Last updated on April 25th, 2025
With so many things happening around you, from busy work schedules to juggling other aspects of your life, getting sucked into a routine that doesn’t allow for a little quality time is easy. And you’ll find that most of your life is spent indoors like 90% of other Americans. One of the best ways to break that cycle is by escaping the usual hustle and bustle and retreating to the great outdoors. Spending time outdoors is fantastic for both your physical and mental health. So, if you’re planning your first outdoor trip, here are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Create an itinerary
Creating an itinerary might seem boring, especially since you’re looking for more spontaneity after following monotonous routines for so long. But it is an important step you have to take when planning your trip. Keeping an itinerary would help you plan your trip and put things into perspective. This way, you can manage your expectations and avoid feeling overwhelmed. It would also help you know what items to pack before your trip and any other essentials you might need. Your itinerary should include the activities you hope to engage in during your trip and any goals you would like to accomplish. However, your itinerary doesn’t have to be filled with strict activities, times, and guidelines. You can allow for some flexibility to make it more exciting.
2. Pick your destination
Your destination can make or break your trip. Since it is your first time heading into the great outdoors, it would be best to find a place welcoming to first-timers with beginner-friendly activities that you can ease yourself into. When selecting a destination, take note of the activities you may engage in. For example, if you want to take in the sight of beautiful mountains, a destination with a mountain range is an ideal choice. If you are looking for challenging hiking terrain, you would consider getting out of the city into the rugged Adirondacks and similar destinations. You can also ask experienced friends and family to help you pick a suitable destination.
3. Your safety
Whether you plan on traveling alone or with a group of people, it’s always a smart idea to let someone know where you will be going and how long you will be away. This tip is especially helpful for outdoor trips, as most activities involve losing mobile connections and being off-grid. Ensure that you share your travel plans and itinerary with a reliable friend, family member, or your travel partner so they can keep tabs on you and know when to seek help if you find yourself in a rough patch. Not only will it make you feel more confident as you venture into the wild, but it also gives your loved ones peace of mind knowing they can find you.
It’s time to break your cycle of routines this summer and have an amazing outdoor adventure. Remember that you don’t have to do anything extreme. You could spend your days going for walks and enjoying the sights and sounds.
