I know that when we are traveling as women, the last thing we want to think about is whether we are safe enough from attacks.
Unfortunately, we still live in a world where women’s safety is not always guaranteed. But instead of worrying about it, I want us to be prepared. My sister once experienced a hidden camera in a toilet at a place that was supposed to be safe—a Red Cross facility where a guy was filming his coworkers in the toilet.
That experience was both sickening and scary, but unfortunately, it’s a sad reality. How can you make sure you are safe in a place you’ve never been to? How can you ensure your safety in a place where you don’t know who is in charge or who has access to the hotel, Airbnb, or hostel? Or even your new apartment abroad?
Well, ladies, instead of being afraid to travel or move abroad because we cannot guarantee our safety, we should prepare ourselves in a practical and efficient way to ensure our own safety.
Firstly, I would really recommend every woman to attend a self-defense class or practice a sport like jiu-jitsu or kickboxing. That way, you are already a step ahead. And with the safety gadgets I recommend below, you can prepare yourself even more, so that you are safe on your way home, on your run, in your hotel, in public toilets, and other places.
We need to start changing the narrative. Instead of hearing headlines of women being attacked, we need to hear headlines that women were able to get free from their attackers.
I hope these gadgets help you feel safe, and always take care of yourselves!
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Safety Keychains
1. She’s Birdie - Birdie+ Smart Personal Safety Alarm
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The Birdie+ is a smart personal safety alarm specifically designed by women for women. While it functions like a standard safety alarm with a loud siren activated by pulling the trigger, it also includes several special features.
Special features of the Birdie+ Smart Personal Safety Alarm:
- 24/7 Emergency Call (USA Only):
- With two taps, you’ll receive a call from an operator who will stay with you until you are safe.
- Fake Call:
- One tap triggers a fake call to help you get out of uncomfortable situations.
- Location Sharing:
- Hold the device to automatically share your location with three emergency contacts, who can then call the police.
2. 5-in-1 Personal Safety Alarm Keychain
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This safety alarm is simpler than the Birdie+ but still has some really cool and helpful features.
For example, it includes a 130dB SOS alarm, GPS location, and 30-second audio recording. It notifies emergency contacts via email, SMS, or phone call.
The alarm connects to your mobile phone via Bluetooth, and the BBguarder app allows you to manage emergency contacts. Depending on the situation, you can choose to trigger the alarm silently or with a loud siren.
This tool also functions as a key finder.
3. The Vascer Safety Keychain with Flashlight and Whistle
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The Vascer Safety Keychain lacks smart functions and is the most affordable option among the safety alarms I recommend.
Despite its simplicity, it still offers many useful features for emergencies.
This rechargeable safety keychain features a 400-lumen flashlight, a 70-lumen side light, and a red emergency flasher. Activate the high-pitched alarm with a simple pin pull to draw attention. The rechargeable battery offers up to 40 hours of runtime.
This keychain is IPX4 waterproof and includes a whistle for dual measures of personal security. It’s convenient to carry in your pocket or attach to your backpack or purse.
Airplane-Friendly Self Defence Tools
4. Original Self Defense Keychain Kit - MUNIO
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The MUNIO Keychain is a self-defense tool endorsed by professionals. It is legal in all countries and safe around kids.
Constructed from high-strength ABS plastic, it is durable and discreet, fitting comfortably in your hand or pocket.
The kit includes a free e-book and training videos to enhance your personal safety skills.
Grab the keychain in unsafe situations and be prepared to use it against an attacker if necessary.
5. CRKT Williams Defense Key
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The CRKT Williams Defense Key is a practical tool with a Phillips head screwdriver tip. It features an ergonomic handle that provides a secure grip.
Be careful if you want to take this defense key with you on your travels. Since it is larger than a normal key, it’s better to put it in your checked bag. Despite its size, this defense key remains a valuable addition to your travel gear.
This disguised self-defense tool can come in very handy in emergency situations. Just grab it tightly between your fingers to get a secure grip and stay vigilant while in an unsafe situation.
Portable Door Lock
6. Upgraded Portable Door Lock & Door Stop Alarm
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I don’t know if you’ve seen the Reels going around these days of women in their hotel rooms, and someone tries to get in by opening the door with magnets or other tools. It’s scary! Better to be prepared than sorry, right?
This dual-protection security door kit includes a portable door lock and a door stop alarm.
The door lock provides extra security and privacy, preventing unauthorized entry.
Additionally, it comes with a door stop alarm that features a 120dB siren when somebody tries to open the door, alerting you and your neighbors, and scaring off intruders.
It’s easy to install and portable, making it perfect for travel.
This door lock also helps if you live in an unsafe neighborhood or when you’ve just moved into your new home. Sometimes it’s scary if you don’t know your neighbors.
Camera Detector
7. The Elecvos Hidden-Camera-Detector
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This is a tool you see in movies that I never thought I would use, but here we are. After that horrible incident that happened to my sister and all of the female Red Cross workers at that facility, I started looking at public toilets differently. The feeling of safety certainly went away.
The Elecvos hidden camera detector uses advanced wireless and infrared scanning technology to locate hidden devices within 10 meters.
It detects wireless signals from 100MHz to 8GHz, including spy cameras and GPS trackers.
Lightweight and durable, it is easy to carry and provides up to 25 hours of continuous use on a single charge.
There are also apps that can detect hidden cameras, but they can often be unreliable. With this detector, you are 100% sure.
However, if you are interested in those apps, check out this Forbes article.
I hope these items help keep you safe wherever you are in the world. And if you want to learn about the safest countries for expat women, then go check out this blog.