Top 10 Wild Camping Tips for Women (That Actually Make a Difference)
- Kate
- Aug 25
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 10
Wild camping offers a unique sense of freedom, adventure, and connection to nature—an experience that many women are embracing in growing numbers. But wild camping as a woman can come with its own set of challenges and considerations, beyond just the usual logistics of packing and pitching a tent. Whether you’re heading out solo or camping with friends, navigating safety, comfort, and confidence in the outdoors often means making intentional choices that suit your needs and instincts.
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This isn’t about fear or limitation—it’s about empowerment and preparation. It’s about carving out your own space in the wild where you can feel strong, safe, and fully yourself. The following tips focus on practical, real-world advice designed specifically for women who want to wild camp smarter, not harder. These are the insights that come from experience—things you might not have thought about yet, but that can make all the difference to how your trip feels, how well you rest, and how confident you are when you’re out there.
Wild camping is an incredible way to reconnect with nature, and more women than ever are embracing this adventurous lifestyle. But wild camping as a woman comes with unique considerations, whether you’re venturing out solo or with friends. To help you feel safer, more confident, and fully prepared, here are the top wild camping tips for women that go beyond the basics.
1. Trust Your Gut, Always
If something doesn’t feel right—move. Whether it’s a spot, a person, or just a gut feeling, you never owe anyone an explanation for changing plans. You can always find another place to pitch.
Why it matters: Confidence is built on knowing you’ll back yourself when it counts.
2. Pick a Pitch That Feels Safe, Not Just Scenic
Beautiful views are great, but if you're solo, prioritise spots that are a little hidden—not on main footpaths, and ideally not visible from roads or lay-bys.
Why it matters: Peace of mind helps you sleep better, and that’s half the battle.
3. Have a Check-In System
Tell a friend or family member where you’re going and when to expect a message from you. Apps like All Trails+, which can automatically share your route with loved ones or OS Locate in the OS Maps app can give you peace of mind, knowing that you can share your location without tracking your every move. However, both of these tools require a phone signal to share your location. I also carry a Garmin Messenger that uses a satellite signal rather than a phone signal, so you'd always know where I am, and I can message them no matter what. It also has an SOS button that calls mountain rescue.
Why it matters: It’s your invisible backup—no matter how independent you are.
4. Pee/Wash with Confidence
Don’t let toilet worries hold you back. A Kula Cloth, a cloth you can use to wipe after a wee to stop those pesky drips, or a she-wee can be a game-changer. For washing, a biodegradable body wipe does the job—and a pee bottle (for inside the tent) is a sanity-saver on rainy nights.
A great wild camping tip for women - Wearing period pants, even if it's not the time of the month, is a great way of feeling fresh all the time when you don't have access to washing facilities.
Why it matters: Feeling clean and comfortable helps maintain high morale.
5. Sleep Setup Is Everything
A poor night's sleep will mess with your head. Make sure your sleeping bag is warm enough (DO NOT believe the “comfort rating” if you run cold). I use the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion in the summer and a Mountain Warehouse Everest in the winter (No longer in stock). Bring extra socks, and use a decent sleeping mat for insulation. I use the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir as it's lightweight and takes up no space, plus it's quite comfy.
If space permits in my kit, I will always try to take my luxury Therm-a-Rest compressible pillow. It really is a game-changer to ensure a good night's sleep, as I find the inflatable pillows are just not comfy at all! Another great addition to turn my sleep system into a chair is the Therm-a-Rest Trekker Chair - Great to rest the back after a long hike (See photo)
Why it matters: A warm, rested camper is a happy, capable one.
6. Wear What Makes You Feel Strong
Leggings, hiking trousers, sports bras, oversized fleeces—whatever your combo, wear what makes you feel like you belong out there. And yes, pack that cosy hoodie or oversized T-shirt for camp. Just make sure you have clothing to cover the top that will protect you from the weather if needed. Avoid cotton and opt for layers if possible.
Why it matters: Your comfort is a reflection of your confidence.
7. Keep Cooking Simple (But Comforting)
Quick-cook meals, such as ramen with added peanut butter, couscous with stock, or ready-made rice pouches, mean fewer hassles and more satisfaction. I highly recommend the Real Turmat range for you if you are looking for hassle-free meals that actually taste good. And always bring chocolate or a flask of something warm.
Why it matters: Food = comfort. Comfort = calm.
8. Have a Night Routine That Grounds You
Even a 2-minute ritual—hot drink, face wipe, journal entry—can help you feel more settled and in control before bed. It signals “you’re safe, you can rest now.”
Why it matters: Routine creates calm, even when the environment is unfamiliar.
9. Pack Light, But Don’t Sacrifice Safety
Leave behind the “just in case” extras, but don’t ditch the essentials: a first aid kit, power bank, compass, and headtorch with spare batteries. Know what your non-negotiables are.
Why it matters: Being prepared lets you enjoy the adventure without anxiety.
10. Own the Space You’re In
You have every right to be in wild places. You don’t have to shrink yourself or explain your presence. You belong out there—quietly, proudly, confidently.
Why it matters: Wild camping is about freedom, and you deserve that freedom just as much as anyone else.
Final Thoughts on Wild Camping Tips for Women
Wild camping as a woman is a powerful way to reclaim time, space, and peace in nature. It’s a chance to tune into your own rhythm, push your boundaries, and soak up the kind of quiet that’s impossible to find anywhere else. While the outdoors is open to everyone, the way we navigate it can be deeply personal—shaped by our experiences, our fears, and our strengths.
By trusting your instincts, planning thoughtfully, and prioritising your wellbeing, you’re not just surviving out there—you’re thriving. Remember, every night you spend under the stars builds resilience and confidence that carry far beyond the campsite. You belong in these wild places, just as you are, and with these tips, you can step out with the knowledge and courage to own your journey fully.
So pack your bag, set your pace, and know that every wild camp is a victory in itself. Here’s to many more nights under open skies—safe, strong, and unapologetically you.
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