A long solo hike is a unique and rewarding experience. That said, it's not something to approach on a whim. Solo trekking genuinely requires an awareness of the risks, thorough preparation, a well-thought-out route, and a strong ability to listen to your body. Find out how to prepare properly for a solo trek.
The risks of trekking solo
Solo trekking carries certain risks that are important to understand beforehand. First and foremost, your safety is reduced. You must face emergency situations without any outside help. In the event of injury or sudden illness, no one will be there to treat you or call for help on your behalf.
Next, you'll need to plan more extensive logistics. In trekking, careful route planning is essential. You need to be prepared to invest time and energy in preparing your trip. Otherwise, you risk getting lost or finding yourself without accommodation or a resupply point.
As with any hiking trip, weather conditions are a risk on a trek. In the mountains — particularly at altitude — conditions can change in minutes. You can be caught out by fog, a sudden storm, or even heatstroke. The lack of support in these conditions is therefore something to factor in seriously.
Finally, physical and mental fatigue weighs heavier. Walking alone, you risk overexertion or, conversely, losing motivation. No one can help you maintain a steady pace, and solitude can become a burden in difficult moments.
Essential gear for solo hiking
Solo hiking means carrying all your gear with no one to share the load. You therefore need to strike the right balance between a complete kit and keeping things light.
Trek shoes must be robust and comfortable. Make sure you choose a pair suited to the terrain, with good ankle support and a grippy sole. For even more stability on the trails, hiking poles are also highly recommended.
A trekking backpack is an absolute essential. For a bivvy, go for a model between 50 and 70 litres. In all cases, prioritise a backpack with a comfortable hip belt, adjustable shoulder straps and a waterproof cover.
On the clothing front, the three-layer system is ideal for a trek. Pack a breathable base layer, a fleece or lightweight down jacket, and a windproof or waterproof jacket. Complete the outfit with hiking trousers, technical socks, a cap or beanie, lightweight gloves and a buff.
If you decide to bivvy, a lightweight tent or tarp is ideal. Don't forget to bring a sleeping bag suited to the season and an insulating mat. Also pack a stove with fuel, a cook set, enough water and a purification system. Bivvy food typically consists of energy snacks and freeze-dried or easy-to-prepare meals.
Navigation gear is essential for solo trekking. It should include an IGN map and compass and a hiking GPS. You can round it out with a whistle, a head torch, a first aid kit and a repair kit.
Choosing the right route
Several tips can help you choose a route suited to solo hiking. First, it's important to match the difficulty, distance and elevation gain to your level. For a first outing, avoid exposed paths and technical sections. Instead, opt for a marked route, such as a GR (Grande Randonnée) long-distance hiking. This will also increase your chances of crossing paths with someone if something goes wrong.
Before you set off, make sure to check access and logistics. Choose start and end points that are easy to reach by transport. Also plan your resupply points, refuge or bivvy locations, and how you'll manage your hygiene on trek.
As well as avoiding dangerous areas, you need to factor in weather conditions and the time of year. Choose a period when conditions are stable and check the weather forecast before and during the trek. Make sure to plan a fallback route and don't hesitate to postpone your trip if bad weather is forecast.
For added safety, it's also essential to let someone close to you know your route. Even if you're going alone, share your precise itinerary and expected return date. If they haven't heard from you by a certain time, they can then alert the emergency services.
The advantages of trekking solo
While it's important to plan your route carefully and take a few safety measures, solo trekking has many advantages — starting with total freedom. Without a hiking companion, you make no compromises on pace, rest stops or detours. You decide your own itinerary and your own timing.
Being on your own forces you to learn how to manage navigation, orientation, logistics and the unexpected. Handling things by yourself builds initiative, self-reliance and self-confidence. You're also more open to fellow hikers you meet along the way, which often leads to more authentic and spontaneous exchanges.
Walking at your own pace, without having to match someone else's, allows you to push your limits. While overexertion is not advisable, you can improve your endurance and build muscle strength.
The immersion in nature is also felt more deeply. No conversation distracts you, and you live a more contemplative and introspective experience. You become more attuned to the environment around you — its wildlife and its flora. Time spent in the heart of nature is also the perfect setting for active meditation. Your stress levels drop and you refocus on what truly matters.
As you've gathered, solo trekking is a true adventure. Despite the importance of thorough preparation, it's an experience that can transform your relationship with hiking — and with yourself. All that's left is to take the plunge.
