You're a confident woman, nothing scares you—especially not heading off on an adventure to the far side of the world. Why not China?

Even if travel doesn't intimidate you, even if you have the heart of an adventurer or you're a black belt in karate, traveling alone as a woman can sometimes require a few precautions or at least some practical preparation beforehand. China is a vast country about which you'll read everything and its opposite. I'll try here to share my advice and impressions on traveling alone in China as a woman.

The Status of Women in China

Women hold an important place in China. Although there are still some inequalities, particularly in the workplace, education, and healthcare, Chinese women often have a say in their households and it's not uncommon to see them making important decisions. Mao Zedong once reportedly said, "Women hold up half the sky."

Women in China are rising in power, and with urbanization, this trend shows no sign of slowing down.

Regarding male-female relationships, it's important to know that Chinese people are naturally quite shy and won't easily approach a woman, especially if she's Western. Their curiosity might prompt them to stare or take your photo, but contact often stops there.

Let's Set Off on a Trip to China!

Don't Forget Anything in Your Backpack

Whether you're traveling for 1 week, 1 month, or 1 year, packing your bag is often a considerable headache. I'm not here to tell you which pants to bring or how many pairs of socks to pack, but I can guide you on certain things women absolutely shouldn't forget when traveling.

One essential thing only women need to think about on a trip: feminine hygiene products. You should know that in China, women don't use tampons. Although these days some supermarkets in major cities do sell them, you can basically forget about finding them elsewhere. I'd recommend stocking up before you go or opting for a menstrual cup, which is more eco-friendly and economical.

As for contraception, it's best to plan ahead and bring enough packets of birth control pills for your entire stay. Even with a prescription, you won't find the same brands in Chinese pharmacies. If the length of your stay is uncertain, you might consider another form of contraception like an implant or IUD.

Also remember to pack a razor. Chinese women don't really shave, and I'd wish you luck finding a decent razor or hair removal cream in remote areas. Beauty salons aren't always well-qualified, and I once thought I'd leave my leg behind in one.

If you're traveling in summer, don't forget sunscreen and aloe vera balm. It might seem obvious, but it wasn't for me on my trip, and I deeply regretted it. Chinese people don't like sun exposure and usually use umbrellas for protection. Sunscreens are rare, and creams to soothe burns are too, especially in remote areas.

Remember to pack a sarong. This lightweight fabric can be used for anything: headwear, scarf, or blanket.

Gpalemo - €5 on Amazon

When visiting temples, it's good to cover your arms or legs out of respect for the religion and sacred site. Certain regions, particularly along the Silk Road in Gansu or Xinjiang, are predominantly Muslim, so you'll want to dress appropriately to respect their customs. Your sarong will be your best friend then.

For a handbag, choose a crossbody bag you can always keep in front of you. In some parts of China, theft can be frequent, and it would be a shame to lose your money, credit card, or passport.

In China, the language barrier is very real, and English isn't spoken everywhere—especially not in the countryside. To avoid ending up eating something you didn't expect or sleeping under the stars, Routard published a handy little book, Gpalemo, that lets you communicate quickly with images and avoid any misunderstandings.

Focus on Safety, Not Paranoia

When you research travel safety, it's easy to become paranoid and end up abandoning your dreams. That's not the way to go!

China is a country where you feel safe. Even if at first the hustle and bustle of major cities and the crowds might make your head spin or cause slight panic, you'll quickly realize there's nothing to fear—then you'll adjust, and eventually even come to love the beautiful chaos.

Although Chinese people speak very little English, they'll be delighted to help you by any means possible, flashing the warm smile that will quickly put you at ease.

Of course, basic safety rules apply everywhere, even in China. Always lock your hotel room door, don't leave valuables in plain sight, and always keep an eye on your money and documents, particularly in subways and train stations where theft is most frequent.

Other challenges may certainly arise during your stay, but as they say, tough moments make great stories and become amazing memories to share with your loved ones.

Being a woman traveling alone with a backpack will quickly win sympathy, and if problems arise, you can always turn to other women. Female solidarity is a reliable value, even in China.

Western women sometimes fascinate locals. Through our differences—our pale skin, light eyes, and blonde hair for some—we represent a figure of beauty in China. Don't be surprised if you're regularly asked to pose for photos, whether discreetly or not. Some young people will have the courage to ask you to pose with them—don't refuse them; their smiles are worth all the rewards :)

Making Incredible Connections

Traveling alone is an opportunity to make unforgettable encounters—sometimes even unusual and surprising ones. Being solo allows you to open yourself more easily to the world around you and reach out to people. It also helps other travelers approach you and ask about what drove you to take off.

Ultimately, when you travel alone, you rarely actually are alone. Although China is an enormous country, you'll always find people with whom to share part of your journey.

The hardest part in the end is finding the courage to pick up your backpack and go!