There are many unwritten guidelines for women in our society. Sometimes, the fear of being alone prevents us from amazing experiences and valuable lessons. Here are my tips for enjoying solo camping as a woman.
What Is the Best Type of Solo Camping for Beginners?
I have camped alone or with my kids numerous times and have always felt safe. I prefer well-visited, regularly checked campsites such as . I enjoy car camping and look for nearby water, electricity, and showers. If you're planning to venture into the wilderness like Cheryl Strayed, you need to be extra cautious. However, that's beyond the scope of this article, and I don't recommend it for beginners. If you do choose to go, use common sense, stay aware of your surroundings, and make sure someone at home knows your whereabouts. state parksChoosing Your Campsite
State and national
parks are affordable and often have many families and retirees nearby, which makes me feel at ease. Most of these sites provide all the basic comforts within the campground and have staff that regularly pass through.
The choice of campsite matters. Many park reservation sites allow you to select from a map and may have photos of the campsite so you can check out the view. How close do you want to be to your neighbors? Can you be near the restrooms without being disturbed by the coming and going of other campers? parks Essential Camping Items
Image Credit: Shutterstock. Many websites will give you a lengthy checklist of “camping essentials,” but I believe there aren't that many essential items. For me, essentials include a tent, sleeping bag, lantern, and hygiene products. Meals at the campsite can be simple and stress-free.
In warm weather, bug spray, sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential. In cold weather, thermals, a hat, and campfire accessories are necessary. Anything else you want to bring is entirely up to your comfort level. I prefer to keep it minimal and continuously try to reduce the number of items I bring camping.
Image Credit: Shutterstock. It's a good idea to set up the tent at home first. On-site, clear rocks and debris from where your tent will be; a tarp under your tent can be helpful on wet ground. Only unpack necessary gear – there's no need to have everything strewn about. That's the convenience of car camping! Keep in mind the wildlife. Store food in a secure container to avoid attracting anything from ants to bears to your campsite. Keeping food in your tent overnight is not a good idea, especially.
Seek Assistance When Needed
I once spent a freezing night with a cold dinner because I couldn't get my campfire going and didn't want to appear foolish. A nice couple next to me had a roaring fire, but I just watched from a distance.
Start Those Conversations
I switch between my “No” face and my “I really want to hear your life story” face. If I travel alone, I will likely talk to someone or join their conversation with little prompting. After my campfire failure, I met lovely people at breakfast by sitting at the counter instead of waiting for a table.
While out exploring, I talked with hikers and sight-seers. People are generally willing to take pictures of you when they see that you are alone. I overheard two couples who found out they lived in the same neighborhood! Engaging with those around you makes the experience more interesting.
You Are One Walmart Away From Comfort
If you stick to state and national parks while developing your camping skills, you’ll generally be within a 30-minute drive of a big-box store. On my first outing, it took one night to discover that this body doesn’t appreciate sleeping on the ground. I bought an air mattress at Walmart the next day; no shame.
I shivered through a late October overnight in the North Georgia mountains, despite having an appropriate sleeping bag and warm(ish) clothes. I went back to Walmart the next day to buy thermals and a cozy hat. Don’t suffer from pride or someone else’s idea of what you should or shouldn't need.
Benefits of Camping Alone as a Woman
We love our friends and families. But everyone needs time for solitude and recharging. Some women prefer a spa or a luxurious AirBnB. I love my cozy tent and the peace I find in nature. I also enjoy how capable I feel. Sure, I make mistakes, but I fix them. I like meeting new people and touring areas at my own pace. I get to try new things without anyone else’s criticism.
Ignore People’s Expectations
Image Credit: ChattOconeeNF – 2012 Fall Color in the Chattahoochee National Forest, CC BY 2.0/Wiki Commons.
You’ll have people who won’t understand why you would go by yourself. You’ll also have people who will doubt your capability. Good thing you have decided not to care what they think!
I don’t consider myself an expert camper. I still have a lot to learn. But I’m willing to learn through experience. You don’t have to know everything or be able to do every task perfectly. Do some simple planning and
Solo Camping for Women
I hope you are inspired to get out there and try solo camping. Scope out your first campsite and get your basics together. You’ll become more comfortable with the experience. You might get some excellent stories out of it if nothing else!
You’ll have people who won’t understand why you would go by yourself. You’ll also have people who will doubt your capability. Good thing you have decided not to care what they think!
I don’t consider myself an expert camper. I still have a lot to learn. But I’m willing to learn through experience. You don’t have to know everything or be able to do every task perfectly. Do some simple planning and go.
Solo Camping for Women
I hope you are inspired to get out there and try solo camping. Scope out your first campsite and get your basics together. You’ll become more comfortable with the experience. You might get some excellent stories out of it if nothing else!
