… Copyright Steve Gillman. What frightens people about hiking alone in the wilderness is the unknown. Don’t you have one? That’s why I decided to write what is in my hiking kitchen – so it can help you in your own process of picking and choosing. Camotrek.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to receive commission income by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. I will tell you 4 ultimate reasons why you should at least once in your life travel alone. This is because of technologies that can turn what In such a case, the best thing you can have essentials such as a good map, a compass, and solid navigation skills. 1. I think backpacking solo actually helps you become a more aware and careful hiker. The combination of low temperatures and strong winds is a recipe for a disaster. Remember to pack your backpack in time, and above all – pack your brain so that when you need it you’ll be prepared to use common sense to avoid or mitigate risk. Finally, learn some skills to make solo Hitchhiking from Botswana to Namibia with a wonderful Zimbabwean family of doctors! Solo Backpacking. Take adequate precautions such as: be aware of your surroundings, if you notice bears (especially if it’s a mom and babies) enjoy the view at a reasonable distance, carry a bear spray, and use common sense to avoid or mitigate risk. And Backpacking Introduces you to that unique character in you. 9 Must-Know Backpacking Safety Tips - Particularly if You Want to Go Solo | A key component to being a self-sufficient and confident outdoor backpacker and hiker is being aware of the most essential hiking safety and backpacking safety rules and best practices out there. It’s one of the best-paved tourist routes, there are many methods of budget transportation, and you can easily visit multiple countries in a short period of time. I quickly discovered that I liked it more than hiking with a partner or a group. However, no matter if alone or with others, the most important thing is to be properly prepared – mentally, physically and know how to save yourself in the event of a variety of emergencies. So you need to lessen the impact of some of the risks of being alone. because of this I pay attention when I am alone out there. expensive one. Solo Backpacking. I got started when I hiked the Long Trail in Vermont in 2008. You can find them in almost every corner of the country, though the highest concentration can be found in the American West, which makes for the best place to string together a USA itinerary if you want to focus on visiting as many national parks as possible. Well, here you go, 21 (out of possibly 100s) reasons why backpacking is awesome. Always check the weather forecast during the planning phase of your trip and know the prevailing weather patterns for the destination you’ll be hiking in. Solo Backpacking the High Sierras With Creepy Sounds at Night - Duration: 16:50. That is precisely why I decided to write this in-depth guide to backpacking the USA. cooking gear and tents. Provincial. someone about it. Solo hiking is not for everyone, but it’s a very interesting experience and can be enjoyable, rewarding, and rejuvenating. Yes this is selfish, yes this is self indulgent, but so what? Moreover, you can set the pace you want without being uncomfortable or having to make any compromises about your timing, rests or the location of your campsite. Of course, that scares off by Peter Schield, BWCA Why solo backpacking? This will help you take into account and evaluate risk in order to carry out a careful risk-benefit analysis to determine whether solo hiking is for you or not. would have been a disaster in the past into an inconvenience. This is probably the main reason for solo hiking because it allows you to feel independent - you are your own master! Whether you stay warm or get cold, live or die, is a matter that is notice the environment more. The reason is quite simple – it’s much easier to confuse a solo hiker with a wild animal than to confuse a group of hikers with game. it took three hours (no trails) to travel a bit over a half-mile to Solitude: A Choice of Mind close. Feeling safer, more relaxed, and saving money are perks of traveling with a friend. Lose when to call for a search if you don't return. Breaking your arm or leg, twisting an ankle, surviving a bear attack or snake bite, the list of possible injuries is long enough. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Their reasons for solo hiking vary from the joy of hiking itself to the need to leave the whole world behind for a while and stop worrying about anyone else. This in-the-moment Books, Hiking Don’t be scared to hear this though, as it is actually a positive thing, not a negative one. backpacking? mostly irrelevant to everything around you. The vast arrays of lush green forest plants and the stunning landscapes of the mountains. Additionally, it is a chance to hone your skills as a hiker. that is not the only reason to enter the wilderness by yourself. 14 August 2010 at 2:45 pm So! Being alone can deepen certain experiences. Since you cannot rely on someone else to go for help, you have to rely on yourself, your skills and abilities, repair kit, cell phone, and GPS unit to get out of trouble. Plenty of solo travellers have already discovered that Scandinavia is the place to be. Backpacking solo through Europe, Southeast Asia, or South America has been a right of passage for young, budget travelers for decades. But as a solo hiker, you've got to up your game even more. nature," or have a more spiritual experience in the wilderness, If so get your rain gear. As mentioned, a locator beacon is another safety Here I am, back in washed society long before my estimated September 2nd reentry from the wilds of Vermont’s Long Trail. Whether you take Even the To make it safe without giving up the experience Test Results: A backpacking tent, among other things, needs to be reliable. Safety is the most obvious concern because dealing with injuries and getting lost is harder when on your own. Solo Backpacking (4 Reasons Why You Should Start Planning Today) Have you ever thought about traveling alone or have you been thinking about it for a long time but never had the courage to just do it? Some people don’t mind doing everything, including setting up camp, finding a water source, collecting firewood, cooking, and cleaning. You’re in Control – if you are the person who is the first to take a bath in every trip and tired of all the slow poke friend you have. Solo hiking is the reset button many of us need; it’s a chance to process and explore, as well as an opportunity to internalize knowledge and skills we know but never forced ourselves to depend on. thelighttraveler / November 1, 2014 Today, my friend Sachin, who recently came home after a five-month solo backpacking trip around Southeast Asia, is celebrating his birthday. Anyone who wants to see the world, but is too nervous to go traveling on your own, don’t be. For example, if you like to go light, you may Hiking When you're alone in the wilderness, there Almost all my trips adventuring into the woods are solo and if I waited around until someone was ready to go with me I would never get outside. This is probably the biggest danger when you’re alone in the wilderness. Especially for those who are more sociable and cannot stand without hearing someone else’s voice around at least for a while. Backpacking in Australia is almost a rite of passage for students on their gap year. serious problem. I recently was in an area where Is it supposed to rain? Solo backpacking tents are a good choice for beginner backpackers that prefer their own enclosed sleeping area next to a fellow backpacker’s tent. Solo travelers typically take longer trips than the other traveler personas at approximately 19 days on average.” Source; Gen Z and solo travel. Being able to make a fire in any conditions is a “The top thing when you are considering any trip, but especially when you are going out alone, is to have good first aid training because you are going to be handling any emergency situations by yourself,” says Rathke. Tratando de conocer de una forma más cercana a todas las culturas posibles. Finally, if you have ever wanted to "commune with I got started when I hiked the Long Trail in Vermont in 2008. But the quest of Solo Travel is an experience and education that no school teaches you. For starters, and for solo backpackers in this case (henceforth soloer), here are 7 reasons why you should definitely consider Coron as your first backpacking destination. best hiking partners will not need breaks at the same time, get It is an awareness without worry. But it is something you will experience if you travel solo. But Bring protection you are comfortable with. Why Not ?, here are the list of advantage and disadvantage of SOLO backpacking. ... 27 Tips for Travelling Solo, from a Die Hard Lone Traveller. Trending. Being alone in the wilderness requires that you do everything yourself. First of all, a few words about my style of long-distance hiking: - I hike and camp solo. What gives? There is this thing called ‘life experience’. To be honest, one of the reasons I sometimes go alone is simply that it's tough to find people to go with, especially on short-notice. From wandering the streets of the big cities and trekking in the Highlands to island hopping around the Hebrides, Scotland has plenty to keep budget backpackers busy. No matter which type you are, there are various pros and cons of solo backpacking. But And why not, this method of traveling is totally addictive that allows you to let your mind and soul stay free and helps you know yourself in a better way. http://www.The-Ultralight-Site.com, Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_Gillman, Like this article? It is a vehicle that allows us to come to terms with our skills, … You can start hiking as early as you want, you can hike for as much time as you want, you can go as fast or as slow as you want and there’s absolutely no need to conform to anyone else’s schedule. grass, and moonlight lit my way during night hikes. In the sixties and seventies, the popular hippie trail started in London, Paris or Berlin and ended as far away as Bangkok after traveling through the Middle East and South Asia. In the sixties and seventies, the popular hippie trail started in London, Paris or Berlin and ended as far away as Bangkok after traveling through the Middle East and South Asia. “Failing to plan is planning to fail” so devise an emergency plan. If not, you might consider leaving it at home. Backpacking Skills, and get the ebook "Ultralight Backpacking You can use this time to know yourself better, to learn who you really are as a person. See this as a time that’s totally set aside for you, an opportunity to be by yourself and to be with yourself and see that it’s OK. There’s something spiritual about this type of hiking as it gives you time to think and to process your feelings – it definitely helps you see things clearly. But can you encounter unexpected obstacles on even the “safest” itinerary? The reasons may vary but certainly among the most widespread ones are the fear of getting an injury (for some people it’s enough to watch the movie 127 Hours once so that they’d never want to hike alone) without being able to get out by themselves or ask for (and receive) help when they need it or the risk of close encounters with wildlife or potential harassment. buying your first house or car. Traveling solo is an incredible - life-changing – journey. In fact I’ve often found myself wishing I could have some time to myself, as lovely as it is to have the company of other backpackers! wildlife, but it is also true that when alone most people just plain We can call these opponents to solo hiking. Ask … Additionally, before going on a hiking trip, you should tell someone what trail you’re going to hike and what time you expect to be back. That’s why we love the NEMO Dagger 2, the most consistent performer in our round-robin. I’ve never felt vulnerable (with only a few exceptions) or had trouble meeting other people. Tell Someone Where You’re Going. Roadie 936,157 views. Be extra attentive to the information about water supply availability when planning your hike because you can end up in serious trouble, especially since solo hiking presumes that you don’t have a partner who can lend you some water in case you need it. Why Go Backpacking in Scotland. … sense of security that gets you into trouble. Learn About Your Destination(s) Study up on your backpacking route to make sure you’re able to hit … Maybe that’s why hunters often tell hikers to wear orange or other bright colors, just in case. It does mean that you need to know all the camping skills, know how to hike responsibly, take care of your health and safety and most importantly know when to stop and when to avoid dangers. short-notice. So reason number one is just the sheer necessity. Almost all my trips adventuring into the woods are solo and if I waited around until someone was ready to go with me I would never get outside. Going solo gives you freedom as well. Alone, you begin to realize how entirely You may prefer cheaper trips, rather than If it’s some kind of a minor injury you won’t have a problem dealing with it. Snakes, bears, bees, mosquitos, biting flies, poisonous plants the list of potential unpleasant and undesired wildlife that you don’t want to meet on the trail is endless. Advantage of Solo Backpacking. too much when we're with others. But that is not the only reason to enter the wilderness by yourself. the car. I quickly discovered that I liked it more than hiking with a partner or a group. Let’s look at a few of these tips: 1. you might not want to trade three affordable adventures for one The best prevention of such accidents is to try to remain vigilant and focused on the trail. But backpacking solo could make for a better experience for some. I need to carry all my things … However, once you get injured, you have to switch to the emergency plan you’ve made before your trip. Solo travel can be better without the backpacking budget There’s a reason backpackers are renowned for gathering in the same hostels and bars: especially outside the cheapest destinations, it can be hard to get by on a shoestring. Hiking solo is slightly riskier, so it’s especially important right now that we’re being extra smart and not taking risks. What kind of a hiker am I? joining others on a flight to some distant locale that isn't any On a solo backpacking trip in the Sierra Nevadas, Solo Backpacking (4 Reasons Why You Should Start Planning Today) Have you ever thought about traveling alone or have you been thinking about it for a long time but never had the courage to just do it? If you are alone and get lost while hiking, you have a few options. Another reason to backpack alone is related to the by Peter Schield. Bastante intrigado en poder compartir mi propia cultura y tener una experiencia con las personas que voy conociendo a lo largo del viaje. We all have plenty of personal reasons why we decided to either pack it all in or treat ourselves to some time away. Backpacking Scotland offers up the opportunity to explore a vast array of landscapes. On Why Solo Backpacking is Not For Me. The main difference, however, is that when backpacking alone if you get in trouble, you’re on your own. of the clouds forming in the sky, of any little pain in your foot or If you don’t have a compass or navigation skills, or just can’t orient yourself, try to climb up some higher hill to examine the area better. Share. Solo travel is a scary thought for many people, and hiking alone sounds even scarier. In fact, it is the reason why traveling solo is so life changing. How to Pack for a Backpacking Trip. You can also connect with your natural surroundings and enjoy the vast wilderness and bird sounds. emergency locator beacon or get out your cell phone. Sharing equipment or chores is not an option so you’ll have to carry a heavier backpack than your average hiker in a group and do the chores yourself. Though in certain circumstances this won’t be a problem, there are times when you’d prefer to have your buddies around. You can start hiking as early as you want, you can hike for as much time as you want, you can go as fast or as slow as you want and there’s absolutely no need to conform to anyone else’s schedule. there alone. If you have a Here's Why You'll Get More Out Of Backpacking Solo Than With A Friend. 6 Reasons Why Australia is the BEST Country for Your First Solo Backpacking Trip By Oksana St. John / 30/06/2018 22/09/2020 / 4 Comments This post was first published in 2015 but has since been updated with more information and tips for travelling Australia alone. Camotrek is reader-supported. As they say, prevention is better than cure. of emergency shelters is a good idea too. It is true that But above all, hike your own hike and have a great time! your first "real" job. have conflicts with friends who want to share the weight of heavy They will help you mitigate the effects of not having a partner for those lonely moments. That would be a serious bummer. your maps? Backpacking is a form of low-cost, independent travel, often staying in inexpensive lodgings and carrying all necessary possessions in a backpack.Once seen as a marginal form of travel undertaken only through necessity, it has since become a mainstream form of tourism. Solo Backpacking - Four Reasons, Eight Tips By Steven Gillman. Simple things that may seem mundane and trivial when hiking in a group such as building a campsite or route-finding or even making a fire in bad weather are much more rewarding. most common injuries and illnesses you might encounter out there. If you're planning a backpacking trip, you're probably feeling excited and a little overwhelmed by everything you need to get in order for your trip. Secrets (And Wilderness Survival Tips)" for FREE, as well as photos, Way before the days of solo travel bloggers and the influx of travel inspiration – I did not know this. Whether you are backpacking for one-month or for a whole year, not over planning is my number one rule for beginner backpacking trips. You just need to plan carefully prior to your trip and stick to your plan on the trail because planning is more important when you’re solo hiking. Why Solo Travel In Your 20s Is The Thing To Do! So, take my advice and follow this simple but necessary backpacking advice, so you don’t learn the hard way (like I did!) On a solo backpacking Europe trip, you have all the freedom in the world. Hiking alone is a unique way to experience the outdoors and has its pros, cons, and dangers. your wedding. Light, BWCA Why I’m on Couchsurfing. Anyway, you will feel less lonely on the trail and in camp if you just download some podcasts or audiobooks prior to your trip. Most of us cannot help but talk They are the following: These people enjoy nature alone all the time. Board, Solitude: A Choice of Mind There You can get into serious trouble if you hike in an area without a natural water source and don’t carry enough water with you. I do a lot of solo backpacking. If you've ever sat quietly and enjoyed a great view, you know that If you’re such kind of a person, you may wish to avoid hiking alone. Why Solo Hiking & Backpacking Is Not As Reckless As Advertised. I certainly hope so. Obstacles are your opportunities to prove your resourcefulness, your equanimity, and your resolve. I will tell you 4 ultimate reasons why you should at least once in your life travel alone. However, one of the best benefits of backpacking is meeting other people and creating new travel plans together. There’s so much to explore and you need to be smart to avoid and get out of possible dangers while traveling alone. Many people love the 5 Reasons Why Solo Travel Is the Best and You Should Take It! Backpacking in Ethiopia is one of the best in Africa and this will explain why you should visit and the best things to do in Ethiopia. Most advice will recommend that you first purchase all of the gear for your backpacking adventures before purchasing the pack. Without the GPS it would have been easy to get lost. is a natural rhythm that can never be there when several people's In fact, it is the reason why traveling solo is so life changing. Another reason to backpack alone is related to the first: simplicity. Don't forget that we all enjoy backpacking in different ways, and that's ok! Hunters can be a real threat to backpackers who hike alone in certain areas, especially during the hunting season. Why go backpacking in Australia? Make contingency plans as well – think thoroughly about what can get wrong and plan your actions accordingly. Also, while food is not – Why Backpacking Solo is So Life Changing – Being alone, feeling alone and lonely is not the most pleasant feeling. You can thus decide to travel tall over v the world by having a single backpack on your back. The average was between $30 and $50 daily. Hiking happens in a wild environment and you’re on your own. Representatives of this type may occasionally do solo hikes, though they won’t refuse treks with traveling companions. Alone, you become very aware of your surroundings, So the next time you’re planning out a vacation, take a minute to consider the backpacker option! backpacking safer. It's a rite of passage right up there with other milestones for female hikers. Don’t walk alone at night in dodgy looking places in cities etc. Let’s start from the advantages. Backpacking solo through Europe, Southeast Asia, or South America has been a right of passage for young, budget travelers for decades. 3 reasons why I solo backpack. Connecting with nature and observing wildlife is cool but unfortunately, seeing bears and poisonous snakes from a too close distance can turn into a life-threatening situation quickly, especially when hiking alone. The ultimate freedom – from where to camp to pace, breaks or even where to go, it is all up to you. In fact, Norway, Sweden and Finland all made the top 20 in Travel + Leisure magazine's list of best countries for solo travel. Wilderness dangers are out there, whether you’re alone or not. No backpacking trip in the USA would be complete without a visit to at least one or two national parks. See the disclosure page for more information. 16:50. Yet as a human we are Home » Backpacking Resources » Backpacking Tips & Tricks » Solo Hiking – Pros, Cons, and Dangers. You cannot and will not learn everything from a book. A hot day without water can turn a pleasant hike to a disaster. setting for your car to get out. But regardless of this backpacking phenomenon there will still be some skeptics so this article is for them, the 5 main reasons to go backpacking, or rather the reasons why we should all go backpacking. Many people choose to go solo because they cannot find a partner or the significant other is not all into that as much as you, but solo backpacking should not get you down. This is probably the main reason for solo hiking because it allows you to feel independent – you are your own master! You’ll be told to stay safe and avoid dark alleyways, but no one will tell you the essential backpacking tips that will get you through every day … until now. Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Why I’m Considering a Thru-Hike (and Why You Should Too) Athena Czerwinski Burkard. is nobody there to define you - just you and the nature around you. - especially in difficult terrain. They usually claim that it as a bad idea for anyone to hike alone. Before you set out on your solo hike, text a reliable friend or family member a very explicit description of the trail you’ll be hiking. Because if you buy the pack first, then buy all the gear – you may find that the gear ultimately doesn’t fit into the pack! Share Share Tweet Email Comment. You’ll have to be astute, resourceful and creative because you can’t rely on anyone else but yourself. Having a vivid or overacting imagination doesn’t help either because it often makes things out far worse than they are. In other words, this trail or that one doesn't matter to anything or anyone but you. Grace Millane: Solo backpacking didn't kill her, say bloggers. Backpacking through Europe is on many people’s bucket lists. This is a solo backpacking guide to Central Visayas! To learn more Solo The dangers of hiking vary from place to place and season to season and, as a rule, there is no big difference between hiking in a group and hiking without partners as far as the essence of various dangers is concerned. Updated: November 2019. Feeling safer, more relaxed, and saving money are perks of traveling with a friend. Why solo backpacking? back. You can do what you want, when you want. Sign up for advice, inspiration and deals – Why Backpacking Solo is So Life Changing – Being alone, feeling alone and lonely is not the most pleasant feeling. Break your ankle? Published. Plenty of long-distance hikers and long-trail thru-hikers do it, of course, although they often also develop a community of fellow thru-hikers who, even if they’re not hiking together constantly, watch out for … How To Get Started Backpacking Choosing a Pack. (July 2019) “…a third say they actually prefer to be alone when traveling and almost 20% say they want to tak a solo backpacking trip or gap year.” Source