Getting Started with Solo Camping
You don’t need a fancy RV or years of experience. You just need to start where you are.
First, Let’s Get Real
If you’re reading this, you might be scared. Excited, but scared. You might think you’re too old, too inexperienced, or too alone to try camping by yourself. Let me tell you something: I felt exactly the same way. And I still went. And you can too.
1. You Can Do This (Yes, Really)
Before we talk about gear or campgrounds, we need to talk about mindset. Because here’s what I’ve learned: the biggest barrier to solo camping isn’t logistics — it’s believing you can’t.
Common Fears (And The Truth)
“I’m too old to start camping”
I started seriously camping again in my 50s. Some of the most adventurous solo campers I know are in their 60s and 70s. Age is just a number.
“It’s not safe for women alone”
Statistically, campgrounds — especially state and national parks — are very safe. With basic precautions and smart campground selection, you’re probably safer than in many urban settings.
“I don’t have the right gear”
You can car camp with gear you probably already own. Start small, test what works, then upgrade gradually.
“I don’t know what I’m doing”
Neither did I when I started! That’s why campgrounds have rangers, why online communities exist, and why I’m writing this guide.
2. Start Where You Are
You don’t need to buy an RV to start camping. You don’t even need a tent if you’re willing to sleep in your car (like I do!). Here’s the beautiful truth: you can start with what you have.
Car Camping (My Current Setup)
What you need:
- A car (any size works — I use a sedan!)
- Sleeping bag or blankets
- Pillow
- Cooler for food
- Water bottles
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Camp chair (optional but nice)
Estimated cost to start: $50-$150 if you buy nothing new. $200-$300 if you need everything.
Why I love car camping:
- No tent setup in the dark
- Protection from weather and bugs
- Lock your doors for security
- Charge your phone from car battery
- Stay dry even in Florida’s surprise rainstorms
Tent Camping
What you need:
- Tent (2-3 person for solo camping)
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad or air mattress
- Pillow
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Cooler
- Camp chair
- Basic cooking setup (optional)
Estimated cost to start: $150-$300 budget setup. $300-$600 for quality gear.
Benefits of tent camping:
- More space to spread out
- Better ventilation on hot nights
- Feels more like “real” camping
- Can stand up and move around
- Easier to cook at your site
Small RV / Van / Camper
Reality check:
This is where I’m headed eventually, but it’s not where you need to start! A small trailer, pop-up camper, or converted van gives you more comfort and space, but they also cost significantly more upfront. Start with car or tent camping, see if you love it, THEN consider upgrading.
Estimated cost: $3,000-$15,000 for a used small trailer or pop-up camper. Way more for larger RVs.
💡 My advice: Don’t spend thousands on an RV until you know you love camping solo. Test the waters first with car or tent camping for under $300.
3. Essential Gear on a Budget
You don’t need everything at once. Here’s my honest breakdown of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves:
MUST-HAVES
Something to sleep in/on
Light source (flashlight)
Water storage
Food cooler
First aid kit
Whistle (safety)
Phone charger/power bank
NICE-TO-HAVES
Camp chair (comfort!)
Camp stove for cooking
Solar charger
Portable shower
Camping table
Hammock
String lights (ambiance)
💡 Money-Saving Tips
Thrift Stores
Sleeping bags, coolers, camp chairs — all available used
Facebook Marketplace
End-of-season camping gear sales
Borrow First
Test gear from friends before buying
Buy One at a Time
Upgrade gradually as you learn what you need
4. Your First Solo Trip Planning
Okay, you’ve got some basic gear. Now what? Here’s my step-by-step process for planning your first solo camping trip:
Choose a Beginner-Friendly Campground
Look for:
- State or national parks (staffed campgrounds)
- Full amenities (bathrooms, water, electricity)
- Campground hosts or rangers on-site
- Good reviews from other solo women campers
- Close to civilization (for your first trip)
💡 Pro tip: Use the Solo Sojourn Trail app to find campgrounds rated specifically for solo women’s safety and accessibility!
Book Your Site Strategically
- Start with one night only (you can always extend!)
- Choose a weekend with good weather forecasted
- Pick a site near the bathhouse for convenience
- Avoid holiday weekends for your first trip (crowded)
- Book mid-week if possible (quieter, cheaper)
Tell Someone Your Plans
Always tell a trusted friend or family member:
- Where you’re camping (exact campground & site number)
- When you’re arriving and leaving
- When they should expect to hear from you
- Emergency contact info for the campground/park
Set up a check-in schedule (text them when you arrive, before bed, next morning).
Pack Smart
Create a checklist and check items off as you pack. Include:
- Sleeping setup (bag, pillow, pad)
- Clothing (layers! Florida weather changes)
- Food & water (more than you think you need)
- First aid kit
- Flashlight + extra batteries
- Phone + charger + power bank
- Toiletries
- Trash bags
- Entertainment (book, journal, cards)
5. What to Expect (Real Talk)
Let me be honest about what your first solo camping trip will really be like:
You WILL Feel Proud
Setting up camp by yourself, spending a night outdoors alone, proving you can do this — it’s empowering in a way few things are.
You Might Feel Nervous
Every little sound at night feels louder when you’re alone. That’s normal. Bring a good book or download some comforting podcasts. The nervousness fades with experience.
Something Won’t Go As Planned
Maybe you’ll forget something. Maybe your sleeping pad will deflate. Maybe it’ll rain when it wasn’t supposed to. That’s camping! Roll with it, laugh at yourself, and learn for next time.
You’ll Probably Want to Go Again
Most people who try solo camping and survive the first night (spoiler: you will!) are already planning their next trip before they even leave the campground.
6. Connect with Community
You’re not alone in this! Here’s how to connect with other solo women campers:
Ready to Book Your First Trip?
You’ve got this. Start small, be smart, and remember: every expert camper was once a nervous beginner.