Traveling solo as a woman is empowering, exciting, and increasingly popular. In 2025, more women than ever are exploring the world on their own—and doing it smartly. But where can you go that offers safety, budget-friendly options, and rich cultural experiences?
This guide reveals 10 of the safest and most affordable countries for solo female travelers, based on personal freedom, public safety, transportation, and hospitality.
1. Portugal
- Why it’s safe: Low crime rate, friendly locals, strong public transit
- Budget tip: Use regional trains and eat at local tascas
- Top solo spots: Lisbon, Porto, Sintra, Algarve beaches
- Estimated daily budget: $45–$60
2. Japan
- Why it’s safe: Extremely low crime, efficient systems, polite culture
- Budget tip: Use JR Pass and stay in capsule hotels or hostels
- Top solo spots: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara
- Estimated daily budget: $55–$80
3. Costa Rica
- Why it’s safe: Stable democracy, eco-tourism infrastructure, laid-back vibe
- Budget tip: Use public buses and eat at sodas (local eateries)
- Top solo spots: Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, La Fortuna
- Estimated daily budget: $40–$60
4. Slovenia
- Why it’s safe: One of the safest in Europe, welcoming to foreigners
- Budget tip: Stay in guesthouses, use intercity buses
- Top solo spots: Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Piran
- Estimated daily budget: $40–$55
5. New Zealand
- Why it’s safe: High personal safety, open-minded locals, English-speaking
- Budget tip: Rent campervans with other travelers, use DOC campsites
- Top solo spots: Queenstown, Rotorua, Abel Tasman Park
- Estimated daily budget: $55–$70
6. Thailand
- Why it’s safe: Well-trodden paths for backpackers, welcoming culture
- Budget tip: Use trains or local buses, street food galore
- Top solo spots: Chiang Mai, Pai, Bangkok, Koh Lanta
- Estimated daily budget: $30–$45
7. Iceland
- Why it’s safe: One of the safest countries globally, solo travel heaven
- Budget tip: Use airport bus passes, cook your own meals
- Top solo spots: Reykjavik, Golden Circle, South Coast
- Estimated daily budget: $60–$90
8. Vietnam
- Why it’s safe: Friendly locals, affordable, backpacker-friendly
- Budget tip: Use sleeper buses, stay in guesthouses
- Top solo spots: Hoi An, Hanoi, Da Lat, Sapa
- Estimated daily budget: $25–$40
9. Canada
- Why it’s safe: Friendly culture, reliable infrastructure, low crime
- Budget tip: Use VIA Rail deals or carpooling apps
- Top solo spots: Vancouver, Montreal, Banff, Quebec City
- Estimated daily budget: $50–$75
10. Georgia (the country)
- Why it’s safe: Warm hospitality, low petty crime, increasing solo tourism
- Budget tip: Guesthouses, shared taxis, and homemade meals
- Top solo spots: Tbilisi, Kazbegi, Batumi
- Estimated daily budget: $25–$40
🌍 Safety & Budget Comparison Table
| Country | Safety Score (1–10) | Avg. Daily Cost | Language Barrier | Public Transit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portugal | 9.0 | $50 | Low (many speak English) | Excellent |
| Japan | 9.5 | $65 | Moderate | Excellent |
| Costa Rica | 8.5 | $50 | Low | Good |
| Slovenia | 9.0 | $45 | Low | Excellent |
| New Zealand | 9.2 | $60 | None | Good |
| Thailand | 8.8 | $35 | Moderate | Good |
| Iceland | 9.6 | $75 | None | Moderate |
| Vietnam | 8.7 | $30 | Moderate | Good |
| Canada | 9.1 | $65 | None | Excellent |
| Georgia | 8.5 | $30 | Moderate | Moderate |
💡 Tips for Safe & Affordable Solo Travel as a Woman
- Stay connected: Buy a SIM card or use an eSIM
- Use female-only dorms: Found in hostels worldwide
- Trust your instincts: Don’t ignore red flags
- Keep copies of documents: Store digitally and physically
- Use travel groups/apps: Tourlina, Couchsurfing, and solo meetups
- Avoid overpacking: You carry everything!
📌 Final Thoughts
Solo travel is no longer niche—it’s a global movement. These 10 countries prove that safety and affordability can go hand in hand, opening up the world to adventurous, independent women everywhere. In 2025, pack smart, trust yourself, and take that leap.
Explore more female-friendly itineraries, solo travel hacks, and safety gear reviews on Smart Trip Traveler.
About Grace Castle
Grace Castle, 29, is a passionate traveler and digital nomad who turned her love for exploring the world into a career. With years of experience traveling across different countries, she has mastered the art of smart travel planning, working remotely while discovering new destinations.
An expert in budget travel, local culture, and remote work, Grace shares valuable tips for those looking to travel more while spending less. Her mission is to help fellow travelers explore the world with ease, safety, and authentic experiences.
When she’s not writing about her adventures, Grace can be found discovering cozy cafés, learning new languages, or planning her next trip.
