![]() This post was originally published in November, 2013. Whether it's bad weather, unsavory bad guys or wild animals, some women think that camping alone is only for the very brave or very crazy. But that's just not the case. If you've got the right gear, right preparation and the right attitude, camping alone can provide just the right combination of adventure, peace & quiet and much-needed rejuvenation. It's one of my favorite ways to reconnect with myself and nature. Why spend time outdoors by yourself? Camping by yourself is a great way to spend some quality time with the one person who probably needs it the most: you. The simple act of being around trees, rivers, lakes and the woods can take you from being a burned out, over-stressed crazy lady to a zen, bring-it-on kind of Wonder Woman. There's nothing that will build your self-esteem and sense of accomplishment faster than packing all your gear in the back of your car and heading outdoors by yourself. (Plus you'll have the best story on book club night — which brings me to the best reason you should get outdoors: uninterrupted reading time!) Here are seven tips to help you feel safe and relaxed while camping by yourself: Want more great tips, tricks & hacks for women who love books & the outdoors? Sign up for our newsletter! 7 Solo Camping Tips for Women1. Prepare mentally.
This is the MOST IMPORTANT thing you can do. Take some time to channel your inner Katniss Everdeen or even author Cheryl Strayed in her book *Wild. Imagine yourself as strong, capable and a total total badass, ready to take on whatever challenge the outdoors can throw at you. Journal about your fears, then switch roles and play the wiser, braver version of yourself and answer those fears. Next, minimize risks by following the rest of my tips to give you even more confidence. 2. Test Your gear. Don't over pack, but make sure you have everything you need (this can be a hard balance for many women to strike). Bring a first aid kit, and know how to use it. Also bring bear spray, mace or a knife (one of these should be in every woman's standard hiking/camping gear) for emergencies, and understand how it works. ALWAYS practice setting up your tent and using your cook stove before you leave. 3. Let someone know your plans. It's always a good idea to let several people know where you're going and when you'll be back. If you're going to a campground or state park, let the ranger/hosts know that you're there, and if you have any medical problems. Also, it never hurts to ask, "Is there anything I need to know?" Some women like the extra confidence of having an emergency radio — one of my best friends, who often hikes in very remote areas, has a *Garmin In Reach Mini Satellite Communicator which allows her to always have a way to contact authorities in an emergency. These are pretty expensive tools, though, and I really only recommend them if you're going to be in the wilderness or so terrified there's no other way you'd go camping by yourself. 4. Pick a well-worn route. Pick a trail or area that you're familiar with, and have visited before — barring that, pick a destination that's known to have good cell phone reception. State campgrounds are good options, as are private campgrounds — especially if you're just starting out. The more experienced you are, the more you'll want to move out to less crowded campgrounds. The tradeoff is more peace and quiet. 5. Know your limits. Start small, with a day hike so that you can become familiar with the area. If you're going to be gone for more than one night, make sure you're physically (okay, and mentally) capable of taking on a solo trip - be honest when it comes to your limits. Build up to what you'll be taking on through walking, running and lifting weights, and make sure you have the appropriate food, water and all the right backpacking gear (including good shoes, a warm sleeping bag and the ability to pee in the woods) before you go. 6. Bring your dog. A canine companion can provide just the right amount of company, though make sure you know the rules of the campground or area where you'll be bringing your pooch. Also make sure you pack extra gear and food so that Fido is comfortable and doesn't become more of a burden during the time when you're supposed to be re-charging your mental health. A word of warning: sometimes your dog just isn't cut out for camping, and so your weekend away in the woods becomes super-stressful as you try to manage their anxiety. Know your dog's limits — sometimes a vacation includes getting away from the responsibility of dog ownership as well (assuming you have someone at home that can take care of your dog). 7. Bring a great book. This is your chance to have some amazing reading time - make sure you take advantage of it! Whether you spend the whole time snuggled up in your sleeping bag with a book in front of your face (personally, my absolutely FAVORITE place to read is in my *hammock, or intersperse your reading time with some strategic hikes or cooking some gourmet meals for yourself, novels make great camping companions. Looking for some great book recommendations while you're out in the woods? I've got you covered. Camping by yourself isn't difficult or hard — it just seems that way if you've never done it before. Take the leap and you'll find it truly rewarding. What other tips or questions do you have when it comes to camping alone? Leave a comment or question below and I'll answer it!
32 Comments
Michelle Winkle
4/16/2015 10:54:34 pm
Thanks for the article. I'm a beginner at 44 and found this informative and encouraging.
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Mickey Stowe
5/8/2015 10:27:19 pm
Hi Michelle, you're starting at about the same age I did and I loved it! A couple of things that helped me a lot were making sure that I was super comfortable to sleep, and that I could read (with a book light), or play a game while lying in bed before sleeping to help me relax. Also, I never thought I was paranoid to keep a hammer under my bed; I did it for 25 years while camping with my husband, so why not? I hope you have as much fun as I've had over the years; the time is so well spent!
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Mickey Stowe
5/8/2015 10:11:27 pm
I loved your article, such good advice and suggestions! I've been tent camping by myself for about twelve years now, and I still love it. I'm older (58) and have had to make some modifications due to my health issues, but there is nothing better than doing exactly what you want to do, when you want to do it! I would suggest for some women setting out on their own for the first time that they try camping in a more structured or well known setting/campground. That way, if they have difficulty there is always someone around to ask for a little help. Not everyone needs the support, but for some on a first trip it wouldn't be bad not to be too isolated. Thanks so much!
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Jill
5/9/2015 06:02:58 am
Great advice, Mickey. I especially like the idea of bringing a book or a game (I listen to audiobooks or podcasts on my phone when going to sleep, or when it's raining and I have to wait it out in my tent) and trying out a campsite that has people around as a trial run. Thanks for contributing!
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Great tips and so glad to see an article on this. Whenever I camp alone, I always get at least one person asking "isn't that dangerous?" Is it? I've never had any trouble camping alone, so I don't think it is.
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Veronique
5/22/2017 08:07:28 am
Please don't let others (even if they are your children) stop you from doing whatever it is you want to do, simply because it's something THEY wouldn't do
Laurel
9/7/2015 06:59:28 pm
These a great tips. Backpacker magazine's October 2015 issue has a big section on women and backpacking - a great read, even if you are more of a camper than backpacker! In terms of safety - experts analyzed overall data and you are thousands (thousands!) of times more likely to be a victim of a crime or safety related issue in any well populated area such as a city than in the wilderness. Trust your gut and proceed with confidence ladies!
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Amy
2/3/2016 10:29:48 pm
Thanks for tip on REINHART Laurel.
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Tiny Elf
12/15/2015 04:49:06 pm
Hey, I just finished hiking the entire Appalachian Trail solo, and being by yourself on a hike is no problem at all! I was most afraid when I was IN TOWN! Dangerous people looking to harm people go where the people are, and if you're in the middle of the woods by yourself, then you aren't where the people are :) Happy hiking, folks!
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brenda
3/22/2016 10:39:42 am
I've camped alone for years, but I usually go to state parks...so there are other campers around and everyone is very nice.
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Jessica
6/11/2016 04:52:33 am
I started camping alone with my young daughter last year. At one of the national parks we went to a female ranger called me a hero for it. She said we need to raise our girls to love nature and explore. She said that the crime rate was almost non-existent as nature just doesn't seem to draw criminals which made sense!
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Laurel R
6/26/2016 01:41:20 am
Good tips! I solo car camp.all the time. My safety tips to add are to bring two camp chairs to make the site look occupied. Use a caribeener to "lock" the zipper loops together on the inside of the tent when you sleep. And lastly, keep your car key fob nearby. Hit the panic button if anything undesirable tries to get in. You'll attrack a lot of attention!
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Connie
9/24/2020 09:20:21 pm
Mickey, Thanks for the site. I’m 64 and planning my first trip. Will start in a familiar campground as suggested. And Laurel: your carib./ zipper, key fob and extra chair ideas are great!! I agree wholeheartedly, don’t listen to naysayers. Had I done so beginning in my younger years I would have never taken advantage of the opportunities for adventure that came my way!! We all “think we have time” later... go, now, seek adventure and surround yourself with nature!! Safe travels
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LeAnn
7/2/2016 12:22:59 pm
I'm 54... and getting ready for my first ever solo backpacking trip... I'm taking my dogs.. I'm nervous but I've got my DeLorme inReach Explorer which gives me a sense of safety... I've chosen a trail I've never done but it's at a skill level that I *think* is appropriate for me. Here's what I know, if I get into it and it's more than I can handle, I'll stop, camp and turn back. No big deal. Just found your blog via Pinterest and am enjoying it.
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Angie
7/9/2016 03:22:38 am
HAPPY CAMPING!!!!Don't forget toilet paper and to prepare ahead take a cardboard egg carton save your dryer lint Use old candles that are about done or hard to light or tea lights work to melt enough and pour in each little section when wax hardens tear apart put in a zip lock bag they make great fire starters sometimes it is nice to have a quick fire sometimes getting it goin is the hardest part I am 55 have camped my whole life with kids pets friends probably more time recently by myself nothing better than enjoying the outdoors
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Candy
8/2/2016 09:05:18 am
I love camping and try to go every two weeks or so. I'm 64. I save dryer lint in an empty toilet paper roll, put the whole thing in the fire pit.I have a head lamp to clip to my cap at night. Take ear plugs and enjoy. I'm in a second admendment state, so I'm armed but I've never felt bothered by anyone.
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Karen
10/5/2016 01:04:48 pm
Way to get after it! ❤️
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Michele
11/6/2016 05:19:48 pm
I've been a solo camper for about half my adult camping trips. The first time was a bit of a mental step, but after that hardest part it was fun.
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Teresa
1/26/2017 07:15:43 pm
Thank you for this article. I'm preparing for a solo AT hike starting in April (Lord willing) :) Your suggestions about the earplugs and reading/puzzling reinforce what I'd already decided to do plus the comments from other readers are very encouraging. It's hard to talk to people who have no idea of the excitement that burns in my chest every time I talk about doing this! I thank all of you ladies for being the amazing women you are!
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Jo-anne
4/1/2017 05:42:36 pm
Good tips, Thanks. Camping solo this summer. Husband is hiking WCT, so I have decided at age 57 it's perfect opportunity to camp solo for my first time ever. Going to bring my fur buddy Angus.
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Great article! I'm 56, three weeks away from a hip replacement, and expect to be camping somewhere in Colorado by 4th of July! Bear spray and a good knife - two must haves! I've seen where folks use battery powered Christmas or patio lights for decor, and have found great recipes (shrimp kebobs anyone?). Keep up the great info!
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Jean
8/10/2017 12:56:01 am
I'm going on 71 and am considering camping alone. I've camped for many years but never alone. Had RVs and tents, and am back to tents again. I think I would have trouble setting up a tent alone though.
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Anna
3/15/2018 10:28:24 pm
Jean, I’m mid-sixties and I can set up my tent alone. Many newer tents that sleep 1-3 are easier to do solo.
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Nora
5/31/2018 12:22:34 am
Setting out on my first solo camping trip this weekend. I’m an avid camper my whole life, but haven’t set out on my own as of yet. Usually have the grands with me but now it’s time to stretch my wings.. I’m going to be sleeping in my SUV this first time out.. going to a usual spot where I’ve spent 30 plus years camping. Other then a SAT phone, which I may get at some point, I have everything I need. I’ll be 60 in a few months... if I don’t venture out on my own I’ll miss out on too many adventures. I’m warming up to an Alaskan trip within the next 3 years... happy trails, and happy camping ladies!
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Amy
10/9/2019 07:57:02 pm
Turning 65 and planning my first solo camping trip. I have not camped in 30 years and am feeling the call. Any advice is welcome.
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Cyndi
9/23/2018 03:45:06 am
I'm 58 & have been on about 15 solo camping trips so far since the passing of my husband. We always went together & I'd never camped alone before but thought I'd try it.
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Vinny
10/12/2019 12:57:41 pm
Thank you all for a great article and your comments I intend to share it with ladies who solo camp. I am a 71 year old single male who has been solo camping since my late teens. I'm pleased to say I've noticed more and more solo woman campers and hikers over the years.
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Lea
8/16/2020 08:47:23 pm
I am 67 and still solo camp after 50 years. I no longer backpack but car camp. These same tips apply although weight is not as big an issue with car camping.
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