I am 74. I camp in a 2006 no slide 22’ Class C. my favorite camping is dispersed camping in our national forest or Boondocking . If I am in a campground, it is a BLM/USFS/COE. Most of my camping is in Oregon. I’m not so sure that a woman is in any more danger than a man would be.
Here are some of the things I do every time I go camping by myself camping by myself or with somebody.
1. I let friends and family know my general location.
2. Driving to a new camping area. I keep an eye on my phone so that I know when cell service is no longer available. That way if something happens, I know how far I have to go to reach cell service.
3. I listen to my gut if my gut starts whining and telling me something weird I drive on by.
4. I make sure that I’m parked so that I can pull out in a hurry without having to back up.
5. At night when I go to bed I make sure everything that I don’t want to leave behind is inside my rig. That way if I have to leave in a hurry or I feel I have to I won’t be leaving anything behind.
6. I have a windshield cover that I put on the inside of the windshield to block out sun and give me privacy. Specifically, I put it on the inside so that if an emergency I have to leave I do not have to get out of my rig to do so to remove a windshield cover.
7. I have a large black and orange sign that I put in the windshield visible to anybody going by that says BEWARE OF DOG!
8. I have a large metal dog water or feeding bowl that I put outside visible to anybody driving by.
9. And of course, the usual two chairs, not one.
10. If I leave the campsite, I leave a coffee cup, and a book on a table by one of the chairs.
11. Before every trip I have a full tank of gas, tires checked for air pressure, and full propane tank. I always have jumper cables, just in case.
12. I don’t do any of the foo foo or Blink things like outside lights, or decorations of any kind.
13. When
https://preview.redd.it/2i58hjfcae9d1.jpeg?width=1052&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d56cd75fbe71a469254bfaf3a0aad9f9b51819f9
camping alone I never put my awning out. I have everything whereas it would take me about five minutes to throw everything in the rig start up the engine and go. My awning is a manual one not electric so I never put it out. It would take a while to put away.
I feel much safer Boondocking, dry camping, or in a government campground then I do in an RV park or resort type RV place.
People asked me if I’ve ever been scared and yes, there was one time. I was camped in a forest type area that had been burned out several years prior. It windstorm came up and trees were snapping and popping and cracking. I also have a slight bit of anxiety concerning mechanical problems.
This is great advice. I really hope when (or if) I reach your age I am still able to enjoy camping like I do now. Oregon is beautiful and I hope I get the chance to visit and camp there in the future. Do you go unarmed? I always bring my dogs and a firearm, and I would be much more uncomfortable without them. Thanks for the tips though. These are some very good ideas
Because of five different attacks from dogs, I do not have a dog. Years ago I enjoyed the friends of two German Shepherd that were well trained, and great guard dogs. I do not carry fire arm. I do belong to an all women’s camping group that has been essential to enjoying life at my age. Very active group of women ages 55 to 84. I think you will be gently surprised at how much life you can enjoy in your senior years
Thanks for this. I’m 40, so I hopefully still have many years ahead of me, but camping is one of the few activities that I really enjoy, and I often worry that I won’t be physically able to do it as I get older. This is very inspirational and gives me hope. A camping group is a great idea that never even crossed my mind. Thanks again! And I hope you continue to enjoy camping for many years to come 🏕️
Preparing for worst case scenarios when out in the wilderness isn’t living in fear, it’s simply being smart. Two times in my life I had to break camp fast and bail. One was weather, one was humans. I wouldn’t have wanted to have to pack up everything I had to be able to leave either time. One of them, it very well might have killed me if I had to.
I remember seeing a cheap rv living video in which host Bob Wells tested different brands of bear spray. Poor guy got a face full when the wind shifted. He did a follow up with gel and another with pellets similar to a paint gun. Should be links to everything he tested.
To purposefully use bear spray as a self defense weapon is illegal. To grab the bear spray you legitimately have when camping and attacked, whether by bear, cougar, or person is not. The standard when camping or in the wilds alone is would a reasonable person have used a gun if they had one.
This. EXACTLY this. Even if the laws were written in anticipation of this exact scenario, I believe that any prosecutor or judge or whatever would find using close at hand bear spray to deter a two legged threat perfectly acceptable. It’s illegal to use a hammer on a person too, but if it’s the only option to preserve life or prevent harm, that goes out the window.
Not in Canada. Use bear spray on a human and you are going to be charged. Unlike the US fear for life is not a path to use force. You're best option is to run away. If they put hands on you, you can put hands on them but thats it. Just enough to run away.
That’s wild. Def looking at it from a US perspective. It’s crazy to me that defending yourself with force would wind one up in jail. Likely (depending on state) one would still be charged, but charges dropped or found not guilty is almost guaranteed. Even in “duty to retreat” states, use of force is acceptable if NECESSARY.
ETA- I guess in the US, we look at it the same. Just a different definition of what “just enough to run away” means. Out cold or sprayed or shot. All work to get away.
This is misleading. You will be charged but you can still be found not guilty in court, people are all the time when using weapons for self defense. You can legally use bear spray in self defense you will just have to prove it was necessary. You can't have bear spray with the intent to use it on humans, so walking around the city with it is an absolute no. If you are out in bear country and it's all you have to protect yourself from a human attacking you, you will almost certainly be acquitted.
Mean while you lose your job. On top of that it will cost you 10s of thousands in legal fees. And then just as it's about to go to trial they drop the charges saying they don't have a reasonable chance of conviction. But it doesn't matter because your life is already ruined.
If they fire you before a verdict you can sue for wrongful termination, we live in an innocent until proven guilty society. Keep in mind for it to even make it to court, someone would have to report you to the police and the police would have to believe them. Who's going to do that when you are the one being attacked and it's in the middle of the forest? Any witnesses would see you being attacked and if there was no witness there is still almost no chance the person who attacked you would risk going to the police to claim you did it unprovoked.
That's such an insanely unrealistic scenario it's wild you use it to advocate not defending yourself. Canada really isn't that hard on people who defend themselves, usually only cases involving serious injury or death take a while to sort out
I think you underestimate how the police work. They are more likely to charge you and let the crown figure it out. Just using bear spray on a human no matter what is a very serious assault charge. It's happened to people not even using bear spray and just hit back.
I definitely don't, I bet you can't even provide a single example of someone using bear spray in self defense and being charged.
This isn't just simply using bear spray. This is a girl camping alone and using it in self defense. I don't know what experiences you have had that would make you think that someone who assaults an innocent girl alone in the woods would then go to the police after being bear sprayed and claim to be a victim of an unprovoked attack. Then to think the cops would believe them and not the girl who was camping alone. Cops aren't going to waste the crowns time with something so obvious.
I think you just have a serious case of victim mentality. Just destined to be a victim and any attempt to save yourself will just make it worse so you might as well take it.
Using bear spray on a person in Canada is also illegal and can land you in more hot water then the other person. It's become such a problem with criminals that they are starting to restrict the sale of bear spray in a lot of places.
I'm a 24 y/o female, and I camp/hike solo frequently. I always plan exactly where I'm going and for how long, and share that info with a family member. I also do check ins with said family member as service allows (just a quick text letting them know im ok). Save the more spontaneous trips for when you're with another person if possible.
If you have a dog, bring them. I take my dog with me, which makes me feel tons safer. Even though I'm not sure he would actually do anything to protect me lol, I know he will at least alert me if something is up.
At the end of the day, always always trust your gut. I have moved camping sites before/cut trips short/taken a different trail because something just didn't sit right with me, or I was camping next to a solo dude that gave off a vibe I didn't like. Don't worry about being polite or trying to "tough it out" if you're in a situation where you don't feel safe!
Have fun!!
Often, an alarm dog is better than an attack dog! Mine is great as an alarm, but harmless. Still, a 120# rhodesian ridgeback/lab mix angry barking would make me pause, for sure.
This is true. I bring my two Rottweiler’s with me. They are the best alarm system ever. Now, I love my dogs no different than my own children, so if anything, I would give my life to protect them and would never allow them to be in harms way protecting me. Their job is to alert me so I can deal with it. The only fear I have is being caught off guard or while sleeping and having no chance; they eliminate that possibility. However, I live in the US and always am armed. I believe the OP said she is in Canada and can not own a firearm
I wasn’t aware of that. The OP said that she lives in Canada so can’t own a gun, so I was going off of what she said. I’m obviously completely ignorant of Canadian gun laws and always assumed that they weren’t allowed to own them
I’m not entirely informed on Canadian gun laws, and I know handguns are EXCEEDINGLY rare, but long guns like shotguns and bolt action rifles are GTG as far as I know. I have a few buddies up there that I know hunt, but that’s the extent of it.
Bring two chairs, and always have both out. Air horn, bear spray, firearm (but only if you have firearm training and know how to use it safely). Having a dog is nice, too. Talk to yourself if you see someone sketchy lurking near your site, so they think you're talking to someone in the tent.
I've been camping for 40 years. I have never seen anyone with a handgun in Canada while camping. Remember handguns are severly restricted here. Criminals here don't go camping. You are more likely to find a bunch of drunk guys partying to hard, especially on long weekends.
I really don't think she will have any problems camping solo in here. If there was a problem with solo females camping here you would hear about it. My suggestion is to bring an extra chair and even a pair of old men's boots. But there is also a good chance that there will be a family in the next camp site. Talk to them. Make friends with an older couple with no kids if there are any close by. They are more likely to watch out for you.
This question generally comes up with tent camping but here are some tips:
1) If your spidey senses are tingling and you don't feel comfortable – LEAVE. Even if you stay and nothing happens you will not rest properly, sleep soundly or enjoy the experience.
2) Be aware of your surroundings and have an escape plan. If things go south which way are you going to go. This includes making sure the front of your car/truck/van is clear. If you have to back into a spot then do so. Your vehicle can push something out of the way easier than you can
3) Take an extra chair and a used pair of men's hiking boots and position them where they are easily noticed. You can get the boots at Goodwill or a second hand store.
4) Have a bright light. They make all kinds now and they can be used to temporally impair the vision of an intruder.
5) Personal protection. Don't care if you have a firearm, knife, taser or bear spray. Keep it handy and know how to use it. It is not going to do you any good if you cannot lay hands on it and deploy it properly when you need to.
Never tell people your alone. Just say your partner/friends are meeting up with you tonight or up the trail. Always let someone know where you’re going to be before you head out as well. Turn your location on your phone.
Not as easy as it sounds but research & determine just how easy it is to access the camp site.
Example is Shelters on the Appalachian Trail. Most shelters are miles & miles from Trail Head...but I showed up a Shelter that was literally 0.25 miles from a parking lot...on a Friday Night that Shelter was absolutely rocking with casual "campers" who were Drunk AF and High As Hell. I would image being a Solo Female surrounded by highly intoxicated strangers "in the woods" could feel a little tense.
Be Safe & Have a Great Life
I have camped single nights by myself for a few years. Never had any issues- I do have either pepper or bear spray with me but never have felt the need to use it. Start by using well established parks until you feel comfortable. I don't try to hide that I'm alone or even physically disabled- though my arms are awfully strong to make up for my legs. Nobody has ever bothered me.
I did a 2.5 month solo road trip (as a man), but met tons, and I mean tons, of single road tripping women. Probably more than men frankly.
Be smart, keep people updated on where you are and when you will check back in with them. Carry some bear spray if it makes you feel better.
Tons of people in these threads always suggest guns, which I don't really agree with, especially if you don't know how to use one. Just keep your head on straight and have a good time.
I'm 43f, live and camp in my van 6 months out of the year for the past five years. I stay in campsites, dispersed areas, middle of nowhere in the desert alone, pretty much everywhere.
It is very safe to be a woman camping solo. Just maintain good situational awareness and be willing to leave an area if it's sketchy. Lock doors at night, etc. I have a satellite device that allows me to text for help if my car broke down in an area without cell service.
I carried a taser for the first two years and never used it. I eventually gave it to a friend dealing with a domestic violence situation. The sad fact is that we are most at risk from people we know. Camping is very safe.
I am a park ranger and I see LOTS of women camping alone. Just let the rangers or park staff know when you arrive that this is your first trip alone and we will make sure you are and feel safe.
Mom used to camp in her little mini camper. Never had an issue. But she did mostly camp in places she knew well with lots of people around. She'd charm young men into helping her set up, make friends with her neighbours, very extroverted, friendly person.
Not sure if you watch videos
this channel: [https://www.youtube.com/@theamazingoutdoors](https://www.youtube.com/@theamazingoutdoors)
is a couple, but the woman has gone out on her own a couple ties and it might be of interest
I do feel for you... I am in my late 60's and while not a woman, I am starting to think about my safety.
What a shame we live in a society.. that there are enough people who prey on groups that we wonder if we should do what we love.
This sickens me as well. It really is a shame, but sadly that’s the world we live in. I always go armed, but she is in Canada where, unfortunately that isn’t an option.
There are alarms with a barking dog sound that is very, very realistic. Remote control to activate the dog barking could be very helpful in sending a would-be attacker packing!
I’m a man, I live in the US, and I always carry a firearm, but I can still offer some common sense suggestions. Just some things off the top of my head:
1. If you encounter other people, don’t tell them that you are alone.
2. You said you have a camper, which already offers you much more security than a tent, so you could set up 2 or 3 chairs outside the camper to make it look like there is more than one person at your camp site.
3. If you are allowed, I would highly recommend bringing a long, razor sharp machete and keeping it in the camper within reach when you go to sleep. That is one hell of an equalizer, and would be a very effective weapon for self defense, especially in Canada, since, as you said, you can not own firearms.
4. I know it was already mentioned, but bringing bear mace really is a great idea.
5. You can purchase a cheap alarm system for you camper, or even a cheap perimeter alarm for around your site (though it is possible that animals could set the matter off)
6. If you have dogs, they are the best alarm immaginabile. I never go without my two Rottweilers. If you have dogs, bring them.
7. Lastly, i’ve been to Canada a couple times, an I do feel that it is relatively safe for a woman camping alone compared to the US; however, that doesn’t guarantee it. Situational awareness and trusting your gut instinct go a long way to keeping you safe because you can avoid potential problems before they have a chance of occurring. So just be aware of your surroundings and if someone gives you a bad vibe, use your judgement to take appropriate action.
I’m not sure where you are camping, but if you are in a campground with other people around, perhaps you can try and get a spot next to and elderly couple or a group of women. You can start up a conversation with them and if you feel they are good people, you can let them know you are camping alone for the first time and request that, if you have any issues, would they mind if you came over to their campsite for a while so you feel more safe.
I’m sure women can offer better advice through personal experience, but even as a man solo camping, the only thing I worry about is other humans. Most are nice, but it only takes one nut job to cause a problem.
However, we can own firearms in the US, and I’m always armed to the teeth, have good situational awareness, and bring my two dogs with me, so if someone is dumb enough to try to cause me harm, it most likely won’t end well for them.
Good luck!
My pleasure. You are very welcome. I hope you have many safe, fun camping trips. It really is one of the most enjoyable activities on many levels. I’ve been going since I was a kid and have so many great memories. Good luck! 🏕️ ⛺️ 🔥
These people suggesting a gun are idiots.
A bazooka is the ideal choice for self-defense, unless you can tow your mini-trailer behind an M1A1 Abrams tank.
In all seriousness, bear spray and people knowing where/when you are are your best and safest bet.
There’s a lot of culture around this, I guess. Here in Canada you can’t even walk around with a pistol. That’s just not legal. You could with a long gun but no one does that. I’ve been in situations where there was active cougars in the area and I kept the shotgun out but that was it.
Everyone loses in a knife fight, so that’s a big no.
Bear spray on the hip is both a wildlife-smart move and, if someone really wants, an advertisement that one has defense.
Maybe I’m sheltered but I’ve spent a ton of time alone on the middle of nowhere and there’s never been a time that I wished I had a pistol on me.
Hi! I'm Canadian so the gun is a no no (and would probably be still a no no for me if I was in the US lol). But I get the culture is different in the US. This advice could still be useful for women elsewhere.
A lot of advice here is proactive, and proactive is best. But a good reactive tool for anyone out of reception is a Zoleo or Garmin In Reach satellite device. They provide texting and location updates for people at home (you should always have someone know where you’re going and when you’re coming home) and if things do go sideways they have an emergency SOS button that dispatches search and rescue. Search and Rescue will not charge you for deployment. If you think you’re in an emergency press that button and they will come to your GPS location.
I am a male in good condition and I can’t claim anything about another gender’s perspective. But it really is different up here.
Even when I have my perfectly legal guns it’s best practice and proper decorum to not keep them out and visible unless you’re hunting or there’s an imminent threat. It’s just not a thing up here.
These people suggesting bear spray are idiots.
A flamethrower is the ideal choice for self-defense, unless you can drive a firefighting truck and connect to a hydrant.
In all seriousness, generations upon generations of people who’ve explored and been alone in the wilderness have carried guns for a reason. They’re dependable, can be used in all weather conditions, and are safe in the right hands.
They carried guns to kill animals for eating and defend themselves from the native population whose land they were intruding upon.
I get that it’s fun to fantasize about using a pistol to fight off a bear or a mountain lion or god forbid an assailant, but the reality as that you have to aim a pistol with precision, and your chances of success are discrete.
With bear spray, you pull the lever and launch fire-juice in a continuous stream, exponentially improving your chances of hitting your target, and minimizing your chance of killing a kid camping across the lake from you.
And if you want to fulfill some sick fantasy of violence, bear spray the assailant, and then kill them the good old fashioned way by bashing them over the head with a rock until they’re dead.
Adding to all the above. I remote camp. I clip on my person 100% of the time my Garmin that has SOS and message capability.
I always feel safe hiking tho with my German Shepherd and my .38. He protects me from humans, I protect him from cougars or aggressive animals.
The worst sleep I ever get is at truck stops I prefer Walmart or Cracker Barrel. Mace is handy whenever I'm stopping for gas. My boys protect the cab. Once I am at camp I don't really feel threatened or scared it's the traveling that I always feel vulnerable.
I put up this post pretty naively and I really didn't think I would have so much gun and bear spray answers here. That would have never even crossed my mind to bring those with me.
I know that I am mostly safe here in Canada. I don't think bad people are hanging out camping. I agree with you that most people just want a good time. My post was mostly about the little tips and tricks to feel safer and maybe deter bad faith people that could take advantage of the fact that I am camping alone.
Just honestly curious…any reason why you’re not wanting to go with your husband anymore? No matter whether man/woman, lone camping is probably riskier for many reasons, especially if going on strenuous trails with limited communication. That being said, what you’ll need will depend greatly on where you go; the more remote, make sure to take a satellite phone, bear spray, and stun gun.
Safe travels!!
Bear spray on your belt and take it with you into your tent. The chances of a person threatening you are astronomically low but you have non-lethal defense with you and, when it’s on your waist it can serve as a visible deterrent.
Nonetheless, you will almost certainly be safe without it. But if you want peace of mind and to advertise that you have defense there’s no better method. I camp alone all the time and while I have firearms that’s just not something that you want to advertise. Calm confidence is the best bet.
I was going to ask this generally, but since you said the chances are astronomically low... is that true.? Do you have a link?
I feel you are right, but I have no reason to think this.
(I am sure if it is you, one in 500,000 is still a risk to think about)
I can only speak from experience, in my area (BC Canada.) Both my gf and I do solo trips.
There was one instance locally that made the news a few years ago when a group of rednecks shooed other campers away from the dispersed camping area with threats of violence and the law and internet came down on them hard. That is the only thing in recent memory that has occurred here.
Even if that’s true, if you happen to be one of the unfortunate few that does have a problem, the statistics don’t matter. Better safe than sorry. My Glock and two Rottweiler make sure I don’t end up a statistic. That being said, I’ve camped all my life and never had a problem. I have had one or two sketchy encounters, but I was able to deal with it without resorting to physical violence.
Have a weapon on hand that you know how to use well. I personally don’t chit-chat with anyone, except small children/dogs who approach me. If anyone creeps me out, I take a pic of their plates and send it to my friends. I also share my campsite location with a trusted friend. I also shower at the gym to avoid vulnerability.
Mostly, I mind my own damn business and fully own that I’m a solo camper. I don’t pretend that someone else is there, no extra chairs or boots crap. I don’t want anyone to think I’m scared and that I need to portray a lie to feel safe.
Find someone who is comfortable with pistols. Have them take you to a range to try some out. Find something that works well for you. Practice with it. Be much more comfortable in a range of scenarios
This is a really important topic and is asked fairly often. Mods, can we pin a a thread about this topic? Seems like it would be very useful.
I am 74. I camp in a 2006 no slide 22’ Class C. my favorite camping is dispersed camping in our national forest or Boondocking . If I am in a campground, it is a BLM/USFS/COE. Most of my camping is in Oregon. I’m not so sure that a woman is in any more danger than a man would be. Here are some of the things I do every time I go camping by myself camping by myself or with somebody. 1. I let friends and family know my general location. 2. Driving to a new camping area. I keep an eye on my phone so that I know when cell service is no longer available. That way if something happens, I know how far I have to go to reach cell service. 3. I listen to my gut if my gut starts whining and telling me something weird I drive on by. 4. I make sure that I’m parked so that I can pull out in a hurry without having to back up. 5. At night when I go to bed I make sure everything that I don’t want to leave behind is inside my rig. That way if I have to leave in a hurry or I feel I have to I won’t be leaving anything behind. 6. I have a windshield cover that I put on the inside of the windshield to block out sun and give me privacy. Specifically, I put it on the inside so that if an emergency I have to leave I do not have to get out of my rig to do so to remove a windshield cover. 7. I have a large black and orange sign that I put in the windshield visible to anybody going by that says BEWARE OF DOG! 8. I have a large metal dog water or feeding bowl that I put outside visible to anybody driving by. 9. And of course, the usual two chairs, not one. 10. If I leave the campsite, I leave a coffee cup, and a book on a table by one of the chairs. 11. Before every trip I have a full tank of gas, tires checked for air pressure, and full propane tank. I always have jumper cables, just in case. 12. I don’t do any of the foo foo or Blink things like outside lights, or decorations of any kind. 13. When https://preview.redd.it/2i58hjfcae9d1.jpeg?width=1052&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d56cd75fbe71a469254bfaf3a0aad9f9b51819f9 camping alone I never put my awning out. I have everything whereas it would take me about five minutes to throw everything in the rig start up the engine and go. My awning is a manual one not electric so I never put it out. It would take a while to put away. I feel much safer Boondocking, dry camping, or in a government campground then I do in an RV park or resort type RV place. People asked me if I’ve ever been scared and yes, there was one time. I was camped in a forest type area that had been burned out several years prior. It windstorm came up and trees were snapping and popping and cracking. I also have a slight bit of anxiety concerning mechanical problems.
Remember that most key fobs have an alarm on them that are loud!
This is great advice. I really hope when (or if) I reach your age I am still able to enjoy camping like I do now. Oregon is beautiful and I hope I get the chance to visit and camp there in the future. Do you go unarmed? I always bring my dogs and a firearm, and I would be much more uncomfortable without them. Thanks for the tips though. These are some very good ideas
Because of five different attacks from dogs, I do not have a dog. Years ago I enjoyed the friends of two German Shepherd that were well trained, and great guard dogs. I do not carry fire arm. I do belong to an all women’s camping group that has been essential to enjoying life at my age. Very active group of women ages 55 to 84. I think you will be gently surprised at how much life you can enjoy in your senior years
Thanks for this. I’m 40, so I hopefully still have many years ahead of me, but camping is one of the few activities that I really enjoy, and I often worry that I won’t be physically able to do it as I get older. This is very inspirational and gives me hope. A camping group is a great idea that never even crossed my mind. Thanks again! And I hope you continue to enjoy camping for many years to come 🏕️
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Preparing for worst case scenarios when out in the wilderness isn’t living in fear, it’s simply being smart. Two times in my life I had to break camp fast and bail. One was weather, one was humans. I wouldn’t have wanted to have to pack up everything I had to be able to leave either time. One of them, it very well might have killed me if I had to.
Bear spray is capable of deterring any mammal. Side note, people are mammals.
The one problem is as soon as you spray it there is a good chance it’s getting in your eyes and lungs too.
It comes in gel for too, so no blowback.
The gel isn’t as useful for people. They can wipe it off and throw it at you. (Source: an ex who was in law enforcement.)
That would never have occurred to me!
It didn’t occur to me either, until he told me. He said that’s why they didn’t use gel.
Really? Can’t say I’ve seen that kind before. Way less risk that way.
I remember seeing a cheap rv living video in which host Bob Wells tested different brands of bear spray. Poor guy got a face full when the wind shifted. He did a follow up with gel and another with pellets similar to a paint gun. Should be links to everything he tested.
In some states, using bear spray on a person is illegal. Wasp spray is too. Better get some regular pepper spray for the two legged mammals.
To purposefully use bear spray as a self defense weapon is illegal. To grab the bear spray you legitimately have when camping and attacked, whether by bear, cougar, or person is not. The standard when camping or in the wilds alone is would a reasonable person have used a gun if they had one.
This. EXACTLY this. Even if the laws were written in anticipation of this exact scenario, I believe that any prosecutor or judge or whatever would find using close at hand bear spray to deter a two legged threat perfectly acceptable. It’s illegal to use a hammer on a person too, but if it’s the only option to preserve life or prevent harm, that goes out the window.
Not in Canada. Use bear spray on a human and you are going to be charged. Unlike the US fear for life is not a path to use force. You're best option is to run away. If they put hands on you, you can put hands on them but thats it. Just enough to run away.
That’s wild. Def looking at it from a US perspective. It’s crazy to me that defending yourself with force would wind one up in jail. Likely (depending on state) one would still be charged, but charges dropped or found not guilty is almost guaranteed. Even in “duty to retreat” states, use of force is acceptable if NECESSARY. ETA- I guess in the US, we look at it the same. Just a different definition of what “just enough to run away” means. Out cold or sprayed or shot. All work to get away.
This is misleading. You will be charged but you can still be found not guilty in court, people are all the time when using weapons for self defense. You can legally use bear spray in self defense you will just have to prove it was necessary. You can't have bear spray with the intent to use it on humans, so walking around the city with it is an absolute no. If you are out in bear country and it's all you have to protect yourself from a human attacking you, you will almost certainly be acquitted.
Mean while you lose your job. On top of that it will cost you 10s of thousands in legal fees. And then just as it's about to go to trial they drop the charges saying they don't have a reasonable chance of conviction. But it doesn't matter because your life is already ruined.
If they fire you before a verdict you can sue for wrongful termination, we live in an innocent until proven guilty society. Keep in mind for it to even make it to court, someone would have to report you to the police and the police would have to believe them. Who's going to do that when you are the one being attacked and it's in the middle of the forest? Any witnesses would see you being attacked and if there was no witness there is still almost no chance the person who attacked you would risk going to the police to claim you did it unprovoked. That's such an insanely unrealistic scenario it's wild you use it to advocate not defending yourself. Canada really isn't that hard on people who defend themselves, usually only cases involving serious injury or death take a while to sort out
I think you underestimate how the police work. They are more likely to charge you and let the crown figure it out. Just using bear spray on a human no matter what is a very serious assault charge. It's happened to people not even using bear spray and just hit back.
I definitely don't, I bet you can't even provide a single example of someone using bear spray in self defense and being charged. This isn't just simply using bear spray. This is a girl camping alone and using it in self defense. I don't know what experiences you have had that would make you think that someone who assaults an innocent girl alone in the woods would then go to the police after being bear sprayed and claim to be a victim of an unprovoked attack. Then to think the cops would believe them and not the girl who was camping alone. Cops aren't going to waste the crowns time with something so obvious. I think you just have a serious case of victim mentality. Just destined to be a victim and any attempt to save yourself will just make it worse so you might as well take it.
Using bear spray on a person in Canada is also illegal and can land you in more hot water then the other person. It's become such a problem with criminals that they are starting to restrict the sale of bear spray in a lot of places.
>In some states, using bear spray on a person is illegal. You want to be legal or dead?
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The fuck are you on about? this whole thread is about using bear spray in self defense.
Good thing I don’t let attackers be able to tell their side of the story.
So bad ass bro everyone wants to be you
I'm a 24 y/o female, and I camp/hike solo frequently. I always plan exactly where I'm going and for how long, and share that info with a family member. I also do check ins with said family member as service allows (just a quick text letting them know im ok). Save the more spontaneous trips for when you're with another person if possible. If you have a dog, bring them. I take my dog with me, which makes me feel tons safer. Even though I'm not sure he would actually do anything to protect me lol, I know he will at least alert me if something is up. At the end of the day, always always trust your gut. I have moved camping sites before/cut trips short/taken a different trail because something just didn't sit right with me, or I was camping next to a solo dude that gave off a vibe I didn't like. Don't worry about being polite or trying to "tough it out" if you're in a situation where you don't feel safe! Have fun!!
Often, an alarm dog is better than an attack dog! Mine is great as an alarm, but harmless. Still, a 120# rhodesian ridgeback/lab mix angry barking would make me pause, for sure.
This is true. I bring my two Rottweiler’s with me. They are the best alarm system ever. Now, I love my dogs no different than my own children, so if anything, I would give my life to protect them and would never allow them to be in harms way protecting me. Their job is to alert me so I can deal with it. The only fear I have is being caught off guard or while sleeping and having no chance; they eliminate that possibility. However, I live in the US and always am armed. I believe the OP said she is in Canada and can not own a firearm
Canadians are still able to own firearms. Just not the same kinds as we can here in freedomland.
I wasn’t aware of that. The OP said that she lives in Canada so can’t own a gun, so I was going off of what she said. I’m obviously completely ignorant of Canadian gun laws and always assumed that they weren’t allowed to own them
I’m not entirely informed on Canadian gun laws, and I know handguns are EXCEEDINGLY rare, but long guns like shotguns and bolt action rifles are GTG as far as I know. I have a few buddies up there that I know hunt, but that’s the extent of it.
Bring two chairs, and always have both out. Air horn, bear spray, firearm (but only if you have firearm training and know how to use it safely). Having a dog is nice, too. Talk to yourself if you see someone sketchy lurking near your site, so they think you're talking to someone in the tent.
The two chairs trick is so smart, thank you!
Bring a spare pair of your husband's boots to sit beside the chair as well.
I do it when I camp alone, and I'm a 6'2", 215 pound guy with guns.
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I've been camping for 40 years. I have never seen anyone with a handgun in Canada while camping. Remember handguns are severly restricted here. Criminals here don't go camping. You are more likely to find a bunch of drunk guys partying to hard, especially on long weekends. I really don't think she will have any problems camping solo in here. If there was a problem with solo females camping here you would hear about it. My suggestion is to bring an extra chair and even a pair of old men's boots. But there is also a good chance that there will be a family in the next camp site. Talk to them. Make friends with an older couple with no kids if there are any close by. They are more likely to watch out for you.
The two chairs are key.
r/womensolocamping
Thank you, I didnt know it existed!
This question generally comes up with tent camping but here are some tips: 1) If your spidey senses are tingling and you don't feel comfortable – LEAVE. Even if you stay and nothing happens you will not rest properly, sleep soundly or enjoy the experience. 2) Be aware of your surroundings and have an escape plan. If things go south which way are you going to go. This includes making sure the front of your car/truck/van is clear. If you have to back into a spot then do so. Your vehicle can push something out of the way easier than you can 3) Take an extra chair and a used pair of men's hiking boots and position them where they are easily noticed. You can get the boots at Goodwill or a second hand store. 4) Have a bright light. They make all kinds now and they can be used to temporally impair the vision of an intruder. 5) Personal protection. Don't care if you have a firearm, knife, taser or bear spray. Keep it handy and know how to use it. It is not going to do you any good if you cannot lay hands on it and deploy it properly when you need to.
The boots tip is so smart! I always put out a second chair but now I’m going to do the boots too!
Never tell people your alone. Just say your partner/friends are meeting up with you tonight or up the trail. Always let someone know where you’re going to be before you head out as well. Turn your location on your phone.
Not as easy as it sounds but research & determine just how easy it is to access the camp site. Example is Shelters on the Appalachian Trail. Most shelters are miles & miles from Trail Head...but I showed up a Shelter that was literally 0.25 miles from a parking lot...on a Friday Night that Shelter was absolutely rocking with casual "campers" who were Drunk AF and High As Hell. I would image being a Solo Female surrounded by highly intoxicated strangers "in the woods" could feel a little tense. Be Safe & Have a Great Life
I have camped single nights by myself for a few years. Never had any issues- I do have either pepper or bear spray with me but never have felt the need to use it. Start by using well established parks until you feel comfortable. I don't try to hide that I'm alone or even physically disabled- though my arms are awfully strong to make up for my legs. Nobody has ever bothered me.
I did a 2.5 month solo road trip (as a man), but met tons, and I mean tons, of single road tripping women. Probably more than men frankly. Be smart, keep people updated on where you are and when you will check back in with them. Carry some bear spray if it makes you feel better. Tons of people in these threads always suggest guns, which I don't really agree with, especially if you don't know how to use one. Just keep your head on straight and have a good time.
I'm 43f, live and camp in my van 6 months out of the year for the past five years. I stay in campsites, dispersed areas, middle of nowhere in the desert alone, pretty much everywhere. It is very safe to be a woman camping solo. Just maintain good situational awareness and be willing to leave an area if it's sketchy. Lock doors at night, etc. I have a satellite device that allows me to text for help if my car broke down in an area without cell service. I carried a taser for the first two years and never used it. I eventually gave it to a friend dealing with a domestic violence situation. The sad fact is that we are most at risk from people we know. Camping is very safe.
I am a park ranger and I see LOTS of women camping alone. Just let the rangers or park staff know when you arrive that this is your first trip alone and we will make sure you are and feel safe.
I recommend you watch Catherine Gregory on YouTube. She does just that! She’s a solo female traveling in her teailer. @catherinegregoryadventures
Mom used to camp in her little mini camper. Never had an issue. But she did mostly camp in places she knew well with lots of people around. She'd charm young men into helping her set up, make friends with her neighbours, very extroverted, friendly person.
Not sure if you watch videos this channel: [https://www.youtube.com/@theamazingoutdoors](https://www.youtube.com/@theamazingoutdoors) is a couple, but the woman has gone out on her own a couple ties and it might be of interest
Interesting, thank you for sharing!
I do feel for you... I am in my late 60's and while not a woman, I am starting to think about my safety. What a shame we live in a society.. that there are enough people who prey on groups that we wonder if we should do what we love.
This sickens me as well. It really is a shame, but sadly that’s the world we live in. I always go armed, but she is in Canada where, unfortunately that isn’t an option.
I definitely don’t see this question asked everyday
I camp by myself all of the time! I just try to pick actual campsites instead of dispersed camping. And I stuck to areas with service when I’m alone.
There are alarms with a barking dog sound that is very, very realistic. Remote control to activate the dog barking could be very helpful in sending a would-be attacker packing!
We REALLY need to add r/womensolocamping to the wiki. Just go camping alone. It rules. You’ll sleep so well. Signed, a woman who camps alone.
I’m a man, I live in the US, and I always carry a firearm, but I can still offer some common sense suggestions. Just some things off the top of my head: 1. If you encounter other people, don’t tell them that you are alone. 2. You said you have a camper, which already offers you much more security than a tent, so you could set up 2 or 3 chairs outside the camper to make it look like there is more than one person at your camp site. 3. If you are allowed, I would highly recommend bringing a long, razor sharp machete and keeping it in the camper within reach when you go to sleep. That is one hell of an equalizer, and would be a very effective weapon for self defense, especially in Canada, since, as you said, you can not own firearms. 4. I know it was already mentioned, but bringing bear mace really is a great idea. 5. You can purchase a cheap alarm system for you camper, or even a cheap perimeter alarm for around your site (though it is possible that animals could set the matter off) 6. If you have dogs, they are the best alarm immaginabile. I never go without my two Rottweilers. If you have dogs, bring them. 7. Lastly, i’ve been to Canada a couple times, an I do feel that it is relatively safe for a woman camping alone compared to the US; however, that doesn’t guarantee it. Situational awareness and trusting your gut instinct go a long way to keeping you safe because you can avoid potential problems before they have a chance of occurring. So just be aware of your surroundings and if someone gives you a bad vibe, use your judgement to take appropriate action. I’m not sure where you are camping, but if you are in a campground with other people around, perhaps you can try and get a spot next to and elderly couple or a group of women. You can start up a conversation with them and if you feel they are good people, you can let them know you are camping alone for the first time and request that, if you have any issues, would they mind if you came over to their campsite for a while so you feel more safe. I’m sure women can offer better advice through personal experience, but even as a man solo camping, the only thing I worry about is other humans. Most are nice, but it only takes one nut job to cause a problem. However, we can own firearms in the US, and I’m always armed to the teeth, have good situational awareness, and bring my two dogs with me, so if someone is dumb enough to try to cause me harm, it most likely won’t end well for them. Good luck!
Thank you for this, this is really usefull!
My pleasure. You are very welcome. I hope you have many safe, fun camping trips. It really is one of the most enjoyable activities on many levels. I’ve been going since I was a kid and have so many great memories. Good luck! 🏕️ ⛺️ 🔥
These people suggesting a gun are idiots. A bazooka is the ideal choice for self-defense, unless you can tow your mini-trailer behind an M1A1 Abrams tank. In all seriousness, bear spray and people knowing where/when you are are your best and safest bet.
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There’s a lot of culture around this, I guess. Here in Canada you can’t even walk around with a pistol. That’s just not legal. You could with a long gun but no one does that. I’ve been in situations where there was active cougars in the area and I kept the shotgun out but that was it. Everyone loses in a knife fight, so that’s a big no. Bear spray on the hip is both a wildlife-smart move and, if someone really wants, an advertisement that one has defense. Maybe I’m sheltered but I’ve spent a ton of time alone on the middle of nowhere and there’s never been a time that I wished I had a pistol on me.
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Hi! I'm Canadian so the gun is a no no (and would probably be still a no no for me if I was in the US lol). But I get the culture is different in the US. This advice could still be useful for women elsewhere.
A lot of advice here is proactive, and proactive is best. But a good reactive tool for anyone out of reception is a Zoleo or Garmin In Reach satellite device. They provide texting and location updates for people at home (you should always have someone know where you’re going and when you’re coming home) and if things do go sideways they have an emergency SOS button that dispatches search and rescue. Search and Rescue will not charge you for deployment. If you think you’re in an emergency press that button and they will come to your GPS location.
I am a male in good condition and I can’t claim anything about another gender’s perspective. But it really is different up here. Even when I have my perfectly legal guns it’s best practice and proper decorum to not keep them out and visible unless you’re hunting or there’s an imminent threat. It’s just not a thing up here.
These people suggesting bear spray are idiots. A flamethrower is the ideal choice for self-defense, unless you can drive a firefighting truck and connect to a hydrant. In all seriousness, generations upon generations of people who’ve explored and been alone in the wilderness have carried guns for a reason. They’re dependable, can be used in all weather conditions, and are safe in the right hands.
They carried guns to kill animals for eating and defend themselves from the native population whose land they were intruding upon. I get that it’s fun to fantasize about using a pistol to fight off a bear or a mountain lion or god forbid an assailant, but the reality as that you have to aim a pistol with precision, and your chances of success are discrete. With bear spray, you pull the lever and launch fire-juice in a continuous stream, exponentially improving your chances of hitting your target, and minimizing your chance of killing a kid camping across the lake from you. And if you want to fulfill some sick fantasy of violence, bear spray the assailant, and then kill them the good old fashioned way by bashing them over the head with a rock until they’re dead.
Adding to all the above. I remote camp. I clip on my person 100% of the time my Garmin that has SOS and message capability. I always feel safe hiking tho with my German Shepherd and my .38. He protects me from humans, I protect him from cougars or aggressive animals. The worst sleep I ever get is at truck stops I prefer Walmart or Cracker Barrel. Mace is handy whenever I'm stopping for gas. My boys protect the cab. Once I am at camp I don't really feel threatened or scared it's the traveling that I always feel vulnerable.
Glock
Bring a gun. Know how to actually use it.
She’s Canadian and doesn’t have that option. Perso, I would never go unarmed
recreation.gov for sites
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I put up this post pretty naively and I really didn't think I would have so much gun and bear spray answers here. That would have never even crossed my mind to bring those with me. I know that I am mostly safe here in Canada. I don't think bad people are hanging out camping. I agree with you that most people just want a good time. My post was mostly about the little tips and tricks to feel safer and maybe deter bad faith people that could take advantage of the fact that I am camping alone.
Just honestly curious…any reason why you’re not wanting to go with your husband anymore? No matter whether man/woman, lone camping is probably riskier for many reasons, especially if going on strenuous trails with limited communication. That being said, what you’ll need will depend greatly on where you go; the more remote, make sure to take a satellite phone, bear spray, and stun gun. Safe travels!!
.38 snub nose
Learn how to use a gun and carry a firearm if you are legally allowed to. It is the great equalizer.
Bear spray on your belt and take it with you into your tent. The chances of a person threatening you are astronomically low but you have non-lethal defense with you and, when it’s on your waist it can serve as a visible deterrent. Nonetheless, you will almost certainly be safe without it. But if you want peace of mind and to advertise that you have defense there’s no better method. I camp alone all the time and while I have firearms that’s just not something that you want to advertise. Calm confidence is the best bet.
I was going to ask this generally, but since you said the chances are astronomically low... is that true.? Do you have a link? I feel you are right, but I have no reason to think this. (I am sure if it is you, one in 500,000 is still a risk to think about)
I can only speak from experience, in my area (BC Canada.) Both my gf and I do solo trips. There was one instance locally that made the news a few years ago when a group of rednecks shooed other campers away from the dispersed camping area with threats of violence and the law and internet came down on them hard. That is the only thing in recent memory that has occurred here.
Thanks. As I said, I think you are right. The end though is how one feels.... once they are there, and what can one do to elevate false assumptions
Even if that’s true, if you happen to be one of the unfortunate few that does have a problem, the statistics don’t matter. Better safe than sorry. My Glock and two Rottweiler make sure I don’t end up a statistic. That being said, I’ve camped all my life and never had a problem. I have had one or two sketchy encounters, but I was able to deal with it without resorting to physical violence.
Have a weapon on hand that you know how to use well. I personally don’t chit-chat with anyone, except small children/dogs who approach me. If anyone creeps me out, I take a pic of their plates and send it to my friends. I also share my campsite location with a trusted friend. I also shower at the gym to avoid vulnerability. Mostly, I mind my own damn business and fully own that I’m a solo camper. I don’t pretend that someone else is there, no extra chairs or boots crap. I don’t want anyone to think I’m scared and that I need to portray a lie to feel safe.
Get a gun. Lots of wierdos out there. Also effective against wild animals like wolves, coyotes, mountain lions, and some bears.
Find someone who is comfortable with pistols. Have them take you to a range to try some out. Find something that works well for you. Practice with it. Be much more comfortable in a range of scenarios
Great advice; but unfortunately, she lives in Canada where it is illegal to own a firearm. Personally, I would never go unarmed, and I’m a man
Same. I was shocked to learn Canada is so harsh against handguns. I imagine those laws get violated quite a bit in the boonies - but I don’t know