Overcoming Barriers to Hiking Alone | Solo Female Travel

Taking your first steps to going it alone on the trail can be a daunting experience, especially as a woman. However, it is possible! Whether you want to hike a day hike, backpack or thru hiking a long-distance trail, or travel the world, this video will help you identify your barriers and take steps to overcoming them so that you can achieve your dream adventure.
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[@KaiExploresLife]

I’m thankful to have found your channel. I am a new hiker and working up to wild camping. It was such a struggle to find a female to get the right perspective. Thank you for sharing yourself with us all. Now I will be binging all your videos 😂

[@AbbieBarnesWILD]

Welcome aboard! Happy binge watching 😂 and enjoy your adventures! You've got this!

[@paulellam6926]

Love solo hiking, people I know ask why I do it etc, they say 'I bet you ponder lots of stuff and think a lot of things through, whilst hiking' I answer yes I do, but the truth is after every hike I realise that i have actually thought about nothing but the hike itself, keeping tabs on the map, looking at the scenery, watch my footing on sketchy terrain. And that's the enlightening bit, realising that I have walked say 10 miles and not thought about the crappy week at work, or the other things that play on my mind, and its a great feeling, freedom in the outdoors, freedom from anxieties, problems and all that stuff that hangs over us, love it! if you are wondering if you can do a hike solo, give it a try, its really something else! thanks for the great vid as always Abbie!

[@mickjames1609]

Hello.. Being male i have struggled many times out there being alone. I have sat alone and wondered why the hell i am doing this. Well I over-come the fear by telling myself I need to escape from the everyday norm. I take a book of nature with me and tick off what i see each day. Travelling light and taking light weight gear makes a lot difference to how and where you want to go. Your right Abbie it is a mental health problem and only the person can over come their fears of being alone. My advise is go hiking but only go as far as you want to. Take some food with you to cook and plenty to drink. By doing this it builds up your own confidence. Nature and the countryside is a beautiful thing that can be accessed by all. No matter what time of the year or what ever the weather. I prefer Snow on the ground in the Winter this does not often happen now where i live. Thank you for your informative videos and the encouragement your giving to those that fear loneliness of being alone with nature and sometimes far from home... Regards Mick.. X

[@chemistryflavored]

My first solo hike I did with my dog last Spring in the middle of covid where trails were pretty empty. Part of the hike was still snow covered and it was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done mentally. I even had a little cry at one point on trail thinking I couldn’t do it. But I did and for me that was such an important thing to learn that I was capable and I did have good instincts. I even ended up pairing up with another solo woman on trail who gave me a hitch back to my car and she was so lovely to talk to since she’s been a solo hiker for years. Anyways I’m getting off topic... just wanted to say great video, just found your channel and hope to explore Scotland someday by foot!

[@michelefacer5198]

Thank you for this. I’ve been solo walking for a while but it’s always really good to reflect on why it’s so good to do it and gain confidence that you’re not the only one who enjoys it. I’m currently reading a book called “Wanderers - A History of Women Walking”. I am awed by women who as long ago as the 17th century were walking alone because they understood the benefits and were not afraid to be different 😃

[@RJ-iu7ze]

I recently found and started reading this book too. I am really enjoying it as it comes at lone female walkers through history from lots of different angles and describes various circumstances and motivations. The unifying factor is, as it says above, that these women were not afraid to be different. So uplifting and inspiring to read about them because - as the book points out - the history of walking has been walking by, and about, men. Women walk too!

[@maggie6512]

I want to walk a nice decent 10 mile walk in a day, but found it all a bit overwhelming on my own. I would get nervous about getting lost and have the fear of ending up miles out of my way. So, I decided to break it down and set myself two walks in a day. One, say, 6 miles then have lunch back at my car, and then set off for a 4 miler, or travel in the car while I rested to another route and set off again. It allowed me to be out all day in the countryside but never too far away from 'base'.

[@erin-eh2sl]

this really eased my worries about solo hiking - it is rare that I find someone ready and willing to come along with me, and i dont want to let that stop me experiencing the world. my main fear is people, and i still deal with this but this video is really helpful to me by offering the first step on my path to solo adventuring

[@tullochgorum6323]

As you say - a much neglected topic! I've been walking alone for half a century now, and in general I much prefer it. You are closer to nature, you encounter more wildlife, and there's much more opportunity for meditation and reflection, I've figured out many problems and had many of my best ideas on solo walks. The whole experience is more focused and intense. On longer projects you're not having to constantly negotiate and compromise over routes, starting times, walking pace, rests, how far to walk each day, where to pitch camp, when to resupply, when to take a rest day... Even strong friendships can creak under this constant pressure to agree. Being responsible for all your own decisions can be liberating. And walking solo enables me to do all the off-the-wall things that most people simply won't agree to. Like wading through knee deep bog to reach the source of the Avon on Dartmoor, or planning to reach the top late to enjoy the sunset and descending in the dark. But it's these exploits that often lead to your most memorable days in the hills. Just yesterday evening I was on top of Bowfell in Langdale at sunset. I was above the clouds. The sky was blazing red and purple behind the spectacular crags of Scafell Pike, with a sweeping view right down to a sea alive with colour. And then the walk down enjoying the moonlit views, the stars and planets, the small night creatures... And as always, I had the hills to myself because the vast majority of people simply won't move out of their comfort zones and do something unconventional. So yes - when I look back over a lifetime of walking, most of my most memorable moments were on my own. And on a more practical level, the advent of PLB satellite emergency beacons that enable you to reliably call for rescue has greatly reduced the danger and made the whole undertaking much more justifiable. If you're walking alone, please carry a PLB. It may save your life, and save the SAR volunteers a long and perhaps a dangerous search to find you.

[@MrSquanchy]

Awesome comment and great advice/stories!

[@KazSchofield]

Just wanted to say a big thank you. With every video of yours I watch I'm feeling more and more empowered and confident as I plan to do my first solo hike in the Lakes this year. I'm making my lists and gathering my gear, and then hopefully I'll move on to solo wild camping. I'm taking it step by step and not being hard on myself, life has been hard so my confidence is low but slowly, slowly I will achieve my goals. This channel is really helping me and inspiring me to do it, so once again from the bottom of my heart, thank you.

[@kristymoore7052]

I really enjoyed this. I’m 57 and only started backpacking 3 years ago. I’m now obsessed. I have taken 4 trips solo so far., many more with at least one other. My current barrier/fear is here in California in the US. The are sooo many homeless and others who are not necessarily outdoor people who are finding the woods these days. Some are not good people. I now worry about weather my car will be safe at the trailhead and also whether I’ll be safe on some trails. I’m not sure how to overcome this.

[@konnorzayn5097]

I know im asking randomly but does anyone know of a trick to get back into an Instagram account?? I stupidly lost my password. I appreciate any assistance you can give me.

[@kloewe6069]

I think that real, pressing fears are not ones that need to be overcome. If you notice there are homeless camps nearby or other signs of humans, it's right to trust your intuition and not put yourself in dangerous situations. I would day, try to find more secluded and far off areas.

[@jessicaleigh523]

I agree….this is my biggest fear. Humans and also aggressive animals. And getting lost.

[@GennieceSledge]

Come to Idaho 🤘

[@jetwalking]

I don't think I have ever seen the subject of the mental effects of walking alone- in particular the negatives discussed- well done for broaching this subject. After over fifty years of hiking, your video served as a both a critique and a mental refresher- thank you. I have recently been diagnosed diabetic and I am currently preparing over the winter for some long walks next year- mainly lengthening my distances locally with graduating amounts of weight to simulate my eventual pack weight. The fear of 'bonking' or going hypo is something that I am learning to deal with. You are right with regards to dogs- take mine everyday with me and they are great companions. I love your light and informative and unglossy narrative style. Your video work is good and its refreshing to see you discussing the inner fears with which I am sure we all have. Keep up the good content.

[@icegypsy99]

While I have some physical challenges, it is not something that stresses me. I know If my body is telling me "Enough" I stop, I rest and regroup. For me, it's using the bathroom in the middle of nowhere. It's a big reason I stay close to home or in parks with facilities. I'm sure most of you will prob laugh but it is a thing for me, and a barrier from doing a longer hike / overnight stay in the middle of nowhere.

[@nicolettehamilton7902]

Hi Abbie I watched your video last week and have now finished my first solo hike up Wach Faun and the Dragons Back in the Black Mountains, I enjoyed it way more than I thought I would! I feel like I have made a big achievement! I have not been hiking in many years! I might even prefer going by myself now! Thanks for your videos! You are doing great work inspiring people! 😊

[@emmafriesen9073]

I watched this last night - and went out for a solo hike today. Thank you for inspiring me!

[@johnalden5821]

You're a great coach and teacher, Abbie. I can say that I have seen lots of women backpacking and hiking in all kinds of terrain, from the Appalachians to the desert and the Rockies. Some are in groups and some apparently solo (at least for that moment). They are all total bosses. Your tips and guidance are great, and other women hikers also are offering some great videos on this topic (Alice Ford, Mary Mansfield). We are a community, and you guys are leaders of that community.

[@Marie-rv4wt]

Hey ya’ Abbie…thank you for another great video. And thank you SO much for being real and for being willing to talk about the tough stuff. I watched your WHW video prior to embarking on my own journey on 21 March 2023. I was 62yo, it was my first through hike and I did it solo. You were in my head during those dicey moments. Thank you for that. I am so very glad you’ve found ways to deal with life’s messy & down right crappy bits. And you keep on keeping on….that takes strength that only those that have walked a similar path can empathize with. Once again….from my heart…..thank you.

[@AbbieBarnesWILD]

Thank you for being here ❤️

[@dorsettyke]

Nice video! Very interesting. I'm sorry that women and girls have to consider some of the things that you mentioned as regards safety and security. As a husband and father it breaks my heart! Actually regardless of that it still breaks my heart!! Keep up the good work 🙂

[@hesterdunlop7948]

Brilliant Abbie ..I seldom comment but this video is so timely ..I have been walking alone for a while but the next step is camping and you have given me the nudge I need ..

[@gardencreated]

Thank you so much Abbie. You’re an absolute gem. Your videos are so timely and useful esp during these times. I hike alone and am so pleased to see the conversation about women specific and confidence concerns. There needs to be more! We are here. Great to see. 💯🙏🏻

[@davebrown3117]

Tampons make good fire starters, especially if you tease them out enough. I'm a guy but I always carry about a dozen or so in my fire kit for emergencies. You can also poke them up your nostril if you get a nose bleed, etc. As fire starters, they are not as good as a commercial fire starter but they are very compact and can be used in a pinch for some medical emergencies and they don't stink your fire kit out. I have used panty liners with some non-stretch sports tape as ad hoc wound dressings over the years. Several tampons and panty liners along with sports tape are additions to my first aid kit.

[@BaldyFella]

This is excellent. I'm a newbie just getting into hiking (I have done a lot of dog walking on my own over the past 6 years) and there is some great advice here. I think confidence plays a big part. That can me mitigated by being sensible and realistic in your expectations, having sufficient equipment and correct clothing and supplies with you and building up your experience slowly but surely (a bit like building up to run a marathon, you get to 5k, 10k and 20k runs first.

[@dot.J678]

Am thinking about walking the West Highland Way. Watched you doing this on your channel. Haven’t done a multi day hike for 20 years or so and never on my own either. Want to be able to though, starting with some lighter gear, do more day hikes outside of my local area on my own. Rebuilding some stamina. After watching your post I decided to go on a navigation course, will help clear at least one of my fears, baby steps make things possible! Thanks Abby, informative and inspiring.

[@mariannacoleman3432]

Thank you. This has been very informative. I'm 63 and I really want to hike. Not physically fit enough for it but I know I can do the 1 hour hike I have near our place. Thanks for the info and the encouragement.

[@yvettewilliamselliott8851]

Thank you so much for this - I really like the idea of partnering with yourself and being your own best friend. Very encouraging and helpful. And thank you for tackling some of the more personal topics for women which are not often discussed.

[@elegantinfusions]

Thank you so much Abbie, that has given me more to think about, my barriers are asthma copd, bad knee, my mental health and no map reading skills. that was a great vlog

[@silverbreezeRn]

Thanks for teaching us. It was very helpful. I will mostly have to hike solo in the future, and only easy hikes due to a recent injury. Love all your videos and you have a nice smile and personality which make these gorgeous videos even better. Stay wild.

[@desafinada9841]

Love this Abbie. Thank you for your encouragement.

[@VinnyandDawn]

Abbie, we're overwhelmed by your confidence, courage and Knowledge etc and your love for the wild. We love watching your videos. We have Daisy, our VW T2 campervan and love the countryside, exploring and taking in the fresh air and tranquillity. Take care Abbie in all your travels xx

[@doyounotknow]

Great video and well thought out. Dedicated female solo hiker here, have had some of my most amazing moments out walking alone. Hope this helps more folks get out there!

[@Karen-dq8nw]

I have found little tricks to use to ease my anxiety. For example, a steep slope, slippery rocks above a river, crossing a stream on a log, snowy steep terrain with rocky runouts, a big thunderstorm when you're higher up than you should be. I've been on a big lake in a canoe during a tornado and lightning storm, waves crashing over the bow. These things all terrify me, and especially my fears of falling or drowning. I use my breathing, I go slowly, sometimes I suck on a hard candy, or I count and just keep counting, the numbers calm me. These things keep my mind occupied so that i'm not envisioning the fall, the landing, the disaster. Before I tackle something hard, I might sit and rest for 10 minutes and have a snack. I will sing if I feel like I'm lost or behind schedule. Obviously the more you do these tough physical things, the more graceful you get at them, and more confident. But there will always be really hard things on just about any trail, so it's good having some - I guess they would be called displacement? Not sure, not a psychologist! - tricks that help you.

[@Celtia103]

Another lovely video! You're so good at explaining and understanding, I get so excited when I see you have a vid out!

[@NikkiEvernight]

What a lovely morning surprise. Thanks Abbey, really helpful video x

[@Weeflowerofscotland]

Thank you! I needed to see this video! I have been hiking with a friend lately once a week but feel I would like to try on my own, I have always been scared to do it ! But I’m going to try! Lots of love to you and Anna from Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@johnlowe7097]

Excellent video Abbie lots of great information well done

[@Kathy.Thorne]

Hi Abbie, thank you so much for addressing the issues you have raised here. Sometimes it is difficult to know how to put them across but you achieve it with such ease. Sorry I did have to pause you half way through as my Wild Hoodie was delivered by the postie. I can confirm it is very comfortable as I am now wearing it x Keep up the great videos, take care and STAY WILD x

[@AbbieBarnesWILD]

So happy the hoodie arrived! We are very proud of them and hope you will enjoy wearing it on your adventures :)

[@colettewhelan8487]

Thank you Abbie. Great advice and content!

[@hikingwiththeshackletons]

Great advice Abbie! I’ve been hiking since I was a child, then gained more experience outdoors in the Army, as a parent, our daughters have been hiking since they were two years old & grown up & learning from each experience (they are teenagers now) & still love it. Like you, we try to inspire others to get outdoors. ❤️

[@phoebedales4675]

Thanks to you, I have just nearly finished my solo west highland way. I have so much respect for you, and I cannot thank you enough for opening my eyes to the joy of hiking on my own x

[@frsimonc.maddisonssc.7858]

Well done for a really straight forward, down to earth, open and honest video. Particularly being up front about your issues with mental health. Will be watching your other videos...

[@sulray]

Excellent video Abbie....very helpful advice for novices..

[@MTravelVlogEurope]

I really enjoyed your video. ⭐️ Thanks for Sharing! 👍🏼

[@JP-lk2qs]

Massive thanks Abbie.Very informative video

[@gisellefernandes927]

Abbie, I found your channel last week and your videos are truly inspirational! I love hiking and I’m used to traveling by myself and going on day hikes by myself as well, but I’m now preparing for my first multi day hike alone (Malerweg and that’s how I found you) and your videos are very helpful!

[@antje8303]

I love your positive attitude and admire your energy to move past your fears ( solo night camping)! Very inspiring. I´ll be off to my first solol hike as soon as the weather gets more stable ( St James Way in France ) - can´t wait. I chose this way because I know that there are a lot of people so if I choose to have company or should get hurt, it won´t be a big problem. I think that´s always a good way to start: A hike that is physically not too exhausting and that´s not in the middle of nowhere. I also trained myself by doing solo day hikes.

[@ArcadeAzrall]

Thank you so much for this video. I've been debating solo hiking for some time, but I'm a bit of a social butterfly and love conversation with others on a journey - that and I'm a total beginner at this lark! This has helped me understand how to get on with this and power on and try a solo hike. Thank you again!

[@loopylou]

Beautiful woods and birdsong 😍

[@Joe1You]

Great advice, Abbie . . . and not just for hiking. I need to do this every day! Thanks!!

[@daveexplore3856]

One of the best vids you have done Abbie. 😎💚👌🙏

[@eddiegill]

I took some great hikes along the coast of Wales..high hills with great views and sheep

[@youthleadermagazine]

Whoah, this is such a rich clip on this matter. And never boring.

[@yasminshikingmission]

Another great video abbie. I am happy to hike with people but I must admit I usually go it alone and love the head space it gives me. I also love the challenge of it and getting over certain fears. I am building up to my first solo wildcamp as well when allowed and am nervous but excited too.

[@tracys9762]

Love your positive attitude!!

[@seawidow]

Another great video and really encouraging. Please keep them coming!

[@ChrisPattonPhotography]

Great video Abbie so really good tips, I love doing walks alone 👍

[@cherielomas1794]

This was so helpful … thank you ABBIE

[@TheAnticarnist]

Thanks Abbie! You've encouraged me to take the first steps at researching how and where to do my first cycle tour and camp overnight somewhere :)

[@claytonperdell8292]

I love your videos, great info, very inspiring, look forward to the future ones. Spot on.

[@peteaustin9636]

love your videos abbie... you have a calming influence

[@smurph4959]

I first told myself I was going to watch 5 minutes and the rest later so I can get going on work ... silly Smurph. Great video with lots of good tips ... that I need to take on board big time. Cheers Abbie 🌼🌸🌼

[@leeprice674]

Hi Abbie really enjoy your videos and this is another good one we'll done. I am new to camping and have enjoyed watching all the videos. Lots of opinions and gear lists. I am mixing army surplus as I like the idea of repurposing items and hiking gear for different reasons. As a bloke, of older years haha its always interesting to hear how the sexes discussion creeps in. I have seen lots of the macho responses and hunting, fires, and general cave man replies. We aren't all like that as you also point out as being individuals. I'm a bloke that is still worried about who might be wandering around at night. I am terrified about pooing in a hole and the paperwork that goes with it 😳. Oh and I don't like being cold and not sleeping 😴. I enjoy listening to you and getting your advice which is very useful. Stay safe and keep enjoying your time in the open. 👍😉

[@NickandRachel]

Thanks for sharing this!

[@cheriwhite902]

Excellent video, Abbie!

[@lyndaturner9294]

Thank you for this, so helpful, really appreciate how much you put yourself out here for all of us! I’m rooting for you too! xo

[@somehappenings246]

Really well done, very organized,....thx

[@jeffreyxxx6176]

Nice job kiddo!!

[@karenmiller3300]

Great advice...thanks Abbie!

[@becsta365]

So brilliant thank you.

[@tamarmolerick3814]

Nicely done

[@merlinmaya1]

love this video! TY

[@lamboways]

This video is fantastic! :)

[@rogerhudson2814]

Great video, great idea for a video.

[@useyourbrain.5574]

Being able to navigate well, takes on more imortance when alone.

[@matthewstorm5188]

I do almost all of my hikes alone. What I REALLY need to overcome are the barriers to hiking with other people.

[@AbbieBarnesWILD]

Same 😂😂😂

[@Autumn1988]

I used to be really confident with hiking and navigation. But over the past couple years and particularly with Covid I’ve lost confidence in my abilities to plan and navigate a route. Walking guide books with short works in combination with an OS map are helpful

[@Alfred_51]

Thanks Abbie

[@bev8506]

Hi Abbie. Thank you for this video. I'm hoping to complete Hadrians Wall at some point this year but I want to do a simple weekend hike first to test the equipment (and myself!). Do you have any routes you would recommend? Somewhere in the South West would be preferable. Thanks

[@ALEX-pg1hb]

Abbie!! where are your hiking pants here from? I'm looking for a couple good pairs! :)

[@johnbaker7608]

Restricted money due to Social Services Conditions are my Main barriers. I think you are doing a wonderful job.

[@emmakimble2255]

End of 2021 October I’m walking the west highland way, great glen way,NC500,down too st. bees cost too cost then home 915 miles too do, will be on KZbin as soon as possible, if any one is there look out 4 me. Hiking allow, not problem.

[@phiebondie]

Any advice for if I really enjoy hiking and being in nature but I have a phobia of dogs so can literally only walk around my local fields at "safe" times of day (like 11-3 because I'm pretty sure most people do not walk their dogs at this time). I really want to do an overnight solo trip, do u know of any routes in the south of England that require dogs on leads?

[@indianocean7271]

you're brilliant, you had me at hello. I really really want to walk alone but am too scared of how do I keep safe if I meet a man who is predatory / disinhibited and I can't shake him off. I don't have family nearby and don't feel comfortable making my safety my friends' problem - ie that they have to be by the phone in case of an SOS call. Radio 4 woman's hour had an experienced solo female walker and she talked about some hairy moments. Beats the object of the walk being relaxing if you're hyper alert to male danger. She mentioned that there are some UK nature reserves where women have reported 'known' creepy men hang out there.

[@evelynjepson5955]

my dad brought me up to love my own time alone..however, my inlaws have always had family around, can't handle it...

[@grousiest]

Timely

[@Nate1975]

Fear for me but no idea why and what I am scared of. Any tips would be appreciated

[@xanthinezantheen4052]

I have been traveling alone for more than 20 years, and find that that kind of fear, the kind where you don't know what you're afraid of, is fear of the unknown. So the remedy for that is twofold: embrace the unknown and learn as much as you can about what you are facing. Learn as much as you can about where you want to go/ what you want to do, make the unknown known and it will be less scary. Also, embracing unknowable things starts with small steps. Science shows that stepping out of your comfort zone in one area of your life increases confidence in all areas of your life. So trying a new food today helps you face that trail tomorrow!

[@johnbaker7608]

I have Asperger Syndrome and depression and anxiety j think due to losing my Dad and sister and Mum in the last few decades. I am very excited about getting out on the trail. It looks really awesome being in nature.

[@BandanaTrekking]

I'm not a woman 😀 but I like hiking alone, sometimes i'ts nice also in the darkness, more exciting! I made some videos about hiking in Italy, if you wanna take a look!

[@sarahsoor6219]

😊🙏

[@evelynjepson5955]

Dodgy people is the foremost in my mind.

[@bevanbuckwheatshea5520]

Scared of being chased by a bear

[@ianpark1805]

Oh....I never realised that as a ‘gregarious hiker’ I was in such a minority!

[@walkslyricsandmore]

🇨🇦👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@justkarl_outdoors2163]

Great video 🙌 have always been a solo hiker I feel I can connected with mother nature better and clear my mind 😊 keep up the good work atb Justkarl_outdoors

[@clairecletc9011]

Thanks Abbie. Really informative video.