The most dangerous US state to travel to alone has been shared
If you're thinking about packing your bag for a solo trip soon, you might want to think twice about visiting one location in particular.
Solo travel is increasing in popularity, as people want to see more of the world without having to wait for a partner or friend to want to go.
It gives you the ultimate freedom to do what you want, when you want, and many people are choosing to travel solo more often.
That freedom comes at a price, though, and it can make things a bit riskier than travelling with someone else who can back you up (or is aware of where you are at all times).
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Apparently, 76% millennials and Gen Z have made plans to make a trip on their own in the next year.
There are some places which are safer than others if you're part of the 24% yet to book something.
A new study from Silver Law Firm has been shared, which details the most dangerous states in the US for a solo trip.
If you're thinking about packing a case and heading out solo, you might want to avoid New Mexico.
It claimed the dubious top spot for travel, and was named as the most dangerous state to visit by yourself.
Attorney Elliot Silver said: “Solo travelers face unique vulnerabilities that groups don’t. When something goes wrong, whether it’s a car accident, a medical emergency, or a legal issue, you don’t have backup.”
The firm scoured data from the FBI, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, and other official sources.
They took into account various issues, such as crime rates, road safety, emergency access, and transport infrastructure.
Each state was then awarded a 'solo travel safety score' out of 100.
New Mexico did not do well.
In fact, it scored a terrifying 0 out of 100.
Silver explained: “New Mexico’s vast rural areas mean long stretches without cell service or gas stations. Solo travelers here need offline maps downloaded before they leave, extra water and supplies in the car, and a clear itinerary shared with someone back home.”
There's also a high number of car accidents and property crime.
Furthermore, the violent crime rates are among the highest in the US.
Next on the list to avoid is Arkansas scoring 10.39, while Tennessee was third with just 13.68.
“If you’re venturing into rural Tennessee alone, plan your route carefully and make sure someone knows your schedule and expected check-in times.”
At the other end of the scale is New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts - which fared better.
Silver added: “Massachusetts also benefits from excellent road infrastructure and a compact geography, and for solo travelers, this means fewer stretches of isolated highway and easier access to help if needed. The state’s dense population means cell service is reliable almost everywhere.”
Who fancies a trip to Massachusetts?
Jen Thomas