From Vision Board to Reality: How I Perfectly Planned My First Solo Camping Trip!

I've loved waking up to the sound of birds singing, completely immersed in nature, with nothing but nature as long as I can remember. But just like the rest of us, as I got older, time sped up, and my family and friends time was spread thin. Finding the courage to go on a solo camping trip has been a dream has been with me since my days as a Girl Scout, but it wasn't until recently that I decided to turn it into a reality.

But before I could bask in that morning serenity, I needed a plan. Solo camping isn’t just about packing a tent and hitting the trail—it’s about transforming a dream into a safe, unforgettable adventure. What started as a childhood love for the outdoors has now evolved into a deep passion for sustainable solo camping. Here’s how I turned my vision into reality, one deliberate step at a time.

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Step 1: Create a Vision Board

My journey began with a vision board. I collected images of serene campsites, starry skies, and gear I wanted to use. This wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about setting clear intentions. Saving it as my laptop’s desktop background left me no choice but to stay motivated and focused on my goal every time I opened up my laptop.

Step 2: Brainstorm Dream Campsites

With my vision board guiding me, the next step was to brainstorm potential campsites. I spent hours researching dreamy locations—places that offered both solitude and stunning views. I considered factors like distance, terrain, and the kind of experience I wanted. This step was all about dreaming big and finding the perfect spots that matched my vision.

Step 3: Create an Inventory Checklist

Dreaming is one thing, but making it happen required some practical steps. I started by creating an inventory checklist of all the gear I had and what I still needed. This was a crucial step in ensuring I’d be fully prepared when the time came. From a sturdy tent to a reliable sleeping bag, every item on the list had a purpose and was carefully considered. This was also the time I started budgeting and saving. Since starting my MSLDT program, it became second nature not to buy or plan for anything I was not going to use.

Step 4: Conduct your First Personal Needs Analysis Trip

Before venturing too far from home, I decided to conduct a personal needs analysis trip—but I kept it close. Whether you camp in your backyard, living room, or at a nearby campsite, the goal is the same: to identify what you absolutely can’t live without. This isn’t just a test run; it’s an opportunity to figure out the essentials and uncover any gaps in your preparation. For me, it highlighted the importance of comfort items I hadn’t considered and revealed skills I still needed to practice, like starting a fire in wet conditions. This exercise gave me the confidence to move forward, knowing I was truly ready.

Step 5: Planning and Building a Bed Platform

My personal needs analysis data informed me that comfort is key when I'm out in the wild. I decided to design, plan, and build a bed platform for inside my car. This project was both fun and functional, allowing me to have a safe place to sleep while being able to pack up and move easily. It was a creative challenge, but it paid off in spades when I finally hit the road.

Step 6: Gather Gear

With a clear list of what I needed, I began gathering gear. But I was on a strict budget, so I scoured the internet for used items and waited for sales. This step took patience, but it was worth it. Finding quality gear without breaking the bank was a victory in itself, and it made the trip feel even more rewarding.

Step 7: Plan the Trip Route

With the gear in hand and skills honed, it was time to plan the trip route. I researched each campsite, making sure I knew what to expect in terms of terrain, weather, and facilities. This step was all about preparation—knowing what was ahead so I could be ready for anything.

Step 8: Take a Test Camping Trip

Finally, before embarking on the big adventure, I took one last test camping trip. This time, I ventured further from home to put my new gear and knowledge to the test. It was a final opportunity to conduct an analysis of what worked and what didn’t. This trip gave me the confidence that I was fully prepared for my solo journey.

Step 9: Create a Camping Trip Planner

Planning a solo camping trip isn’t just about packing gear and hitting the road; it’s about building a foundation that sets you up for success. For me, that foundation was my customized camping planner. After countless hours of searching online for the perfect planner and coming up empty-handed, I realized that none of them offered the flexibility and personalization I needed. So, I took matters into my own hands and started creating my own planner using Google Docs and Google Sheets. This planner became the cornerstone of my preparation, allowing me to tailor every detail to my specific needs and ensuring that I was ready for anything the wild could throw at me.

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If you’re ready to embark on your own solo camping adventure and want to dive deeper into the strategies that made my trip a success, check out my online course, A Guide to Sustainable Solo Camping. It’s packed with tips, tools, and resources—including the customizable planner I created—to help you plan and execute your own unforgettable camping experience. Click the link below to learn more and start your journey today!