Best Self-Defense Tools for Travelers: Exploring new places can be such an exhilarating experience, but it’s important to acknowledge the unique concerns that come with traveling as a woman. While we always carry our common sense and awareness, it’s wise to take additional precautions. Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends, having a self-defense tool on hand can provide an extra sense of security.

Many people know about self-defense tools like pepper spray, but it’s important to realize that it’s not allowed in every location, particularly when traveling abroad or on certain domestic carriers such as Southwest and American Airlines. To provide you with more choices, here are some tools that can make it through security or be packed in your checked baggage.

1. Credit Card Knife

ID? Check! Passport? Check! Credit cards? Check! Have you thought about a credit card knife? It might not be on your usual checklist, but this clever tool should be included. It’s a compact pocket knife that folds into a card shape, making it a practical option for safety in emergencies.

Just a tip: although it’s designed to fit in your wallet, it’s wise to pack it in your checked luggage until you arrive at your destination. Also, be sure to verify the knife regulations in the country you’re traveling to.

2. Door Stop Alarm

You may feel most vulnerable while dreaming, but a door stop alarm can help safeguard your space. Place it under your door, and if someone attempts to enter, the wedge will activate a loud siren. For optimal protection, select one that reaches a minimum of 120 decibels, which the CDC states can lead to immediate ear damage for an intruder.

3. Metal Water Bottle

Although it’s not the most traditional self-defense weapon, a metal water bottle can certainly pack a punch if you need to use it for protection. OZY author Kate Crane got the green light from a martial arts and boxing teacher to consider her Hydro Flask as a weapon. The advice is to grip it like a little bat when it’s full and swing it overhead with one hand if it’s mostly empty. Plus, you can easily pass through TSA with an empty bottle without any hassle.

4. Tactical Pen

Writing is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what a tactical pen can do. One end is perfect for signing documents, while the other features a sharp tip that can inflict serious harm or shatter glass. Former CIA officer Jason Hanson swears by it as his go-to travel protection. “It’s nearly foolproof,” he mentioned at CrimeCon 2021. “When things get chaotic, you don’t want to recall a dozen self-defense techniques. You just want to grab a pen and aim for the eyes or throat.” Just a heads up, though—make sure to pack this tool in your checked luggage.

5. S.O.S Jewelry

At first sight, you might just appear to be a master of accessorizing. However, hidden within those stylish bracelets and necklaces are advanced technologies that can signal to the outside world if you’re in danger. Some gadgets can send your location to emergency contacts along with guidance on how to assist you, while others can contact the police for you and capture live audio from the situation. It’s a perfect blend of subtlety and elegance.

6. Personal Alarm Keychain

Just a simple press of a button or pulling out a pin can turn what appears to be a charming keychain into a lifesaving emergency alarm. These personal alarms typically produce a loud sound designed to scare off or confuse an attacker. For added effectiveness, consider choosing one that also activates LED lights when it goes off.