Dave is correct about avoiding personality conflicts. Nothing can ruin a trip faster. And we're all wired differently, so it's not always about what' right or wrong.

And I always suggest to my clients that they leave political and social-issue opinions at home and just enjoy the trip and the campfire.

I've done the solo backpacking thing and it wasn't a great fit for me - I quickly ended up talking to myself a lot. But that's my wiring. I think Dave has it figured out perfectly for his wiring (except for maybe not bringing along a PLB in bear country). But, like Tayler, sharing whiskey and telling lies about the day's fishing is more my style.

Either way, you've got to love those crowd-free places.