Solo traveling can be one of the most rewarding experiences. However, the most important thing during solo travel is to always prioritize your safety. One of the most effective ways to do that is by lying.
First of all: You don’t have to lie to everyone you meet. It really depends on what your gut feeling tells you. For example, I never lie in hostels, because I’m there to connect with people and make new friends. But once I’m out on the streets and talking to someone who gives me a bad feeling, especially if it’s a man, I start to lie.
Please note: Not everyone you meet outside your hostel is dangerous. Most people are just curious and want to learn more about your country, your culture, and your background. But when you’re traveling alone, especially as a woman, your safety must always come first. Trust your instincts!
To help you stay safe while traveling solo, here are 10 lies I tell while I’m solo traveling and you might consider using them too:
I have a boyfriend
This is one of the most common lies solo female travelers tell. When faced with uncomfortable attention, especially from men, you are NEVER single. Often this is the safest and quickest way to shut things down. And your boyfriend is alway „back at the hotel“, „joins you later“ or „just grabs a coffee“.
My family lives here
Saying that you have family in the area gives the impression that you’re not entirely alone and that you’re familiar with the place. It can make you seem less like a typical tourist and therefore less of a target for scams or unwanted attention. Even if you clearly don’t “look local,” this small lie creates a sense of connection to the area. It suggests that there are people nearby who care about you and who would notice if something felt off.
I am staying with a local friend
Telling people you’re staying with someone from the area creates the impression that you are more than just a clueless tourist. It signals that you have ties to the community, people who are looking out for you, and local knowledge.
This is already my second or third time here
Saying that it’s not your first time in a place means you know your way around. You’re not wide-eyed and you’re less likely to fall for tourist traps or scams. It suggests that you’ve already learned the local customs, know what’s normal and what’s not and won’t be easily fooled or pressured.
Even if it’s actually your very first day there, this small lie can create a sense of confidence and familiarity. It can also help deflect overbearing offers of “help” or unsolicited guidance from people who might be more interested in taking advantage of your inexperience than genuinely assisting you.
I am here with my friend / brother / husband / boyfriend who is back at the hotel
As a solo female traveler, announcing that you’re completely alone can make you feel more exposed, especially in cultures or contexts where a woman traveling independently is seen as unusual or vulnerable. Saying you’re with someone, especially with a man, even if they’re „just resting at the hotel“, creates protection that can reduce the chance of being followed.
I am leaving today
If you get invited somewhere but your gut tells you it’s better not to go, saying you’re leaving today is an easy and non-confrontational way out. More generally, this line is useful whenever you feel uncomfortable or want to avoid being followed or pressured into making plans.
I don’t have social media
I’ve already been asked many times by random people on the street if I’d like to share my social media with them. I always say: I don’t have any social media accounts. Of course, if you really connect with someone, sharing your socials can be a great way to stay in touch. But a stranger on the street doesn’t need to know about your Instagram or see all your posts, especially those that reveal your current location.
My name is (whatever your name isn’t)
As a female solo traveler protecting your personal information becomes second nature. No one really needs to know your name.
I forgot the name of my accomodation
Sometimes I genuinely “forget” the name of my hotel or I simply mention a completely different one. Sharing your exact location with strangers is rarely a good idea. No one needs to know where you’re staying. Keeping that detail private helps prevent uncomfortable or even dangerous situations, like someone unexpectedly showing up at your accommodation.
Changing my Story
When random people on the street start asking me questions, I often create an entirely different version of myself. I change my name, my age, my job, even my background. It’s not about being deceptive for fun, but about maintaining control over how much I share with strangers. As a solo traveler, protecting your privacy is part of staying safe. No one needs to know who you really are unless you decide to tell them.
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