I was wild camping last night (pic), Isle of Mull. As said, cyclists don't often get the luxury of 'searching' for a nice spot. It takes a little bit of experience and practice, accepting that means you shouldn't get disheartened when you (as we all do) innevitabley screw up. To begin with, I think, most people see a nice spot and then a little worry sets in that it's not the perfect spot so you keep looking. Then it's dark, and finding some where gets a bit harder and a bit more desperate.

I tend not to do the cooking/fire thing, I just get down, get sleep and get out again. I would rather cook beforehand (late lunch) or afterwards (breakfast after a few miles), some way away from where camped.

Over the past weeks I've been testing winter sleeping arrangments. I've thrown out the inner of my tent, and now carry a bivvy bag in its place. I can use the bivvy normally, or throw up the tent outer in foul weather or where some walls feel a bit safer. I think this is, now, my ideal setup.

Woods are sheltered and easier to be discrete in. Having a small footprint helps, natural/dark coloured tent, consider how reflective your bike is to headlights (if near a road). And just don't worry, the worst that happens is someone tells you to move. A real pain, but not the end of the world.