More and more women are travelling alone in Australia. According to Australia’s tourism figures, women accounted for 50% of all solo travelers.  Youth Hostels Australia (YHA) stated that the number of women travelers backpacking alone is increasing.

YHA is the biggest hostel chain in Australia, and they have shown concern of this growing number, and have responded by assembling a list of travel tips for women. This information warns women travelers of the do’s and don’ts, for example, do book a room in advance and try to stay in an all women dorm. Don’t hitchhike as a solo traveler and avoid sleeping in rail carriages. These tips are extra precautions that will encourage safe solo backpacking in Australia.

A statement from a British solo traveler, Harriet Slade, said that more women are coming to Australia to travel because it is regarded as a safe country to travel. A quote from Harriet said “We see it as a safe country - there are friendly Australians, it’s full of wildlife and beaches and it’s just where every English (person) wants to go.” Miss Slade landed in Sydney 3 months ago and has been backpacking solo since. She believed that traveling alone would provide her with more opportunity to meet new people and make friends. Before Harriet Slade flew to Australia she read travel guides and safety tips to steer clear of dangerous situations.

This travel tips guide from YHA will hopefully promote safe travel and the rising number of Australian solo women backpackers will see the country in safety.

www.yha.com.au