Solo Backpacking for Women: A Complete Guide to Confidence, Safety & Freedom

Why go solo backpacking as a woman?

Backpacking alone offers you complete control and independence. Every decision is entirely yours to make—you can start your trip when you choose, hike as many miles as you want, set up camp wherever moves you, eat when you are hungry, basically run the show. These seemingly small choices can and will make you feel liberated and empowered.

For me it started with having nobody to go out with backpacking. I hear this from a lot of other women as the reason they don’t go. Getting started with backpacking has its own challenges let alone going alone. I for one found lots of strength and confidence once I started going more frequently.

As a mother and wife, much of your life revolves around collaboration, and craving autonomy. Making all these decisions can give you a profound sense of freedom and agency. This in turn allows you to return home and fully engage with your family. This has been my experience.

I’ve noticed an increasing number of women venturing out solo on the trails these days. If solo backpacking is something you’re considering or already set on, know that you absolutely can do it. Like anything new, it takes time to adjust, but with each trip, your fears will diminish. To be candid, I still have my moments after the sun goes down. But you learn how to manage those fears.

🌿 Benefits of Solo Backpacking

• Total freedom to hike, rest, and explore at your own pace
• Boosts confidence and self-reliance
• Space for personal reflection and mental reset
• Deep connection with nature without distraction

🏕 Tips to Acclimate to Being Alone in the Wilderness

These steps helped me get more comfortable with solo time outdoors:

Go car camping by yourself Spending the night solo in a tent (but near people) is a great first step.

Hike solo I spent an entire summer doing solo day hikes—from 5 to 25 miles. It taught me self-reliance and trail awareness.

Backpack with a friend, but camp alone Coordinate a trip where you and a friend hike together but set up separate camps. It’s a great confidence booster.

🗺 Tips on Choosing Your First Solo Backpacking Trip

• Pick a popular trail — You won’t feel isolated, and there’s comfort in knowing others are nearby.
• Know the trail — Choose one you’ve done before to remove the “unknown” variable.
• Plan for solo weight — You’ll be carrying everything, so check mileage and elevation carefully.

Looking for trail ideas? Explore my 10 Best Backpacking Trips in Washington.

Is it Safe to Backpack Solo as a Woman?

Yes—with preparation, awareness, and confidence. There are naysayers, but solo backpacking is not inherently dangerous. Trust your instincts and take common-sense precautions. If people in your life make you feel unsafe or unsupported, share your plans selectively.

Overcoming Popular Fears

Wildlife Bears? Cougars? Totally valid—but manageable. Follow normal wildlife etiquette:

• Store food properly (use a bear canister when required)
• Make noise when hiking at dawn or dusk
• Never approach or feed animals

Strangers I’ve never had a negative encounter, but stay aware. Avoid sharing your full plans with strangers on the trail.

Injury This is my biggest fear too. Always:

• Carry a well-stocked first aid kit
• Take a Wilderness First Aid class
• Use a satellite communicator like the Garmin inReach Mini 2

Ways to Mentally Prepare Yourself to Backpack Solo

Be prepared Pack well, make lists, and double-check the 10 essentials. Confidence comes from preparation.

Use a satellite communicator I love the Garmin inReach Mini 2 — being able to say goodnight to my kids and get messages from my husband makes me feel connected even when I’m deep in the woods.

Bring a distraction A book or downloaded podcast helps ease nighttime anxiety once you’re zipped in for the night.

Leave an itinerary Tell someone your route and return time. It’s good practice—and reassuring.

🎒 Recommended Gear for Solo Backpacking

Here’s what I always bring on solo trips:

Sleep System

• Lightweight tent (like the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2)
• Sleeping bag (20°F or warmer)
• Insulated sleeping pad (I use the NEMO Tensor)

Essentials

• Water filter (I love the Sawyer Squeeze)
• Lightweight stove & cook kit
• Garmin inReach Mini 2
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• First aid kit + repair tape

See my full gear list → What I Pack for a One-Night Backpacking Trip

Final Thoughts

If backpacking solo is something you want to do, I truly hope you get out and try. It’s powerful, healing and empowering.

Like anything new, it takes time. You’ll get more confident every trip. You’ll come home feeling braver—and more yourself.

Have you tried solo backpacking? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear it!