Solo camping is one of the fastest-growing trends in outdoor travel. Have you ever tried it? If you haven’t you are missing out. Delve in to why we think the New Forest is the perfect place to kick start your solo camping adventures.
Why solo camping is growing in popularity
We are all guilty of having such busy lives, from being immersed in technology on social media through to over committing to plans. If you are looking for an escape, a chance to find you again, then solo camping can be the perfect way to try this.
Solo camping may be a trend at the moment, and you may even follow some solo campers on their socials but there’s a lot to why it’s becoming so popular.
Take your confidence for example, by solo camping you are relying on yourself to erect your tent, to rustle up your own meals and for your own company. Solo camping can push you out of your comfort zone, but the rewards can be endless. Make time for some of your forgotten hobbies, whether it be reading, drawing or even lighting your own fire. Begin conversations with fellow campers and enjoy camping in a whole new way.
Why the New Forest is perfect for solo campers
The New Forest is perfectly situated in the south of England. Only 90-minutes or so from London and within easy travelling distance of other major cities. Camping in the New Forest offers something very special; free roaming animals, dark skies and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, whether you prefer walking, cycling or even wild swimming.
One of the reasons solo camping in the New Forest is so appealing is that everything is within easy reach. Whether you’re arriving by car or public transport, you’re never far from villages, shops, walking routes and fellow campers.
The New Forest has safe, established campsites – our three Harry’s campsites have been running for several years. We’re a friendly bunch and we welcome solo travellers. You’ll love the wildlife and scenery of the New Forest – from the sweeping heathland views, adorned with the purple haze of heather in the summer months through to coastal reaches with views looking out across the Solent.
From each of our three campsites, you’ll find plenty of walking and cycling opportunities. And at our Harry’s Field campsite, you can often expect New Forest Ponies right at the campsite gate!
With beautiful villages to explore, market towns to visit to pick up your goodies, there’s plenty to keep you busy on a New Forest camping break.
The benefits of solo camping for women
Many of the people behind the solo camping trend are women. Gain your own independence and confidence on your own solo camping trip. From lighting the fire to cooking your own meals over a camping stove, solo camping can be a great way to do things at your own pace. Take along those books you’ve been meaning to read, bring your walking boots and go on those walks you promised to do, enjoy a wild swim or simply sit with a cup of coffee having a mindful moment.
Recharge those batteries and believe in your own abilities – solo camping can be liberating!
Tips for your first solo camping trip
For your first solo camping trip, we’d recommend starting with an established campsite (such as our own!).
We’d recommend telling someone such as close friend or family member where you are staying and how long for.
Don’t over complicate things – pack simply but remember those camping essentials and always aim to arrive before it gets dark – no one enjoys late night scrabbles to find the tent pegs.
And if you get stuck with anything, ask. At Harry’s campsites, our team are on hand to help you should you get into difficulties.
Finding your perfect pitch at Harry’s campsites
All three of our campsites are geared up for solo campers. If you are after a smaller, family-friendly vibe then Harry’s Field is probably your best choice (it’s also got a great pub next door if you don’t always feel like cooking!).
If you like space, then Harry’s Meadow is a good option – here you can choose to pitch in 40 acres of New Forest parkland. We also have a dedicated area of the campsite just for adults – great if you are looking for a peaceful getaway. Added to this, there’s a wild swimming spot just 5-minutes’ walk away.
If beach vibes are more your thing, then pitch up at The Old Airfield campsite. Surrounded by New Forest heathland – choose your own area to pitch in the campsite’s 40 acres. There’s loads of space for solo campers and again, there’s an area dedicated to adults. This campsite is also just 10 minutes away from the beaches at Mudeford, Hengistbury Head and Highcliffe.
And if you are nervous about cooking for yourself, you don’t need to worry. Feast on handmade sourdough pizzas (cooked every night) and kick start your morning with our barista coffee.
Ready to try your first solo adventure?
If this all sounds like fun to you then why not book your first solo camping adventure? Check availability and book one of our campsites today.
And if you aren’t feeling quite brave enough for camping, don’t forget we have glamping options available which are just a fun for solo adventures.
Book your solo break today.
Frequently asked questions about solo camping
Is solo camping safe?
We’d always recommend choosing a well-established campsite, such as one of our Harry’s Campsites, for your first solo camping adventure. Make sure you prepare well, pack everything you need and let a friend or family member know where you’ll be staying.
If you do need a helping hand during your stay, our campsite team are always happy to help.
Which Harry’s Campsite is best for solo campers?
All three of our campsites are great for solo campers so it really depends on what you are looking for. If you are after a smaller site, then Harry’s Field would be a good option. If you like the freedom to choose your pitch in a larger site, then Harry’s Meadow works well (plus this is also a good spot for anyone who likes wild swimming). The Old Airfield is equally as good and is great for any campers that like being close to the coast.
Can I go solo camping if I’ve never camped before?
Absolutely! Solo camping can be a fantastic way to build confidence and discover a new hobby. Start with a simple setup, choose a well-established campsite and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
At Harry’s Campsites, our friendly team are always on hand to offer advice and assistance, making us a great choice for first-time solo campers.
