Written by Geraldine Mills, Guest Writer
Exploring and venturing outdoors can mean loads of fun. It can also be an educational adventure.
That said, having a solid vacation plan is essential to have a rewarding experience.
Whether you are a great lover of the outdoors or would want to try something new, here are the eight tips you can apply to prepare for that upcoming trip:
1. Layout a plan
Spontaneous travel might initially sound exciting, but things can get a little bit better if you plan.
It might be highly likely that you will be exploring a place that you are not familiar with. So, it will not be surprising if you do not know the weather or any risks in your travel location that might impact your health and safety.
Therefore, proper planning on where to go, what to bring, what to wear, and what to do will help make your trip a lot more worthwhile.
Also, if you plan on going on a hike, make sure that you know the ins and outs of a particular trail.
Before your trip, make sure to check whether or not the area is safe. Meanwhile, if you plan to go cycling, check whether particular cycling routes are allowed and whether or not you violate any rules.
2. Let others know where you’re going
If you’re planning to head out, make sure that you provide someone close to you a particular time frame when you’ll be back. That way, if you haven’t contacted them yet after a specific timeframe passes or made it back as you said you would, they’ll look out for you.
If ever something changes, then let that person know by checking in with them. You can do this by leaving a quick message letting them know that you’re okay.
That way, if ever they couldn’t get in touch with you, they’ll have an idea of what’s going on. In case something happens to you, they’ll know how to react.
3. Get in shape
If you are heading for the best vacation spots, you will likely have a full itinerary. Your to-do list can be filled with outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming.
Being physically fit before your trip makes it easier for you to survive any physically challenging activities.
So, make sure you eat right. Opt for low-carb meals to prepare your body, especially if you are hiking and planning to take on a more advanced trail.
In the same way, regular exercise also helps you improve your stamina.
You can do lunges, squats, or crunches, so your body is conditioned for that upcoming hike.
4. Pack appropriately for the weather
Make sure that you check the weather of the particular destination you want to head to. Pack clothes depending on the weather forecast and typical climate in the area during a specific time of the year.
Bring clothes that are comfortable, easy enough to breathe and a hat. Also, bring extra clothing and rain gear if you are hiking in the woods during fall or spring.
Dry clothes are essential, especially in the rain. So, make sure that you bring extra clothes and a trusty rain jacket with you just in case, even if there is a slight chance that it will rain.
5. Prepare your food supplies
Another thing that you need to do is to prepare your food supplies.
Ideally, you will need at least 2,000 calories to stay healthy. If you are heading camping, there are great canned foods that you can bring and heat on a camping stove.
There are also plenty of specialized food products like energy bars or trail mixes that you can bring to your upcoming trip.
Meanwhile, if you are going hunting or fishing, you should prepare your equipment ahead of time. Bring supplementary food as well, in case you do not have enough to eat.
Make sure that you properly store your food so that animals would not be attracted to it.
6. Learn to read a map and compass
These days, travelers rely on compass apps or GPS to go places. But what if you head out in remote areas where the internet connection is non-existent?
To ensure that you are always on track, learn how to read maps and use a compass before your trip. That way, you do not need to rely on electronic devices too much.
7. Expect the unexpected
Heading outdoors can give you the best experiences of a lifetime. However, accidents and injuries are inevitable.
So, make sure that you bring that trusty first aid kit and insurance to protect you from any untoward circumstances.
Going for an outdoor trip is one of the best ways to ease stress and anxiety, get plenty of exercises, and enjoy nature. But keep in mind that a successful and rewarding vacation relies on good preparation. Good luck! Want an outdoor vacation but also relaxing, check out SwellWomen’s Upcoming Surf & Yoga Wellness Retreats.
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