Stepping Into the Wild: A Solo Camping Journey

Wild camping can seem intimidating at first—especially when faced with the logistics of gear, safety, and legality—but for Nick Hallissey, that fear became a source of adventure. In his first solo wild camping experience, he decided to confront the challenge head-on by choosing a bold location: Blencathra, a mountain in England’s Lake District. Instead of easing into it with a group or seasoned camper, he opted to go alone, believing that the full experience would best come from exposure.

Preparation played a vital role in overcoming nerves. Nick took the time to thoroughly test his gear before the trip, practiced packing, and even learned how to properly compress a sleeping bag. He stripped his kit down to the bare essentials—a lightweight tent, backpacking stove, sleeping bag and mat, a head torch, food, warm layers, and navigation tools. He avoided luxuries to keep things light and focused on functionality.

Choosing the right location was just as important as packing smart. Blencathra offered accessible terrain, incredible views, and low risk of disturbing others. He also made sure to inform someone of his plans, check the weather forecast, and come up with a backup location in case conditions shifted. Once on the summit, Nick enjoyed an unforgettable night in solitude—taking in the silence, the sunset, and a spectacular sunrise that made all the effort worthwhile.

While wild camping is legally permitted in parts of Scotland, in England and Wales it generally requires landowner permission. That said, Nick emphasizes the importance of following the spirit of responsible wild camping—arriving late, pitching discreetly, avoiding open fires, and leaving no trace. It’s this respectful approach that helps preserve access and the wild experience for others.

The article also includes a list of gear that made the night more comfortable, such as the MSR Hubba NX Solo tent, Jetboil MiniMo stove, and Rab Ascent 500 sleeping bag. Despite initial doubts, the experience left Nick more confident—not just in his ability to camp, but in tackling challenges in everyday life. His key takeaway? With the right mindset and preparation, anyone can enjoy the freedom and beauty of wild camping.

See the Full Article: "How to Survive Your First Wild Camp" by Nick Hallissey on Live for the Outdoors, July 23, 2025.