerable.

The golden rule of packing outfits for a solo trip is to avoid attracting unnecessary attention. In an exclusive chat with Glam, Joanne McNellis warns that this includes overly bright tones (sorry, fans of the dopamine dressing trend) and head-turning silhouettes that look great on the runway but not so much at tourist-packed landmarks. "Wearing flashy or expensive jewelry, including designer watches and handbags, should be avoided, as it can signal wealth and make you a target for theft," McNellis explains.

"It is also best to refrain from wearing apparel that clearly identifies you as a tourist, such as clothing branded with the name of your destination," McNellis adds. She notes that you should also avoid controversy and making political statements with your clothes. No matter how strongly you feel about something, being on your own in another country isn't the time to ruffle feathers. In Saudi Arabia, for example, it's illegal to criticize the royal family or local way of life, even if your message is scrawled on the back of a hoodie.

On that note, McNellis recommends becoming aware of the local culture and customs so you can avoid wearing garments that are seen as offensive or disrespectful. "Wearing provocative, tight, or revealing clothing can attract unwanted attention and, in some destinations, may be considered culturally inappropriate," she says. "Dressing modestly and in accordance with local norms can help ensure a more respectful and seamless travel experience." In general, keep your solo-travel wardrobe "neutral, understated, and modest" in McNellis' words. Go for something that will keep you under the radar, like the ANRABESS Women Summer Casual Short Sleeve Crewneck Dress or the SAMPEEL Two Piece Set in a neutral shade.

When packing your suitcase for solo travel, practicality should be at the forefront of your mind. It's not a good idea to travel in clothes and accessories that restrict your movement or make life hard at the best of times, but when you're on your own in a foreign environment, you should always be prepared for anything. Sadly, that means rethinking your headphones. "Wearing them, especially the noise-canceling model, can limit awareness of surroundings, increasing vulnerability to potential threats," Joanne McNellis tells Glam exclusively. "Whether walking through a busy market, navigating unfamiliar streets, or using public transportation, impaired hearing can prevent noticing important cues, such as someone approaching, a warning signal, or an unusual situation unfolding nearby." She adds that wearing visible headphones, especially chunkier ones à la Beats by Dre, can alert nearby thieves and pickpockets that you're not fully aware of your surroundings. If you absolutely have to wear your headphones, opt for something discreet, keep the volume low, and consider having them in only one ear. 

Along the same lines, McNellis isn't a fan of heels or flip flops (even stylish flip flops you could wear all summer long) on a solo trip. "If you need to move quickly, practical shoes will ensure both safety and mobility," she explains. The Dr. Scholl's Women's Time Off Sneaker is an ideal option for an all-round travel shoe, as it's been highly rated for comfort. For a wider range of colors, you could consider the Skechers Women's Go Walk Joy Sneaker. And for those who can't part with their heels, go for a lower block heel or something that you can easily move in. Even if there's no emergency, wearing stilettos while trying to navigate the cobblestone streets of Europe, for example, is not it.

There may be some clothing items and accessories that you should leave out of your suitcase if you're traveling solo, but Joanne McNellis reveals in our exclusive chat that there are also a couple you should add in. For starters, bringing a scarf or a shawl can be a game-changer, especially when traveling to a country with a modest culture. You can throw on the scarf of shawl as a sign of respect when visiting religious sites, from mosques in Dubai to churches in Italy, and to avoid leering from locals. They can also be a fashion statement if you style your pashmina scarf as part of a timeless look. The Happyluxe Shawl Wrap for Women is a particularly good choice for summery or humid destinations, as it's made of breathable material that shouldn't leave you with heat rash.

Next, McNellis recommends packing a crossbody bag to use every day, ensuring that it has anti-theft features. "Additionally, using a money belt or an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) blocking fanny pack can offer extra protection against pickpockets, helping to safeguard your personal belongings while on the move," she adds. By going for something like the WANDER PLUS Anti Theft Crossbody Travel Bag or the slightly bigger Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag, you can rest assured that your belongings are safe and focus on enjoying the wonderful experience of traveling solo.