Solo travelers' biggest concern is security and safety,
according to a new survey from Allianz Global Assistance.
The survey, administered online in October and garnering
1,501 responses, found that just shy of 70% of respondents have traveled alone.
Among all respondents, safety and security of accommodations
was the biggest concern (26.6%) when traveling alone.
Other concerns varied by gender. Women were concerned about
being out after dark (26.3%), violence/terrorism (15.7%), natural disasters
(9.6%), riding public transportation (9.4%), security/safety of drivers (7.8%)
and visiting a restaurant or bar (3.7%).
Women are less likely to travel alone than men (35.2% haven't,
compared to 25.2% of men), and they are more likely to feel unsafe when they
travel -- 39.7% of women have felt unsafe, compared to 23.4% of men.
Almost 60% of women said they avoid walking at night and 47%
tell others where they are. To a lesser extent, solo women travelers also avoid
talking to strangers, dress in a way that won't draw attention, moderate their
alcohol consumption and avoid tourist areas.
Male solo travelers were concerned with violence/terrorism
(17.8%), natural disasters (17.8%), being out after dark (14.8%), riding public
transportation (10%), security/safety of drivers (6.9%) and visiting a
restaurant or bar (6.9%).
Nearly 35% of men traveling solo avoid walking at night and
22% tell others where they are. To a lesser extent, men also dress in a way
that won't draw attention, avoid talking to strangers, moderate alcohol
consumption and avoid tourist areas.
Some solo travelers research safety advisories before traveling.
According to Allianz, 34.8% of survey respondents regularly do so, while 29.3%
do sometimes. Women are more likely to research advisories than men (40.6%
compared to 28.7%).