The vast majority of public restroom visits are uneventful, but there are practical steps travelers can take to minimize risk in unfamiliar locations, especially in poorly lit or unstaffed facilities.
Choosing the Right Facility
Not all public restrooms are equally safe. When possible, prefer facilities that are:
- Well-lit with bright, consistent lighting throughout
- Located in busy, visible areas with foot traffic nearby
- Maintained on a regular schedule (look for posted cleaning logs)
- Open-design with visibility into the main area
- In government buildings, libraries, parks or major transit stations
Trust Your Instincts
If a restroom feels unsafe — dimly lit, isolated, with signs of prolonged unsanitary conditions — use a different facility. The inconvenience of finding an alternative is preferable to putting yourself in a situation where your instincts are telling you something is wrong.
Situational Awareness
Before entering a restroom, note who is nearby. Inside, note the exit. Use a stall that provides visibility of the main entrance door. Keep bags with you rather than hanging them on hooks where they might be grabbed.
For Parents with Children
Always accompany young children into public restrooms. If your child is old enough to need privacy in an all-gender restroom, family restrooms are the best option. Brief older children on basic awareness — knowing who else is in the facility, not lingering, and coming to find you if anything feels wrong.
Valuables
Pickpockets sometimes operate in busy restrooms, particularly in tourist areas. Keep your phone and wallet in secure pockets (not hanging out) and be aware of anyone who seems to be waiting without using the facilities.
Night and Isolated Locations
After dark, prefer well-lit, staffed or busy locations. Gas stations, fast-food locations and transit hubs that are open 24 hours are preferable to isolated park facilities after dark.