When we hear the word “camping”, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Most of the time, people imagine hot summer days somewhere by a lake or river, surrounded by forests and magnificent natural scenery, or camping with friends or family members.
However, the main feature and benefit of camping is its versatility. Each new trip and spot is always a new and unique experience. This is what makes camping not just a hobby, but often a lifestyle.
Imagine winter camping somewhere in the mountains, in a place where you have never been before, and yet you are alone. It would be much safer if you take a pair of Men’s Boots for yourself. Agree, it already sounds quite extreme to many people. At the same time, if everything is properly planned and prepared in advance, then even such an extraordinary way of rest can bring a lot of pleasant memories, give a completely new experience and allow you to challenge yourself because it is only about you and nature.
The core factor to consider when solo camping in winter is safety. If you get sick or get lost, then there will be little pleasure from such a trip.
So it’s important here to figure everything out before going camping, get the necessary equipment suitable for the winter season, such as a winter camping tent with a stove, and also prepare yourself for something new!
It is worth noting that solo camping in winter is always better to try if you already have experience traveling with a group or on your own. When camping with other people, especially when you are a beginner, you can learn from them to improve your skills.
Let’s take a look at some of the essential tips and key factors to pay attention to when it comes to solo camping during the winter season.
1. Define Your Purpose
This is the first point to start with. Understanding your goals will allow you to better prepare for the trip, as well as make a detailed plan and get all the necessary items.
Most often, people go on winter solo camping for the following reasons:
- Desire to be in solitude with nature and better understand yourself.
- Traveling in the northern countries or in the winter season.
- Hobbies (fishing, photography, hiking, nature watching, etc.)
- Attending various interesting events, festivals, etc.
- Reaching the next level of camping and getting new experiences (for experienced travelers).
2. Choose A Location
The next step is to choose a place of interest to you that you want to visit. Then try to learn about it as much as possible. Generally, camping is available in various national forests, parks, and reserves, so you can always contact the organizations that manage these areas to get all the information you need.
Factors to consider:
- Download location maps to your gadget so you don’t get lost.
- Find on the map the nearest places where you can get medical care, charge your gadgets, take a shower, warm up, etc.
- Pay attention to bodies of water, as sometimes snow can cover their surface, which can cause you to miss them and fall through.
- Find out if there is a possibility of avalanches or any other risks.
- Make a note of the sunrise and sunset times of the location you are going to so you can better manage your trip and avoid the issue of setting up your tent on a dark night.
- Find out if there is a risk of encountering dangerous predators.
3. Gain skills and knowledge
During solo camping, you can only rely on yourself, so learn basic survival skills in advance, and do not forget to take a first aid kit with you. You can find the necessary information on thematic forums, ask experienced travelers for advice or watch video tutorials.
Key points to pay attention to:
- Make sure you know how to start a fire and that you have everything you may need (camping matches, lighter fluid, gas bottles, etc.).
- Get first aid skills and learn more about the medicines in the kit, as well as their purpose and contraindications.
- Find out where you can safely set up your one-person tent (avoid mountain slopes, dry-branched trees, and peaks). Also, before you set up camp, prepare the ground where you are going to pitch the tent. Your tent should be dug into the snow a bit (snow provides better insulation for your shelter).
- Learn basic navigation skills
4. Pack Only What You Might Need
When camping solo, your backpack should be light and comfortable for long hikes. Therefore, do not take too many things.
What should definitely be packed:
- An extra pair of shoes and a few pairs of socks.
- Compact camping gear (mini stove, gas bottle, mug, matches, as well as portable knives, shovel, and ax).
- Power banks, batteries, and flashlights
- A PLB (RescueMe) gadget that you can use to signal for help if needed.
- Snacks and non-perishable food
5. Stay In Touch
The key thing in any trip, especially in winter solo camping, is safety. So always let your friends or family know where you are going and how they can contact you before you leave. Never go on a trip without telling anyone because it comes with a huge risk.
When you go camping, always take the time to call or text your close ones to let them know you’re okay. You can also talk to a friend or your family before sleep to share your day’s camping experiences and events, which may help you not feel alone and also give you a sense of security, especially at night when no one is around.
