Outdoors

Tips on a Stress-Free Weekend Getaway

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Tired of the same old routine? Feel like you deserve a break from life’s everyday stresses? Well, we’ve got some tips on how to spend your weekend. Whether it be for 24 hours or 48 hours, these quick getaways will help recharge and revitalize you so that you can return to your normal routine feeling refreshed!

Choose your destination: Deciding on your getaway destination is the first step. Picking somewhere close by will save you time and money, but picking a location that has activities you’re interested in can make for a more enjoyable trip. If you don’t have any specific ideas, do some research online or check out travel guides to find inspiration.

Pack your bag: Once you’ve decided on your destination, it’s time to pack. Pack light since the goal of this trip is to relax not work hard. It will be easier for you and others if you have a set schedule – whether that means going out only at night or taking things day-by-day. If there are any additional items you need, such as medication or toiletries, make sure to pack them.

Choose your transportation: If you’re driving somewhere close by then just get in the car and go! Take along a few magazines if it will help pass the time on longer drives. If you are travelling long distance via plane or train, try to leave extra early so that you can enjoy the ride and have time to settle in before your trip begins.

Budget-friendly accommodations: You don’t need five star accommodation for a weekend getaway so make sure to choose something affordable but still comfortable. If you’re travelling somewhere new, it might be best to stay at an inn or hotel instead of renting out an apartment or house.

Keep track of time: Whether you’re taking a quick weekend getaway to the beach, spending 24 hours in a city, or planning an extended trip with family and friends, it’s important that you keep track of how much time is passing so that you don’t miss your flight home! This can be done online using travel itineraries or by setting alarms on your phone.

Now that you’re armed with these tips, it’s time to plan your stress-free weekend getaway!

The Benefits of Hiking

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During winter, it is always important to plan ahead what your activities will be next spring and even for summer. There are a variety of them that you can do whether they involve family and friends or simply you all by yourself. Hiking is one of those activities that is not only fun and fulfilling but has many benefits too – but what exactly are those benefits?

Physical Health

If you are looking for something that will make or maintain your fitness, hiking is a good choice of activity. Hiking is categorized as an aerobic exercise or cardio workout. Because of this, it is beneficial for you if you are looking for an activity that helps with losing weight. Not only that, because it is a cardio workout, it has benefits for maintaining our heart healthy and decreasing cholesterol. It can reduce the risk of heart diseases and stroke. It is also good for lowering your blood pressure and also the risk of type 2 diabetes. It will also improve bone health, which reduces risk for bone disease such as osteoporosis, and strengthening our muscles. It will build strength to glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and also muscles in your hips and legs. Therefore it will strengthen your core and improve your balance. It is also said to reduce risk for cancer at lungs, breast, colon, and endometrial. 

Mental Health

Not only hiking is good for you physically, but it is also beneficial to our mental health. If you are stressed and tired with your work or any other afflictions in your life, hiking will be a great way to destress. It is said that hiking helps with anxiety and tension for it clears our mind. It is also helpful for those who have depression for it boosts our mood. How will it not be? Hiking involves being with nature and it just brings peace to your mind. Studies say that being with nature eases our stress and negative emotions. It will improve on how we will see things because of nature’s simplicity in opposite to the complex world in cities. It is not only for mood and emotions though but also for boosting your brain. It is said when you spend time with nature, you will be more creative even with the problem-solving tasks. Add to that, spending time with your friends and family will surely improve your mood.

Other Benefits

As said before, hiking is a great time to spend time with your friends and family, so it will be helpful for our social lives. It is only not that, you can also join some hiking club from your community and you will be able to meet new people with this. If you have kids, there are also some trails easy enough for them and not only you will be able to bond with them, they will also improve their health and develop confidence. It is also a great way to teach kids, and even yourself, about the beauty of nature. It is a great break for all the technology and gadgets that at times causes us fatigue and focus on something that matters more.

Hiking Tips and Tricks

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With all the stress and busyness of our lives, we just want to take a break and unwind. One of the good ways to do it is to have a hike. This is an activity that you can do with your friends and family or just by yourself. There will be planning involved though even it’s just a short one. The reason for this is safety and also to have a smooth adventure. You need to know what to expect. What are those preparations that needed to be done?

Know the right trail and get familiarized

Are you a beginner or an expert? No matter what it is, it is important to know the right trail for you. There are short and easy trails that are perfect for beginners. If you are also looking for a time alone and relax, this may be the trail for you to go for it is less dangerous. Maybe you are an expert and would want to go to a more challenging trail. No matter what will you choose, always be familiarized with it. You should know to expect and what things like what kind of animals or plantsit has around and what kind of terrain it has. You should also have an expectation for what’s to come, so you can prepare what you may need on your trip. 

Know the weather

Another important thing to prepare for is the weather. What season will you take your hike? Will it be during winter with the snow or spring and summer where there are rainfalls? Keep in mind the heat you’ll experience too. The reason for this is because it will affect how you will dress and what to pack. It will also affect the trails you will choose to go to. Also, if the weather is not good and dangerous, you might need to cancel your plans.

Know the essential items

Hiking is not just about dressing up and walking on the trails. There are things you will need to bring during the hike for your safety. Make sure your stuff is clean and ready. The essentials include:

  1. Navigation (map and compass but with technology, your smartphone might have a map, compass, and GPS)
  2. Sun Protection (sunscreen and sunglasses)
  3. Extra Clothing
  4. Flashlight
  5. First Aid Kit
  6. Materials for fire
  7. Food
  8. Water
  9. Emergency Shelter

Know the right clothing

Knowing the right clothing is important for comfort and protection. Light clothing will be a requirement, especially on a hot day. There are all-weather jackets available in case the day is colder and windy. Rain essentials are necessary to be brought because weather is unpredictable at times and you need to be ready at all times. The material of the clothing is also important. Cotton should be avoided because it stays damp. Instead, choose ones that are made of wool or synthetic. Choosing the right hiking boots is also a must. You should have the right type to protect your feet and they should be comfortable for you to wear even in challenging and muddy trails. Choose also a pair that will not cause blisters.

Know about emergency essentials

We will never know what might happen during hiking, so it is important to have emergency shelters and first aid kits in case of accidents. Tell a friend or family where you will be going, so in case of emergency, they will be able to contact professionals and know where to find you. It is also handy to have emergency contacts on hand such as your medical assistance when something serious happens.

What To Wear When Hiking In Hot Weather

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Hiking is one of those activities that is great for a group, but potentially just as enjoyable by yourself. It is a good bonding activity. But at the same time, it is a nice way for you to reflect and relax and also spend your time in solitude with nature. Also with a hike, not only will you get a work out, you will also able to connect with nature. 

If you are planning to go for a hike, there are certainly things you need to do to prepare. From the location you’re planning to hike to the essential gear and supplies you’re bringing with you and even the weather. What if it will be incredibly hot that day, for example? What should you wear under these circumstances?

1. Hiking Boots with Thin Socks

Trails are much different than the regular paths that you may be used to walking in. They are steeper and at times muddy. With hiking boots, you will be able to protect your feet from it. When the weather is hot, it is important to have boots that are lighter and breathable. It is also important to look for a boot that will not cause blisters. That will be a headache with hiking especially because this is more challenging than other normal walks. The kind of socks you wear is also important for they also provide protection. On a hot day, it would be more efficient to wear something that is thin enough. The type of material used should also be kept in mind. Cotton is mostly avoided for it absorbs moisture and dries slowly. It is advised to choose alternatives made from wool or synthetic. Remember to wear something that fits perfectly with your feet to avoid minor injuries such as blisters.

2. Light Clothing

What you wear will affect your activity. When it is hot, it is important to wear clothes that are light in color, so that they will not absorb heat unlike dark-colored clothes. Also choose clothes that are light and breathable so that they will help you maintain a tolerable body temperature. As with the socks, the material it is made from should be paid attention to as well. Avoid clothes that are made of cotton and choose nylon or polyester instead. But you will also need to choose clothes that cover you up as protection from sunlight especially if it gets particularly strong. You can wear long-sleeved shirts that are light, so they will not make you hot. It is also important to have something on your neck to keep you cool. You could use a neck gaiter or a lightweight cloth like a scarf to cover your neck and maintain moisture.

3. Hat

A hat can be used as protection for your face and neck. It could be a normal baseball cap or hiking hats that have brims goes around for more protection.

4. Others

What you will wear is not the only essential when the weather is hot. It is also important to have some things on hand that will protect you and your health. On a hot day, it is important to have a lighter hiking gear so your body will not need so much force that will likely cause exhaustion. It is also important to have water to keep you hydrated throughout the hike.

What To Bring On A Day Hike

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On busy and stressful days, sometimes you just want to have a small break. Once an opportunity comes, grab it. There are many things to do though. But why don’t you clean your boots and prepare for a hike? A hike is a great activity for a big or small group. You can also do it by yourself if you want to. You could go on a long trip or just nearby. If you are short on time, you can do it in one day. It is a great activity for you even if you are a busy person. It’s one of the great ways for you to unwind.

In preparation, what are the needs for hiking?

1. Hiking Backpack

Of course, you would need something to put your essentials in. Look for the one that is the perfect size, not too big or not too small. It is also important that is not heavy and fits your body really well. Remember that it will be used while climbing and various things will be put in it.

2. Food

Hiking is a very physical activity and would require lots of energy. In order for you to have plenty, you will need food. Of course, you would need something that is not bulky, but rather something that is easy to carry. There are a variety of foods like this to choose from but the most well-known would be granola bars and trail mixes. Not only they are easy-to-carry snacks, but they are also healthy. They are packed with nutrients that will give you energy and strength for your hiking. If you are looking for something to eat that is light to carry but heavier for your stomach, a sandwich is good to go.

3. Water and Other Drinks

One of the most important things for us to pay attention to is staying hydrated. When you are doing a physical activity like hiking, you will definitely sweat a lot and water decreases in your body. Water is important for regulating our body temperature and helps our joints and muscles to work better. That is why it essential to have water on hand especially on a long hike. You can also have other beverages that will help with hydration such as energy drinks and juice.

4. Navigation Tools

When hiking, you will need to always pay attention to your surroundings and know where you are going. Having navigations tools is helpful for they will guide not only to your desired destination but also in getting back. Basic navigation tools include a map and compass. With today’s technology though, it is much easier and you will not need to have extra bulk, which is helpful especially for a fast hike. Smartphones have maps, GPS, and even compass on them, so it will be easier and lighter to carry and also easier to use.

5. First Aid Kit

You never know what will happen during a hike, so it is always best to be prepared. Accidents happen whether big or small. You or someone might get their knees or arms scrapes and will need some quick cleaning and care. You might also need essentials for your health like an Epi-pen for allergies. You do not have to get crazy over it. You will just need some basics like bandages, cleaning material, and some over-the-counter medicine that might come in handy. If anything gets serious though, be sure to call for medical assistance.

Food To Bring When You’re Camping

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You surely have plans prepared for spring since winter. And once spring comes, it is time to put them in action. In the spring, there are many possible activities you could take part in. But one of the most popular is camping. The reason for this is that it is more cloudy and cool than summer. 

Camping requires a lot of preparation though from the place to the essentials. But of course, the most important would be the food. 

1. Snacks

Snacks are eaten at anytime in particular. It can be during the trip to the campsite. If there is a food that is great for head-starting a trip, it would be the snacks. They are also eaten during idle times or while exchanging stories. Food is a great companion when it comes to sharing. Snacks have a variety of options. There are potato chips and some candy that are less healthy but delicious and convenient nonetheless when you are on-the-go. A healthier option would be trail mix which consists of nuts, oats, and some dried fruits. An energy bar is also good and handy when physical activities are involved. Another snack that does not need any preparation are the dried items like beef jerky and fruits. There are also other alternatives such as sandwiches but obviously this would require a bit of preparation.

2. Campfire Recipes

Having a campfire is one of those activities that people will have in mind whenever camping is mentioned. There are a lot of activities involved during a campfire like games, swapping stories, and singing. But meals can also be cooked by a campfire. The most common snack would be s’mores and they are usually made when an activity is being held. You can also grill some meat like sausages and burgers. There are also easy recipes that you could make with a campfire. You just need some foil and skillet, and you can make some parcel and even some soup. As long as you have the ingredients and supplies, it will be easy and ready.

3. Instant Food

Not all are inclined to cooking though, and it could be definitely a problem with trips like this especially with no restaurants or food shacks nearby. In addition, there might be a lot of activities you want to do and time is limited, so you just need something that is quick and easy. That can be solved with instant food and there are many different types you can choose from. The most popular would be the instant cup noodles. You will just need hot water and then you have a meal that will also be particularly warming during cooler days and nights. If you want something different, there is also instant Mac and cheese. 

4. Hot Drinks

When nights get cold or during early mornings, a hot drink is often what we crave. It does not matter what you and your companions prefer. Be it coffee, tea, chocolate, or even milk, you can bring them. Nowadays, packets are common that are usually perfectly suited for trips like this. All you need is hot water and you are done. It is not only limited to hot drinks either, you can also bring juice packets to get energized for activities.

Things To Do While Camping At Night

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If there is an activity that requires a lot of planning ahead and preparation, it would be camping. It sure is a great thing to do with your family or friends but no matter, you should be prepared and know possibilities.

But of course, camping is not about all of that. Its purpose is to relax, have fun, and not only to connect with nature but also with your family and friends. So that is why, during the camping trip, activities are important. It is not only to have fun and just to do something, it is also about getting to know how everyone is doing. Camping will surely take days or maybe just an overnight, but it is important to have fun activities held for it.

1. Go for a walk

Camping is about discovering and connecting with nature, so how else are you going to do that without exploring a little bit. You can have a companion or even your kids and take awe of the beauty around. It might be better to do this in the morning but sometimes, it is different at night. There are some animals and sights that only come out at that time, one example is the fireflies.

2. Explore the campsite’s activities

Campsites actually offer activities that you can do. Usually, they will have lakes that are good for swimming or boat riding. Some actually have pools in them and even hot tubs. If that is the case, you can take a swim at night. 

3. Stargazing

Nature is not only what you find around. You can also look up and see its beauty. If you live in a city, this will be your chance to see the stars brightly for city lights cover them at times. You can point out different constellations with your companions. But if you do not have a knowledge about them, it is not a problem. Just point out different kinds of shapes with them, and it will be good enough to encourage bonding and fun.

4. Set up a camp fire

Campfires can also be used for cooking and there are a lot of recipes that you can try. But the most common are the smores and hotdogs. And while you are doing this, you can exchange stories and just have some fun.

Of course, a camping will not be complete without a campfire. With it, there are many possible activities you can do, and here are some:

a. Cook with the fire

b. Play and sing songs

You or one of your companions can bring a guitar or even a harmonica or tambourine and have some jamming session and sing some of your favorite songs.

c. Play a game

There are a variety of games you can choose from. You can bring some materials like for a card game. One of the most popular games is the truth or dare it will likely involve a bottle. But many times, you just need to keep it simple and can play without involving anything and just have some fun. 

d. Exchange stories

Telling stories is a great way to not only have fun but also get to know each other and what is happening with each others’ lives. It could be fun with funny stories or ghost stories or it could be sentimental.

Fun Things To Bring Camping

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Camping is one of those activities that needs a bit of planning ahead. From the outdoor gear to the food. But it is necessary for your camping trip to be successful and keep in mind the purpose of it. That is, to enjoy and relax and spend some quality time with your friends or family. This will be a great way for you to connect not only with nature but also with them. 

Here are some ideas you could bring to have fun on your camping trip:

1. Something to create

You could bring something that will have your hands working. This will be especially enjoyed with the kids but adults can also enjoy this quite a bit. It could be set of clays for molding. With a fire, you will be able to make them hard. You can also bring some paints. Watercolors and tube paint are light and easy to carry for a camp. And since you will be in nature, you could also do some experiments. Bring some things and explore the different kinds of plants around. Just be sure that they are not poisonous and that you’re not violating the campsite rules.

2. Something entertaining

The point of camping is to have fun and bond with your companions, so why not bring something to add with your activities? The easiest would be a deck of cards. There are many ways to play with them be it for adult or children. It could be also a different type like the Uno cards. If it is not too bulky, you can also bring some board games. Even though the point of camping is to connect with nature, having gadgets is okay especially if it has a purpose in your activities like those that involve music. You could just set up rules involving gadgets if you want. And speaking of music, you can bring a guitar or any other instrument like a harmonica so you can play and sing songs. You could also bring a book if you want to have some time with yourself. At times, it will help gather your thoughts or maybe keep you entertained if you are the one who is preparing meals.

3. Something useful

When it comes to being useful, food is what comes first to mind. It is essential for us and it is also a way for you to bond with your companions. Aside from the main meal, you can also have different kinds of snacks to munch on. You can also bring some for a campfire like ingredients for s’mores or some hotdogs to grill. This way, you can do this while sharing stories or playing some game. And speaking of useful, you should keep in mind what will you will need to use. When setting up a campfire for example, you might need a lighter. You might also need a source of light like flashlights because campsites do not provide them at times and might be needed at night especially for navigating. Lights can also be used in a game, so it will be dual purpose. Just make sure the batteries are full and have some extras if needed. And aside from tents, why not also bring a hammock for extra space to sleep or space for relaxing?

How to Go Camping

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Winter is over. Snow is melting away. This will be the great time to catch up with your friends or spend some time with your family and have some activities for this spring. One of those activities is camping. Camping is great way for bonding. It is also a great way for you to connect with nature. But there are a lot of things you need to do before and during camping. Here are they:

Preparation 

1. Find and know your campsite

First things first. You will need to know about your campsite, and there are a lot of them nowadays. It could be near or require a longer drive. You should know how the place would like, so preparing other things will be easier. It will not hurt to have some expectations about the place too and also to know the rules. Be aware also if animals like a bear lurk around your campsite. You may want to avoid those places.

2. Prepare your gear and essentials

Camping will require a lot of things. First will be the tent where you will stay and sleep. You need one that is comfortable and roomy for enough the people and the kind of bed you will use. Keep in mind how you will prepare your meal because you might need to bring small stoves. Other essentials such as clothes and toiletries are also important for how you will pack. Know which items are important and which are not because keeping it light and simple is a must. Having a source of light like a flashlight is also important because the site may not provide them and there will be a tendency to get dark at night.

3. Plan your meal

Food is essential to this activity but it will come down to limited resources. It is important to plan ahead to know which ingredients to bring and how to prepare them. Another thing to keep in mind is for how many days you will stay at the camp and how much you will need.

At the campsite

1. Set up your tent

The first thing you would need to do when you arrive is setting up and organizing the tent. After setting it up, it is important to know how the arrangement will be. Always clean your tent also and maintain it that way because it is where you will stay and sleep.

2. Set up your meal

There are campsites that offer a place to cook but more often, you will need to bring your own. Be sure to know about the conditions because it will affect how you will set up your stove. Be sure to collect your wastes also and secure them in a bag.

3. Make arrangements with routine

Campsites offer shower rooms and comfort rooms so you should be sure how it is operated. It is also important to make arrangements with your companions on who will go first and so forth. Take note that there might be other campers too so be mindful of it and also take it into consideration.

4. Activities

Camping would not be complete without activities. It will be a nice chance to relax and spend some quality time with your friends or family. Setting up a campfire will be a great way to connect via games and food. You can also play and sing some songs. It could also be simply exchanging stories. In the morning, you can have your own activities or explore what the campsite has to offer.