Don’t let being single keep you from enjoying remote spots such as this.
In my boondocking seminars I am often asked about RVing solo especially from women. From my experience, it seems that the appeal of boondocking solo is stronger for women than some men. There is no reason a woman or a man should fear RVing by themselves. Let’s take a look at some steps women (and men as well) can do to feel safer camping by themselves:
- Boondock out of sight of others and/or the road.
- Put two pairs of boots outside your door at night. Make sure one of the pairs is men’s extra large.
- Travel with a dog or show signs outside of your RV of owning one (dog dishes, dog leash/chain, large chew toy, kennel, etc).
- Set up two camp chairs by your fire pit or under your awning.
- Trust your gut about where you set up camp. If you don’t feel safe move to a different
location where you do. - Make friends on the road or at a RV rally and travel with them part of the time.
Don`t be Afraid to Go Solo
Being single doesn’t mean you have to RV alone. Many solo RVers new to the lifestyle join RV groups or clubs, which can be a great way to start. Some solo RVers prefer this method of travel and camping. There are numerous RV groups and online forums that cater to solo/lady RVers including groups like Freewheelers, a regional chapter of the club RVing Women.
The important thing to remember is just because you are single that shouldn’t keep you from enjoying the adventures of RVing, even if that means camping by yourself in the boondocks.
Dave Helgeson’s many roles in the RV industry started before he even had a driver’s license. His grandparents and father owned an RV dealership before the term “RV” had been coined, and Dave played a pivotal role in nearly every position of an RV dealership. He and his wife Cheri launched their own RV dealership in the Pacific Northwest. The duo also spent 29 years overseeing regional RV shows. Dave has also served as President of a local chapter of the Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA), worked on the board of advisors for the RV Technician Program of a local technical college, and served as a board member of the Manufactured Home and RV Association. Dave’s reputation earned him the title of “The foremost expert on boondocking,” bestowed by RV industry icon, the late Gary Bunzer (The RV Doctor). When he’s not out boondocking, you’ll find Dave in the spotlight at RV shows across the country, giving seminars about all things RVing. He and Cheri currently roam in their fifth travel trailer, with Dave doing all the service, repair and modifications to his own unit.
I love the idea of putting men’s shoes outside the steps, and the two camp chairs by the fire ring, However camp all alone or the street doesn’t attract me. I have heard that if you do that you should be more than 40 miles from a big city. Some like to party and drink in isolated camping spots. Apparently the further away from a city the less chance of having rowdy drunks shake your trailer.
I have found a few blogs from interesting women who travel alone. You mention full-time RVSue (I googled Clinger because I didn’t know what it meant and found you!), and also Tent soloist who travels a few months a year. These blogs very encouraging for me. I too plan on traveling a few months a year and can’t wait to start.
Thanks for the tips!