If you’re a woman who travels alone — or know one who does — check out these important safety tips. Some safety tips for women travelers apply even at home.

But others are travel-specific, like knowing what it means if you look someone in the eye in certain foreign countries.

Look into local dress before you start packing, respect local customs, and when in doubt, take your cues from the women around you.

Reach out to people when you travel, not necessarily men, but other women.

Check out GutsyTraveler.com or SoloLady.com for women-centric travel resources.

And don’t forget our favorite: wear a wedding band, even if you’re not married. Some women even go prepared with pictures of their fake husband!

Check out our new women-centric travel section for more travel tips and ideas.