8 Essential Tips for Traveling as an LGBTQ+ Person

LGBTQ Backpackers
May 12
2 min read

Updated: May 24

Traveling as an LGBTQ+ person can be exhilarating, eye-opening, and deeply affirming - but it can also come with unique challenges. Whether you're jetting off with your partner, backpacking solo, or joining a group trip, here are 8 essential tips to help you stay safe, connected, and fully enjoy the ride.

1. Research Local LGBTQ+ Laws and Culture

Unfortunately, LGBTQ+ rights vary widely around the world. Before you go, check the legal status of LGBTQ+ rights in your destination. A great resource is the ILGA World Map which tracks global laws affecting LGBTQ+ people.

🛑 Note: In some countries, laws may criminalise certain identities, so it's important to know your risks and how to navigate them.

2. Connect with Queer Travellers

Our Facebook community and group chats are great places to meet fellow queer travellers, get destination tips, and plan meetups. They’re perfect for building connections before and during your trip.

💡 Tip: Look for queer meetups, Pride events, or drag nights to get a sense of queer community

3. Travel Insurance is Non-Negotiable

Always have travel insurance, especially when traveling to countries where you might face additional risks. Make sure it covers health emergencies, theft, and cancellations.

4. Pack with Safety and Self-Care in Mind

Bring what makes you feel good and affirms your identity. Trans travellers may also decide to carry documentation to avoid issues at borders.

✈️ Airport security can be tricky for some queer and trans people - prepare for the possibility of extra screening or questions.

5. Join Queer Group Trips

Traveling with an LGBTQ+ group is a great way to feel safe and seen while still getting to explore. These trips are curated for community-building, fun, and freedom. Whether it’s a backpacking tour, a surf camp, or a yoga retreat, you’ll be with people who get it.

🧳 We have multiple queer group trips running each year, operated by our trusted partners.

6. Use Tech to Stay Safe

Download offline maps in case Wi-Fi is spotty.
Share your location with a trusted friend/family
Use secure messaging apps if you're in a place where LGBTQ+ identities are policed.
Avoid oversharing on public social media in more conservative destinations.

7. Be Mindful of PDA

In some parts of the world, public displays of affection-even handholding-can attract unwanted attention. It’s important to be mindful of your surroundings and decide what feels comfortable and safe for you in the moment.

💔 It's about choosing what feels right for your journey, on your terms.

8. Celebrate Your Queerness, Your Way

Don’t let fear override the joy of discovering new places as your full, authentic self. Whether you're sipping cocktails in a gayborhood or hiking through quiet mountains, you deserve to experience the world on your own terms.

Final Thoughts

LGBTQ+ travel is about freedom, exploration, and joy - but it’s not without its challenges. Navigating new places as a queer person can be tough at times, but surrounding yourself with other LGBTQ+ travellers makes it so much easier - and a lot more fun.

A little preparation, and a strong sense of community, can go a long way in helping you feel secure, empowered, and truly yourself wherever you are in the world.