Traveling anywhere on your own can be daunting, whether this is your first time hitting the road solo or you consider yourself totally independent. There are some tips we can give you that apply to solo traveling more generally and others that are specific to visiting US national parks.
From ensuring that you’re always properly prepared to being alert and aware of safety issues and the rules of the specific park you’re visiting, there are several things you need to keep in mind when you’re traveling to national parks on your own.
So, to help you get ready for your trip, we’re going to give you 11 must-knows for solo travelers in US national parks.
1. Research the Park and Its Rules
There are some general rules that apply to all national parks – general things like not littering, not interfering with wildlife, and so on. But on top of those general rules, each park has its own additional regulations. This may include things like road use, fire making, gate closures, and camping rules, for instance. Always make sure you check the park rules before you visit!
2. Share Your Location and Plans with Friends or Family
When you’re on your own, it’s always a good idea to let somebody know where you’re going to be and what your general plans are. Even if you expect to have a signal while you’re in the park – you simply never know what may happen; it’s just always better to be safe.
Sharing your location is particularly important not only for entering a park in general but even more so if you’re going on a hike or something similar.
3. Pack For All Weather
You may have an idea of what the weather is supposed to be like, but weather can be unpredictable in large national parks. Rather be safe and make sure you have everything you could possibly need – just in case! Even if it’s forecast to be incredibly hot for instance, just take a warm jack along in case.
4. Stick to Designated Trails and Respect Park Boundaries
If you go hiking, mountain biking, or anything similar, make sure you look out for trails and park boundaries and always abide by them. Trails and boundaries are there for your protection and the protection of the animals and the park. Never stray away, especially when you’re alone.
5. Always Have More Water Than You Need
However much water you’re expecting to need, always pack extra. You probably won’t need it, but you’d rather have more than necessary in case you end up having to stick around a bit longer than you planned. Or, if you come across somebody else in need! Rather safe than sorry.
6. Be Open to Meeting Strangers But Be Cautious
Meeting new people can be one of the most exciting parts of traveling, but you always need to be cautious – especially when you’re alone and exploring a reasonably quiet national park. We’re not saying you should be paranoid, but trust your instincts and always be aware of who’s around you. If you feel uncomfortable, don’t ignore the feeling!
7. Make Sure You’re Well-Equipped for Camping
If you’re camping, make sure you have everything you need – don’t tell yourself you’ll just figure it out! Be ready for all weather and ensure that you know what you’re doing in terms of setting up. There’s nothing worse than being uncomfortable.
8. Pack Sufficient Navigation Tools – And Backup!
These days, we can mostly use our cell phones for navigation, but make sure you have a backup in case your phone lets you down. Take along a charging bank, and it’s always a good idea to have an old-fashioned paper map – just in case you lose battery or signal!
9. Be Mindful of Wildlife
Remember, you’re a guest in the home of wild animals, so make sure you’re respectful and mindful. Don’t treat wild animals like pets, and leave the areas you visit in the same way you found them. Never try and interact with wild animals – simply observe and appreciate them. And never leave food out!
10. Always Carry Emergency Medical Supplies
It’s always important to be prepared for medical emergencies, but even more so when you’re alone. Make sure you have a well-kitted first-aid kit and take it along with you when you go adventuring – it might save your (or someone else’s) life!
11. Enjoy the Solitude
While there are lots of things to be aware of when visiting national parks alone, at the end of the day, you’ll be having an incredible experience on your own. Enjoy your own company and make the most of the solitude you find in nature – it’s a special experience, and it can do wonders for the mind and soul.
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