When I first started travelling solo around Australia, safety was the thing that almost stopped me.
Not the driving.
Not the camping.
Not the logistics.
It was all the "what ifs."
What if something goes wrong?
What if I choose the wrong campsite?
What if I end up somewhere that doesn't feel safe?
The truth is, solo travel isn't about being fearless.
It's about being prepared.
After years of travelling Australia on my own, I've developed a simple approach that helps me feel confident whether I'm camping remotely, tackling a 4WD track, hiking alone, or exploring somewhere completely new.
Here are three of the biggest lessons I've learned.
1. Trust Your Gut More Than Your Plans
One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is feeling committed to a plan simply because they've already made one.
I've left campsites that didn't feel right.
I've changed routes.
I've driven away from places that looked incredible on social media but didn't feel comfortable once I arrived.
Your intuition is one of the most powerful safety tools you have.
The goal isn't to be paranoid—it's to stay aware and give yourself permission to change plans when something feels off.
2. Arriving Before Dark Changes Everything
If I could give new solo travellers one practical tip, this would be it.
Whenever possible, I arrive at camp before sunset.
It gives me time to:
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Assess the area properly
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Check reception and connectivity
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See who else is around
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Set up without rushing
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Decide whether the location feels right
A campsite can feel completely different during daylight compared to arriving in the dark.
This single habit has made solo travel significantly less stressful for me.
3. Preparation Creates Confidence
Most people think confidence comes first.
I've found the opposite.
Confidence comes from preparation.
Knowing you've downloaded offline maps.
Knowing someone has your general travel plans.
Knowing you have the right gear if things don't go to plan.
The more prepared I am, the more freedom I feel once I'm out there.
That's why my travel routine includes a number of non-negotiable habits that I follow no matter where I'm travelling.
The Full Solo Travel Safety System
These are just a few of the strategies I use on the road.
In my free ebook, Solo But Safe, I cover:
✔️ How I choose campsites when travelling alone
✔️ My overnight safety routine
✔️ 4WD safety essentials
✔️ Hiking safety tips
✔️ Social media safety while travelling solo
✔️ Staying connected in remote areas
✔️ Personal safety gear I carry
✔️ The mindset shifts that helped me feel confident travelling alone
If you're dreaming of travelling Australia solo but want to feel more prepared before you go, download the free guide below.
Download your free copy of Solo But Safe and start travelling with more confidence.
SOLO - But Safe EBook FREE DOWNLOAD
Sarah Rose Foster x
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