Why solo camping is one of the most rewarding ways to explore Britain’s National Trails and cycle routes, with practical safety and pitch advice.
Why Small Farm & Walker Campsites Are Ideal for Solo Travellers
Solo camping across the UK has grown rapidly among hikers tackling the South West Coast Path, Pennine Way, or West Highland Way, as well as gravel bikepackers and solo campervanners. Smaller independent farm campsites, Certificated Locations, and Greener Camping meadows offer a friendly, relaxed environment where wardens know every guest on site.
Many rural campsites also offer dedicated solo backpacker or cyclist tariffs (£10–£16 per night) because you arrive without a car and occupy a tiny 1-man tent footprint.
- Pitch Choice for Solo Campers: Choose a flat pitch within clear sight of the warden’s lodge or other couples/walk-in campers rather than an isolated far corner.
- Power Management on the Trail: Carry a 20,000mAh PD power bank with a 65W fast wall charger so a 45-minute stop in the campsite washblock or pub charges your phone and GPS watch for three days.
- Share Your Itinerary: Leave your nightly campsite list with a friend or family member and download offline OS Maps before entering valley blackspots.