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The peace, quiet, and serenity of a solo backpacking trip is hard to beat. It’s just you and the wilderness as the trail flows by under your feet. You make all the decisions, when to stop, where to camp, and how fast you want to hike. It is truly a unique experience that anyone who backpacks should enjoy at least once. As a solo backpacker you also need to be aware that you are more vulnerable because you are out there on your own. You are in a more dangerous position simply because you are alone with nobody to help you if something does happen. For this reason you need to take steps to make your trek into the wilderness safer. Here are 7 Solo Backpacking Tips 1. Always tell someone where you are going, when you are going, and when you plan to return. Leave a map with them showing your planned route along with the dates of your trip. 2. Bring your cell phone. Turn it off to save the battery and put it in your pack. If you need it you’ll have it. Cell coverage is pretty much non-existent in the wild but it may just save your life. 3. Double check your emergency/safety items and make sure they are in your pack. First aid kit, water-proof matches, iodine tablets, emergency blanket, whistle, mirror, etc all need to make the trip with you. 4. Match your route to your abilities. If you have a bad knee or, kit travel traile, some other issue stick to well traveled trails where you stand a better chance of seeing other hikers and backpackers. 5. Learn to read a map and how to use a compass. Knowing where you are and the way out is vitally important, even when you take a side hike off your main route. 6. Stay within your abilities. Don’t plane to hike 20 miles per day if you’ve never done that before. In fact you should plan to set your expectations a little below what you would do if you were backpacking with a group. 7. You will need to lighten your load. Because you are no longer sharing the load for all your equipment like a tent, cooking gear, and other items you need to make sure you do not overload your pack. Read up on lightweight backpacking and go through your equipment list carefully. There is more risk associated with solo backpacking but the rewards of a well planned trip can make it well worth it.
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