Solo travel for women has always carried unique challenges but in America in 2025, those challenges are compounded not only by concerns about physical safety but by ideological divides. Yet for all its complexities, the U.S. remains a compelling destination, known for its vast landscapes and iconic cities that many dream of ticking off their bucket list at least once.
For many women, the desire for freedom and autonomy motivates solo travel. San Francisco, with its longstanding reputation as a progressive haven, seemed a fitting destination for solo female travel. I visited during Pride: the city was lit up in celebration, its streets lined with rainbow flags and a feeling of visibility and joy. But even in a liberal stronghold like this, it was hard to ignore the undercurrent of American political tension.
Political Differences
Since Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, abortion access has fractured across state lines—protected in California, and banned outright in others. Despite this, on the way into San Francisco’s centre I passed billboard after billboard on the US-101 North from ProLife Across America. Each showed smiling babies next to slogans such as I had fingerprints at 9 weeks.
Later, near the famous cable car turnaround at Powell and Market—packed with tourists and street performers—I encountered anti-abortion demonstrators and street preachers. One man held a sign attempting to reclaim the swastika by outlining its ancient origins.
While unsettling, the turnaround is a definite must-see. For $8 (about £6) one way, the historic cable car takes you up San Francissco’s steep hills towards Fisherman’s Wharf, a lively pier with food stalls and a vintage arcade.
It was not just the messaging of the protestations that struck me but rather how present it was in everyday spaces. And how, as a woman travelling alone, these moments could quickly alter your sense of ease. I found myself reassessing who I spoke to, where I walked, when I walked and how I navigated my surroundings.
I carry certain privileges as a white, cisgender woman with a UK passport but it is impossible to ignore how political issues shape the experience of safety for others. California, for example, has seen aggressive ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) raids, disproportionately impacting undocumented communities and people of colour. And while the state offers legal protections for LGBTQIA+ people, ongoing federal-level culture wars continue to threaten trans rights, making it harder for many to feel safe simply existing as themselves.
These realities added a different perspective to my trip, a reminder that while I may feel relatively safe, not everyone has that same experience of freedom when travelling alone or simply just existing.
Solo Travelling Safety Tips
With these broader political dynamics in mind, here are a few mental strategies that helped me feel more in control while solo travelling America :
1. Don’t engage with ideological protestors.
Like many major cities, San Francisco hosts street preachers and demonstrators whose messages can be unexpected and unsettling. It is best to avoid engaging and use discretion. Trust your instincts when deciding where to walk or who to talk to.
2. Be aware of your surroundings.
Plan routes in advance and stay alert, especially in unfamiliar and less-touristy areas. Keeping to well-frequented spots, carrying a portable phone charger and returning before dark can make a big difference. For extra peace of mind, invest in a portable hotel door lock for added security.
3. Know your limits.
Some U.S. states have laws that can feel hostile, particularly towards people of colour, women or LGBTQIA+ travellers. Travel should be about enjoyment as well as exploration and feeling protected under local laws is part of that. It is okay to rule out a destination where you do not feel safe.
Safety Is Not Just Physical
When we speak of safety, we often default to concerns around physical harm. Yet in 2025 America, emotional and ideological safety have become equally vital considerations, particularly for women travelling alone. Navigating this landscape requires more than common sense but awareness of local laws and a level of sensitivity to the cultural climate. For me, travelling in this context meant researching the place, planning routes and sticking to myself rather than walking in blind and going with the flow.
From a UK perspective, the U.S. can seem chaotic, marked by polarised politics and deeply intertwined cultural divides. But on the ground, the reality is more layered. I am glad I chose to travel solo in America, I went somewhere I had only seen in films. I felt secure through careful planning and learned how to navigate complex social dynamics. The political and cultural landscape will continue to shift, both in the U.S. and globally. While we do not have to agree with every policy or ideology, if the opportunity to travel safely exists, it is worth considering. Exploring America with awareness and intention can still be a valuable and eye-opening experience.
America’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage remain deeply compelling. From scenic piers and national parks to bustling financial districts and unique regional cuisines, the country offers something for every traveller. Take San Francisco, for example, a city with a strong LGBTQIA+ legacy, shaped by pioneers like Harvey Milk and filled with iconic sites blending history and modern life. The people here represent a wide spectrum of beliefs and styles, from Tesla Cybertrucks to laid-back, hippie-inspired VW buses, mirroring America’s complex cultural landscape.
Tourist-friendly areas like Golden Gate Park, the Botanical Gardens, Pier 39, Alcatraz and Union Square offer safety, charm and unforgettable experiences. For solo female travellers, embracing this diversity with awareness can be incredibly fulfilling and offer a space for personal growth. While the challenges are real, so are the countless reasons to explore and be inspired.
Words by Libby Jennings
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