The Feeling of Security

For most people toying with the idea of striking off on their own on the adventure of a lifetime, security is a key consideration. This is particularly true if you are planning to be camping at rest areas or out in the bush. Even people travelling as part of a couple or in a group can get a little bit twitchy when they are “on their own” in the wilds. There is no substitute for experience and experience will almost certainly teach you that there is very little worry to worry about.

Your fellow travellers are almost without exception kind, adventurous, generous people ... just like you. However, of course, there are the odd exceptions and that is why you must always listen to your instincts and apply the rules of commonsense. The chances of encountering any serious security issues when you are out on the road are fairly remote but it is important not only that nothing happens to you but also that you are relaxed and comfortable ... after all you are out there to enjoy yourself.

One of the most common themes picked up on by solo travellers, particularly women, is that you have nothing to prove. If you feel more comfortable staying in van parks all of the time then stay in van parks all of the time. If you don’t feel comfortable driving down a certain road that has been recommended to you then don’t travel down it. You are out there on the wide, open road ... and you are already doing a lot more than the vast majority of dreamers still sitting back there at home. Here are a few golden rules that ‘some’ solo travellers choose to live by. Consider which ones might make you feel happier on the road.

• Don’t stay in a bush camping area if there are no other vehicles.
• Always say hello to your camping neighbours
• Choose to stay in caravan parks or supervised camping grounds
• Don’t be afraid to move on if you are not comfortable in any camping situation
• Travel with some form of reliable communication ie. a satellite phone, a UHF radio or a mobile phone
• Consider travelling with a dog for companionship and security
• Seek out people to travel with for certain sections of your trip
• Ensure your vehicle is in tip-top mechanical condition
  

Of course all travellers should ensure their vehicle is in tip-top mechanical condition but solo travellers – probably more than anyone else – don’t want to find themselves stranded on a dusty Outback road. Similarly, excellent roadside assistance coverage is crucially important.

As mentioned earlier, single female travellers are not as uncommon as many people might think. The attitude of Teresa, a single mature female, before she took off on her big adventure is probably fairly typical.

“I'll be heading off by myself,” she said. “And I'll be doing a lot of free camping as finances won’t permit staying in caravan parks every night ... but I wouldn't anyway as I like the idea of national park and bush camping.”

Teresa is not unduly worried about her security. She has done her research and talked to other travellers ... and is very confident.

“There will be lots of grey nomads on the road and from the sounds of things they all look out for each other,” she said. “I think it will be just like if you were at home ... I'll be careful but the fact that I'm alone is not going to stop me from living my dream.”

That’s the spirit, Teresa. See you out there. Have you got any more golden rules that solo travellers might consider living by? Email us here and we’ll add them to the list.

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