Without any doubt, camping is the best way to reconnect with nature and recharge your batteries. We believe that this effect is multiplied when you camp by yourself. Solo camping is more challenging than camping with a group; however, this is what makes it so attractive to outdoor enthusiasts. Planning a solo camping trip is quite similar to preparing for an outdoor adventure with your friends or family. Still, there is one thing that is worth extra attention: your safety. In this article, we’re sharing some useful tips on solo camping, placing a particular focus on safety.
1. Go for a safe campsite
The right campsite means a lot to a successful solo camping trip. Make sure that the campsite of your choice is safe and secured for camping on your own. It’s a wise solution to choose a campsite with a ranger who can be reached at any time. Also, avoid any potentially dangerous areas like cliff top edges as well as privately-owned land.
2. Pack according to the season
Camping is great all year round; however, if you decide to delight in a solo adventure during the cold season, keep in mind that it requires a bit more preparation. The major challenge of winter camping is hypothermia, so pack appropriate clothing and consider bringing one of the best winter tents with stove to keep you warm and dry at night.
3. Practice basic camping skills
Before going on your solo camping trip, make sure you’re quite good at navigating, pitching a tent, building a fire, dealing with injuries that can happen, and purifying water. Also, get ready for any situations that can arise at the campsite of your choice, for instance, learn how to behave when you meet a bear. If you’re a camping newbie, do a trial run with experienced campers before setting off for the wild unknown on your own.
4. Keep trusted people informed
According to The Washington Post, security experts say that you should inform at least two people about where you’re going and when you’re coming back. Leave your itinerary with somebody you trust so that they can help you in case of an emergency. For added peace of mind, consider using an emergency beacon. This tiny device enables you to call for help when you need it and can also send check-in messages with your GPS location to your trusted contacts.
5. Focus on essentials
Needless to say that it’s hardly possible to bring a lot when you’re solo camping. However, there are some camping essentials that you can’t skip. You’ll definitely need a tent (for solo camping, it’s a good idea to get one of 1 person tents), a sleeping bag, a torch, a first aid kit, protective tools for self-defense, basic toiletries, a fire starter, a pocket knife, a water bottle, clothes, and food.
6. Check the weather
Of course, you can camp in every type of weather, but it’s a good idea to check what kind of weather you’ll have to face. This can help you better prepare or delay your trip if you’re not ready to solo camp in the upcoming weather conditions. Luckily, it’s not a problem today, as plenty of websites provide an extended weather forecast.
7. Plan your meals
Proper nutrition is absolutely essential when you go camping. Fresh air and increased activity make you lose more calories than usual. To eat well without compromising lightweight camping, go for nutrient-dense foods that are rich in proteins, fats, “good” carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins. Cereals, canned meat or fish, dried fruit, and nuts have always been campers’ faves.
8. Think of the water
Dehydration is one of the most common problems confronting campers. Although the amount of water you need daily depends on a range of things, the general recommendation from the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine is around 2.7 liters a day for women and 3.7 liters a day for men. It’s a good idea to camp near a natural water source and learn how to decontaminate water. If there are no water sources or snow to melt, make sure you bring enough water with you.
9. Arrive at your campsite early
It’s a widespread mistake to show up at camp late. First of all, it’s easy to get lost or disorientated in the darkness. Plus, it can be way more challenging to find and use your gear when the night falls. Therefore, plan to arrive at camp with a couple of hours of sunlight left.
10. Prepare yourself mentally
If this is your first solo camping trip, be ready to hear noises. This may be rustling from the wind, lapping at the lake, or small animals crawling over branches at night. There are chances that you won’t manage to fall asleep on your first night; however, there’s nothing to worry about. To avoid unnecessary stress, make yourself as comfortable as possible when you get in your bed. Make sure you’re warm and have all your protective tools by your side. Seasoned solo campers say that podcasts, audiobooks, and music help a lot, too.
To wrap it up
Solo camping may be an immensely rewarding experience if you prepare properly and take care of your safety in advance. Pack light, remember about the camping essentials, plan your meals, and be mentally prepared for the after-sunset anxiety. Be confident in yourself; stay positive and calm. We hope our tips will help you have a fantastic trip.
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