London is a dream city for many. Think Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the quirky vibes of Camden Town. It’s the kind of place that calls for exploration. But if you’re travelling solo, you might wonder, “How do I stay safe while getting around?”
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here are practical safety tips to make sure your taxi rides are smooth and secure.
1. Always Choose Licensed Taxis
Let’s start with the basics. Always, always pick a licensed taxi. London’s iconic black cabs are a great choice. They’re regulated, insured, and driven by professionals who know the city inside out. You’ll also find reputable minicab services—but these need to be pre-booked.
A licensed vehicle means proper background checks on the driver and a car that meets safety standards.
Pro Tip:
Transport for London (TfL) regulates these services, and their stamp of approval is your safety guarantee. Spotting an unlicensed driver? Walk away. It’s not worth the risk.
2. Book in Advance When You Can
There’s peace of mind in planning. Booking your taxi in advance through trusted apps or websites is a smart move. It gives you details like the driver’s name, licence plate, and even a picture in some cases.
You’ll also get trip tracking. Many apps let you follow the car’s route in real-time, which feels super reassuring, especially if you’re riding late at night. Plus, you can share the trip details with a friend or family member.
Check out our London Airport Transfers to pre-book reliable taxis for your airport journeys.
3. Verify the Vehicle and Driver
When the taxi arrives, don’t just hop in. Take a moment to check the licence plate and the driver’s ID. If you’ve booked online, ensure these match the details provided in your booking.
Mistakes can happen. A different car might show up accidentally, or worse, someone might try to scam you. A quick verification keeps you safe and in control.
4. Sit in the Back Seat
It might feel a bit formal, but sitting in the back seat is a great safety move. It gives you more personal space and makes getting out easier if needed.
London’s black cabs have spacious back seats with a partition between you and the driver. Perfect for solo travellers looking for extra privacy.
5. Keep Your Belongings Secure
We all love capturing moments or checking our phones, but flashing your gadgets around isn’t the best idea. Keep valuables like your wallet, phone, and bags discreet.
Handy Tip:
Use a small crossbody bag with a zipper. It’s easy to carry and secure. And before you leave the taxi, always do a quick check: “Phone, wallet, keys?”
6. Monitor the Route
London’s roads can feel like a maze, especially with the occasional traffic jam. Keep an eye on the route using a navigation app like Google Maps or Waze. You don’t need to watch every turn, but an occasional glance ensures everything’s on track.
Pro Tip:
If the driver takes an unexpected turn, don’t panic. Politely ask about it. They might be avoiding traffic or road closures. Most drivers will explain without hesitation.
7. Avoid Sharing Personal Details
London cabbies are famously chatty, and many have amazing stories to share. Feel free to enjoy the conversation but keep personal details—like where you’re staying or your travel plans—private.
Why It’s Important:
Even the friendliest conversation can unintentionally reveal too much. Keep things light and friendly but maintain boundaries.
8. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Relaxing in the cab is normal. But staying alert to what’s happening outside is smart. Take note of landmarks and observe how the ride feels.
What If Something Feels Off?
Calmly ask the driver to stop in a busy, well-lit area. Switching to another mode of transport is okay if it makes you feel safer.
9. Use “Share Trip” Features
Most taxi apps offer a “share trip” option. Use it to let a trusted friend track your ride in real time. Even if the app doesn’t have this, a quick text with the car’s licence plate and your destination works just as well.
Did You Know?
According to TfL, over 2 million taxi or private hire trips happen in London every day. Sharing your trip adds an extra layer of safety to this massive network.
10. Know the Emergency Numbers
Keep essential numbers handy. Dial 999 for emergencies or 101 for non-urgent police assistance. If you lose something in a taxi, these contacts can help.
Quick Tip:
Save these numbers in your phone under easy-to-remember names like “Police” or “Taxi Help.”
11. Read Reviews and Recommendations
Before booking a taxi service, take a few minutes to check reviews. Apps like Uber and Bolt let users rate drivers, which can be a goldmine for solo travellers looking for reliable options.
Extra Insight:
Don’t just look at stars—read comments. A driver praised for being punctual or polite is worth noting. Word-of-mouth recommendations from locals or friends are even better.
12. Trust Your Instincts
If something doesn’t feel right, trust that gut feeling. Whether it’s asking the driver to stop, choosing a different cab, or calling for help, don’t hesitate to act.
A Simple Truth:
London drivers are used to all sorts of passengers. Most won’t mind stopping the ride if you feel uneasy.
Wrapping Up
London is an amazing city, full of history, culture, and endless opportunities for exploration. Taking taxis is one of the easiest ways to get around—especially for solo travellers. With these safety tips, you can enjoy the ride while staying secure and confident.
From pre-booking your reliable taxi service to sitting in the back seat and keeping an eye on the route, small steps make a big difference. Whether it’s a ride to Shoreditch for a night out or a quick trip to Heathrow, remember—safety comes first.
