Bring a small security cable and padlock during solo travel, particularly if you travel with a laptop or backpack. Wrap the cable through the bags and around seat posts or secure poles, and lock them when getting up to use the bathroom or other such tasks. While this is not a safeguard of entry into the bag, it prevents quick snatch-and-grab theft of your bags or possessions.
Scan copies of your passport, credit and debit cards, visas and contact information into your computer and email copies to yourself. Leave the attachments in your email folder in case you lose you documents while traveling. Getting replacements is easier when copies of the originals are accompanied with your requests.
Request single rooms when traveling overseas. Many European hotels make automatic assumptions you are traveling with someone and assign larger rooms than needed. Be aware too that many European hotels actually charge more for smaller single rooms. Do not try to lie as most Euro hotels require the passports to hold upon check in.
Leave a travel itinerary with someone you trust at home. Arrange times to check in and give updates along with an emergency procedure should you not check in within a certain time. This is particularly important if your travels take you into dangerous regions or backcountry travel.
Travel with a deck of cards. Meeting people on a train, bus or airplane is easier when you offer a game of cards. Meet people through fun and games.
