Your Ultimate Guide to Solo Tent Camping

Key Takeaways

• Safe solo camping starts with a reliable tent. We recommend canvas spike tents for their portability, durability, insulation, and weather resistance.
• An 8 ’x 10’ or 10’ x 12’ tent should provide enough space for a solo camper.
• Practice setting up your tent and using your equipment at home before heading out.
• Start by spending a night at a local campsite to build confidence.

Camping alone is a rite of passage for passionate outdoor enthusiasts. You achieve a profound sense of peace, freedom, independence, and empowerment throughout the adventure, and all while forming a deeper connection with nature.

At the same time, embarking on a solo camping trip is also a nerve-racking experience. Getting out of your comfort zone can be so rewarding, but there are risks to keep top of mind. Nature is unforgiving. Proper preparation is the key to enjoying a safe, comfortable journey in the wild.

From portable tents and shelters to winter-ready stoves and ovens, we stock the equipment you need to stay protected and make the most of every moment. And, as a veteran-owned business founded and run by a seasoned outdoorsman, you can count on us for tips and guidance.

1. Start by Choosing the Right Tent

A reliable shelter is a must for solo camping. Even if you plan to sleep under the stars, you never know when inclement weather will hit. Lugging around a large tent isn’t practical. There are several tents purpose-designed for solo expeditions.

We strongly recommend canvas tents. Compared to synthetic tents, they’re much more durable and weather-resistant, especially because we use Army Duck double-fill canvas. Additionally, canvas has better temperature regulation and retention.

Select the Right Size

You’re camping alone, so a size of around 8 ’x 10’ (80 square feet) or 10’ x 12’ (120 square feet) should provide enough space for you and your gear. A smaller size makes carrying, setting up, and breaking down the tent so much easier, allowing you to conserve energy.

We recommend spike tents for solo camping. They’re designed to be portable and manageable without a second person. Our Selkirk spike tent is very popular among solo campers.

Watch this video of our owner, Rich, showcasing the Selkirk spike tent:

Watch this video of one person setting up a Selkirk spike tent:

Practice at Home

After getting your tent, practice solo tent camping in your backyard before heading into the wild.

You need to learn essential skills like:

• How to set up a spike tent
• How to fold a wall tent
• How to maintain a wall tent

You’ll also want to get familiar with the rest of your tent camping gear, like the floor, fly, and stove (if applicable). You never want to be guessing when solo camping. Get to know your gear like the back of your hand so you’re 100% confident during your adventure.

2. Pack Simple & Smart

When camping alone, every item in your pack must serve a purpose. The goal is to reduce weight as much as possible by bringing only the bare essentials. Every ounce matters.

Here are the basics:

• Tent
• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping pad
• Pillow
• Headlamp/flashlight
• First aid kit
• Map and compass (or dependable GPS system)
• Food and water
• Cooking equipment
• Fire starter
• Knife/multi-tool
• Appropriate clothing
• Phone and phone charger

Be Prepared for Cold Weather

If you’re solo camping in cold weather, your packing list must be adjusted accordingly. Winter camping can be challenging and dangerous. In addition to layerable clothing and a warm sleep system, we highly recommend bringing a hot tent and camping stove.

A hot tent and stove will keep you safe and comfortable when solo tent camping during fall or winter months. Additionally, having access to hot food and drinks is such a blessing.

Bring Multi-Use Items

A tarp can add an extra layer to your shelter, serve as a ground cover, and provide shade if you want to enjoy fresh air and sunshine while solo camping.

A bandana is another versatile item. It can be used as a pot holder, a cleaning rag, a face and head covering, and a makeshift bandage.

3. Prioritize Your Safety

You can drastically mitigate the risk of camping alone by taking some simple precautions:

• Tell a friend or family member your plans.
• Bring navigation tools, and make sure you know how to use them.
• Bring a full first aid kit, and learn how to use each piece.
• Research the location in advance, including wildlife, weather, terrain, and phone reception.

4. Don’t Overlook Comfort

Solo camping naturally involves roughing it, but you don’t want to be miserable. Crucial skills like knowing how to set up and how to fold a wall tent will help to prevent frustration, but don’t forget creature comforts that let you truly enjoy the experience.

Weigh the benefits and drawbacks of comfort-enhancing items. For example, a foldable camping chair or padded sleeping mat will add weight, but having a place to unwind after a long hike is such a boon.

Take Steps to Prevent Stress

In addition to bringing items that improve comfort, think about the mental and emotional side of solo camping.

Here are some quick tips to avoid stress while solo tent camping:

• Arrive Early: You don’t want to be setting up camp after dark. Give yourself plenty of daylight so you’re fully settled in by nightfall.

• Keep Gear Organized & Accessible: Have a place for everything and keep everything in its place.

• Bring Entertainment: There’s a lot of time to fill when camping alone. Put a few podcasts on your phone. Bring a book and a journal. You’ll be glad to have ways to pass the downtime.

Embrace the Solitude

Solo camping is as much a mental challenge as a physical one. It’s impossible to fully understand the toll it can take on your psyche until you’re in the thick of it.

Go into the experience with a game plan. Whether you want to develop new survival skills, document your journey through photos, or just escape the hustle and bustle, lean into the reason behind your trip. The goal is to return home feeling like you gained something.

5. Do a Trial Run

Not only is it okay to start small, but it’s the smart approach. If you’ve never gone solo camping before, keep it simple. Find a local campsite and spend the night. Every time you go solo tent camping, you’re building confidence and honing your skills. Each trip is an opportunity to prepare for the next. Don’t bite off more than you can chew.

Save on Top-Quality Tents & Gear

Remember: Your tent is the most critical piece of gear in your kit. Whether you choose the Selkirk spike tent, a rugged Wilderness hunting tent, or a hot tent for winter camping, you can count on Wall Tent Shop for the best solo camping supplies. Shop now, and take advantage of low prices, free shipping, and no sales tax.*

*Items shipped to an Idaho address must pay Idaho sales tax.

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