I've been interested in going backpacking, but I don't have any friends who are interested in going. I also really enjoy being alone, especially in nature.
I'm pretty incompetent at this type of thing in general, so my plan is to ease myself into it. I'm starting with a test run at a car camping site, then a short one day overnight, then a longer one day overnight, and so on. I want to make sure I don't get in over my head without having an easy bailout option, especially as I'm starting out alone.
I currently have the bare minimum of cheap/old/borrowed gear to get started, and I'm planning on buying things slowly as I need them and as I realize what I want.
(should link to list)
I've found these books useful
I've also found some good websites
I've found these books inspirational