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Dear Heloise: Lately, I've seen a few letters in your column about how to make traveling a bit more easy and comfortable. Well, I travel alone most of the time for my job, and a woman alone on the road needs to be extra careful. Here are a few of my own hints for women who also spend time alone on the road. I hope these hints will keep them safe away from home and make traveling a little easier.
1. Bring a doorstop with you. Wedge it under the door on the inside of the room. You might also want to pack a door alarm in case anyone tries to enter your room without your permission.
2. Carry a whistle or a personal alarm. A personal alarm can usually be attached to your purse or detail bag.
3. Never -- and I do mean never -- share anything on social media in real time. No location tags either. Before you leave, tell family and trusted friends where you'll be and when you expect to return.
4. You might have a GPS or a compass in your car, but it never hurts to have a paper map of where you're going. Put it in the storage compartment in the car door, the glovebox or the center console. This is especially important if you are walking or hiking.
5. Pack as light as you can. However, always have a small flashlight, a power strip, a reusable shopping bag, a small first aid kit and a reusable water bottle in your car or suitcase. None of these items have to be full-sized, since most manufacturers make smaller versions of these items. Have them on hand for your protection.
6. If you get a gut feeling that someplace isn't safe or something seems off, then leave. That little voice in your head just might save your life someday. -- Andrea M., Dallas
KEEP YOUR PHONE HANDY
Dear Heloise: After reading a horrible slip-and-fall story, my husband and I (both seniors) agreed to take our phones and place them just outside the shower when showering at home alone. I actually think everyone should do this. Follow the adage: "When alone, take your phone." -- N., in Florida