We all have fears and concerns about getting outdoors. Some of these I struggle from and others are from talking with you all our outdoor community. We have put together a list of five things that we hear people are most concerned about when going on solo adventures. These fears and concerns should not keep you from getting outside. Instead, we have put together some great ways to help.

1.  Lions, Tigers, and Bears… oh my!

Everyone has heard of the horror stories of people being attacked but what is not always spoken about is most people who see bears, mountain lions, and other potentially dangerous animals do not have dangerous encounters.  Yes your heart might skip a beat and your adrenaline will be pumping but a simple “HEY BEAR” will startle them and they will head in the other direction. As long as you are aware of your surroundings, researched the area, and have the appropriate gear there is no need to use “dangerous” animals as an excuse to not go to those places you have always wanted to go. A few tips for those who might be a little anxious.

  • Talk or Sing out loud when you are concerned. Animals will hear your noise and stay away from you.
  • Carry Bear Spray and know how to use it. Do not spray yourself in the face instead of the bear.
  • Keep your food out of your tent and use the bear vaults or properly store your food in the backcountry.
  • Speak to the local ranger or staff at the welcome center about sightings and suggested practices.
  • Research on the internet before going. Many times you can find warnings and alerts prior to arriving.
  • Give the animal space it is a wild animal after all and you are just as weird and scary to them.

2. Being Alone

If you are like me, you would much rather join up with friends and head off on an adventure. Sometimes that is not always possible or you just want to spend some time alone. No matter how big or small heading off on a solo adventure of any kind is always hard for anyone. Lots of unknown factors and “what ifs” to consider but you should not let those get in the way.  “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” –  Lao Tzu. Grab your pack or load up the car and head off on your own. Some of my greatest adventures have been alone. Here are a few handy tips that I have found that have helped along the way.

  • Talk to people, learn their stories, and be kind to them. You are just as much of your life story as you are of theirs now. ]
  • Your Imagination can be both a strength and a weakness. Not every noise in the dark is out to kill you. Stay cautious and curious.
  • Be flexible!  Have backup plans and be ready to use them.  Alternative plans can also mean being able to rearrange your days for weather or sudden issues.
  • Tell someone about your plan.  Always keep someone in the loop of what you’re going to be doing.  Give them your backup plans, and if possible keep in them in the loop any time you have an available signal.
  • Keep your important docs, ID, cash in a safe place.
  • Know your plans inside and out.  Spontaneous events happen, and that can be fun, but know your plans.  Be prepared, know the routes, and do a little research
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3.  Try New Things

Jumping from rocks into the river below, new food, or really anything. It is very easy to say no but much harder to say yes. We have all had those moments where we have almost said no but then we change our minds and try it anyway. Normally it is friends, family, or travel companions that make it easier by going first. When you are traveling solo there is not always someone to go first. Be cautious and careful you are the only one that can make or break your trip.

  • Know your limits. Getting in above your head never ends up with a happy ending.
  • It is ok to say no thank you if you do not feel comfortable or you do not like what is being presented to you.
  • Be skeptical but optimistic. It is ok to go outside of your comfort zone every once in a while.
  • Having an open mind about having a new experience and trying new things will allow you to have more fun.
  • Life is all about the things you did not about the stuff you collected.

4. Go To New Places

We all have our favorite local spots. Campsites, hiking trails, drives, you name it. Going outside of your comfort zone by going someplace else opens you up to enjoy many new experiences and adventures. Drive a little further, pick a location on a map and go, make a point to find new places even within your backyard.

  • Pull out a map or visit Google Maps and start finding spots!
  • Research the locations and start planning. What will it take to get there, what gear do you need, etc.
  • Lists are your friends.
  • Talk to friends social media or IRL and ask for people’s advice while visiting the locations.
  • The research can be just as fun as the actual trip.

5. Keeps Your Skills Sharp 

If you travel often you always need to keep your skills sharp. Learning new things is also important as well. Learning how to read maps, know what gear you need, and even information about your destination can be extremely helpful. We have all heard that learning new on a regular basis is important but relearning things is also just as important. You might have learned a skill many years ago such as first aid. If you have not practiced it regularly it will still be there when you need it but it might get a little rusty. Watch videos, go to training courses, or even simply have a friend show you how to do something again can help. Here are a few courses and or skills that might come in handy.

 The next time you decide on going on a solo trip use these suggestions to help you get out there and have an adventure. Good luck and happy travels!