A Woman’s Guide to Solo Wild Camping: Empowering Adventures in the Great Outdoors 🏕️

Solo wild camping is one of the most exhilarating and empowering experiences a woman can undertake. There's something truly magical about being immersed in nature, with nothing but the sound of the wind, the rustling trees, and the star-filled sky as your company. For women, wild camping offers not only adventure but also a sense of independence and self-reliance. However, it also requires careful preparation and confidence-building, especially when safety is a top priority.

In this guide, we’ll explore the essentials of solo wild camping for women, covering everything from safety tips to packing the right gear, and the mental preparation that will help make your solo adventure a success.

1. Why Solo Wild Camping?

The idea of solo wild camping might feel daunting, especially if you’ve always camped with others. But there are many reasons why women are increasingly embracing it:

• Self-empowerment: Camping alone teaches you to trust your instincts, problem-solve, and rely on your own abilities.

• Freedom: No compromises—go where you want, stay as long as you want, and do what you want.

• Personal growth: It pushes you out of your comfort zone, building confidence and resilience.

• Connection with nature: Solo camping allows you to truly experience the wilderness in peace and without distraction.

2. Mental Preparation: Building Confidence

Before embarking on your adventure, it’s important to mentally prepare for the experience. The idea of being alone in the wilderness can bring up feelings of fear or anxiety, but these can be overcome with practice and the right mindset.

• Start small: If you’re nervous, try an overnight solo camping trip at a familiar spot or an official campsite. Slowly build up to more remote locations.

• Learn the essentials: Equip yourself with basic camping and survival skills—such as pitching a tent, purifying water, and navigating with a map and compass.

• Visualize success: Imagine yourself confidently setting up camp, enjoying the solitude, and handling any small challenges that come your way.

• Trust yourself: Remind yourself of your capability to handle whatever comes up. Self-confidence is key in the wilderness.

3. Choosing Your Location: Plan, but Be Flexible

Selecting the right spot for your first solo wild camping trip is crucial. If you're worried about where to camp, check out CampWild, The UK's only Wild Camping Platform, giving new, members only access to private land all over the country.

• Start with well-known areas: National parks, nature reserves, or recognized wild camping areas are ideal for beginners. These spots are often patrolled, marked, and safer.

• Know the rules: Some countries and areas have specific regulations around wild camping. In the UK, for instance, it's generally allowed in Scotland and some parts of Dartmoor, while other regions require permission.

• Avoid isolated areas at first: For your initial solo trips, choose locations that are remote enough for solitude but close enough to civilization in case of emergency.

• Study the terrain: Know the landscape—whether it’s mountainous, forested, or coastal—and make sure it matches your experience level.

4. Packing the Right Gear: Safety and Comfort

Packing for a solo wild camping trip means balancing safety, comfort, and weight. Here are the essentials:

• Tent: Opt for a lightweight, easy-to-assemble tent. A one-person tent is compact and designed for solo campers.

• Sleeping bag and mat: Choose a sleeping bag rated for the temperatures you'll encounter and a lightweight mat for insulation and comfort.

• Clothing: Layered, moisture-wicking clothes are key. Bring a waterproof jacket, warm layers, and a hat.

• Food and water: Pack lightweight, non-perishable foods, and bring a portable water filter or purification tablets if you’ll be relying on natural water sources.

• Navigation tools: Always carry a map, compass, and GPS. Ensure you know how to use them without relying solely on your phone.

• First-aid kit: Include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatments, and any personal medications.

• Headlamp: Essential for hands-free lighting, especially when setting up or breaking down camp in low light.

• Personal safety items: A whistle, personal alarm, and a small pocket knife can give extra peace of mind.

5. Safety Tips for Solo Female Campers

Safety is often the biggest concern for women venturing into the wilderness alone. While wild camping is generally safe, it’s important to take precautions:

• Tell someone your plan: Always let a friend or family member know your location and return time.

• Trust your instincts: If something feels off—whether it’s a location or an encounter—trust your gut and move on.

• Choose your camp spot wisely: Find a secluded spot away from paths or roads to minimize human encounters. A hidden spot with natural cover (like behind trees or rocks) offers both privacy and protection.

• Carry a personal safety device: Some women bring a personal alarm or pepper spray, while others may prefer a satellite communicator that allows you to call for help, even when phone service is unavailable.

• Don’t announce your solo status: If you happen to meet strangers on the trail, feel free to mention that you’re meeting up with friends later or that your partner is just ahead. It's okay to keep some details private.

• Wildlife awareness: Know the types of animals in the area and take precautions. Store food securely, and don’t leave anything scented inside your tent.

6. Mastering Solo Camping Skills

Once you’re out in the wilderness, skills like fire-starting, water purification, and setting up camp will be essential. Here are a few tips to make these easier:

• Setting up camp: Practice pitching your tent and setting up camp before you leave. Look for flat ground, away from water sources (to avoid flooding) and potential falling hazards (like dead trees).

• Fire safety: Know the local fire regulations. In areas where campfires are allowed, make sure you have a safe fire pit and keep water or sand nearby to extinguish it properly.

• Stay hydrated: Always purify natural water sources. A lightweight water filter or purification tablets should be part of your kit.

• Leave no trace: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out everything you bring in, and avoid damaging natural environments.

7. Embrace the Experience: The Joy of Solitude

Solo wild camping is not just about surviving in the wild—it’s about embracing the solitude and enjoying the experience. Once you’ve set up camp, take time to appreciate the quiet and the beauty around you. Journal, meditate, read a book, or simply sit by the fire and stargaze. Without the distractions of everyday life, you can connect more deeply with nature and yourself.

8. Post-Trip Reflection

After your trip, take time to reflect on the experience. What did you learn about yourself? What would you do differently next time? Solo camping helps you grow as a person, allowing you to face challenges, solve problems, and celebrate your victories. Each adventure will make you more confident and skilled for future trips.

Solo wild camping as a woman is not only possible but incredibly rewarding. It’s an opportunity to break free from societal expectations, challenge yourself, and find empowerment in nature’s embrace. With the right preparation, mindset, and safety measures, you’ll discover a deep sense of independence and inner strength that can only be achieved by stepping outside of your comfort zone.

So, pack your gear, trust your instincts, and embark on an adventure that’s yours and yours alone!