Backpacker Magazine - How Can I Mentally Prepare to Camp Alone?

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How Can I Mentally Prepare to Camp Alone?

Q.} I love hiking and camping, but not alone. I'm one of those people who think about running away when I hear one stick break in the woods. Is there any way I could mentally prepare myself for sleeping alone in the wilderness?
Submitted by: Logan, Greenville, SC

A.} I love hiking and camping, but not alone. I’m one of those people who think about running away when I hear one stick break in the woods. Is there any way I could mentally prepare myself for sleeping alone in the wilderness?

I’m no Dr. Phil, so I can only speak from personal experience.

“First off, don’t get in over your head. Know your limits in terms of your backcountry experience and don’t get too far out of your comfort zone. If you’re unsure of what you’re doing, go with someone who does, pay attention to what they do and how, and take notes.”

After that, I think you just kind of have to take the plunge and do it. My first solo was a 4-day canoe trip in the Boundary Waters about 15 years ago. I was reporting on it for my very first writing assignment for Windy City Sports, a free Chicago newspaper.

I was so stoked about the assignment that I hadn’t given much thought to the fact that I’d be alone for three nights in the wilderness—in bear country no less. By the time I put in and paddled across the first lake, I was freaking out. I practically sprinted the dark, shadowy portage and plopped into the next lake. (I felt safer on the water, for some reason.)

As I reached the far end of the lake near my intended campsite, I heard voices bouncing off the water. A group of about 6 had beat me to it, and I could see why. It was one of the most primo campsites I’d ever seen; out on a nice flat, sunny peninsula, with an elevated tent site and a private sandy beach.

A happy campsite.

I paddled past the interlopers and started prowling the lakeshore for the other sites, all of which were tucked back into the woods. They were shady, closed in, depressing, but it would be dark in a couple of hours so I picked one. I spent the next hour setting up camp, trying unsuccessfully to hang my food bag, jumping at every sound.

Eventually, I decided to paddle my food out to a tiny islet about 100 yards off shore and dump it there. If the bears wanted to swim for it, let them. As I was packing it up to ferry out there, a canoe slid up to my campsite. The interlopers turned out to be a very nice father/son group from Minneapolis. They were curious about a 20-something girl on her own and decided to make friends. I told them how I envied their campsite, and they invited me to share it for the night. That way, when they left the next morning, it would be all mine.

So, I spent my first “solo” night toasting marshmallows with my new friends, and by the time they left the next morning, I was ready. The campsite was so perfect that I ended up spending the next night there, too.

What’s the moral of the story? Maybe you need to ease yourself into the solo experience, like I did. Pick a happy place to go, some place that feels right to you, and have a friend go with you for the first night. Try to figure out the root of your fears and mitigate them. If it’s bears, pack your food in a bear canister and hike it far from camp before bed. If it’s creepy night noises, bring your iPod. If it’s other people, bring mace. And remember the facts: if you’re well equipped, and of sound mind and body, the wilderness is one of the safest places you can be.

—Kristin

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READERS COMMENTS

AZ Hiker

Feb 02, 2013

Beautiful scenery minus the crowds means less chance of other hikers finding you if you need help but it can still be a safe and enjoyable hike. Why? Because you read Felix! the Sugar Glider Be Safe Hike Smart (Amazon) before you hit the trail. A MUST READ for hikers who love to hike solo! Learn essential day-hiking skills, including items to pack, how to navigate your way with and without a map or compass, and how to get rescued. Learn to stay found by using a compass and paying attention to your surroundings. A compass doesn't need a signal or batteries and works in all types of weather but you need to know how to use it and this book makes learning how to use a compass easy. Hike smart with this fast, easy read that could save your life and will definitely make hiking solo or off the beaten path safer and more enjoyable!

Cal 20 Sailor

Aug 23, 2012

Ignorance is often the cause of fear. Solo first in an area you're familiar with that others also frequent so you'll have help nearby, if needed. Learn basic woodmans skills so you'll feel more competent and confident. And take a book on the natural history of your area to read and learn more about the lay of the land, the ecosystems, and the animals that live there -- it is fascinating stuff, and you may soon find yourself stalking the sources of those mysterious noises just to get a glimpse of the animal that made them...

Flo

Jul 18, 2012

My first solo mountain walk was in the same area they filmed A Lonely Place to Die (in Scotland), just weeks after I'd seen it. Clever idea, as winds were howling across the hills and round my ears and I kept hearing things. Luckily there are no bears there. I left a copy of my route with the local mountain rescue, so if I didn't return they would know where to look for me.

Clint

Jul 14, 2011

I remember the first time I attempted to solo while attending college back in the 70's. I had packed in with some friends and left them at a nice lake to wander off to my own camp site about a mile away. I settled on a nice place next to a rushing stream, but soon got spooked because I could not hear anything other than the stream. Visions of hungry bears soon enveloped my psyche so I packed up, swallowed my pride, and headed back to the imaginary safety of my companions.

I am older now and it is very difficult to find anyone who is willing to put significant weight on their shoulders just to hike for hour to sleep on the ground in a little tent. So, generally I go solo these days. I wouldn't have it any other way as I have become more comfortable both in the wilderness and with myself and knowledge of the woods. I have also become less tolerant of trying to teach others No Trace camping and appreciating the quiet and solitude of the back country. All the fears I had imagined have vanished and I take my dog.

Nick

Jul 09, 2011

Camping alone, when you spend all your work and home time in a city, is glorious. If you are concerned, find a hike that will get you deep into the wilderness, but where you are a reasonable distance to help (a lot of National Parks are like that).
And the best ode to hiking alone is from the master, Colin Fletcher, in the Complete Walker; the back index points you to the best passage in the book.

Red Jasper

Jul 07, 2011

I ALWAYS go solo; if I wanted to be around people; I'd go to the mall. Become one with nature---you'll find some very friendly scenarios.

Brian

Jul 07, 2011

I take my dog with me. He doesn't talk much but gives me someone to talk to. He has his own pack and carries his own food. Practice stealth camping if you are worried about other people. Keep a clean camp always. Let someone you trust and who will care know where you are and when you will return. Take a book. Take your 10 essentials.
And as we Scouters say, "Be Prepared". Have fun!

Fred t4

Jul 07, 2011

Seems like I never get to solo, because it's always me, myself & I, my Imaginary Friend and my Inner Child. Not a problem until the voices start, then it seems I can never get a word in. But I figured out that if I hike enough hours in a day we'll fall asleep quickly when we set up camp, and nothing will wake us up till morning. So go solo & take the whole crew along, you never know as Mark Twain said, everyone has a good story to tell and you never know what your Inner Child will come up with. And if you must, invite a non-imaginary friend along.

Ramona

Jul 07, 2011

I think camping alone is the bomb! I am a female and started by accident (miscommunication between two friends). The mountain I hiked was populated during day, but come evening, not a one.... I always bring things in case of emergency - matches, emergency blanket, and layers of clothing. I never made it to base camp above, as it was too icy for me to continue. I made a tent out of my rain poncho, emergency blanket, duct tape and string. and made a fire in my cooking pot (probably not recommended) as it was dry. Every tiny sound did sound like a huge moose. I prayed, alot that night. Didn't sleep much. Next day i headed downward and actually met my friend en-route. I felt awesome and amazing for having done this, strong, great in myself for having fear and doing it anyway. After that, i found other places to go and went alone.

Best to let at least one person know where you are going or starting from, in case. And trust your instincts. If your intuition says its not safe - then it probably isn't.

Leigh

Jul 07, 2011

Do your first solo by repeating a trip you've done before with others. Hike into your favorite mountain lake, where it's likely a boy scout troop or other families will be coming through. Hang out for a night or two and enjoy lounging in the sun and swimming. Then hike back out. In other words, start with familiar environments and simple trips. And of course test all your gear before you go and carry a beacon. Then get more daring after you've found your comfort zone.

Random Dude

Jul 07, 2011

Another strategy is to plan your hike in a popular area like the AT; where even when hiking alone, you will always encounter other hikers. There are so many people on the trail, we have to remind ourselves not to visit with every fellow hiker we pass or we will not make or destination on time.
My wife and I recently planned to hike a section of the AT and a work issue came up preventing her from being able to go. I made the decision to go alone and had a great time. The section I was hiking has a history of bear encounters recently and I�will admit�I was a little jumpy for the first few hours. Once I got acclimated to being alone, I had a blast. Don't get me wrong, I will choose hiking with my wife everytime, but I am looking forward to my next opportunity to go solo.�

Argosinu

Jul 07, 2011

Don't solo if it scares you.
Don't solo where bears & snakes may get you. (Moose are far more dangerous, I think.)
Solo in a known area.
Carry a Spot or other wilderness emergency beacon. Don't use it (except for a true emergency), but just knowing you can call should calm you.

Argosinu

Jul 07, 2011

Richard

Jul 07, 2011

I started going solo over a decade ago when a partner bailed on me at the last minute. I found it releaves a lot of frustration, knowing that I am going regardless of what my companion does. Of course I do not take needless risks. I leave my itinerary, I carry a satellite rescue beacon, and I pack "heat" and spray (which greatly reduces anxiety, although I have never had to use either. These precautions help to disolve my fears and allow me to really enjoy myself. I have actually come to find the solo experience a delightful alternative. How often do we get to be alone with our thoughts for days at a time, and REALLY hear the sounds of nature. I found that I am much more sensitive to my surroundings without the chatter of a companion. Of course there is still some risk, but the experience is well worth it and besides, a life with no risk at all (which doesn't exist anyway) would be incredibly boring. I was out in the boonies solo when 9/11 occurred and the funny thing was that I knew something was wrong, but couldn't put my finger on why. In retrospect I think it was because there were no jets flying over. I think I unconsciously noticed the removal of that one noise whe can never seem to completly escape. So I turned on a small radio that I carry (but rarely use)and soon knew the whole story. My family worried about me, but I think I was in a much safer place then they were in. I am going out alone this weekend (my parter bailed) and am actually looking forward to the solitude!

Jeff

Jul 07, 2011

I would suggest ear plugs. I use them and sleep much better in the back country.

Jeff

Jul 07, 2011

I would suggest ear plugs. I use them and sleep much better in the back country.

Joe

Jul 07, 2011

Before you go solo decide why you're going. I have done a lot of solo backpacking, cycle touring and general travel. For a while going solo just became habit. often a solo trip is exactly what my soul and spirit needed. Other times the experience is not as rich because it was not a shared experience.

To paraphrase the late Bill Mason, "I have never been told not to go solo into the wilderness by anyone whose done it."

Random Dude

Jul 07, 2011

Scott

Jul 07, 2011

I camp alone a lot, and my imagination often runs wild at night. Moonshine-addled Appalachian Americans are my biggest fear, but I'm probably more a danger to myself than others are to me. Forcing yourself to confront your fears a couple times will help alleviate them. Being prepared helps, too.

Will G

May 09, 2011

I would like to say that there is no reason anyone NEEDS to go camping alone unless the govt were overthrown and you had to escape across a border real quick like or some psychopathe were chasing you through the woods. Under those kinds of circumstances swamps and woods temporarily cease to be frightening. Ordinarily, it is healthy to fear being alone in the wilderness. If you "love hiking and camping, but not alone" why are you contemplating it? Just say no to camping alone. You can always change your mind later if the urge hits you.

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I love being outside when it's cold, especially hiking, and I wear glasses.
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What's your method for storing and hauling your trash on a multi-day trip? I usually just use plastic bags but there's got to be a more packable way.
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Kristin, can you recommend a good glove system for colder hikes? Should I bring one pair or two? What should they be made of? Oh, and with longer gloves that bungee up my wrist, should that portion go over or under my jacket sleeve?
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What's the proper teeth brushing procedure in the woods? Is there one?

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It's getting cold out there--when do I need a hardshell and when do I need a softshell? I've never really understood the difference and when to use which jacket. Help!
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What's a good set of on trail eating utensils--fork, spoon, etc?
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Hey Kristin, this doesn’t seem to come up very often but should I be wearing a different kind of underwear in the backcountry than I do every day? Any recommendations?
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I'm having trouble deciding upon an insulating layer. I can't decide to go with fleece or PrimaLoft. What are the downs and ups of the two?

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How should my daypack fit? Should it fit differently from my weekend or week-long pack?
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Hey Kristin, I've got a great sleeping bag but I can't sleep without a pillow. Do you have a recommendation for a lightweight pillow or so kind of trick for making one with my gear?
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I've read many outdoor books to get up to speed on camping, cooking, hiking, etc. I would like to hear what your choices of books might be in the outdoor education area. One of my complaints is that they all start to sound the same.
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Going to the bathroom in the wild. What do I need? Do I need to pack out my waste? How? I'm going on a multi-day trip and am not sure what I need.

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How do I remove pine sap from my down sleeping bag (and other gear for that matter)?
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I love hiking and camping, but not alone. I'm one of those people who think about running away when I hear one stick break in the woods. Is there any way I could mentally prepare myself for sleeping alone in the wilderness?
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Hey Kristin, I'm a navigation newbie. Basically, I just head to the trailhead, look at the map there, and go. Is there essential, basic navigation equipment that I should have at all times, even on a dayhike?
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Dear Kristin,
Time and miles have taken their toll on the knees with one total knee replacement recently. I am getting back to limited hiking and some of the folks I pass on the trail are very high on the use of trekking poles. I would value your advice as to tips on how to adjust them to the proper length and techniques for most advantageous use of the poles to both reduce stress on the knees and ensure stability (twisting artificial knees is very painful!). I sure hope these poles are a benefit and not just an equipment fad?
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Kristin,
My wife and I are becoming more serious backpackers and l am shopping around to replace the tent that I've been using since childhood. Could you explain what “minimum weight,” “packaged weight,” and similar terms mean? Thanks, Rick

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I know I'm supposed to use a bear canister all the time in bear country but they can be bulky. If I'm going on an overnight trip, do I really need one? And if I do, is there a sealable bag option that might work?
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What's the best way to keep pack contents dry. Pack covers and pack liners have failed repeatedly. Should I just rely on zip lock bags?
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Baselayers. I need a good one. I know wool is great but frankly, I itch and get pretty hot when I'm mid hike. Any suggestions?
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How do I get the campfire stench out of my gear? I tried washing it but no-go.
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What can I feed my dog throughout the day while we are hiking to keep his energy up?

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Can a water purifier purify pee?
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Alas, pain in my shoulders and hips is destroying my ability to camp. I can no longer sleep on the ground, even with a thin mattress underneath. What is the best, most cushioned, and lightweight pad that might help solve this problem?
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I commute by bicycle to work 15 miles one way. Where can I find a backpack for clothing and hydration that is visible to vehicles?
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Is it really necessary to have big hiking boots with really sturdy ankle support? I've always used trail runners on multi-day trips without a problem.
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Times are rough, and I don't have the spare cash to blow on top-dollar gear for every essential. If I have to skimp on one, which one should I cut corners: tent, sleeping bag, pack, or boots?
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What would you suggest for a windproof lighter that is simple and dependable?
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I am going to summit Kilimanjaro, but I only have summer weight sleeping bags good to 40 degrees. Given the high cost of lightweight, warm bags and that I don't winter camp, would it be effective to double bag a couple of my summer bags?
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How should a shell fit? I can't decide between a large or an extra large. Is it best to have ample layering room or should it be tight and form fitting? I can't decide whether to go up or down.
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Does Talc powder block the GoreTex Membrane of my boots? And what is the best odor killers for GoreTex Boots?

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Do campfires deter bears?

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I have been backpacking for 15 years and I have not been able to find a way to stop black toenails. I have changed my lacing especially going downhill, always trim toenails and had several different types of boots. Help!
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On a recent backpacking trip, the sole of one of my hiking boots came loose. I was able to use a tent cord to tie it on and hike back to the trailhead. How do you repair loose soles on hiking boots?
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I'm an extremely heavy sweater no matter what the weather. Should I really trust my hi-tech clothing to be absolutely dried by my body heat? Or is it better to carry extra clothing to change? I can't imagine risking the chance of sleeping damp.
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What is the best way to clean my down bag? Should it be dry-cleaned or can I just throw it in the wash?
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I have been backpacking for a little over a year and would like to try some cold weather backpacking. I am wondering how to keep warm in the tent at night. Is there a such thing as a backpacker tent heater? Any suggestions are appreciated.
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How do you remove poison oak or ivy sap from boots?

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I am tired of iodine for water purification and I am considering a filter (like the Hyperflow), but I see that it doesn't filter viruses. If I only backpack in America, do I have to get a filter with a purifier, or will a filter for bacteria only suffice? Going to Big Bend in 3 weeks and I'm clueless...
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Kristin, I was wondering about your thoughts on waterproofing your own
clothes, particularly pants. I have never used any sprayon or wash in
waterproofing product. Would something like that work to waterproof your
pants or would that be a waste of time?

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Is steel better than aluminum when choosing crampons?
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When camping in subzero temperatures whats the best way to keep my food warm long enough to eat it and whats a good way to clean the pot once the food has frozen itself to the sides?
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My favorite trail is snowed over now but I still want to get out there. Should I use snowshoes or crampons? Or is there something in between?

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I'm an amateur hiker/backpacker and I'm wondering how much gear I should pack. I don't want to bring too little, and I don't want to be overexerting myself with too much. What's in the ideal pack?
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What are the best products for re-waterproofing Gore-Tex rain jackets?
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Is it safe or advisable to use Febreeze or other "fabric refreshers" on my down sleeping bag?
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Dear Kristin, I just started hiking through mountain trails in the last year or so. I'm ready to take on full weekend backpacking trips. My main concern is food. What are some important tools to take along for good food prep?
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Dear Kristin,
How do I prevent chafing? I have been on many long distance hikes in the last year and seem plagued by raw spots. I have tried talc, shaving and even gone commando to the summit of the South Sister. What's the deal and what really works?
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Should I be worried about hiking in bear country when menstruating?
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Dear Kristin
I've never really understood the principles of layering. For cold weather treks, should my baselayer be cotton or wool? What about my midlayer? Wool? Fleece? What are the basics of layering for any occasion?
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Dear Kristin, How can you carry on trekking poles when flying a commercial airline?
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I take long dayhikes (20-30 miles) and am looking for an emergency shelter to use in case I don't make it out before nightfall. I don't want to carry a tent. I have been considering a bivy sack - something just to keep me warm and dry. Will a waterproof bivy sack on its own be sufficient in case of rain?
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Is it okay to keep your backpack in your tent at night? There seems to be two opposing camps (no pun intended, or maybe it was)on this issue.
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I wear size 11 EE boots. I have tried to get hiking boots via mail order without success because they are always far narrower than marked. Do you know of a boot maker who makes really wide boots that are true to size? Thanks.
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Canister backpacking stoves are becoming so popular, but I have a concern about them that I can't find much info about. Are the canisters refillable or recyclable? Or are we just creating more waste when we purchase these stoves in the quest of lightness?
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Is there a multipurpose helmet out there I can use for skiing, climbing etc. or should I just plan on getting one for each season/sport?
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I'm confused about the capacity figures that backpack manufacturers claim. With daypacks it seems that the figures advertised are always about 20 percent higher than what the pack actually holds. What gives?
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Is it true that mummy bags should not be stored in a stuff sack, but rather hung in closet between trips? Seems like a waste of space.
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When camping in frigid temperatures, what's the best way to keep my food warm long enough to eat it? And how can I clean my pot once the food has frozen itself to the sides?
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Dear Kristin,
I plan on backpacking Europe for about a month. What is the most suitable backpack for me to use?
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I do a bit of camping on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. I am looking for a 3-person tent that can withstand the howls and gusts of the winds without collapsing or flapping so loud it keeps me awake. No $3,000 tents please.
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What is the best way to wash my fleece so that I get longer use out of it?
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I just returned from a trip to the High Sierra and found a 1/2 inch tear in the bottom of my Big Agnes tent. The fabric is silicone treated nylon. How do I fix it?
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My wife and I have decided we want to hit the trail and take some overnight and weekend trips.

The trouble is, I'm a big guy: 6 feet tall and 325 lbs. Big. Since no amount of vertical stripes and black cloth can conceal that fact, I'm not going to wait for the flab to fall off so I can enjoy nature, so I've already begun to accumulate equipment. Unfortunately, I've come to an impasse; that being the distance between the clips on the hipbelt of every pack I've tried. My question is, are there any companies that make packs for bigger guys, and a 54" waist? I'll avoid going for a Krispy Kreme while I await your suggestions.

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