Do Many of you Hike Alone?

We've encountered rowdy groups before, never had an issue, but they are out there. Bees and mosquitoes are a real problem though, never had an issue either, but it's very plausible that something can go wrong there. Little critters tend to be more aggressive if your solo, so be cautious of that.

As for cars being vandalized... If you park near a campground you're probably better off. Everyone will think your vehicle belongs to one the campers at the campground. Its better for them to think that than for them to know your off on the trails and won't be returning for a few days.

Make sure any camping gear or other valuables are not in plain sight in your vehicle in fact make sure it is completely clean looking and no one is likely to break in.

Sounds like more of an opportunity than a nuisance to me.

Sharing bad beer with teenagers isn't my idea of a good time...

Research the total cost of SPOT/DeLorme or other services. There are connection fees along with other annual costs. Then match that up against the risk you think you have bounced off the solid care and concern you have for those at home. If you are on a popular trail (suggestion for first time), you will see people now and again. Mostly coming toward you on the way out. Usually they are more interested in a cold beer than in you. Make sure you know who is to give the right away - up or down. Don't get upset at those that don't know/care. If you are camping close to others, don't freak out if they seem friendly. I carry a small container of cognac to share - well, two actually. One is the good stuff.

Sometimes the biggest vehicle security problem at trail heads can be bears. Follow the rules explicitly.  NOTHING can be showing (Not even a map) inside the car.  The other security problem is where do you keep the car key so you wouldn't be consumed by paranoia.

I don't know personally of anybody who was bothered by vandals. I've heard stories, including those about the Marmot Mafia in Mineral King in the Sierra.  Zero deductible on comprehensive insurance doesn't cost much over a $500 deductible. 

I use DeLorme when I need to make sure my wife knows when to meet me at a trail head for resupply or pickup. It provides me with less of a sense of urgency to be there and the ability to enjoy something unusual along the way.  She'd rather I am 'packing' when I include crampons and ice ax in my solo kit.

First time go where there is good signage and carry a map and compass for when you miss the last turnoff. I've gone for several days not aware I was 'lost'. It takes a bit of rethinking when one does finally figure out where you are. I try not to do any thing I wouldn't do if I had a partner along. Going up and down steep places takes more thought.

I enjoy being alone and not having to keep up with or slowing down a hiking partner. Making all of the decisions doesn't bother me. If you leave the trail and go only a sort distance, you will be the only person in the world. Make sure you heed the warnings about critters.

I dislike carrying a GPS. It significantly takes the 'fun' out of being there. As do cell phones.

Do go on short equipment and technique validation trips to start with. Try to keep your pack under 30 pounds. Make sure you know how to put up your tent in under 10 minutes, and make sure your footwear is the most comfortable thing short of an old pair of slippers. Make sure your headlamp has an adjustable brightness and don't talk face to face to friends with your headlamp on.

Having said all this, my better times have been with a 'crowd'. Not the best, mind you.

I just started hiking a few weeks ago. And even though, I do enjoy the solitude sometimes. It is nice, to have someone to chat with as well too.

I used to backpack solo off trail frequently.
Not too much any more.  Still day hike solo off trail when I can.

The advantage of solo hiking is you do not have to put up with someone else's whining about how tired they are, its too hot, its too cold,  are we there yet (or others do not have to listen to mine!).