How to find the best wild camping spots while solo bikepacking or touring as a woman

Wild camping has many benefits for me. I love experiencing nature fully by sleeping outside. Especially on remote trips, there might be no accommodation or campgrounds nearby. Wild camping gives you a lot more route-planning freedom and independence!

It also adds a confidence boost, knowing you are self-sufficient out there. Honestly, I much prefer camping on my own than staying in a mixed dorm in a hostel - it feels way safer.

Before you head out, research local laws about wild camping. Often it's not officially allowed, but it's usually tolerated. And always practice Leave No Trace principles!

Before you head out:

• Share your route with friends or family.
• Make sure to have a local SIM card to stay connected.
• Check the weather, terrain, and accessibility of your planned destination.
• Ensure your tent is water- and windproof, and that your gear is warm enough. Invest in a high-quality down sleeping bag with a high CUIN value and a well-insulated sleeping mat with a high R-value.
• In warm climates, you won't need an expensive sleeping bag, but a reliable setup is still important.
• Bring a powerful headlamp, power bank, or even a solar charger.

There's no single rule for finding a good spot, it's very personal. I love scenic views where I can wake up to a beautiful sunrise. I prefer spots where I can hide my tent a bit or feel sheltered from at least two sides.

A few specific things I do:

• Use apps like Rolling Around to find community-based wild camping spots worldwide.
• Start searching for a good spot the evening before using Google Maps or other apps.
• Plan your daily stage and begin searching for a spot around your planned finish.
• If you haven't planned beforehand, start looking at least 2 hours before sunset.
• Make sure to bring enough food for your dinner and breakfast if there's no supply nearby.
• Scan the area on maps for potential spots like rest areas or viewpoints.
• Check Google Maps photos for flat surfaces, water taps, or trees for a hammock.
• Many countries have free campsites or shelters. Tenerife for instance offers free campgrounds you just have to reserve beforehand.
• If unsure, ask locals where you could stay.
• In areas with wildlife, store food away from your tent.
• Always search for a spot while it's still light.

Camping alone can feel less comfortable at first. I usually look for spots where I feel more protected. Trust your intuition! If you don't feel comfortable, move somewhere else.

Also:

• Keep your phone and lamp close in your tent.
• If reception matters to you, look for areas with a signal.
• Find hidden areas not directly visible from roads or paths.
• Let someone know where you are staying if it helps you feel safer.
• If you feel unsafe, seek help from female locals for tips or safe places to stay.
• Sleep with earplugs if needed.
• Don't panic if you hear voices or animals!

The most important lesson I learned: I can do this! Fear can be a good protector, but it's usually not helpful. I've learned to not fear the dark or the reflection of animal eyes in it.

Camping in nature is usually very safe; the real danger often lies around crowds of people, like in big cities or areas with alcohol consumption.

Nothing beats waking up somewhere in nature with a stunning view. The feeling of self-sufficiency and autonomy adds so much confidence and richness to life. Trust me - you will love it too!

Wild camping while solo bikepacking has been one of the most empowering and rewarding experiences of my life. So pack your tent, embrace the adventure, and let the freedom of solo wild camping enrich your bikepacking journeys!

Happy riding!
Franziska