Solo Travel Tips: The Art of Lying Safely
Learn when a small lie can protect your privacy while traveling alone. These solo travel tips cover solo travel safety, setting boundaries, and practical advice for solo female travel—without compromising your values or well-being.
Henna Fuller
11/2/20263 min read
I highly value honesty and, above all, staying alive. I don’t want to get robbed, and definitely, I want to get back to my hotel in one piece.
Sometimes, those goals do not align.
So when I travel solo, I lie strategically, creatively, and maybe occasionally hilariously.
Oh, I’ve done zero apologies!
The Funny Lies
These are the harmless lies, playful and tossed out with a smile.
“Are you traveling alone?”
“Definitely NO. My husband is joining me soon.”
(No, he’s not.)
“What’s your name?”
“Anna.”
(My name changes countries, and I start alphabetically - my next name is Bethsaida.)
“Where are you staying?”
“... Nearby.”
(Nearby could mean anywhere within a 5-mile radius.)
These lies are meant to end conversations. Think of them as conversational mosquito repellent.
The Matter-of-Fact Lies
“Can I walk you home?”
“NO, my husband is waiting.”
(He might be imaginary, but he’s very devoted.)
“Who are you meeting tonight?”
“My friends.”
(Solo travelers are allowed to have imaginary groups.)
“What’s your plan tonight?”
“Early night for me. Long day tomorrow.”
Deliver these lies calmly and without guilt. You don’t owe strangers the truth, and you don’t owe them access.
The Serious Lies (Because Fear Has a Sound)
Some lies come from adrenaline, not wit.
Congo
One moment, I was photographing. The next, I was surrounded by a growing crowd—voices getting louder, tension tightening, and help was nowhere.
My instinct kicked in.
I threw my camera to create a distraction. I kept the charger.
No clever words here. Just survival.
Turkmenistan
A hotel room. Quiet. Still.
Then I noticed it—a hidden camera?
No questions asked. I acted normal. And left.
Sometimes the lie is pretending everything is fine until you’re safely gone.
The “Fuck Off” Lies (Unapologetic, Full Stop)
Egypt
We agreed on a taxi fare. Clear. Confirmed.
Off we go.
At the destination, the price magically tripled.
Suddenly, it’s about traffic, tourist prices, life being hard...
“You misunderstood.”
“No. I didn’t.”
This is where politeness ends.
“This was the agreed price, and I’m not paying more.”
This isn’t lying. It is refusing to be rewritten in someone else’s story.
And if that makes me difficult? Good!
Why Solo Travelers Lie More Than Anyone Else
Because being alone makes them appear vulnerable, visible, clueless, and available.
Lying becomes armor.
Lessons I’ve Learned
Your safety matters more than someone else’s feelings.
You don’t owe strangers the truth.
If something feels off, it probably is.
Have a cover story ready before you need it.
Keep essentials safe (phone, documents) yet accessible at all times.
Final Caution
Please note that this is about awareness and not a guide to paranoia.
Most people you meet are just curious, but the few aren’t. They are the reason this blog exists.
Solo travel makes you brave. Braver when you come up as a very good liar.
And that’s okay!
Embracing the Adventure
Traveling solo isn’t just about the destinations; it’s about the journey within. Each lie, each story, becomes a part of your travel narrative. You learn to navigate not just the streets of foreign cities but the complexities of human interactions.
When you’re out there, you realize that every encounter can shape your experience. You might meet a fellow traveler who shares their own tales of adventure, or you might find yourself in a situation where your instincts kick in, and you have to think on your feet.
The Joy of Connection
Even amidst the lies, there’s a beauty in the connections you make. Sometimes, a simple smile or a shared meal can lead to unexpected friendships. You might find yourself laughing over a cultural misunderstanding or bonding over a shared love for local cuisine.
These moments remind you that while you may be lying about your name or your plans, the essence of travel is about connection—both with yourself and with others.
Conclusion: Travel with Confidence
So, as you embark on your next adventure, remember that it’s okay to bend the truth a little. Your safety and comfort come first. Embrace the art of storytelling, and let your journey unfold in ways you never imagined.
See you *Ladies in Paris and Amsterdam!
Henna Fuller