Road Trip Safety Tips For Solo Travelers

The Road Trip Safety Tips That Will Help Convince Your Mom You're Staying Safe Out There

Embarking on a solo road trip or car camping adventure can be a transformative experience. The freedom to explore the open road at your own pace and the opportunity to connect with nature are unparalleled experiences; however, with this new freedom comes the responsibility of ensuring your safety. From four-legged companions to location-sharing, here are our top road trip safety tips for your solo adventures.

1. Travel with a Dog

Our four-legged friends can also be valuable travel companions, providing comfort and an added layer of security. Dogs are excellent protection, alerting you to potential dangers and deterring unwelcome visitors—whether that be other humans or wildlife.

Ensure your furry friend is comfortable during the journey, carry enough food and water for both of you, and research pet-friendly stops along your route. Your canine companion could be your most loyal ally in ensuring a safe and enjoyable solo adventure.

2. Share Your Phone Location with Family and Friends

Share Your Camping Location With Family and Friends. Photo: www.caminoadventures.com

In the age of technology, staying connected is easier than ever. Before hitting the road, share your live location with trusted family and friends. Apps like Google Maps and Apple's Find My allow you to share real-time updates on your whereabouts. This not only provides peace of mind for loved ones but can also be crucial information in case of emergencies.

3. Keep a Defense Weapon Accessible

Hiking with Bear Spray Can Protect You From More Than Just Animals. Photo: http://www.sabrered.com/

While optimism is vital, it's also essential to prepare for unforeseen circumstances. Keep a self-defense tool like pepper spray easily accessible in your vehicle. Be sure you are familiar with its usage and local regulations. A simple yet effective means of protection can provide extra security and peace of mind when venturing into unfamiliar territories.

Want other protection ideas? Try these: A taser, a knife, bear spray (this is essential when hiking or camping in bear country), or a Byrna.

4. Lock Your Doors and Windows

Basic safety measures can go a long way. Whether you’re away from your vehicle or inside of it, always lock your vehicle doors and windows. This simple habit can prevent opportunistic theft and enhance your overall safety. Tinted windows and window covers also help provide privacy and peace of mind. For solo travelers, it's important to have privacy and not flaunt the fact that you’re alone.

5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Make Sure You Camp in a Safe Location. Photo: www.bearfoottheory.com

Vigilance is key when traveling. Don’t tell strangers where you’re planning to camp that night, especially if you’re traveling alone. Before setting up camp, survey the area for potential hazards and identify your exit points. Being aware of your surroundings and having a plan in case of unexpected situations can make a significant difference when in a dangerous situation or emergency and will just help you sleep better at night.

6. Stay Where You Have Cell Service

While the allure of remote and off-grid camping is undeniable, it's crucial to balance adventure with practicality. Choosing camping spots where you have reliable cell service ensures that you can call for help if needed, providing an extra layer of security.

If you know you won’t have cell service, it may be worth investing in a satellite communication device like the Garmin inReach. These small, walkie-talkie-looking devices can send out SOS signals to search and rescue as well as share your location and support two-way communication if you want to send loved ones a reassuring message when you arrive safely at camp.

Use Starlink for Remote Internet Connection When Traveling Off Grid. Credit: www.inverse.com

Starlink is also an increasingly popular option for those camping off-grid. For $150 a month, plus the cost of the hardware, it’s definitely a more expensive option. But if you are an avid off-grid camper or like to work from the road, it may just be worth the price. You can get unrestricted internet access pretty much anywhere—even remote locations and National Parks.

7. Keep Your Vehicle Prepared

Bring The Right Safety Gear On All Your Trips. Photo: travelfreak.com

Your vehicle is your lifeline on the road. One of the most important road trip safety tips is ensuring that your vehicle is prepared for the elements and emergencies. In the winter months, travel with blankets (Rumpls are my fav), a sleeping bag, and extra clothes in your back seat in case you break down or get stuck in the cold.

Here are a few things you should do to prepare your vehicle:

• Regularly check the tire pressure (here’s an inexpensive tool for that)

• Keep your gas tank at a comfortable level and know where there is a gas station along your route where you can fuel up

• Ensure your windshield wiper blades are in good working condition and filled with cleaning fluid that won’t freeze in colder weather!

• Carry a well-stocked emergency first aid kit and a tool kit

• Make sure you have jumper cables on hand!

• Pack a flashlight or headlamp

Being proactive in maintaining your vehicle and having a well-stocked aid kit before you even get behind the wheel can prevent breakdowns and help you stay safe during your solo journey.

P.S. Make sure you've gotten that oil change recently ;) Oil changes are one of those things you never want to have to do in the middle of a road trip (trust me, I made that mistake once and it was a total pain)!

Final Thoughts

Solo road-tripping and car camping can be immensely rewarding, offering unparalleled freedom and adventure. By incorporating these tips into your journey, you can maximize the enjoyment of your travels while minimizing potential risks. From the loyalty of a four-legged friend to the practicality of staying connected through technology, these tips serve as a guide for a safer solo travel experience. Embrace the open road, enjoy the moments of solitude at your destination, and, above all, prioritize your safety as you explore the world on your own terms. Safe travels!