IWD: Safety tips for solo female campers

When we think about camping, it often conjures images of setting up camp alongside family, friends, or a significant other. But having a solo camping adventure can be a great way to relax and unwind, getting away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. As a woman camping alone, there will of course be extra safety considerations to take into account. But the good news is that with appropriate planning and preparation, you can enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors in your own company.

In honour of International Women's Day, we’ve rounded up some of the best safety tips for solo female camping in the UK and beyond. But first, what it is that makes camping alone as a woman so great?

The joys of solo camping as a woman

There's something liberating about embarking on a solo camping trip, making it a worthwhile activity for every gender. Not only does it allow you the chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and unplug from technology for a little while, but it’s also a great opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. But for women, solo camping can be particularly empowering, offering a sense of self-reliance, independence, and adventure. It can also be a great way to boost self-confidence and self-esteem, which women are more likely to struggle with (WeAreTheCity).

Safety tips for camping alone as a woman

While solo camping can be incredibly rewarding, safety should always be a top priority when camping alone as a woman.  While camping is a safe outdoor activity for women to enjoy, it’s always good to be prepared. To help you maximise your safety and feel as confident as possible while solo camping, we’ve rounded up six essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Spend time researching where to pitch up

Before setting out on your solo camping adventure, it’s important to thoroughly research your potential campsites. Opt for well-established campsites with good reviews, especially from other solo female campers. You should consider various factors when choosing where to pitch your tent, such as proximity to amenities, accessibility, and parking. If it’s your first time solo camping, it’s a good idea to pick a campsite with ample facilities for both comfort at security.

If you plan on wild camping, chat with other campers you know to find some of the most safe and secure spots. It’s also a good idea to bring your car on a wild camping trip. Not only will you likely need it to reach these remote areas, but it also means you have a second sleeping option if necessary.

Keep your loved ones informed

You should always inform at least a couple of trusted friends or family members of your camping plans. Keeping them in the loop means that you will have someone to check on you if something goes awry. As well as letting them know where you’re pitched up, you should also inform them of your itinerary, expected return date, and emergency contact information, such as the phone number of the campsite you’re staying at. Make sure to check in with them regularly during your trip, especially if you're exploring remote areas with limited phone reception.

Pack women’s solo camping essentials

The best way to be as prepared as possible on your solo female camping trip is to ensure you pack all the necessary safety essentials. Having all the camping essentials you need on hand will no doubt make you feel much more secure and comfortable when camping alone, plus it’s much better to be overprepared than underprepared! Our ultimate UK camping checklist can help you pack for your solo adventure. Particularly important tools for women camping alone to pack include:

• First aid kit
• Car emergency kit
• Phone and portable charger
• Personal alarm
• Torches and spare batteries
• A map of the local area

Bring your furry friend

Consider bringing along a canine companion for added security and companionship if you’re a woman camping alone. Many women find comfort and reassurance in having a loyal dog by their side while camping alone, as they can be great at alerting you to anything suspicious. Plus, your pet is sure to love all the outdoor time and spending quality time with you. Just be sure to check campsite regulations regarding pets and keep your furry friend on a lead when necessary, especially if they do not respond to your recall.

Make the most of the daylight

Pitching up a tent in the dark is never easy, but it’s especially difficult if you’re a solo camper. So, make sure to arrive and set up while it’s still light outside. Not only will this help you see what you’re doing better, but it can also be useful when it comes to choosing the right place to pitch. When setting up camp in the dark it can be easy to park too close to a tree or the water’s edge.

As a woman camping alone, it’s also a good idea to use this time in the daylight to get to know the layout of the area you’re camping. This can help you figure out emergency exit routes and see who else is camping nearby, as well as make sure you know where all the essential facilities are.

Save posting on social media until you’re back home

While it may be tempting to share your solo camping adventures in real-time on social media, it's best to hold off on posting them until you're safely back home. Broadcasting your whereabouts online can inadvertently compromise your safety, which can be especially dangerous when camping alone as a woman in a remote area. It’s also a good idea to avoid sharing information about your trip with acquaintances or in a public setting before you go, for extra security.

With these camping safety tips, you should now feel prepared to enjoy a solo excursion spending a night under the stars, on International Women’s Day and beyond. We have a wide choice of camping accessories to make your next outdoor adventure as comfortable as possible, as well as a range of stoves for keeping warm on your adventure. Explore the full range at Boutique Camping today. And don’t forget to check out the rest of our blog posts for even more handy tips and information on all things camping.