I've Been Solo Traveling for 10 Years-These Are the Safety Items You Can't Check Into a Hotel Without, From $8

"As a clumsy child, my mom would repeatedly tell me to be aware of my surroundings. This cautionary phrase took on a new meaning when she repeated it to me as I flew off to study abroad in London during my sophomore year of college. Sure, London seemed like a safe place to go, but it was much bigger than the island of Bermuda where I grew up."

"Fast forward to today, and I've been solo traveling for over a decade. While I've realized how liberating it can be, it also requires a certain amount of preparation to get the most out of these unaccompanied journeys. Luckily, there are many travel safety devices you can pack to feel more secure, especially when it comes to solo nights in a hotel: think door stop alarms and portable carbon monoxide detectors that will give you peace of mind. And, most of them are available with the click of a button at Amazon."

A childhood instruction to be aware of surroundings gained new urgency when studying abroad in London. Solo travel over more than a decade has proven liberating but demands preparation to maximize safety. A range of compact personal safety devices can increase security during solo nights in hotels, Airbnbs, and homes. Recommended items include door stop alarms and portable carbon monoxide detectors, most available through online retailers. A Sabre Wedge Door Stop Alarm emits a 120-decibel alert to deter intruders and its grip prevents the door from opening further, while remaining lightweight and easy to pack. A sliding door security bar offers adjustable length for different doors and windows and can be used creatively, such as propping it under a doorknob for extra prevention.

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