Backpacking can be a great way to find out about yourself and the world on a shoestring. But if you're considering solitary travel, backpacking also has its dangers. Providing you take some precautionary steps, you shouldn't have any problems. Here are some backpacking safety tips for you to think about:

Avoid cheaper, unofficial taxis wherever you are. Only ever travel using a licensed vehicle and look out for the driver's ID which should always be on display. Ask at your hotel, B&B or hostel for the name and number of an authorised and trusted taxi company.

If any destination that you are considering travelling to is classed as dangerous, think long and hard about whether you really want to take the risk. If you decide that you do, travel as part of a group.

When making travel arrangements, try to ensure that you arrive at your destination before nightfall.

Avoid travelling to any remote places alone ? it's worth paying extra to hire a guide to accompany you.

With so many people across the world now speaking English as a second language, it can be easy for us Brits to get lazy when it comes to language-learning. But by picking up at least the basics, you'll find that your holiday experience will go more smoothly, be a lot more fun, and you'll also be in a far safer position.

Keep your valuables out of sight at all times, and don't wear expensive looking jewellery.

If you're out late at night, take a taxi home, even if you are close to your hostel. The cigarette vendors outside nightclubs will be able to point you in the direction of a safe taxi.

Decide which hostel you are going to stay in before you leave, and if possible, book in advance. Sometimes taxi drivers will recommend a hostel and try and convince you to stay there instead ? never accept. In cases like these, the driver is usually taking a commission, and you have no real guarantees as to the quality of the accommodation.

While travelling with your luggage, be vigilant ? always keep your holdall close-by and don't let it out of your sight. If you have your bag stolen, you will need a declaration of responsibility for your loss from the transport operator in order to claim any insurance, so stay on board.

Use the safe in your hotel or hostel to store valuables when you are away for a day or longer, and make sure you get a receipt.

Busy areas, like carnivals and street markets, are magnets for street thieves. Protect yourself by hiding all valuables, or where possible, leave them in the security of your accommodation safe.