Tips and Inspiration for Solo RV Travel

Tips and Inspiration for Solo RV Travel

Posted on October 6, 2023

Planning a Safe Solo Journey

Before you even step foot in your RV—perhaps one of those comfy, reliable models from Roulottes Desjardins—it's crucial to think about the safety aspects of your solo journey. The first rule of thumb? Plan, plan, and plan some more!  

Start with a general route but allow room for spontaneity.   Research the campgrounds or RV parks you'll be staying at to ensure they're well-reviewed and safe, especially if you're travelling alone. Apps and websites like Campendium or iOverlander can provide invaluable insights from other travellers.  

Look for amenities like 24-hour security, clean facilities, and perhaps, social events where you can meet fellow RVers.   Next, consider roadside assistance.  

Make sure you have a subscription to a reliable service because let's face it, breakdowns can happen even with the best-maintained vehicles. And when you're out on the open road alone, the peace of mind a quick tow can provide is worth its weight in gold.  

Last but not least, always keep someone in the loop. Whether it’s a family member or a close friend, regularly updating someone about your whereabouts can be a lifesaver in case of emergencies.   Apps like Life360 allow real-time location sharing, offering an extra layer of security.  

Building a Support Network on the Road

Just because you're traveling solo doesn't mean you have to be alone. The RV community is a tight-knit bunch, and there are numerous ways to connect with fellow travelers.  

Social media groups or forums dedicated to RV travel can be treasure troves of information and camaraderie. From sharing road conditions to swapping recipes for one, these online spaces offer a kind of virtual companionship that can be deeply enriching.  

Consider joining an RV club, many of which host events and rallies, providing a fantastic opportunity to meet people in real life. Often these gatherings are organized around themes or activities, so you're sure to find one that piques your interest.  

If you’re exploring Canada, you might find clubs focused on visiting National Parks or following historic routes.   But what about those times when you find yourself in a remote campground far from the nearest WiFi signal? Well, don’t underestimate the power of good old-fashioned neighbourliness.  

A simple hello to your RV park neighbor could lead to shared meals, hiking trips, or at the very least, some friendly conversation. Building a support network on the road isn't just about having someone to turn to in times of need; it's about enriching your solo journey in ways you didn't even anticipate.  

Activities to Enjoy Alone

The beauty of solo RV travel lies in the freedom to choose your own activities, without having to consult anyone else. Want to take a long hike in the mountains? Go for it. Fancy a day of bird-watching? No one's stopping you. The opportunities for fun and exploration are limitless.  

Start with activities that you've always wanted to try but perhaps never had the chance to. Be it kayaking, painting landscapes, or simply sitting by a campfire reading a book, the solo RV trip is your oyster.  

Given the stunning beauty of Canada's diverse landscapes—from the rugged coastlines of Nova Scotia to the mountainous terrains of British Columbia—nature-based activities are always a big hit.  

Don’t forget to take your camera along, because sometimes the best moments are the ones you capture alone, imbued with your personal emotions and perspectives. And hey, solo travel is also an excellent time to catch up on your journaling or even start that travel blog you've been thinking about.  

Cooking for One: Easy Recipes

One of the challenges of solo travel is cooking for one, but let’s turn that into a culinary adventure. Not only does your RV kitchen give you the freedom to experiment, but local markets—be they in Canada or across the border—offer fresh ingredients that can make for delightful meals.   Quick and easy recipes are your best friend when you're the chef, diner, and dishwasher. Think one-pan dishes, salads, and easy grill recipes.  

Fresh pasta salads, skillet frittatas, or even grilled fish can be both delicious and simple to make. How about creating your own "maple-infused" dishes, tapping into Canada's signature flavor?  

Also, meal prep can be a lifesaver. Cooking larger portions and storing them can save you both time and energy, allowing you more freedom to explore during the day. Multi-use items like a slow cooker can make this process even more straightforward.  

Throw in some ingredients in the morning, go about your day, and come back to a hot, ready meal.  

Making New Friends While Traveling

Even the most dedicated loner sometimes craves human interaction, and what better way to meet people than when you’re on an adventure? Campgrounds, local attractions, or even cafes are great places to strike up conversations.  

Whether you’re in Canada’s picturesque Banff National Park or experiencing the vibrant culture in a U.S. city, you’re likely to meet people who share similar interests.  

Another way to meet people is through organized events. Whether it’s a music festival, a local fair, or a public lecture, events offer a communal atmosphere that makes it easy to mingle. Many RV parks also host communal dinners, game nights, or hiking trips that you can join.  

For the digitally inclined, apps like Meetup or even travel-specific platforms can help you find local gatherings based on your interests. These can be especially useful when you’re crossing between different Canadian provinces or U.S. states and want to quickly find like-minded people to share experiences.  

Safety and Security Measures

Traveling solo does offer a glorious sense of freedom, but it also requires heightened awareness about safety. One of the first things to consider is to keep someone in the loop about your travel itinerary.  

Even a brief text or call to a trusted family member or friend can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations. Share your planned route and any major stops along the way.  

When it comes to parking your RV for the night, well-lit, secure areas should be your go-to. Many Canadian and U.S. campgrounds have security measures like coded gates or on-site staff. Always lock your RV when you’re away from it, and consider investing in a small safe for valuables.  

Let's also not underestimate the power of good, old-fashioned intuition. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Whether it's a location that makes you uneasy or a person whose intentions seem dubious, trust your instincts.  

Tech can also be your ally here. Various apps can help you stay safe, with features ranging from SOS messages to location tracking. Investing in a portable phone charger is a must to ensure your phone’s battery doesn’t die when you need it the most.  

Mindfulness and Enjoying Your Own Company

Solitude on the road isn't just about being alone; it's about enjoying your own company and taking the time to reflect and grow.   Many people find that solo travel offers a profound opportunity for self-discovery, allowing you to learn what truly makes you tick.  

Mindfulness techniques can help enrich this experience. Whether it’s meditating at sunrise, practicing yoga in a secluded spot, or merely sipping on a cup of tea while overlooking a beautiful vista, these moments of mindfulness bring inner peace.  

Remember, you set the pace of your journey. Want to take an unplanned detour to visit a charming Canadian town you heard about? Go ahead. Interested in spending a day at an American museum that you just discovered? Why not! The freedom to follow your whims is one of the greatest joys of solo travel.  

Solo travel also offers an uninterrupted space to engage in activities that nurture your spirit. This could be anything from writing and painting to playing a musical instrument.  

After all, there's something incredibly liberating about singing to your heart's content, knowing no one else can hear you!