Forgetting Fear: Backpacking Europe Solo As A Woman

As a woman who spent two months backpacking Europe alone — and about six months planning it — I know all about the warnings you receive from frightened friends and relatives.

Before I left for my trip, I heard some of the most terrifying stories about what could happen if I traveled to Europe by myself.

Honestly, some of them made me almost not want to go.

However, I kept reminding myself that most of these people had never backpacked before, let alone been to Europe.

So what made them qualified to give me such negative advice?

Here are some of the craziest things I was told — and what the reality actually was.

Haven’t You Ever Seen the Movie “Hostel”?

First of all, that movie focuses far more on twisted torture scenes than on real hostels.

Hostels are a backpacker’s home away from home.

I’ve stayed in them across Europe and beyond, and I’d choose a hostel over a hotel any day.

For the most part, hostels are affordable, clean, and safe.

Most have security measures like alarm codes, keycards, or on-site staff.

The social atmosphere also makes it incredibly easy to meet other travelers.

As someone traveling alone, it felt comforting to walk into a room and instantly have people to eat with, sightsee with, or grab drinks with.

Many of the friends I made in hostels are people I still keep in touch with today.

Women Are Extremely Vulnerable

I’m not going to say that traveling alone was always easy.

There were moments — like when I wasn’t sure about a train stop — where I felt awkward or unsure.

But I rarely felt unsafe.

You shouldn’t walk alone at night in dark, isolated areas or get wasted at a bar by yourself.

If you use your head and act responsibly, you have a very good chance of making it through your trip safe and sound.

Petty theft is common in many parts of Europe, so keep an eye on your belongings.

Don’t let that stop you, though — you can still have an amazing trip even if something minor goes missing.

Don’t You Remember the Movie “Taken”?

While it’s a great film, it’s important to keep what we see in perspective.

That kind of situation could happen anywhere — even in your home country.

Don’t give strangers your personal information or share your deepest secrets.

At the same time, don’t let fear of a highly unlikely scenario stop you from meeting people and enjoying your trip.

Talking to Strangers Is Dangerous

Again, it’s all about being aware of your surroundings and using common sense.

Don’t do anything abroad that you wouldn’t do at home.

But if someone from your hostel invites you out, or you meet someone friendly in a shop, allow yourself to enjoy new experiences.

I once met the kindest man who owned a gelato shop in Germany.

After some small talk, I ended up chatting with him for hours and learning about his country — plus enjoying free gelato.

I also met another traveler at my hostel in Amsterdam.

We hit it off, traveled together, and later ended up in a long-distance relationship.

The people you meet while traveling can deeply shape how you remember your trip.

Europeans Hate Americans

While negative opinions about Americans do exist, that doesn’t mean people will treat you poorly.

Most people are curious about places that are foreign to them.

It also gives you the chance to highlight positive qualities Americans have.

During my trip, I never felt threatened because of where I was from.

I actually received many compliments about being a “nice American.”

Final Thoughts On Backpacking Europe Alone

Of course, bad things can happen when backpacking Europe alone.

But bad things can happen anywhere.

As someone who grew up in New York, I always found it ironic when my parents warned me about dangerous places.

Whenever I travel abroad, I’m the one who gets asked how dangerous New York is.

You need to be careful no matter where you are, but speaking to strangers is a huge part of the backpacking experience.

My advice? Don’t let people talk you out of backpacking Europe — alone or with friends — if it’s something you truly want to do.

It’s an unforgettable experience, and the rewards far outweigh the risks.

Would you backpack Europe solo?