Jan in the Grampians National Park, Vic (Image Jan Dale)

Many CMCA members enjoy the freedom of solo travel. In fact, there is a CMCA special interest group dedicated entirely to this: the nationwide SOLOS Network. Not having a travel partner is no reason to miss out on the valuable travel experiences that Australia offers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, peace, solitude, socialisation opportunities or a chance to indulge your photography, birdwatching or historical interests, solo travel is an excellent option.

There are many benefits of solo travel. Flexibility and freedom  are clearly advantages, but solo travel has other elements in its favour. It gives you a degree of self-sufficiency, inspiring the confidence and personal growth that you’ll need to undertake further travel.

Jan has long reaped the benefits of solo travel. “I love solo travel because it gives me complete independence and freedom to do whatever I like. Camping alone also means you can see and hear more wildlife because you are not normally talking or making much noise. You can just sit quietly and watch. So peaceful in the bush and somehow there is less fuss  with meals. I often just have a sandwich and a glass of wine!”

Jan’s camp near Holey Plains State Park, Vic (Image Jan Dale)

The health benefits of travelling are well known and there is no reason that these advantages can’t be recognised with solo travel. You can cook your own healthy meals, engage in outdoor activities such as hiking and swimming and of course, you can reap the health benefits provided by a scenic location, tranquil surroundings and the wonders of nature.

With all these benefits comes some concerns, particularly relating to safety. Experienced traveller and author Jan has made her way through Australia and overseas countries on her own, navigating security concerns and other various challenges. So, what does Jan recommend and how can we all benefit from the wisdom built by her travels?

Consider security when setting up camp

SECURITY AND SAFETY CONCERNS

As a solo woman traveller, Jan has given great consideration to security matters. “I think when you are travelling and camping alone, especially as a woman, you need to be particularly careful about many things. When in an area with no others around, always try to have your vehicle facing the way out so you can quickly leave if you feel threatened or uncomfortable. I have always chosen a vehicle with easy access from the rear caravan area to the driving cabin without having to go outside. Before going to bed it’s good to ensure everything is in place in case there is a need for a quick getaway.”

Smaller actions can also add to your sense of security. Jan recommends tips such as not hanging your washing in full view outdoors to minimise the chance of someone recognising that a  sole woman is inhabiting the site. On that note, Jan also gives the appearance of multiple people being present at the site. “I also put out two chairs and two mugs to give the illusion of somebody else around and before camping I check out the whole area to make sure there is nobody odd around, or rubbish like piles of beer cans which would possibly mean it is sometimes used as a party place”, she said.

Dogs are great travelling companions

Jan added that this might all sound a bit over cautious. “We need to remind ourselves that many more people get attacked in their own homes or in city streets than when camping in the bush! Naturally, if you are in a caravan park or campground with other people around, most of these precautions would be unnecessary.”

Jan says it is also vital to monitor the environment for hazards such as bushfires. “In Australia, especially in summer, there is always a chance of bushfires so ensure you listen regularly to the news and take the usual precautions”. Each state has an emergency services app, which should be downloaded and set to deliver alerts. If in doubt or a dangerous event is likely to occur, it’s often best to skip ahead to another destination, particularly in the event of fire or flood.

Set up for two to give the illusion of more than one camper

PRACTICAL MATTERS

Sharing the driving on a long trip means that both people can be rested. This, and other practical travelling concerns, should be considered when undertaking solo travel. Jan recommends taking frequent breaks and preparing for your route before you leave. “I do need to rest more frequently when I am the only driver and there is also the navigation work because I don’t use satellite navigation. I like maps and when I drove all those thousands of miles in America there were no mobile phones anyway. I usually look up directions, try to memorise them and write them out in bold print and stick this on the dashboard.”

Jan also recommends joining your local automobile association or having insurance that includes roadside assistance. While enjoying the benefits of solo travel, Jan is also wise about the potential drawbacks. “Of course, there are drawbacks. There is nobody to share the costs or the driving or to help if there are problems like a fallen tree blocking the only way out or a flat tyre. I worry sometimes about how I would manage if I got really ill in some out of the way place or couldn’t drive for some reason. The relatively recent advent of mobile phones has given a lot of comfort.”

Satellite phones provide peace of mind

LONELINESS

We all should enjoy our own company from time to time. It allows for reflection, stress reduction and indulgence in hobbies such as reading and craft. If you’re travelling off grid, you may miss some socialisation opportunities, but using caravan and tourist parks can give you the chance to seek out company should you crave it.

“In campgrounds, people are often really kind when they see I am alone. Sometimes inviting me to share a drink with them round their campfire, or even a meal. Loneliness can be a problem but generally only on very long trips or when something goes wrong”, she reflected.

Despite the potential for occasional loneliness, Jan says the payoff is greater confidence and a sense of self-satisfaction. “One of the greatest rewards of solo travel is that feeling of adventure and self-reliance you may not have had before. After I spent years driving a campervan solo around America, I felt so much more confident in tackling things alone. I even learnt a bit about engines and how to fix some minor problems!” Jan stated.

Jan’s first solo trip was to the Grampians, Vic

TAKE ON THE CHALLENGE

If you’re solo, have an RV (or are planning to buy an RV), there are so many travel opportunities within Australia. For Jan, her first solo travel was to Victoria’s Grampians region. Jan enjoyed the peace and tranquillity of the region, staying for around two weeks and partaking in birdwatching and regular walks.

“Fortunately, I am one of those people who rather enjoy being alone and I’m a bird watcher and reader. I spent some of my growing up years in the country and roamed around the bush on my bike, so I was used to it and knew that, apart from snakes and some spiders (and occasionally people) there was nothing to be afraid of. In the Grampians I found a tiny track off a slightly larger track off an unsealed road in a remote area and camped there for about two weeks. In the early mornings emus would often wander past and I could watch them from inside the van. At night there were koalas and once one walked right through my camp. It was very young and got such a shock when it saw me that it shinned up the nearest tree and cried for its mother until I retreated to bed.”

Join others if you’re feeling social

RECOMMENDATIONS

If Jan’s adventures teach us anything about solo travelling, it’s to be safe, smart and well prepared. GPS navigation systems are the perfect driver-friendly solution to paper maps. Know where you’re going and when you expect to arrive. When booking ahead for sites, it’s worth mentioning that you’re a solo traveller. The park/community may be able to give you a more suitable site close to the office and relevant amenities if you think you will need assistance.

Ensure your RV is regularly serviced to avoid becoming stranded in a rural area, where repairs can be expensive and time consuming. If you are that way inclined, it’s also useful to brush up on your engine and tyre-changing skills. Even a basic level of mechanical skills can be advantageous on the road.

There is so much waiting to be explored. As a solo traveller, you alone can decide whether your holiday will be action-packed or peaceful and reflective. You can decide where to go, how long to stay and what to see. Your adventures await!

As a solo traveller, you set your own pace

SAFETY MEASURES TO CONSIDER

Theft from campsites is a major problem for all travellers, not just solo explorers. When you leave your site, ensure everything of value is locked up securely. Keep your valuables out of sight, even when you are on site.

Always let someone know where you are travelling and when you expect to arrive. Check in regularly so that your contact person will notice your absence, allowing them to contact emergency services on your behalf.

Always carry a first aid kit and a mobile phone. If you’re travelling to a very remote area with no coverage, consider renting a satellite phone. They can be pricey, but it is worth the peace of mind to know that in an emergency, you can reach out for help. A personal locator beacon is also worth consideration.

Wildlife, while lovely to see, can pose a danger. Store food and garbage safely away to avoid attracting wildlife to your site. Snakes and spiders are known threats in Australia, so be careful when travelling in their habitats. Mostly, they’ll leave you alone if you do the same for them.

You can be as active or passive as you choose

Category: Features
Written: Sat 01 Apr 2023
Printed: April, 2023
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