Just imagine yourself wandering alone in the woods on your own, quietly enjoying the outdoors. Solo hiking gives you this feeling where you can be lost in your thoughts and get some time alone with yourself. It might have its cons, but it’s an experience worth having. It is a rewarding experience for several reasons.

Time with Yourself

No one gets to spend time with themselves these days as we are preoccupied with so many responsibilities. Alone time is rare and you hardly get a perspective on life and things or give time to yourself. Solo hiking is the ‘me time’ for you, a time where you can be yourself.

Choose to Socialize

Now, this may seem to be a drawback, but not always. Sometimes it is good to be alone. However, the choice lies with as you can choose to socialise whenever you feel like. You can talk to like-minded people or other hikers in case you feel the need for the human touch.

Challenge Yourself

When you are travelling in a group, you need to plan everything to the convenience of the other group members. But, this is not the case when you are alone on your own. You can try out new things and even push yourself. All the decisions are yours.

Here are some handy tips for you from my experience as a solo hiker. You need to have these skills to start your solo adventure.

Essential Skills Required for Solo Adventure

  • Always inform someone about your plan, where you will be going and when you will be back. Keep them informed about your plan and of the changes if any. This would help you get some help in case you are in some difficulty.
  • Plan your trip, know the routes. Keep the map, trail log book and compass with you. You might get lost so know how to use the compass and locate your direction.
  • Carry a GPS or personal locator beacon to locate yourself on the map and even your spot. The beacon will allow your loved one to keep a track on you.
  • Always keep a first-aid handy with you.
  • Always be prepared with the right gear and the equipment according to the situations. You need to be aware of the potential emergencies too.
  • Know the environment before you head to any trip. Have an idea of all the weather forecasts and the dangers you can face.

It is surely something that you must try out at least once in your life. It is an enjoyable experience and lets you explore your limitations. You can start with less complex hikes first and then you can increase the duration, complexity and length of your hike. Once you have had a few experiences, your skills will improve too.