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Original poster

Is camping alone weird?

36 replies

Dreamegg · 13/05/2024 09:39

I used to really enjoy camping - I lived near a national park for a while in my 20s and used to hike and camp regularly with friends. I've been living in London for the past few years and neither DP or my friends here are interested in camping.

I've spontaneously booked a one night, solo stay at a small campsite about an hour drive away in June, just as a tester to see how I feel about camping alone, but now I'm a bit anxious! Mainly embarrassed about rocking up on my own and being a loner in a field of families and friends.

Does anyone here go camping alone? I'm not bothered about being alone, I'm going for some peace and quiet! It's more just feeling awkward on the campsite as a loner I guess. Is it that unusual for people to camp alone? And also have some concerns about being a lone woman sleeping in a field at night. Any advice or tips appreciated.

OP posts:
Hillbilly · 13/05/2024 10:11

I camp alone mostly these days as DH and teenage kids not so interested. I only get away about twice a year but absolutely love it. I go to a site I'm really familiar with and really enjoy the solitude. Roaring fire, good book and wine. Usually for 2 or 3 nights at a time and it's so much easier with only gear for one 😊

mindutopia · 13/05/2024 10:08

I've been camping alone many times. Usually it's not so much to 'go camping' but because I need to be somewhere else and camping was the cheapest way to do an overnight stay. I've also been wild camping alone. It's fine and never been weird.

midgetastic · 13/05/2024 10:04

It is unusual to see a woman ( not men) camp alone but I don't see why

ThatTimeIKnewFamousPeople · 13/05/2024 09:59

It's my dream. You're lucky, I can't wait until I have more time on my own and can do the same. I would pick a basic campsite where there are less likely to be big groups of families with microwaves and TVs, but that's my camping preference anyway.

I often see solo campers at the sites we go to and don't think anything of it, I just assume they are hikers. It looks very peaceful. Enjoy

Original poster
Dreamegg · 13/05/2024 09:55

I've stayed away in hotels etc solo loads of times before, both in the UK and overseas, love it. But camping feels different, I suppose you're more public and also always thought of it as more of a group activity.

OP posts:
Pixiesgirl · 13/05/2024 09:52

I watch a girl who does cycling tours all over the place and streams it. She didn't do it before she met her boyfriend (he's a streamer). She basically cycles alone all over Europe and often camps, she's really inspiring. She was pretty shy/clueless when she started but has really grown in confidence. I imagine the first time will be intimidating, but it will soon become normal.

BobShark · 13/05/2024 09:49

Not at all weird, I often will go camp for a night, it's great for mental health, I take a bottle of wine, a book and sit by the fire. I also have a super basic setup, just a swag and an esky in the car.

Maryamlouise · 13/05/2024 09:43

Not weird at all. I have loads usually when walking or biking. Have fun

KimberleyClark · 13/05/2024 09:42

I’m not into camping but would be happy to book into a hotel or self catering cottage solo.

Yellowhammer09 · 13/05/2024 09:42

If you're nervous about being a lone female then stay nearish to other tents, from two separate groups. I've never had an issue though.

Yellowhammer09 · 13/05/2024 09:40

I've not camped alone in the UK, but I've solo camped around other countries.

Have fun, it'll be nice! It's so relaxing being on your own.

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