Traveling Europe alone is an empowering experience. But let’s be honest: the idea of sleeping on a train with strangers can be intimidating.
Common questions race through your mind: Does the door lock? Who will I be sharing with? Is it safe to sleep?
The short answer is: Yes, it is very safe. Millions of women do it every year.
However, safety isn’t just about luck. It’s about booking the right ticket. Here is how to stay safe and sleep soundly as a solo female traveler.
The Secret Weapon: “Ladies-Only” Compartments
This is the most important tip in this guide.
Most major night train operators (especially OBB Nightjet and EuroNight) offer Ladies-Only Couchettes (German: Damenabteil).
- What is it? A standard 4 or 6-bed compartment, but booking is restricted strictly to women.
- Cost: Usually the same price as a regular mixed compartment!
- How to book: When searching on the Nightjet website, look for the “female” icon or select “Ladies Couchette” during the seat selection process. They sell out fast, so book early.
Travel Insurance: To idealne miejsce. “For total peace of mind, make sure you have travel insurance. We recommend SafetyWing or World Nomads.
Which Cabin Type is Safest?
1. Private Sleeper Cabin (Safest)
- Safety Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Why: You have the room to yourself. The door locks from the inside with multiple heavy-duty bolts (deadbolt + chain). Nobody can enter without you opening it.
- Con: Expensive.
2. Couchette (Very Safe)
- Safety Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Why: Safety in numbers. You are with 3-5 other people (hopefully in a Ladies compartment). It is very unlikely anyone will try anything with witnesses around. The door also locks from the inside.
3. Seated Carriage (Avoid!)
- Safety Level: ⭐⭐
- Why: These are open carriages like on an airplane. People walk up and down the aisle all night. It is chaotic. It is harder to watch your bags while you sleep. We do not recommend this for solo travelers.
5 Practical Safety Tips
1. The “Triple Lock” Check
Modern Nightjet cabins have three locking mechanisms: a standard lock, a deadbolt, and a security chain (like in a hotel). As soon as you enter, test them. Lock them all when you go to sleep.
2. Choose the Top Bunk
If you are in a shared couchette, book the Upper Bunk.
- It gives you more privacy.
- It is much harder for a thief to reach your bag if it’s tucked up there with you near the ceiling.
3. Bring a Portable Door Lock?
Some travelers bring a portable door jammer/lock.
- Reality Check: On modern trains (Nightjet), you don’t need it (the locks are industrial strength). On older Eastern European trains, it might give you peace of mind.
4. Keep Valuables ON You
Sleep with your passport, phone, and wallet in a small crossbody bag or under your pillow. Never leave them on the table.
5. Trust Your Gut
If you enter a shared compartment and feel uncomfortable with the other passengers, find the conductor immediately. They are usually very helpful and will try to move you to another spot if space allows.
Summary
Don’t let fear stop you. Taking a night train is safer than walking alone in a big city at night.
- Best strategy: Book a Ladies-Only Couchette. It’s fun, social, and safe.
Check availability: Look for the “Ladies Compartment” option on Nightjet.com or browse routes on Trainline.
