The FEAR of solo CAMPING

[@rossyoung8892]

Glad to see you addressing this Paul. I was ridiculed online last weekend after posting in a wildcamping group about the fact that I had bailed on a coastal camp due to being unsettled by someone who appeared to be trying to watch me from a clifftop above me while I was setting up my tent. Im relatively new to camping (only been out twice before) and was by myself, about 3 miles away from the nearest town with the sun just setting when it happened. Something felt off so I trusted my gut and left, but several people in the comments said I was being paranoid, told me to "get a grip", "man up" called me a snowflake and had a right good laugh at my expense, so I ended up deleting the post out of embarrassment. Thankfully a kind soul addressed it in a new post the following morning and thousands of users liked the post with hundreds of comments from people telling me I made the right call. It's reassuring to hear voices like yours in the camping community saying that theres nothing wrong with having fears about wildcamping, or calling it a night if something is concerning you. I could have easily been put off camping by those comments after that, but seeing others like yourself admit that you had similar experiences when you started helps to keep me motivated. Cheers!

[@Martin-88]

Always trust your gut. It's usually telling you something for a reason. When you say someone was trying to watch you, do you mean they were trying to make it so you couldn't see them?

[@johnmccarthy2179]

Ignore the troll’s

[@rossyoung8892]

@@Martin-88 yeah, as I had no idea they were there until they made a noise, at which point I started looking around for a bit as I couldn't see where it had come from, until I looked up and saw the outline of a person's head and shoulders, seemingly crouched down (could have been sitting though) overlooking my campspot. Was more than likely just someone who happens to be looking out from viewpoint when I arrived and was curious to see what I was up to, but I think the combination of being startled and that fact that I was aware someone now knew I was there alone and out of reach of the nearest town was enough to put me off.

[@juliapigworthy]

Our threat detection software is capable of perceiving far more than the sum of what we see and hear.. always trust your instincts when they tell you something ain't right.

[@James-gf9jl]

The difference is, they weren't there. There are some weirdos attracted to the coast that you won't find in the high and remote locations. If it doesn't feel right, bail out.

[@stephengregory3982]

After watching your videos for 2 years I finally got myself out in the New Forest last week for my first wild camp. Absolutely shit myself for the whole night. Bats, deer, cows, horses... But I really loved it. On the way home, all I kept thinking about was doing it again. Thank you for giving me the confidence. I'm not sure you realise sometimes how appreciated your videos are. All the best 👍🏽

[@sirenflight]

100% this! Thank you Paul

[@johnkenny694]

I had a Grizzly bear one night who wanted to eat me , up in the Rockies, great night camping that was!

[@agnieszkas7238]

haha good job, glad you have made it okay. I was actually told to move on in New Forest one time 😂

[@asensibleyoungman2978]

They weren't bats, deer, cows and horses, they were vampires, werewolves, ghosts & serial killers.

[@leetaylor41]

Hey bro I’m from new forest if u ever need some people to go camping with me and a couple other mates do it when we can

[@davidcressey]

Honestly, this is one of the best video's i have seen you do. Its authentic, relevant and genuinely interesting, given with a really natural and friendly manner. Thanks Paul :)

[@PaulMessner]

Thanks Dave 👍🏻

[@spekky9012]

Same here. It's personal. Our thoughts, feelings. Just get out there and don't worry about what others think. It's just you. No one else. Such a sobering time to even get to know your self.

[@nigelcrisp68]

I agree Dave, the photography is stunning, breathtaking to be honest, & Paul comes across as calm, engaging and a really interesting fellow: I liked it a lot.

[@jpoeste]

Paul is great!

[@noneyerbusiness203]

What Dave said ☝️

[@petemcgowan2828]

Working in a warehouse 9 hours a day then coming home and sitting in a small living room then bed and getting up and doing it all over again, 5 days a week gets me down. I enjoy a bit of camping for the same reasons as yourself Paul. When I cant get out i put one of your videos on , love it . Don't stop and enjoy what your doing, best of luck mate.

[@matty6848]

Pete have you ever thought about getting a job in a more mobile role so your in a different environment every day? I’m a HGV class driver and sleep away in my cab Monday to Friday, but I get too wake up somewhere different each day, plus I get too sleep in my warm comfy cab with a full size single memory foam mattress. I have a microwave, coffee maker, little camping gas stove, and a fridge freezer and I love it, especially when I do the European runs and wake up in places like France, Spain, Italy etc. i couldn’t think of anything worse than working in the same factory with the same environment everyday, especially with managers and supervisors about. Me I’m my own boss, just ring up my planner, get my route and load for the day and off I go👍🏻

[@londonspade5896]

@@matty6848 How would you maintain a relationship or friendships? It's not a life for everyone

[@maratonlegendelenemirei3352]

@@londonspade5896 Relationship? Are you talking about women? They hold you back, drag you down and break your heart.

[@maratonlegendelenemirei3352]

That's the life I use to lead in the UK back in the 1990's. It sucked.

[@stephenjon3502]

@@londonspade5896 There's lots of websites that arrange meetings in laybys. Just flash your headlights a few times😆

[@aylagriffin3310]

I just did my first solo wild camp a couple of weeks ago! Honestly, it was really really hard to turn my brain off and stop worrying about the weather and wildlife and just sleep. I think I got about two consecutive hours in before the sun came up. But I'm extremely proud of myself for doing it anyway, and I'm looking forward to starting a walking tour of Devon and Cornwall next week.

[@aliceinwonderland8314]

Something that works for me is listening to music via earphones. It gives my brain something familiar to focus on, even though I could still hear outside noises. Went on my first solo wild camp last weekend and it worked great.

[@justrusty]

I was doing a section hike on the US Appalachian Trail. I intentionally selected a time a section and direction that would give me solitude. I discovered that there is a fine line between solitude and loneliness. Yeah, I'd see other hikers during the day, usually going the other way. In 267 miles of hiking, I only hiked with another person for about 30 of them. It does get lonely. Last year on 566 miles I at least met another hiker going the same way and we went 100 miles together and we remain friends. My next hike is planned for about 250 miles and is with someone. I do love going alone because you're in charge of your own schedule, but sometimes, just having company is more enjoyable.

[@edwardkenny2356]

You know, Paul, you're not alone with the feelings that wash over you sometimes. Most of my backpacking was solo. And much of the time it was all good. But on some trips, a feeling of loneliness was so strong. I'd be missing my wife and kids, and yet I'd just left them. No rhyme or reason to it. Thanks for being honest and transparent. It's greatly appreciated 👍

[@POMOLY]

Go camping with your family. Maybe camping is more fun with your family.

[@steveclark..]

Humans are meant to be social creatures, during these last two years I've had to distance myself from the brainwashed folk, those who are complying with all the nonsense that will take all our freedom away. Even now, with all the evidence of what the people behind the world economic forum are doing, their 'Great Reset' plan and 'agenda 2030' are openly talked about yet some folk still can't see it.

[@wesleysnider2915]

@@POMOLY I love to go alone, but I also had days I not felt conftable. That happens some time, for shure it is fun to go with the family, but my wife would never sleep in the forest and my kids are too young for it. In some years maybe if they want.

[@POMOLY]

@@wesleysnider2915 When your kids get a little older, maybe by that time, they want to go camping and explore nature with you.

[@jimcabtv]

Can we just take a moment to appreciate the ridiculously amazing camera angles. What effort mate!

[@Paulie.k]

My number 1 cure for overthinking and anxiety is to stop drinking booze and go to the gym, lift weights go swimming and do saunas every day or 6 days a week at least haven’t drank for the last 2 months apart from yesterday when I went camping (had 2 Indian pale ales), you feel so much better mate honestly

[@dieselbushcraft1299]

Well done Paul and my guess is that the fears around wild camping is not spoken about enough. You’re also being very honest and genuine about your own worries and anxieties. These qualities put your channel head and shoulders above the rest.

[@markbourne3679]

Another great video thanks. My first wild camp was on Dartmoor, i was all pitched up and watching the football on my phone (with a beer) when a load of ponies and foals turned up, it was absolutely incredible. What wasnt incredible was the simple fact that they didnt leave when i went to bed. Despite knowing they where there i spent all night petrified of the noises they were making ! Scariest night of my life, every wild camp since has been bliss compared to that 😂

[@1stElement]

I'm glad I've found this video (I follow your channel and have done for a while but hadn't seen this one...) - the last vid I put up addressed this - for years I've avoided silence and solitude due to the thoughts that creep in - my wife knew when I weas super stressed as she's come home and every TV and radio would be on... Riding my bike in the wilderness has been fine because you're 'doing' all the time - I rode in the West Brecon Beacons last week and all of sudden, at the top of a climb, I stopped to look at the view and had this overwhelming sense of peace and quiet that I'm not sure I've ever had in my life (I'm 46, man..!) - it really hit me hard... the last three years have been insanely hard and I've done everything I can to block out thoughts, in not very healthy ways - but at the top of that climb I realised that there wasn't anything there to block out any more - things have got better over the last 6 months but the habits I'd built up to block it out were still there... it was quite a moment of realisation. Thank you for your honesty - you say all the things that we all feel but none of the other wild camping videos address. Cheers Paul, thank you so much.

[@TheEmporiumOutdoors]

Hey Paul - I live and camp in Alberta, Canada 🇨🇦, forests mainly and 99% of the time alone (plus my dog Esme 🐶). The only thing I'm fearful of is strangers - forget the bears, cougars, moose etc - I know they typically want nothing to do with me BUT a stranger wandering into camp puts my hackles up immediately. I don't think I felt the same way when I lived in the UK - but now it's something I'm very conscious of - Thanks for the great video! Michael 👍

[@goldilocks913]

I remember having a pheasant land on the top of my tent at the crack of dawn. I made a stranger noise than it did! Beautifully shot video, glad you’re enjoying your solo time again. 👍

[@saymyname218]

Paul ....this is a great video ....I used to camp alone on my local forest ( Ashdown forest ) and tbh at night it used to get a bit creepy .... one night I heard some heavy step noises outside the tent ....thinking it could be a human I then struck up a struck up a conversation with an imaginary friend ( thinking the more people in the tent the less chance of attack )... I did feel a bit silly at daylight when I saw the footprints of a deer ... LOL

[@samm4192]

I went on my first solo wildcamp this sunday night just gone and although I made a few mistakes along the way, I still had an amazing time!

[@rjphotos]

Such an honest video discussing an important topic. Being alone overnight in the wilds challenges our essential requirement for companionship. It’s easy to feel like a failure when we have those moments and have to bail. It’s natural to feel apprehensive and there shouldn’t ever be pressure to do something you’re not ready for. More of this motivational content please!

[@gordy2704]

You were rewarded with spectacular conditions and stunning views Paul! You know what resonates so well? Your authenticity. I was listening to a podcast about storytelling and the consistent theme that comes through is one of emotional connection adding credibility and acting as a magnet. When you tell us about Jo suggesting somewhere familiar and being open and candid about your fears, it just adds to the joy of watching this. Thank you 🙏🏼

[@wensmoos8251]

What a amazing and peaceful episode again paul!i started following youre channel a long time ago, but i never made the step to go solo wild camping. Now 3 weeks ago i had a though accident, wherei need to recover from for at least 1,5 months. A lot of thinking happened in the hospital and a lot of watching paul messner solo wild camping. So after my recovery im going on my first solo wild camping adventure and its not going to be a single camp. Im gonna do this all my life. I started ordering gear in the hospital, so a lot already is ready to get in my new osprey backpack. Thanks for the inspiring movies paul! Keep on going! I cant wait to seek up the peaceful mountains and get my head calm! And maybe even in the lake and peak district. Greetings from amsterdam, the netherlands💪

[@PaulMessner]

Get well soon my friend 👍🏻

[@sirenflight]

What a wonderful plan for recuperation! I have wild camped much of my adult life (camped all my childhood too but not wild!) and continue to do so despite my health deteriorating a lot. Take it easy on yourself, don't be concerned about any trolls and if it's a few camps before you stay in the tent overnight that's grand. I can't walk far at all now so always have the car as a backup and if I'm even slightly feeling it's not right I decamp to the car with my sleeping bag, leave things set up and go back to it at sunrise for a brew and the magic of the dawn air on a wild camp, nothing like it, you will not look back!

[@antduke2361]

Just got back from walking the entire coast of the isle of wight and wild camped 5 straight nights. I went with a mate. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed it, I will never forget that, one of my best trips. Just do it and once you make a few great memories you will just want to be doing it as much as possible.

[@wensmoos8251]

Thank you all! Im going to make the best out of it! And even share my adventurs with everyone.. this community is so full of respect and joy! And the love for the outdoors is so great! And thats not a normal thing now a days.. everyone keep going and thanks foor the feedback! @paulmessner, i will.. thank you!

[@SonnyGreenwichJr]

Yup, I loved that! I might just crack my tent open in the backyard as I can't get away... 🔥🧨💪🏽🤠👍🏽🧨🔥

[@thebackingpackinggeordie]

Hi Paul, I get so excited planning and packing beforehand but when i am driving to my spot to start the walk to the pitch I come over with anxiety. Once I am pitched I love every minute. Great video.

[@greyhikes5236]

Well done Paul, great content as usual! My partner went out on her first solo camp bless her last week. She walked 16km and pitched up in moorland next to Corfe Castle. So proud of her, she took it all in her stride.

[@bluejay4950]

What a great thing to do! I live in Poole! 😊

[@patrycjajames9616]

I am planning to go there for my first solo camp 😊

[@nagstah9203]

My brother once told me "the hardest thing about going away solo is to cope with the one you can't leave behind.. yourself.." I have all the gear I need and yet I'm struggling to pass the threshold of actually doing it. Eventhough I love it when I'm out...

[@SuperPeterkelly]

Honestly go, if you can go with someone else then all the better. Don’t know where you are from but Angle tarn in the lakes is good, it’s popular with wild campers so you won’t be alone. Failing that try Ogwen valley in snowdonia. Look for devils kitchen. Lots of you tube vids.

[@mboutdoors_uk]

Pushing yourself to get out there is the absolute best advice I think you can give anyone! The amount of times I didn't really fancy it but made myself get out and about.... Those are the days that you feel so much better about everything in life. Great video Paul, keep on keeping on mate. Beautiful place to be in the autumn 😍

[@yvonnemassey3658]

My favorite past time is camping. Has been all my life. But I simply cannot go alone. Please don't poke fun at me but I'm well over 60 years old and have been deathly afraid of the dark my entire life. I won't even go outside at home. I'm very lucky that my family inherited my love for the outdoors so being alone is never a problem. Although I do feel sorry for them when I wake up in the middle of the night for a nature call, someone has to go with me. AB Camping turned me on to your channel and I love it. I shared it with my grandson and now all he talks about is going abroad for some hiking and camping. I hope you enjoy many more years of peaceful adventures.

[@chrisbardell]

Not afraid of the dark myself, but I often wake up and get spooked because I haven't fully woken up and don't know where I am. Happens regularly, even at home. Really don't want that when I'm camping, so solution is some cheapo glow sticks. Often a bit bright for sleeping, so I partially cover them up.

[@PaulSmith-xh2ex]

Another fabulous video touching on some vital points of being alone in the outdoors. 30 years ago I lived nr Bethesda in Snowdonia, 30 years old did my mountain leader training, SPA, winter skills lead guided walks out of my backdoor.. Guided for HF Holidays too. An accident with a car left me with focal epilepsy. My dreams shattered, can't drive, can't this can't that I was a mess. Stopped engaging with My outdoors, I'd been outdoors since a child living on the doorstep of The Forest of Bowland, yet my confidence to cross that massive anxiety hurdle I'd set myself, was Soooo difficult. I took nearly 3 years away from the hills and mountains, until I joined a local Walking club (pre covid) transport by coach, like minded people, I felt like a newbie... Until you divulge a few details 😉 and then before you know it you're leading walks, organising walks etc. I've not been solo camping I go with my mate, I'm still taking baby steps with that, but I'm glad I got back on with my passion again. I would like to do some bike packing (cycle touring for the oldies) there's so much Gung Ho in the outdoors these days, I found that made me feel insignificant and dejected. Thank you Paul for raising awareness regarding anxiety, I look forward to your next adventure, I spurs me on to cross my personal hurdle. 🙏👍

[@supercheekykiwi]

Thanks for so much honesty. It all helps us all.

[@ianrunningforpudding4915]

Thanks for inspiring me to get back out wild camping with my old kit.

[@PaulMessner]

Thank you so much for this. I really appreciate it. Best wishes. Paul

[@philjones3335]

You're the best Paul, these videos are so much more than gear reviews they come from the heart. You speak from experience and so openly I've asked your advise so many times and you always have time to answer. Thanks for what you do and long may you keep doing it. Cheers phil

[@acraen]

Great to hear Jo is supporting you in your journey out of burnout. Don't worry, it takes its time.. but step by step we recover

[@christophernewman5027]

Cheers, Paul. That was a good one; thanks for inviting us along.

[@WiltshireMan]

Haaha Paul...Hares don't tend to live in holes they prefer to live above ground and find a hidden place in the grass which is called a "Form". Nice video, the camera quality is very good. Sandy

[@markbowen1051]

Great video Paul. Honest, inspirational, informative. Keep listening to Jo and you won’t go wrong.

[@DarkArcherAdventures]

Talking about things that most of us aren’t willing to put out on the internet for whatever reason is wonderful. Thank you for that. Great video.

[@Winner01001]

Good man Paul, and Well done Jo …..The best teams always have each other’s backs 100%

[@Dave64DGB]

Important not to pile pressure on yourself, you absolutely need to enjoy it but great you pushed yourself a bit to get out. You have huge support on here, everyone wants to see you happy most of all and enjoying what you do. Viewers don’t matter, create what makes you happy, focus on pleasing yourself first and foremost and we will enjoy and support whatever that journey might be. You can also feel good that talking about your struggles will be helping someone else with theirs or at least showing that it’s good to talk. 👍🏻👏🏻

[@deekelley891]

Sounds like you are finding your joy again! So happy for you. And you married a brilliant lady!

[@djharto4917]

Hats off to anyone who camps alone as I couldn’t without my jack Russell. She is my eyes ears and hot water bottle. Dogs truly are mans best friend.

[@graffitigraphics1]

Cracking video, cracking spot too. I love the early morning to myself when everyone else is still asleep…beautiful colours and so peaceful. Was supposed to be out tomorrow but couldn’t be arsed to get my stuff ready…just been out and put the panniers on the bike and done a quick check on what’s in them after watching the video 👍 I’m off at 6am - so many thanks for posting!

[@ianrunningforpudding4915]

Massive respect for raising the topic we can all struggle with sometimes. I’ve not been wild camping for 20+ years but kept all my kit, mainly a mid 90’s Vaude Hogan and a Thermarest self inflating sleep mat. Yesterday I took my 11 year old for his first wild camp and my first in 20 years, partly due to seeing your videos on here. They reminded me how great it is. My boy loved it and can’t wait to go again, we do need to upgrade the sleeping kit though. Thank you Paul.

[@RoughTimba]

I feel you Paul. I was afraid of nothing a few years ago. Something happened to me over night and and it turned me into a nervous wreck. I think we have to follow what the Chinese say - follow the fear. It will regain our confidence. The brain is a powerful thing. I do hope you get over these anxiety's soon, it will happen, just takes a little time. All the best.

[@JamesSouthwood]

Great video Paul. This is you being yourself, enjoying it, helping others to enjoy it. Thanks!

[@mrbenn4385]

Hi Paul. Just discovered your channel. I used to wildcamp for days at a time with my brother on the NY moors as a kid (he was 13 and I was 10) in the mid 70s. I can honestly say I was never afraid back then, as my brother was always there with his penknife! But now (46 years later) I’m considering trying it again and have a whole load of reservations (older and supposedly wiser). Your video has encouraged me just to give it a go and to remember that I can always pack up and go home if I feel unsure. Many thanks for your great videos!

[@woodchip2782]

“Rest of the morning is all mine!” I like that! Enjoy it and rest if you wish…I’m happy for you!😊👍

[@jamespestell6136]

Paul, hats off to you mate. You’ve changed as a person for the better and it’s not like you weren’t before. But you seem a lot happier within yourself now from a few months ago and that’s great to see. Keep up the great videos.

[@grumpybullen1522]

I love your videos .. very easy to watch and informative.. keep up the good work

[@Harvey999Mason]

I respect your frankness and honesty about your adventure experiences, including your challenges too. well done.

[@POMOLY]

Solo camping in the mountains can only be experienced by those who have experienced it, especially at night, there is always a sense of fear in the dark environment. It's better to bring your dog with you when you're camping alone, and maybe the fear will be lessened by the company of your dog.

[@CameraNostalgiaClub]

Hello Paul great video! I suffer from creative burnout every now and then (currently have it right now) it gives me anxiety to even do what I love. This video really helped my motivation, I'm going to get back into the swing of it thanks mate!

[@DanBettridge]

A wonderful and honest video, Paul. You have a new subscriber. You’re definitely not alone with these feelings. I have them at the most random times while out alone sometimes. I guess it’s a testament to how much we love it that we don’t let it stop us entirely. There’s a beautiful world out there to be seen. Thanks for sharing, Paul - really means a lot as a viewer.

[@ChloeRoseHarrison]

Really well put Dan. It makes me feel a lot more connected to a online creator when they open up to you so honestly. I also experience this, and have done so a lot recently and so have barely been out alone. This had made me want to get out there and be alone in nature for a time again.

[@mischatytel9606]

Thank you Paul for such an open and frank video. You have summed it up so beautifully. I also work alone and have done so for the past 20 years. Before Covid I would spend an average of 30 nights a year sleeping in the woods, and always with others. I’m a social person and I like to share my adventures. I’ve had a personal challenge to go out on my own for a couple of years now, but I don’t really want to. Watching your video (stunning photography and views) you have inspired me to let myself off the hook! Thank you.

[@Macsnot]

"You haven't got to prove anything to anybody", Well said!

[@DanDavisHistory]

What incredible footage. Glorious.

[@ipaales7552]

My only fear is the Mrs & kids somehow find me and show up paul....your spot on about a familiar place I've camped around crummock a few times just because I feel at ease their...Great video marra all the best 😃🏕⛰

[@MattGriffiths81]

Some pretty sound advice there. I'm sure you know this already Paul, but you're lucky to have someone like Jo, and she's lucky to have someone like you. ❤ I suffered from a claustrophobic type anxiety, it lasted for a few months and actually started while I was in a folding camper of all places. I've been camping for years before this moment. On multiple occasions I had to get out of my sleeping bag and get up it got so strong, once was with my wife on a horrible night up on kinder scout, it was hammering down with rain and wind, I couldn't really go anywhere, and going home wasn't really an option I wanted to take. I sat in the vestibule for over an hour just counting the timing of my breathing until the feeling had completely passed. That was the last time it ever struck that hard, from then on any time I felt it come on I started counting my breath again and it passed. Now it's a memory. Not sure why I felt compelled to share that but hey.... Much love ❤

[@nialloutdoors]

Really important that you are addressing this issue Paul for yourself primarily but also for others. Using your "celebrity" in this way will encourage others to face their fears also. I work solo for most of my time, although in a very, very different scenario. Added to this most of my hobbies are also solo in nature. I've recently joined a hiking group to try and improve on this and it's the best thing I could have done. I won't stop solo hiking but every now and then this will be a nice refreshing change. Finally well done on overcoming your anxiety attack and getting out. I've been there too with lots of things. Leaving the house will often be the hardest step 👏💪

[@bobfor4868]

I know exactly where you were! I've had some great days there! Great to see you back camping Mr Messner. Not even watched it all yet but I'm happy to see you. Anxiety is something I deal with too, so I get it sir. One camp at a time.

[@andyharrison53]

Hi, Where is this please, looks so peacefu!

[@nw906]

Me too! I also used that little ledge for boiling my kettle. It’s a small world!

[@andyharrison53]

Where?

[@nw906]

@@andyharrison53 Not sure it's appropriate to give away the location of one of Paul's favourite spots. But that is Derwent Water in the background, and there was a trig point near by... I would love to go Back to that Tor... 😀

[@Dazzzzzzzzzzzzz]

You’re videos are so true and real. They flow like im standing next to you with that view. Thank you for being you.

[@minicrop]

I appreciate that you talk about what's going on in your head. It's not easy for some and hearing someone say what you've been thinking can be reassuring.

[@scottlinus]

Beautiful photography Paul. The anxiety associated with exposure doesn't just occur when you're out in the middle of nowhere. It's symptomatic of our inherent vulnerability and human frailty. Maturity has many positives but inevitably we call into question our invincibility. Perhaps this life changing event has exposed you Paul?? Or even brought to the fore a fear that you have dismissed up till now. If it's any consolation, I think everyone goes through it at one stage or another. You may be concerned with lack of control over your life but control really is a fallacy. We are all just leaves on the breeze. Thankyou for pausing and articulating this huge issue.

[@stusrambles]

This is a really brave video to make and well done for doing so. No matter how much I convince myself that I'm a self sufficient introvert and comfortable with myself alone, it's quite a jump from our everyday working lives into a tent up a mountain alone. I get apprehensive before I leave every single time, almost without fail. On most occasions I find my mojo and have an incredible time, but sometimes the timing isn't right, or the location, or my headspace - and sometimes then it is better to leave the bags packed and shelve the trip for another day.

[@lawrencemartin1113]

This is such an important film for those of us who enjoy the outdoor life and seek solitude but can be affected or even overwhelmed by anxiety and fear of being alone overnight in the countryside. Thank you for being open, honest and completely at ease on screen expressing your feelings in this regard. I hope it will help anyone who is experiencing any difficulty. What a beautiful place to spend time and it was wonderful to share it, albeit on KZbin!

[@deimon007]

sometimes your words feel like a song that hits home ,the one that brings an unexpected tear ,i wish i was strong enough to stop smoking and climb such mountains.scincerly ,thanks for sharing your time,every one of your vids makes the world a better place !

[@PaulMessner]

Very kind words. Thank you my friend 🙏

[@nickcollins9549]

The weather gods were certainly shining on you my friend. An absolutely beautiful sight. All the best Paul!

[@goxvideos8479]

another stunning video Paul, great filimng, and even greater sentiment, well done, and once again thank you for taking me to a place ill never get to

[@Dibble.officer]

Different relaxed chill vibe to the vlogs now. You look much less stressed and it deffo comes across which is dead nice to see Paul. Well played.

[@dynamodav]

I think we all get that anxiety, fear, procrastination when we have something to do, especially when you have to face it alone. If you need someone to go out with you pal, I’d certainly be up for that!

[@chriscjjones8182]

Glad to see you back out and having fun solo camping again. Nothing better than falling asleep and waking up to sights like that

[@peterah7957]

I love this guy so genuine with sharing his thoughts and life experiences..

[@dobrofool]

Really enjoy your videos Chief. Watching from across the pond here in the States. Thanks for bringing your perspective on the subject. I’m new to this. And I’ve never left my backyard yet LOL. Stumbled on some videos last winter, and something sparked inside of me, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Began learning how to pitch regular plastic utility tarp tents with sticks and then graduated to walking poles. Everything done in my backyard. Started camping in February… Method to my madness: learn how to do the stuff in my backyard and get comfortable with it so that when I am ready to go out, I will be “ready“. I’m leaning toward a bit more Bushcraft, i.e., learning how to forge and build fires; still wrestling with that but it’s coming. Learning how to baton firewood. I’ve learned to pitch about five different configurations with heavy duty tarps using tarp clips instead of relying on the grommets. I have several useful knots under my belt. This weekend finally upgraded to a light weight camping tarp. But I have to admit, my biggest fear is something walking in on me while sleeping. Even in my busy neighborhood we have some woods outback. We have a bobcat wandering around, and just up the street a few months ago a brown bear strutted into somebody’s backyard. We get fox, even coyotes once in a while. And this is in the middle of a city setting. So it’s a bit nerving. Bears have been getting more and more brazen over here. Only twice I camped out underneath a Holden tarp tent configuration which is basically like a plow point with a complete open front. My first night with an open tent, I had about six citronella/bamboo torches set up around the tent, including a couple Cambrian miner’s lamps from S. Wales burning at the entrance LOL. Yeah. Didn’t get much sleep that night probably because the yard was lit up like a battleship, but yeah… I was still nervous. Moving forward I developed a means to pull up about 2 feet of the ground tarp and clipped it to the sides, effectively leaving a large open triangular window. I think I slept out three times like that and I actually slept pretty good every time. Some nights, I just wasn’t comfortable, and I just bailed. But that’s why I’m doing it at home in the backyard. Once I’m out in the great beyond, there’s no way to bail that easily. I’m working on my skills, I’ve got my sleep system down real good, and I’m working through some of my fears. I watch a lot of these videos including Wildbeare (she is absolutely amazing…), and it builds my confidence. Funny sidenote: I believe a good night sleep is the most important part of the whole thing, so I have spent a lot of time fine-tuning my sleep system. Believe it or not I set it up in my bedroom and sleep on the floor, sometimes several nights a week and then get up and go to work. There are times when I set up my tent out in the backyard on a work night, get up and go to work. Many times I’ve set my site up in the dark. There’s a reason for all of it with a goal: to finally get out there and do it, but with confidence. Still working on the apprehension factor, but it’s coming along. So I personally thank you for this video. It’s a real thing. Probably a lot more common than most will admit! Hailing from Connecticut. ✌️

[@holmesaway]

There’s always that one noise that you’re never quite sure of! 😬

[@shaunhiggins1545]

Totally right about the familiar. A friend and I go to the same spot regularly and every time we see something unexpected, from endangered birds to bioluminescence in the sea last time. Such places never get old and you can just relax and enjoy the familiar.

[@seantaylormtb7170]

Just great. Always great, always lifts my mood, thanks as always for posting. So much better than most stuff on TV let alone on this forum!!

[@andrewrowlands4542]

Fantastic video. I’d love to know where your camping location is. Fantastic rock formations that I want to see.

[@keram49]

Hey bro, your videos are really excellent. You have shown what camping stuff is on the market, what is good, bad and what has value for money. So happy you were able to get through you down period. I really enjoy your Vlog. You're watch by many people. Perhaps you should go and present yourself at various outdoor and camping shows.. Keep up the good work, you are appreciated and you are making a difference. Thankyou 😊😊

[@maxsparks5183]

Great video. And here I was thinking I’m the only adult nervous about being out at night alone in the dark. Thanks for helping me to see my anxiety as normal and not unique to me, rather than as a deficiency on my part. This American always enjoys your videos. Stay safe. Stay positive.

[@neemancallender9092]

a very good ideas about solo camping It is quite worrisome for some Well done to get out Personally I’ve been solo camping from when I was 16 and have been for 50 years

[@LostButMakingGoodTime]

My first stop by your channel. You have great appeal. Honest, genuine, intelligent, funny, humble, calm. What more could anyone want? Very nice change from so, so many channels. A bit of info about your kit to help folks with their shopping, but mostly just a comfortable conversation you might have with a friend. A lot of warmth and character. I’ll be back for more. All the best. Carry on.

[@annieredfern970]

Down to earth, genuine and honest, love watching your Peak District videos. I have walked the hills of the PD for years so I recognise all the places and have often thought what it would like to camp out, if the weather was like this vid then maybe, when it's blowing a hooley and pissing down then I am more than happy to sit in the comfort of my living room and watch.....keep up the good work Paul, better then any TV programme!

[@1canKev]

What an absolutely stunning morning you were blessed with.

[@ramblingracheltrailtales]

Hi Paul, I’m so glad I started wild camping. I don’t do it that often but really enjoy it when I do. The sense of freedom and connection is amazing. Sometimes, you just need to get away from it all and just ‘be’. Great video. Keep up the good work. 😀

[@canuckchris5733]

I have watched so many missing 411 episodes and others like it that I would never want to be alone in a tent You have my respect that you can do this

[@minimobilereview6570]

you know... you've helped me so much with mental health. Your video's not only give inspiration but also give great perspective for me and probably countless others Thankyou Paul your a legend

[@danielohara5749]

I retired in the summer and walked the Pennine Way. The the first night that I wild camped was my highlight. Getting up with the sunrise is a memory the I treasure. Solo walking and camping is so worth the effort.

[@jerryscanas]

Looking to get into solo camping in the Australian back country this video is a really massive encouragement... thanks Messner bloody legend...

[@tonydoggett7627]

If there’s no water nearby, there’s a good chance kangaroos, wallabies etc will lick the dew off your tent during the night! Freaks some people out. 🦘🇦🇺

[@MulhavenBushcraft]

The landscape, views, and I'm sure some very fresh air make getting up there so very worth it. Hearing strange sounds at night is a funny thing, it can sometimes be genuinely terrifying at the time. However, I've always loved having experienced it. As you say if you stayed at home it's just another night of nothing new. Life is all about new experiences and being in nature will rarely let you down in this regard. Very nice video Paul 👍

[@AmyBurt-q3u]

I’ve just started watching your videos and I wanted to let you know how appreciated it is to hear you talk about vulnerabilities. You are a really genuine great guy, and your videos help so much. Truly appreciated.

[@superseacrow9463]

A wonderful honest video Paul, and just when doubt and anxiety were creeping in Mother Nature gives you a beautiful reminder as to why you do it

[@mattsmith9482]

Nailed it Paul!!! Ive been wildcamping now for about 18 months definitely ups and downs in so many respects both physically and mentally but thats what makes it so enjoyable.

[@MiBackpacking]

Thank you for being so genuine and sharing your vulnerably in this video. You are one of the major influences that got me into camping and this message is so relatable to so many of us. I am going to use this video as the sign I needed to get me back out there after having some less than favorable experiences. Thank you and Jo for the kick in the pants that I needed 🙏🏼

[@jbiggins1]

I've never wild camped, but this video was very inspiring to watch.

[@David-uf8ex]

Silence and No people pure heaven

[@darkjester9678]

This is the best camping video I've seen. Especially relating to mental health which I suffer from. Thank you so much for posting this.

[@rumbalala]

Great upload Paul. It can be hard to nudge yourself into a solo camp if you haven’t before, or even if you have experience but lost touch with that feeling of solitude and confidence in yourself. It’s been a while since I wandered on my own, but your video and words are always an inspiration. It’s been too long since I ventured out, and that has to change and will. All the best mate. 👍

[@tgchism]

I can certainly understand where anyone could be uneasy on a solo camping trip! I'm in Northern California near some wonderful country but now days I would be uneasy about wild or back country camping solo! Like you said though, you're not going to see the scenery you were in setting at home! Nice video addressing real concerns and how to face them!

[@JohnSmith-ep2hh]

Paul the vids are awesome mate. You’ve really come back strong bud

[@scoobydont5299]

I am not a camper or outdoors guy but I have had my share of ‘mind issues’. You are are a brave guy in how you talk about yours. Talking brought me back from a dark place 11 years ago. I am now happy in my own skin and with my situation in life. I hope that you stay well and I will continue to watch your videos. I would love to shake your hand but in the meantime 🤝

[@jamesdouglas9812]

Really great. As an experienced wild camper I completely understand some if the fears you described so clearly. I suspect that no matter how often anyone has camped 'solo' there are times when for one reason or another we have all experienced disquiet. You hit it right on the nail: if you don't like it, move on. But just as you have done, DON'T GIVE UP! Determine to go back another day,or more specifically, another night. GREAT posting Paul. Thanks.

[@ChloeRoseHarrison]

This was such a refreshing and amazing video to watch. I don't think I've heard the fear/loneliness around wild camping discussed so openly and candidly before, and it was so reassuring to hear many of my own thoughts being echoed by you/shared by everyone down here in the comments. I'm very new to wild camping and have only done one solo, and that took a lot of courage for me to do (I have a very over active imagination at night!) - this makes me want to head out and try another alone and see how it goes. Thank you Paul!

[@zirala1844]

Sound advice Paul…I really appreciate listening to your authentic discussions of various scenarios of wild camping ⛺️