There’s nothing a woman like you can’t do once you set your mind to it. Camping? You’ve done it before. Camping alone? You’ll accept the challenge. Before you pack your gears, though, pause to consider if you’re ready for it.
Willingness is different from preparedness. It might surprise you how different camping solo is compared to going as a group. The choices you make before you take the trip can have serious repercussions.
Rethink Your Gears
Camping is an expensive hobby. Take into account all the gears you need, from tents and bags to meals and illumination. Your preference in camping style plays a big part in your expenses. Regardless of the way you choose to do it, one aspect you shouldn’t compromise is quality.
It’s tempting to opt for the cheaper ones or to compromise the quality of an item for the sake of another. While your shopping choices haven’t been an avenue of regret during your previous camping, don’t risk it when you go solo. One easily worn or broken accessory can change the course of your entire adventure.
Make it a practice to research brands and where to buy them. You’ll also want to err on the side of caution by purchasing other accessories. A paracord, which you’ll find useful in critical situations, might be cheaper with wholesale buyers. The same goes for knives and PLBs.
Rethink Your Training
Watching someone use a compass or light a bonfire is not the same as doing them yourself. Train on the essentials first, like knot tying and reading the weather. These are skills that don’t find their way in everyday life or have lost their purpose in light of an app.
Setting up a shelter is more than putting together your tent. The quality of your gear loses its essence when you’re not able to identify the right place to set it up. The ideal setting is ground that is flat as possible and without obstructions. Rocks and sticks need clearing to prevent damage to your tent.
There’s also the matter of emergencies. Taking lessons on first aid and survival will give your confidence a boost. There’s no saying what can happen in the wilderness, so you’re better off going prepared for the worst.
A couple of trips with experienced campers might be the best way to go before you try it solo. There’s no better way to master it than through practice. Having excellent teachers can prepare you well.
Trim your group gradually. The smaller the number, the more responsibility you shoulder. This is the right avenue to practice important decisions such as where to set up your tent and how to store your food.
Once you feel you’re ready, try bringing along a good friend and camp with just the two of you. This will prevent you from the possible anxiety of doing it alone for the first time. You might not have an Internet or cellphone signal to keep you connected to others. Settling into this experience slowly will give you a better chance of enjoying a solo trip.
Taking time to assess yourself increases your chances of creating a memorable experience. Remember that every decision counts for an adventurous soul like yourself, even the decision to push your limits.
