Do you use buses or public transport for commuting to nearby or long-distance destinations after evening? To ensure safety while traveling at night on buses or public transport, certain precautions should be followed. Do’s and Don’ts for Evening or Night-Time Travel on Public Transport . Plan Your Journey Ahead Planning your journey makes travel safer. If there is an option to book a bus or train ticket in advance, choose a seat in the middle. When traveling at night, it is best to avoid the window-side or rear seats of the bus. If possible, inform a trusted person about your travel details (destination, expected arrival time). Read more: How to Stay Safe from Devil's Breath Choose Reliable Transport Select a reliable bus or public transport for your journey. Use government-operated or recognized transport services. Check the bus or vehicle’s route and schedule in advance. If using an app-based ride-sharing service (such as Uber, or Pathao), verify the vehicle details before boarding. Keep Your Location Private Nowadays, many people share their daily activities and personal information on social media, which can increase risks for traveling at night. Avoid sharing personal details with strangers. If possible, share your live location with family or friends while traveling. Read more: Safety Tips for Solo Female Travellers Stay Alert and Observe Your Surroundings Avoid conversation with unfamiliar or suspicious individuals and do not share personal information. Even if you are busy, do not focus entirely on your mobile phone; be aware of your surroundings. If you notice anything suspicious or feel uncomfortable, inform the bus driver or fellow passengers. Avoid Crowded Vehicles If a vehicle is overly crowded or the situation seems suspicious, it is better not to board. Keep important belongings such as your wallet, phone, or bag close to you. Carry Essential Self-Defense Items For self-defense, carry small safety tools (such as pepper spray, a whistle, a folding metal safety rod, etc). Keep your phone charged with mobile data so you can seek help if needed. Read more: How to Ensure Women's Safety in Educational Institutions Save Emergency Contacts Keep the contact numbers of local police, bus service helplines, and trusted persons easily accessible. In case of emergency, call 999 (Bangladesh’s emergency service). Do Not Accept Food from Strangers During travel, some passengers may offer food or drinks out of politeness or friendliness. However, criminals disguised as passengers sometimes mix chemicals in food to make travelers unconscious and then rob them. To avoid such risks, never consume food offered by strangers. Maintain Balance While Traveling When the bus or vehicle is moving, avoid standing up or moving suddenly. Hold onto a handle or support to prevent falling if the driver brakes suddenly. If possible, inform the bus assistant about your destination in advance so they can notify you when you reach your stop. Read more: Best Free Personal Safety Android, iOS Apps for Women Keep Your Mobile Phone Secure Many passengers scroll through social media on their mobile phones while traveling. This habit increases the risk of theft, especially if seated by the window. Unless necessary, avoid taking out your mobile phone and keep it secure in your pocket or bag until you reach your destination. Conclusion Many people travel by public transport in the evening or late at night due to personal, emergency, or professional reasons. By following the above safety precautions, nighttime travel can be made much safer. Read more: Essential Snake Safety Tips for Hiking, Trekking, Camping, and Traveling

Travelling solo as a woman is an empowering experience. More and more women are embracing freedom and adventure through solo travel experiences. However, with all the excitement, safety remains a significant concern. Whether you want to explore new places abroad or heading off on a local trip, prioritising your safety is essential. Let’s dive into some practical and effective safety tips that can help you enjoy solo adventures with confidence and peace of mind. Tips to Stay Safe As a Solo Female Traveller . Research Your Destination Thoroughly Before your trip, thoroughly research your destination’s culture, customs, and laws. Understanding dress codes and behavioural norms is essential, especially in more conservative regions. Identify safe areas for solo female travellers and note places to avoid.  Additionally, you should save local emergency contacts, hospitals, and your country’s embassy information to ensure you are well-prepared for any situation.  Plan Your Accommodation Carefully When booking accommodation, prioritise safety and comfort. It is recommended to pick places that are centrally located, well-reviewed, and cater to female travellers.  Read more: Essential Snake Safety Tips for Hiking, Trekking, Camping, and Traveling Staying in female-only dorms or hotels with secure entry systems can provide peace of mind. Also, avoid accommodations in isolated or poorly lit areas which ensures you can walk to your destination or access transport safely. Travel Insurance It would be wise to have comprehensive travel insurance, especially when travelling solo. Make sure your insurance covers medical expenses, lost belongings, and trip cancellations. In case of an accident or unexpected event, this will give you peace of mind, knowing that you are covered. Research policies and opt for one that suits your travel style and needs. Get a Local SIM Having a local SIM card makes it easier to stay connected with family and friends, as well as navigate unfamiliar areas. A local SIM allows you to access data, make emergency calls, and use local apps without relying on potentially expensive roaming charges. It is also useful for communicating with locals or booking services such as taxis or tours. Stay Connected Keeping in touch with family and friends is crucial for your safety. Share your itinerary with them and keep them updated on any changes. Using tracking apps like Google Maps or other location-sharing apps will allow someone to monitor your whereabouts.  Read more: How to Travel Safely During Heat Waves Regular communication through messaging apps ensures that someone knows where you are, even if you are exploring more remote areas. VPNs are useful for securing your internet access, especially when connecting to public Wi-Fi. Pack Smart and Light Packing light makes travel more convenient and also safer. Avoid carrying expensive or flashy items that might attract attention. Travellers should invest in anti-theft backpacks or money belts to secure their valuables. This will help you stay mobile, making it easier to move swiftly if needed and reduce the risk of being targeted by thieves. First Aid Kit Carrying a compact first aid kit ensures you are prepared for minor health issues on the go. Include essentials like band-aids, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. Being able to treat minor injuries or discomforts without delay is an important part of solo travel journeys, as you might not always have immediate access to medical care. Trust Your Instincts One of the most important safety tips for solo female travellers is to trust your instincts. If a situation or person makes you feel uncomfortable, trust that feeling. Do not hesitate to remove yourself from potentially unsafe environments. Developing assertive behaviour and projecting confidence through body language can also deter unwanted attention or interactions. Read more: How to Avoid Scams During Travel Bookings Blend In With the Locals Adapting to the local culture by blending in is a smart way to avoid drawing unwanted attention. Dress in a way that reflects local customs, especially in more conservative countries. Learning basic local phrases can help you navigate better and show respect for the local culture. Additionally, it signals that you are not an easy target.  Use Reliable Transportation When travelling alone, it is important to use trusted transportation services like Uber. These apps allow you to track your route and share your location. Public transportation can be safe, but it is best to avoid late-night travel when possible. Plan your routes ahead of time to avoid appearing lost, and try to sit in safer areas, such as near the driver. Inform Friends and Family Letting loved ones know your travel plans is crucial for peace of mind. Share your accommodation details, daily itinerary, and contact information. Regularly update them on your location and any changes in your plans. This communication ensures that someone knows your whereabouts and can respond if something goes wrong, especially in emergency situations. Keep Your Documents and Money Safe Keeping your passport, visa, and other essential documents safe is crucial to avoid being stranded in a foreign country. It would be wise to have digital copies and paper photocopies of your documents.  Read more: Solo Trip: Tips for Travelling Alone for the First Time Use multiple forms of payment, such as cash, credit cards, and travel cards, and keep them in different locations to minimise the impact if something is lost or stolen. Be Cautious With Strangers  Interacting with locals can enrich your travel experience, but it is essential to maintain boundaries. Avoid sharing too much personal information or your travel plans with strangers. While friendliness is important, prioritise your safety by politely disengaging from conversations that make you uncomfortable. Always trust your instincts when assessing people’s intentions. Stay Alert in Social Situations While socialising can be fun, extra caution is necessary when you are alone. If you feel uneasy, have an exit strategy in place. Stick to well-lit, populated venues and avoid heading off with someone you have just met, especially in unfamiliar locations. Know Self-Defense Basics Taking a basic self-defence class before your trip can provide extra confidence. Learn simple techniques that are easy to remember and practical. Additionally, carrying small safety items like a personal alarm, whistle, or pepper spray can help in emergencies. These tools act as a deterrent and provide extra security during unsettling encounters. Read more: Tips to Prevent Food Poisoning while Travelling Closing Lines Travelling solo can be a rewarding and life-changing experience for any female outdoor enthusiast. While safety is a legitimate concern, with the right preparation and cautiousness, women tourists can explore the world confidently.  If you are a solo female traveller, trust your instincts, stay informed, and use technology to your advantage. Remember, the goal is to enjoy your travels while staying safe—and with these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for any adventure that comes your way. Read more: Shopping in Dubai: What to Buy, Where to Buy from