Let’s face it: booking accommodation as a woman traveller isn’t just about plush pillows and pretty balconies. It’s about gut checks, backup plans, and the subtle art of spotting red flags in five-star disguise. Whether you're a solo soul-searcher or the planner of a girls’ getaway, here’s your not-so-basic guide to staying safe—and just a bit sassier—on the road.
1. The Deep Dive Before You Book
We all love a good “charming boutique stay” or “rustic cabin in the woods”—until it turns into the opening scene of a true crime podcast. Before you confirm anything, stalk that listing like it just ghosted your best friend.
Quick tip: Run a reverse image search on the accommodation photos. If that “peaceful balcony” turns out to be on a stock photo site, you might be booking dreams—and landing in drama.
Scan reviews like you're looking for hidden treasure (or trouble). Words like “secluded,” “quirky host,” or “no locks but felt safe” are code for: run, girl, run.
2. Trust, But Travel With Tricks
When you walk into your room, don’t flop onto the bed just yet. Channel your inner detective.
Lock windows (especially if you’re on the ground floor or have a “romantic balcony” anyone can climb onto).
Carry a portable door lock or doorstop alarm. Small but mighty, and no batteries required.
Don’t rely solely on hotel safes—hide valuables in unexpected places (empty shampoo bottles, tampon boxes, even inside socks).
3. Host-vibes & Who’s-That Energy
In homestays, your host can make or break the experience. Women travellers often report subtle red flags: a host who insists on hanging out, a “you can leave your door open” suggestion, or invasive questions.
Quick tip: When in doubt, lie. You have a husband. You’re meeting your brother. You’re part of a “ladies-only hiking group” that’s arriving tomorrow with pepper spray and opinions. Be the main character in your own spy film, if needed.
4. Location Sharing
Always, and we mean always, share your location. Use apps like Find My iPhone, Life360, or even a good ol’ WhatsApp live location to keep someone in the loop.
Set check-in times with a trusted friend. And if you’re going off-grid? Tell someone exactly when you’ll be back online.
Quick tip: Set up a “safety code” with your inner circle. If you text “I miss momos,” it means “call me immediately and pretend there’s an emergency.”
5. Hidden Cameras: What You Can’t See Can Hurt You
It sounds like something out of a spy thriller, but hidden cameras in rentals and hotel rooms are a very real concern. These mini lenses can be tucked into smoke detectors, alarm clocks, air purifiers, even USB chargers. To check for them, turn off the lights and shine your phone flashlight around the room. Look for tiny reflections from small lenses—especially on devices facing beds or showers.
Quick tip: Use your phone’s front camera in a dark room to scan for infrared lights. Some hidden cameras use IR for night vision, and your camera may pick up small red or purple dots that your eyes can’t. And if anything looks suspicious? Unplug it, cover it, or ask for a room change—no explanation needed.
Stories That Stick
Take this from Rhea, 32, who booked a “zen cabin in the jungle” in Kerala. “It was zen alright. No cell signal, no electricity after 7, and a host who thought I wanted a midnight chat. I faked a fever and hiked out with my backpack at sunrise.”
Lesson? Always trust your spidey sense.