The American magazine Travel Pulse published an article that includes advice specific to female solo travelers so they can stay safe while traveling alone.

As it mentions, it’s a good idea in hotels to leave the “do not disturb” sign out or your television on so people think the room is occupied and you avoid thieves sneaking in while you are out. However, there are some specific advice for women, and particularly for women travelling solo.

Wear a Wedding Ring
A wedding ring will often detract them from making a move. Even if you are traveling to meet other people along the way, having a ring that you can slip on your finger just in case things aren’t going the way you thought, can be a good backup plan.

Protect Yourself
It’s a good idea to carry keychains as well as a whistle in case of emergency. The keychains are totally adorable but can inflict some serious damage. Or, if you feel safer with mace or pepper spray or even a pocket knife, it’s all the same. Just make sure you follow the rules for packing these and don’t put them in your carry-on bag.

Don’t Let Others Know You’re Alone
This is where you can feel free to let your imagination run wild. If you order room service, don’t feel shy about pretending like you are waiting for your friend/spouse/boyfriend to return, get out of the bathroom, whatever. If you are taking a cab, call a friend and tell them you are arriving in 5, 10, 15 minutes — even if you aren’t meeting a friend, pretend.

Know Where You Are Going
It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with where you are and where you are going. If you get a cab, make sure you know the route the driver will likely follow. Walking to a local market, plan your route in advance and try not to follow the GPS on your phone as you stroll. If you feel like you are lost, duck into a cafe and check a map or your phone rather than standing on the street.

Blend In
Try to blend in with the locals as much as possible and make sure you aren’t making any unnecessary or accidental fashion statements or behaving in an offensive manner and drawing unnecessary attention to yourself.