By sasta holiday Travelling solo as a woman in 2026 doesn’t have to be intimidating or expensive. After years of backpacking alone, I’ve learned that the world is much safer, more supportive, and more budget-friendly for solo female travelers than most people realise.
With women-only dorms, safer public transport options, better hostel reviews, and thriving female travel communities – 2026 is shaping up to be the best year yet for affordable solo adventures.
If you follow the basics – researching neighborhoods, reading hostel reviews written by other women, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and staying aware – you can explore some incredible places with confidence.
Below are my top 10 safest and cheapest countries for solo female backpackers in 2026, chosen for their safety ratings, affordability, backpacker infrastructure, and the number of solo women traveling there.
1. Portugal – Europe’s safest & easiest solo female destination
Average budget: 3k to 4.5k/day
Ideal for: First-time solo female travelers
Portugal remains one of the most welcoming and affordable countries for women traveling alone. English is widely spoken, public transport is easy to navigate, and hostels often have women-only dorms.
Lisbon, Porto, Lagos, and Braga all have strong backpacker communities, making it super easy to meet other solo travelers.
2. Vietnam – The cheapest backpacker trail in Asia
Average budget: 2k to 3k/day
Ideal for: Women who want culture + affordability
Vietnam is perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
You’ll find $5 hostels, $2 street food, and a clear north–south travel route packed with solo backpackers.
Hanoi, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City all have safe accommodations and plenty of women-friendly hostels.
3. Japan – The safest country on earth for women
Average budget: 3.5k to 5.5k/day
Ideal for: Women prioritizing safety
Japan is incredibly safe – even at night. Women-only train cars, capsule hostels, and convenience-store meals make the country surprisingly affordable.
Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Fukuoka are especially solo-friendly.
4. Colombia – Vibrant, transformed & full of female backpackers
Average budget: 2.5k to 3.5k/day
Ideal for: Adventurous female travelers
Colombia has changed massively in the last decade. Medellín, Cartagena, and Salento now attract tons of solo female travelers.
Stick to safe neighborhoods (El Poblado, Laureles, Getsemani) and you’ll feel confident exploring.
5. Hungary – Beautiful, safe & affordable Europe
Average budget: 2.5k to 4k/day
Ideal for: Women who want Europe without the price tag
Budapest is one of Europe’s safest capital cities and offers incredible value. Thermal baths, ruin bars, river cruises, all affordable on a backpacker budget.
6. Thailand – The OG solo female backpacker paradise
Average budget: 2k to 3.5k/day
Ideal for: First-time backpackers
Thailand has been a backpacker favorite for decades. Whether you’re island-hopping or exploring Chiang Mai, you’ll meet countless solo women.
7. Indonesia (Bali & Gili Islands) – Yoga, surf & a huge female travel community
Average budget: 2k to 4k/day
Ideal for: Women seeking nature + community
Bali is full of women-only hostels, co-working spaces, and wellness communities. The Gili Islands are peaceful, walkable, and safe at night.
8. Mexico – Culture, beaches & thriving solo female travel scene
Average budget: 2.5k to 4.5/day
Ideal for: Social, outgoing travelers
Oaxaca, Mexico City, Puerto Escondido, and Mérida are emerging hotspots for female backpackers. Stick to well-reviewed hostels and safe zones, and Mexico is incredibly rewarding.
9. Georgia – The world’s best budget destination for 2026
Average budget: 1.5k to 3k/day
Ideal for: Adventurous women on a tight budget
Georgia (the country) is safe, affordable, and stunning.
Tbilisi is full of friendly locals and international backpackers. The Caucasus mountains offer world-class hiking for almost no cost.
10. Morocco – Colorful, affordable & becoming more solo-female-friendly
Average budget: 2k to 3.5k/day
Ideal for: Cultural travelers
Morocco is improving rapidly for female travelers.
Women-only hostel rooms, safer transport options, and the new high-speed train make cities like Marrakech, Chefchaouen, and Fes easier to explore.
Dress modestly, trust your intuition, and choose well-reviewed riads.
My Thailand route was arranged through Sasta Holiday, and I loved how simple and affordable they made everything perfect for a solo backpacker.
Final Thoughts
Solo female backpacking in 2026 is safer, cheaper, and more empowering than ever. Every destination on this list offers:
- women-friendly hostels
- budget backpacking routes
- growing female traveler communities
- reliable public transportation
- affordable food & accommodation
You don’t need a huge budget.
You don’t need a travel buddy.
You just need a backpack, a bit of planning, and the courage to take that first step.
Safe travels – and maybe I’ll see you on the road!