I often feel hyper aware and sensitive in secluded surroundings. I am car camping after all; anyone can drive by. So in addition to being prepared to take care of as many physical needs as I can (my body or car) I practice staying safe from others.
Here are a few of my “safety” tips:
1. A Check-In Buddy knows all your deets. (see my previous post)
2. Arrive to a CG WAY before dark. Get a “Feel” for the place.
3. Hang Out & Wait…to set-up camp. (Sometimes the other camper(s), some who arrive later, are just NOT who you want to pitch a tent near for the night. Remember – You can leave anytime!!
4. Bring two chairs. Is there more than one person camping over there…I don’t know, is there???
5. Back your car in. Tap into your inner Bruce Wayne…be get-away car ready. Know where your car keys are at all times (and the spare).
6. Keep extra $ hidden where you can grab it in a hurry.
7. Keep car keys, shoes, flashlight next to you at night (Also consider Bear Spray. Bear Spray has a 35′ trajectory.)
8. Consider carrying Pepper Spray (Pepper Spray has a 3-5′ trajectory, & is intended for close attacks.) I carry Pepper Spray on a lanyard around my neck (it has an attached whistle). It gives me a little boost of security; that I might be able to defend myself if I had to.
9. Camp with your dog. They’re good at letting you know when others are around.
10. Practice. i.e. Start close to home, go for a quick overnighter, sleep in your car.
Despite the list of “Safety Tips” I really enjoy the solitude and the aliveness that I feel on a SOLO camping outing!
Wild Escape Guides 