How To Plan The Perfect Roadtrip as a Solo Female Traveler
There’s something undeniably magical about hitting the open road solo — chasing sunsets, discovering hidden campsites, and carving out some well-deserved “me-time.” For many solo adventurers, especially as a female, car camping offers a unique sense of freedom and empowerment, where every turn of the road holds new possibilities.
Hi campers, I’m Gabriella from Luno! As the Social Media and Content Specialist here, I spend my days creating content, sharing stories, and more importantly, adventuring for Luno. Long before I joined the Luno team, I spent six years as a travel photographer, where life on the road became second nature to me. Road trips continue to be my go-to method for capturing the perfect shot while staying deeply connected to nature.
Solo travel, however, is a somewhat new chapter in my story. At first, it was downright terrifying. I second-guessed every decision and learned the hard way through plenty of trial and error (okay, a lot of error). But with each trip, I grew more confident, taking one step further and learning more along the way. These days, solo car camping has become one of my favorite ways to explore. I’ve taken several cross-country trips with just my car packed to the brim, discovering how convenient, rewarding, and empowering it can be. This guide is a collection of tips, tricks, and lessons I’ve learned on the road to help you tackle your own solo adventures with confidence. Let’s get started!
7 Must-Know Tips For Safer Solo Trips
Being a solo female traveler means safety is a top priority, but it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the adventure. Here are some quick high-level tips to get started:
Start Local
Ease into solo adventures by exploring familiar territory first. Day trips or nearby campsites make perfect starting points and are often overlooked. Some of the best fun can be found right under your nose and close to home. If you forget gear or decide the great outdoors isn’t vibing with you that day, no problem—you can pack up and be back home in time to cozy up in your own bed. Baby steps for the win!
Know Your Campsite
Choose well-established campsites or dispersed camping areas that allow for some privacy but are not entirely isolated. Checking apps like iOverlander can even show cell service coverage in the area, so you can feel safer knowing 911 is just one button away. Pro tip: check user-submitted reviews on your camping apps for honest insights about campsites, from road conditions to cell service availability. These reviews often include hidden tips, like the best spots for sunrise or where to avoid noisy neighbors!
Share Your Location
Let a trusted friend or family member know your planned route and check in regularly. Apps like Find My Friends or WhatsApp's live location feature are perfect for this and can help give you peace of mind while traveling.
Stay Fueled
Keeping your gas tank full is a good rule of thumb in all areas of life, however especially as a solo female traveler. The last thing you want is to be stranded on the side of the road with no gas in sight. If you’re ever questioning whether you have enough gas to make it to your next stop or not, play it safe and top it off.
Consider Traveling with a Pet
Bringing a dog along not only makes for great company but can also add an extra layer of safety. A dog’s keen senses and natural alertness can help deter unwanted visitors, whether human or wildlife. My dog, Remy, is a champion road tripper, and he always puts my mind at ease just by being present while I explore the outdoors.
Download Offline Maps
Heading into unfamiliar territory or areas with spotty service? Don’t rely on cell towers that might not exist — like in the middle of the desert. Before you hit the road, download offline maps using apps like Google Maps or Maps.me. This way, you’ll always know where you’re going, even if your signal disappears. Pro tip: Mark key spots like gas stations, campsites, or grocery stores ahead of time for extra peace of mind!
Trust Your Gut
If a campsite or situation feels off, don't hesitate to move on. That little voice in your head telling you something is wrong is usually right. There’s no shame in leaving a spot in favor of peace of mind. Yet another perk of solo travel. Choose your own adventure – no justification needed!
How to Gear Up For Adventure and What to Pack
There are plenty of ways to spend a night on the road. Hotels and Airbnb are great options, but if you’re looking to connect with nature and save money, car camping is hard to beat. It’s a perfect option for solo travelers, offering unmatched comfort, peace of mind, and privacy. Unlike traditional camping, car camping lets you bring the comforts of home — your favorite blanket, a cozy pillow, and whatever else you can fit in your trunk. Plus, your car provides an added layer of security: lock the doors, rest easy, and if something feels off, you can quickly move on to a new campsite or route hassle-free since your bed is already with you.
The beauty of car camping (and my personal favorite part) is that you can bring much more than you would on a backpacking trip, but that doesn’t mean you should overpack. Here are six essentials that can make a world of difference:
Sleeping Setup
A comfortable mattress (Luno’s Vehicle Mattress, for example, is a game-changer), along with blankets or a sleeping bag and a comfy pillow, you’ll be set to have a cozy night under the stars. One of the most unique features of this mattress is a zipper down the middle that allows you to travel in “solo mode” or only bring one half of the mattress to give you a comfy sleeping space while leaving plenty of room to keep your driver’s seat ready for action. If you plan on only going solo or want to occasionally use your mattress in a tent, the Luno AIR+FOAM Pro Camping Mattress is another great option.
Camp Kitchen
Cooking solo can be tedious OR it can be an unforgettable culinary experience – the choice is yours! A portable stove like this one from Coleman, utensils, and easy-to-cook meals will keep you well-fed without too much hassle. A well-dialed camp kitchen allows you to prepare meals quickly and efficiently, saving time and effort, which is essential when you're managing everything alone. Being self-sufficient in your cooking arrangements can also empower you to explore remote locations confidently, knowing you have everything you need to sustain yourself comfortably. With car camping, you can simply bring pots or pans from your kitchen at home. No need for the ultralight packable versions used for backpacking. Need cooking inspiration? Check out our series Camp Cuisine.
Hygiene Kit
For longer trips, we recommend biodegradable soap, and a simple shower system (like a solar shower bag). Or if you want to keep things extra simple bring along some Wet Wipes to help you stay fresh after a day of adventuring. Sometimes a quick freshening up can do wonders in getting you to feel ready to take on the next leg of your journey.
First-Aid Kit
A well-stocked first-aid kit is a must, especially when you’re traveling solo. Make sure it includes essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and personal medications. As a solo female traveler, having these basics on hand means you can handle minor issues without needing to seek help immediately.
Pepper Spray (or personal alarm)
Pepper spray or a personal alarm can provide an added layer of security and peace of mind. Keep it accessible — a Headrest Organizer is a great place to store it along with other essentials like a flashlight or multi-tool. While most trips will go off without a hitch, having safety gear ready can make all the difference in an unexpected situation.
Mini Tool Kit
You don’t have to be a mechanic to handle basic car maintenance. A mini tool kit with essentials like a tire pressure gauge, jumper cables, and a wrench can be a lifesaver. Take some time to learn how to change a tire or check your oil before you hit the road. Knowing you can handle small fixes will boost your confidence and keep you moving if something goes wrong.
More Key Considerations When Traveling Alone
How To Choose The Perfect Camping Spot
Choosing a campsite comes down to your preferences. Established campsites offer amenities like restrooms and picnic tables, perfect for beginners or those who enjoy convenience. Dispersed camping provides a more secluded, off-the-grid experience in stunning natural settings. Whether you value comfort or solitude, there’s an option for every adventurer!
Solo Doesn’t Mean Lonely
While solo camping gives you all the time to unwind and reflect, connecting with fellow travelers is part of the fun. Join Facebook groups, camping forums, or Instagram communities where you can exchange tips or meet up with other solo travelers. Car campers tend to be a friendly bunch! Feeling social? Strike up a conversation at campsites—whether it’s asking for a good trail recommendation or sharing stories around a campfire, you'll often find that community vibes are just around the corner.
Protecting Your Privacy
Maintaining privacy is crucial for solo female adventurers, especially when you want to feel secure and at ease in your own space. Reflectix window covers and Luno’s Privacy Curtain are great tools for keeping prying eyes out while ensuring your space stays discreet. Not only do they provide privacy, but they also help with insulation, making your car cozy and safe during your travels.
Rest and Recharge
Solo travel can be tiring, so it’s important to listen to your body and know your limits. If you're feeling fatigued, pull over and rest. A quick nap with a comfy pillow can be all you need to recharge and stay refreshed for the road ahead. Never underestimate the power of a quick snooze!
Stay Entertained On The Road
Long stretches of driving can feel dull without some entertainment, so be sure to load up on podcasts, audiobooks, and playlists. True crime, comedy podcasts, or travel stories, like She Explores and Dirtbag Diaries are great for keeping you company, while an engaging audiobook can turn your drive into an adventure. Curate playlists for different moods—chill for cruising or high-energy for the final stretch. Pro tip: download everything offline to avoid the frustration of losing service during the best part of your favorite story!
Be A Steward Of Nature
Solo car camping offers a chance to connect with nature, but it’s important to preserve these beautiful spaces for future adventurers. Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out everything you bring, camping in designated areas, and respecting wildlife from a distance. Keep campfires small and use established rings, making sure they’re fully extinguished. These simple actions help protect the outdoors and ensure others can enjoy it just as you did.
Take Time For Self-Care
Solo road trips are the perfect time to check in with yourself. Whether it's through journaling, reading, or simply watching the stars from your car window, make time for mental rest as much as the physical adventure.
-
When you’re out there on your own, don’t forget to celebrate the incredible journey you’re on. Every mile, every campsite, and every breathtaking view is a testament to your independence, resilience, and adventurous spirit. I’ll always remember the first time I completed a dream solo road trip, relying solely on my expertise — trusting my skills, intuition, and the thrill of the unknown. So pack up, hit the road, and embrace the limitless freedom of solo car camping — you’ve got this, and with each adventure, you’ll only grow more confident and capable.
Happy Travels!
