Tips for Solo Camping

Camp Alone

Thunder and rain accompanied my awakening. “Good morning,” my partner texted. I hope you are up and ready for today’s journey. You are great.” and make it solo.

Weather app opens. Daylong rain was forecast. I texted back:

“Thanks. Rain may force a rescheduling. I’ll update.”

That night, I found any excuse to cancel my solo camping trip on Brunni mountain in Engelberg, Switzerland. I contemplated choices for an hour in bed after my departure time. I would wait. Another weekend would work. I chose this weekend knowing it would be one of the last I could do this alone.

What was my motivation? I didn’t want to. I had only been camping once before, with eight people and two extremely experienced guides, but it was over two years ago! What did I learn? Enough. I lived. Still writing. And anyone could take it alone. Even those unfamiliar with tent flies.
Beginner Solo Camping Tips

Locate Yourself

Knowing your camping area will reduce initial worry. I set up my tent in Brunni the weekend prior with pals. I knew the rules and could return alone.
Gear Up

Researching your location and weather will determine what you need. Inexperienced campers rarely have all the stuff for an overnight. You may not be ready to invest. Not me. My friend lent me equipment.

Camping gear:

Marmot Limelight 2P Tent with ground tarp, tent fly, and tent picks.

TIP! Practice tent setup before hiking. I had a few verbal instructions but did not practice. However, you can avoid that predicament.

Pacific Outdoor Equipment Insul Mat (sleeping mat).
Stoic Somnus 15 sleeping bag
Low Alpine Skyline 75 backpacking

Bring a daypack. I forgot. Thus, you can leave your larger rucksack at a regulated station and hike with only what you need.

Breakfast and snacks for tomorrow
Water bottle
Raincoat, pants, and layers
Basic hygiene
Airplane mode on my phone
a book
I used my phone, but a headlamp or handsfree bulb is better.

Select Your Swiss Camping Site.

Swiss Alpine Hut camping is ideal. In higher elevations or distant regions (far from chairlifts and gondola stations), Swiss Alpine Huts become more primitive. They provide basic lodging for climbers, trekkers, families, and nature lovers. I was close enough to get a warm supper before bed and a bathroom. I could have ditched my huge backpack if I had a daypack!

Hike Out

Before trekking, plan your route. Are you hiking to camp? Will you require a chairlift or gondola? How much? How long will it all take? If you are racing the sun, consider these.
Tell Friends

Before embarking on your solo vacation, inform close friends and family of your whereabouts. Staying in mobile reception range also makes you feel safer.

Remember I said it would rain all day? As I set up my tent, it rained. After setting up the tent and unpacking, the sun emerged from the clouds and lit up the whole place. Snow-capped, rugged mountains were apparent. Exhilarating yet serene. “You made it,” the hills said. For you.”