Answer

By Trail magazine

"Go for it!" says Tori James, the youngest British woman to climb Everest. "The freedom it gives you is great. You can go at your own pace, experience real peace and quiet and take time to pursue other interests like photography. It also allows you to learn more about your navigation and become better at making decisions on your own and you gain a lot from that.

"I haven't camped much on my own, but I've discussed it with plenty of friends. We decided it probably wouldn't be useful to take anything like a rape alarm as if you're wild camping in a remote place you might not even see anyone, and if you are in a campsite these are usually quite safe environments.

"I would however take more care with the route I took, because being on your own gives you a heightened sense of risk awareness. Even with basic scrambling you think, "If I make a mistake and twist my ankle, I'm on my own."

"The consequences of any more risky activity are more severe, so it makes sense to plan your route with that in mind, take two maps in case one gets blown away, and even more so than usual, you must tell someone where you are going and when you plan to get back.

"Carrying camping kit on your own is more demanding, so it makes sense to snack regularly to keep your energy levels up and pack as little as possible, using lightweight kit where you can. I use a Jetboil stove, take water purification tablets or iodine so I can drink stream water instead of having to carry so much, and would consider sleeping in a bivvy instead of a heavier tent, unless it was midgey season in Scotland!

"As for your dog, this would probably make your walk feel more safe and fun, but you must be sure it won't run off in the night or harass any livestock, so keep it on a lead when around sheep, cows or deer. Plus remember you will have to carry additional food for it. Have fun!"