Preparing for your first solo overnight in the Outdoors is similar to taking your first step into anything in life. It is both thrilling and scary at the same time. So, Camp location, an emergency plan, prior research and gear testing are your top priorities.
Check Camping must haves for beginners here.
Camp Location
First, camp location is one of the most important steps of preparing for your first solo overnight in the outdoors. Your location should be close to where you live. That way, you don’t have to travel way too far. Your location should be covered by a good cellphone reception in case of emergencies where you need to call for help or backup. Also, your camp spot should be somewhat remote from people where you could enjoy that quiet solitude which is probably the point of being solo in the first place.
Emergency Plan
Prepare an Emergency plan. Make sure you contact some of your close friends or relatives and let them know where you’ll be and how long you’ll be gone. That way, if anything goes wrong there should be people who know where they can find you. Or in case something goes wrong, you know who to call and how to bail if necessary.
Prior research
Do your research. Gather some info about the camping location and weather conditions. That way, you can be prepared and know what to expect. It is more than likely everything should work out okay but again it’s always better to be prepared.
Gear testing
Make sure to test all of your gear and equipment at home. There is nothing more frustrating than your own gear failing you when you need it the most. Make sure your knife and axe are well sharpened, your cellphone/Camera/Headlight’s batteries are well charged. And don’t forget your first aid kit.
Have fun
And the most important thing is to enjoy your first solo experience in the wilderness. Take pictures, write in your journal and enjoy that hot cup of tea by the fire, you’ve earned it.
You may want to check “Mountain Driving guide for Truckers, RV and Motorhome drivers”. This valuable resource provides the locations and descriptions of over 700 mountain passes and steep grades in 22 United States.
About The Author
