Be Prepared: Why You Engage with The Great Outdoors, and How

Jun 15 2011

Are you a nature lover or thrill-seeker planning your next trip into the wild? Most adventures require stamina, motivation and above all lots of planning. The worst thing you can do is not prepare yourself. If you don't consider things like clothing, weather forecasts and food supply then you might end up in a difficult situation. Consider different outdoor adventures, what drives us to do them and the best ways to prepare for them.

Mountain Climbing

Perhaps it is the excitement of being the first person to climb a mountain or the feeling of being alone on top of the world? Whether it’s Mount Khuiten in Mongolia or Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, climbers risk life and limb for their sport, with sheer determination pushing them further. The nature, views and wildlife along the way are something many will never witness again.

If you are embarking on a mountain climb, then you need to be in top shape. This means doing lots of regular exercise as well as maintaining flexibility and balance, vital when encountering many obstacles along the way. It is also important to know the terrain well and map out your route to avoid getting lost.

Wear a full hiking outfit which includes a long-sleeved shirt, hiking trousers, underwear, socks, sock liners and hiking boots. You need to be selective in what you take, since everything will amount to added weight. In your backpack bring insulated waterproof clothing (such as North Face jackets), snacks, toiletries, medication, a camera and any paperwork you might need (including maps).

Camping Adventures

Most people would say that camping gives us an opportunity to escape from our laptop computers and the phones that we are so often connected to. We continue to go camping in the wilderness because of the peace of mind and tranquillity it offers.

When planning your camping excursion, decide where you will be staying and sleeping. Whether you are backpacking or bringing a big tent, you don’t need that many items to enjoy your trip (so there’s no need to over pack!). Remember to bring a good pair of hiking shoes, some travel clothing and a first aid kit.

Finally, bring the appropriate amount of food. This should include three meals per day and enough food to snack on, in order to keep your energy levels up (remember that if you are hiking you will need to eat more than usual). Avoid dairy and meat products that can easily go bad.

Ski Excursions

Skiing is exhilarating and fast paced and there are dozens of mountains around the world that offer spectacular views and getaways. Perhaps skiers can’t get enough of the adrenaline rush that they experience every time they head down a mountain.

Whether you are in France, Austria or Bulgaria; the weather is bound to be chilly heading up on the ski lift and this is why what you wear can make a big difference.

Consider purchasing ski parkas and pants that are made of lightweight material. Also, to add a layer of warmth underneath your parka, try wearing soft shirts and layers underneath Icebreaker clothing.

Before your ski adventure, make sure to do regular exercises to improve your balance and coordination. This is important for both downhill and cross-country ski trips. Fitness will prevent injuries and ensure your time away is enjoyable.

Once you have prepared for your outdoor adventure, remember to keep an open mind throughout your trip. Nature can be unpredictable and some added flexibility will help you to have a more relaxing break.

Remember that the unexpected is not always a bad thing, so keep an open mind and you will be surprised by how much fun you will have.