Solo Trip

[trikebubble]

So, I 'm planning a weekend solo trip next month, and wondered (for those of you that have traveled solo) how far out of your comfort zone will you push it when by yourself, as compared to having a co-pilot, or another rig along for the adventure.
Obviously getting out there by yourself requires some extra attention, planning, leaving a basic or detailed idea of whereabouts you will be, and an expected time to be back home with someone.

I enjoy the option of the solo aspect of travel, and have ridden thousands of miles by motorbike by myself over the years. My head seems to be fairly squarely screwed on, so I don't go out of my way to make impulsive or silly decisions when out traveling, adventuring, or exploring by myself. Being alone has a certain appeal to it, it forces you to think a little more, relax a little more, focus a little more, I find.

I will have the dogs with me (The wife is taking her Mom on a weekend shopping trip so I guess I won't be totally "alone" in the wilderness), and will be bringing a book or three to enjoy. I'm just looking for a little feedback, or experiences from those who enjoy a little solo adventure every now and then.

 

[Philbobagginz]

Just make sure you are aware of the trails you are on. Stay away from sketchy obstacles. Make sure to have a self recovery kit in case. Other than that, a man and his dog, it sounds like you'll have a great weekend.

 

[The other Sean]

Just make sure you are aware of the trails you are on. Stay away from sketchy obstacles. Make sure to have a self recovery kit in case. Other than that, a man and his dog, it sounds like you'll have a great weekend.

Pretty much that. I always go no further than if I would need to walk out if need be. What equipment and skills you have with also plays in.

 

[w_m_photo]

Make sure you have a way of contacting the outside world... Ham, Cell, Signal Fire? something. Also make sure to let one or two responsible people who know you where about you are going and when you plan on being back.
Self recovery is very important but not always manageable.

 

[The other Sean]

Make sure you have a way of contacting the outside world... Ham, Cell, Signal Fire? something. Also make sure to let one or two responsible people who know you where about you are going and when you plan on being back.
Self recovery is very important but not always manageable.

Keep in mind that relying on cell signal is NOT a good idea, especially in wooded or mountainous areas. Maps, dedicated GPS, Compass and the ability to use them is very important.

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/05/27/us/missing-hiker-geraldine-largay-appalachian-trail-maine.html?_r=0

 

[w_m_photo]

Keep in mind that relying on cell signal is NOT a good idea, especially in wooded or mountainous areas. Maps, dedicated GPS, Compass and the ability to use them is very important.

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/05/27/us/missing-hiker-geraldine-largay-appalachian-trail-maine.html?_r=0

Agreed... Ham and knowing the local repeaters is best... But, a good topo map, gps, even those Spot locators are a good idea.

 

[trikebubble]

Learning to use a HAM radio is certainly on my list down the road at some point. I'll be leaving a pretty detailed route map with my Wife, and am fairly knowledgeable with the general area. I will have to try to curtail my "hey, let's go explore way down there" mentality a bit though. It will be a great weekend away though.

 

[The other Sean]

You can still wander and explore, you just need to make sure you are always on your game. Simple things can be huge. I remember my first hunting trip as a kid and my dad saying "ok, before we step in to the woods, pull out your compass. See how we are going in east? Notice how the road goes north and south? It goes for miles in either direction. If you get lost, go west and you will find the road. You may be a mile or three in either direction, but, you will be on this road." Simple details like finding the road can save you in a bad situation.

When hiking, I tend to leave a marking somehow when I take a turn I am unsure of. I'll drag my heel in to the ground and make a big scrape mark or arrow or pile up some rocks or sticks in an unnatural pile or something. Helps me or someone looking for me on the trail.