If you’re hoping to embark on a solo trip into the wilderness to test your survival skills, you will need to prepare yourself for what’s to come. A successful time in the wild is only achievable with proper physical and mental preparation.
You will need to learn basic survival skills and take the necessary safety precautions to ensure you have an enjoyable time in the wild and come home without injuries. You will also need to mentally prepare, so you’re in the right mindset to endure an extended period of time alone in the great outdoors.
Here are some top tips to increase your chance of a successful solo trip in the wilderness. For more helpful wilderness tips and strategies, click here.
Finding the Right Location
Your first step when planning a trip into the wilderness by yourself is finding the best location. You will need to find an area that is safe and suitable for your current level of experience and knowledge. You might wish to camp in Ontario or head into the quiet depths of a large forest in Tennessee. The options are endless!
Research nearby wilderness areas and consider the local weather conditions and wildlife. You must also research whether you need a permit or license to camp in certain areas of the wilderness so you can get one before you head out on your solo survival trip.
Purchasing Essential Survival Gear
To make it out in the wilderness, you will need the right equipment and supplies. Although the exact necessities of a survival trip depend on the location and aims of the trip, there are some basics that every solo survivalist needs to have with them.
Here are the essentials to have on hand when you embark on a solo survival trip in the wilderness:
- Lightweight tent or hammock
- Map, compass, and GPS device
- Fire starting kit that includes matches, lighters, fire starters, and tinder
- Water filter
- Dried food and calorie-dense snacks
- Basic cookware
- First aid kit
- Multi-functional knife
- Duct tape
- Weather appropriate clothing
Solo Survival Trip – Learn Basic Safety Tips
There are some vital safety tips you need to be aware of before you go out into the wilderness by yourself. Knowing these tips could make the difference between life and death.
As soon as you’ve set the date and location of your wilderness survival trip, you should let someone know about your plans. This can be a family member or close friend.
Telling somebody about your plans means they can raise the alarm if they suspect you’re in danger during your trip or if you don’t return home on the expected date that you specified with them.
Whilst out in the wild, you must carry communication devices so you can contact somebody immediately if you’re in danger. Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged when you set off on your survival trip and consider investing in a personal locator beacon (PLB) for emergency communication.
