Adventure Travel Tips

UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU ARE GETTING INTO
Adventure travel means much more than an exciting time. It means there is a possibility of danger. We typically like to think of how fun an adventure will be while giving it little thought. Going to remote exotic locations most likely means you will experience some sort of physical exercise. It doesn't necessarily mean you will need to spend months preparing in a gym but it might. Do your homework. Contact the organization you will be adventuring with and get a complete list of everything you will need. Start getting your gear together at least 2 months before your adventure.

DECIDE HOW PHYSICAL YOU PREFER YOUR ADVENTURE TO BE
You can find an adventure trip for almost every level of physical fitness. Companies often rate their adventure trips as either easy, moderate, or demanding. Understand your limits and capabilities. Different outfitters may use other rating criteria based on such attributes as altitude, terrain and physical demand.

Your more "easy" adventure vacations may include safari's and nature type trips. Hiking might be optional and sleeping arrangements much more hospitable.

A moderate trip is more apt to demand 4 hours plus of daily hiking and camping almost every day.

A demanding adventure is definitely going to be for the more physical fit. Expect long full days of hiking possibly on steep terrain. If you are thinking of going on a more demanding adventure you may want to spend some time preparing. Walking or jogging for months prior to your demanding adventure vacation is a very good plan. Even on a demanding rated trip you can still expect to carry little more than your backpack, but make sure first!

CAMPING
Adventure trips usually mean you could be sleeping in tents, small rustic dwellings or even lavish lodges. Find this information out long before you embark on your adventure. If you have never slept in a tent under the stars you might want to try it out first before devoting a number of days sleeping in a tent in the wilderness. If you are going to be sleeping in a tent I recommend getting some type of air mattress and possibly a battery operated air pump. Coleman offers both and I recommend their air mattresses products. These air mattresses are heavy duty and don't spring leaks like other less expensive air mattresses. Once again when you call your adventure outfitter ask for a list of EVERYTHING you will need. Some outfitters may supply air mattresses while others may not. Camping can be a great experience if you are prepared, it can also be miserable if you are not. It is not unusual even on quite rugged camping trips to have pack animals or porters to carry the camping gear. The outfitter quite possibly could have your tent and other camping gear set up and waiting for your arrival. It really depends on what you want, rugged, semi-rugged or lavish. Just make sure you are totally prepared for what's coming your way. It will make the difference of having a great vacation or a lousy one.

CHOOSING YOUR ADVENTURE DESTINATION
Take your time and research. There are so many places to go it can be daunting to make a final decision. I'm a fisherman and love to be flown into some rustic location where I get to survive on my own for a week or so without any contact with the rest of the world. That's what I like. You have to decide what you like and how much of the "rough life" you are willing to handle. Knowing what you like to do should be a good dictation toward your destination choice. If you have been working very hard lately and just need a break chose an outfitter who will cater to your every whim. On the other hand if your getting too soft and want to rough it then rough it, just be prepared.

SHOPPING FOR THE RIGHT TRAVEL ADVENTURE
Call several outfitters and ask for detailed information about their daily itineraries. Compare daily travel, accommodations, prices etc. Ask if there are any hidden costs or fees such as international air fares, pre or post trip hotel visits, meals etc. Ask about discounted air fares, small group rates and anything else that may apply. Don't always go with the cheapest outfitter. Go with the outfitter who seems to be more interested in customer service while offering a fair price. Don't forget to ask about cancellation policies.

HEALTH INSURANCE
Make sure your current health insurance covers illness or injury while you are out of country. If not look into a short term policy for the duration of your adventure, you just never know what might happen. You may also want to think about purchasing medical evacuation insurance. Remember your loved ones want you to return healthy!

CLOTHING
If you plan on buying any clothing prior to your adventure, make sure it has been washed before you pack. I find that new clothes smell repulsive and will never make that mistake again. Some people may even have an allergic reaction to unwashed new clothing. I highly recommend pre washing everything necessary a week before you depart.

New boots will need a proper break in period. DO NOT attempt to go on an adventure with brand new boots, you will regret it! I recommend getting your new boots months before your adventure vacation. First wear them around the house until the the leather begins to loosen a little. Then take them for some long walks outside. I prefer boots that are very water proof and come well beyond my ankles. I never skimp when it comes to purchasing boots. Often the best boots are expensive but your feet will thank you later. If it is cold where you are going get boots that have well insulated soles. The sole is the first place to absorb cold from the ground. I can personally testify that a good insulated sole makes the difference between getting cold feet and not getting cold feet. I'm an avid outdoorsman and spend much time in the cold. My feet rarely get cold anymore because I use only high quality boots. Nothing can ruin a fun time outdoors like cold feet!

If you are going to a cool climate make sure your clothes breathe well. There are some great products out there now days like Under Armor that breathe. These are insulated under garments that professional athletes prefer. This allows your sweat to evaporate instead of getting soaked in your own sweat. This could prevent hypothermia and help you keep from getting very uncomfortable.

A scarf may not be a great fashion statement but it WILL keep the cold wind off your neck.

Just make sure you fully research the weather parameters at your adventure destination and pack clothing accordingly.

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About the Author:

Written By Traveling Tom

Tom is an experienced traveler who simply enjoys sharing his travel experiences and travel tips. Thanks again Tom for that great advice!
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