Backpacking solo: preparation, safety and confidence

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“From these and many other solo backpacking trips I’ve taken since, I gathered my key pieces of advice so that you can do the same this hiking season.”

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“So stop thinking about it and just do it. Male, female, non-binary, whoever you are. Just be smart about it, protect yourself, go prepared, and freaking enjoy yourself! Wander on!”

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“The thing I like most about solo hikes is simply slowing down and enjoying my destination at a different pace. On solo hikes, more than when hiking with companions, I experience sounds and smells as well as sights that I might otherwise miss.”

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“The rewards for solo hiking are well worth the challenges that come along with hiking alone and when fully prepared, one night alone in the backcountry can change your life forever.”

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“In the end, it’s all about how comfortable you are with being alone outside. Generally, I’d say it’s a great idea to backpack alone – with some apparent exceptions.”

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“For starters, among the trips in this story, I’d suggest there are areas of Idaho’s Sawtooths, Yosemite, Sequoia, the Great Smoky Mountains, the Olympic coast and parts of the Olympic Mountains, and certainly the White Mountains where you can backpack solo with no trouble navigating trails and the likelihood of…”

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“Plan solo hikes: Only hike trails that feel safe to do alone, which can vary widely on your skill and experience level. Almost every national park has activities other than hiking, so don’t think you can’t visit a park if you’re uncomfortable hiking alone.”

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“If you’re looking to get into solo hiking, I’d recommend following these steps: 1. Hike a local trail with a friend or group at least 1-2 times. 2. Once you feel like the trail is more familiar to you, go to that same trail on your own.”

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“As far as safety goes, you will be fine walking without a group. As the trail has grown in popularity, so have the facilities around the route. You seldom go more than 3 hours without stumbling across a rest point with a snack store and toilets.”

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“One of the best ways to tiptoe your way into traveling alone is to venture alone to a place that’s new… but not SO new.”

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“Solo backpacking is a unique and personal journey that offers an unmatched sense of freedom, achievement, and connection to the natural world. By starting small, preparing meticulously, and embracing the solitude, you'll discover not just the wonders of the wilderness, but also the depths of your own strength and resilience.”

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“The best thing to do on your first solo trip is to go somewhere that you are familiar with. Choose a trail that you have hiked before or even backpacked with friends.”

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“Taking your first step in traveling solo is less scary when you can see how it has inspired others. That’s why I asked 10 travel bloggers to share their favorite solo destinations.”

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“By preparing mentally and physically, planning carefully, and embracing the challenges, you may unlock a new level of personal growth and connection with nature. So pack your gear, learn some new skills, and develop a greater understanding of yourself and the outdoors.”

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“Travelling alone might cause your family slight panic attacks (easily overcome), and make your friends wonder why you’re not taking them, but I couldn’t recommend it more. You’ll make mistakes, you’ll get lost in a strange city, and you’ll meet some real weirdos.”

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“Anyone who wants to see the world, but is too nervous to go traveling on your own, don’t be. Going solo pushes you to get out of your shell and talk to people you would otherwise never connect with.”

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“Couchsurf – this is one of the best tips for solo budget travellers. You’ll meet a local who knows a bunch of cool, hidden spots that tourists don’t usually get to see AND save yourself a full night’s accommodation in a usually expensive place.”

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“Your first solo backpacking trip doesn’t need to be long or strenuous. It can be a couple-mile trek to a nearby lake for a night under the stars.”

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“Solo hikes are a wonderful way to relax and get in touch with yourself–they have all the benefits of hiking, and also boost your confidence and autonomy.”

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“If you have a thirst for adventure, thrive off shocked looks when passing the other trekking groups, are on a budget, and prefer to be on your own time with only the company of your group then I would absolutely embark on the 5 day Salkantay Trek adventure independently.”

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“I researched short hikes that were clearly marked. I wanted to leave no room for error.”