The state considered the most perilous in the US has been identified, and the results might be unexpected for some.
A recent analysis examining the safest destinations for solo travelers has been released, highlighting which regions in the US pose the greatest risks for those planning to explore on their own.
With an increasing trend of individuals choosing to travel solo, as noted in the Solo Traveler’s 2024 Reader Survey, ensuring safety is a significant factor for those embarking on such journeys.
From a survey of 2,400 solo travelers, 22 percent reported taking two solo trips in the past year, while 43 percent embarked on three or more journeys.
When deciding on their travel locations, safety was a primary concern, along with climate considerations and cost-effectiveness.
According to Silver Law Firm, New Mexico emerged as the most dangerous state for solo travelers.
This state is situated in the southwestern US, bordered by Colorado to the north, Oklahoma and Texas to the east, and Arizona to the west.
“Solo travelers face unique vulnerabilities that groups don’t,” said attorney Elliot Silver.
“When something goes wrong, whether it’s a car accident, a medical emergency, or a legal issue, you don’t have backup.
“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.”
The lawyers evaluated factors such as crime rates, road safety, transportation, and emergency services access, using information from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, and assigned each state a safety score out of 100.
New Mexico’s elevated levels of road fatalities and violent crime were major contributors to its dismal score of 0.00. The study indicated that Arkansas was the second most precarious state for solo travelers, scoring 10.39, followed by Tennessee with a score of 13.68.
Still, despite having the lowest safety score, New Mexico remains a favored destination among tourists, especially due to cities like Santa Fe.
Jonathan Thompson, a travel journalist with a decade of experience living and working in the US, provided insights into travel destinations throughout his time in the country.
Having visited all 50 states, he recommends locations like Santa Fe in New Mexico, Juneau in Alaska, Bend in Oregon, and Portland in Maine.
However, due to elevated crime rates, some areas are advised against visiting, such as Clovis in New Mexico and Pahrump in Nevada.
Thompson also mentioned that Gary, Indiana, ranks at the bottom of his travel recommendations and is a place he would advise against visiting.