5 Reasons to Avoid Solo Camping

Having to worry about whether or not everyone is happy and enjoying themselves when you’re camping can get frustrating, but a solo trip may not be the best way to avoid stress.

A bad trip with friends or family could leave you feeling like you’d rather pack up and find a secluded spot by yourself. Camping alone, though, comes with its own issues.

Let’s take a look at five reasons you should avoid solo camping. 

Solo Camping Isn’t for Everyone; Here Are 5 Reasons Why

A camping adventure can be a great way to get some alone time, but there are a few reasons why you might want to reconsider. Let’s take a look!

1. There’s Safety in Numbers

The buddy system is great because it provides a sense of security in various situations, camping included. If something unexpected were to occur, having at least one other person around can be helpful.

Traveling in a group can ward off any seedy people looking to cause trouble. They’ll likely think twice about any attempt if there are multiple people instead of a single person.

So even if you aren’t able to travel with someone, it may be beneficial to stick to established campgrounds when traveling solo.

2. Solo Camping Can Be Lonely

With many people living their lives surrounded by people, a solo camping trip can be a dream come true. However, it can also be lonely, especially if it’s an extended camping trip.

Being alone may sound fantastic at first, but the continual silence can be painful. There’s no one to laugh along to your favorite sitcom or to have a conversation with over dinner.

If you’re someone who enjoys being around others, solo camping can be challenging.

3. There’s No One to Split Campsite Chores With

When you’re camping alone, the chore list doesn’t get any shorter. Instead of dividing up the tasks for setting up and taking down camp, you’re doing everything. This can be exhausting and time-consuming, especially if you move frequently.

However, setup and teardown are just the beginning of the chores.

There are everyday chores that take place while camping, like managing your tank levels, cleaning up, and maintaining your RV. It can get a bit overwhelming to do it all yourself.

4. You Have to Do All the Driving

Traveling solo means you’re also handling all of the driving duties as well. When you’re driving mile after mile for hours, it can get exhausting.

Splitting up the driving responsibilities with someone can mean you can hand the keys over to someone when you’re tired or stressed or the weather isn’t cooperating.

However, since you’re traveling solo, you won’t have anyone to turn to for a driving shift. This may require you to be more patient as you might not cover as much ground alone.

5. Solo Camping Can Be Scary

Camping by yourself can have you questioning every little noise you hear outside. Whether it’s a tree branch brushing against your RV or an animal scurrying by, noises can be scary while camping alone.

These fears can be even worse if you’re camping in a remote location. Stepping out of your RV into the darkness of night can make you feel like you’re entering a scene from a scary movie.

Pro Tip: Camping in a car or RV can add a level of safety when solo camping. This is How To Camp Out of Your Car, Legally.

Solo Camping Isn’t All Bad

While it can be bad, solo camping isn’t all bad. You don’t have to worry about your camping partner being messy or bumping into you in the tight living quarters. Being the only person in the RV can even make smaller RVs feel larger.

Another benefit of solo camping is that you can go where you want when you want.

You’re allowed to fully embrace the nomadic lifestyle and travel where the road takes you. It can be a freeing choice for some.

Is It Safe to Camp Alone?

Camping alone can be safe as long as you take the proper precautions. Whether you’re camping alone or with others, you should only set up camp in places where you feel safe.

If you don’t feel secure, move along and find a different campsite.

Tips for Safe Solo Camping

Let’s take a look at a few precautions you can take to avoid an unpleasant solo camping trip.

Carry Protection

Protecting yourself when solo camping is essential. You don’t want to find yourself in a sticky situation without some sort of protection. How and what you choose to carry for protection is entirely up to you.

However, you should have a plan in place.

Laws vary from state to state when it comes to carrying various types of protection. Ensure that you follow all applicable laws regarding storage and transportation of whatever you’re carrying for protection.

Pro Tip: When heading out for a solo camping trip, make sure your first aid kit is filled with everything on our First Aid Checklist You Need For Camping.

Stay in Cell Signal Range

Having a cell signal is useful for more than just binge-watching your favorite show while camping. It also enables you to receive weather updates and other emergency alerts to keep you safe.

You’ll also be able to make phone calls and stay in contact with friends and family while on your camping adventure. Should you need to call for help, you can contact local authorities.

Always Let Someone Know Where You’ll Be

When you’re camping alone, you should always let a trusted friend or family member know where you’ll be. This can be extremely beneficial should there be an emergency and someone needs to contact you.

Many RVers use apps that constantly track their location and give access to friends and family. This means that at any time, a loved one can check-in and see your location. While this may seem creepy to some, it can be extremely convenient should someone need to find you.

If You Feel off or Unsafe, Leave

A benefit of camping is that you can pack up and leave. If something or someone causes you to have an uncomfortable or unsafe feeling, leave.

No matter how epic the campsite is, your safety is more important.

Is Solo Camping Worth It? 

Solitude is often underappreciated in this day and age. Going for a solo camping trip can be a great way to challenge yourself to be self-sufficient and enjoy a relaxing and quiet adventure.

So if you’re looking for a great camping adventure, a solo camping trip could be just what you need. Would you consider camping solo?

Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA

To be honest with you, we hate paying for camping. There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).

You should give it a try!

As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours. Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.

Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers that love to score the best site! 

We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state). Access the list by submitting your email below: