Nature-based travel has become our escape from the stress of the pandemic, a means to restoring our connection to Mother Earth. While we are getting back to restorative yoga retreats, some still crave the adrenaline-packed adventure trips that help you feel pure exhilaration while escaping the pandemic-related chaos. The preparation process for your typical retreat is completely different from what you need to do in order to brace yourself for an adventure. We’ve decided to address this vital safety topic.
Especially if this is your very first adventurous road trip or camping getaway, there are a few crucial skills you should master before you hit the road. Ensuring your own safety and the safety of your travel companions will help you enjoy your adventure even more and allow you to immerse yourself in the natural wealth you’re about to discover!
Get to know the geography
We’ve grown accustomed to our phones and the built-in GPS systems that help us move around without putting too much thought into it. Alas, when you’re in the wild, and especially if your phone battery gives out or you lose reception, you need to be able to get back to your car or camping zone without getting lost.
Research the area you’re going to explore, so that you learn about the topography beforehand, as well as any potentially dangerous zones to avoid. Always bring a physical map with you, so that you can get back safely in case your gadgets fail you!
First aid and CPR essential skills
When you’re on your own, or with few people around you, but away from civilization, you need to be aware of potential health emergencies. Especially if someone in your group has allergies or could potentially experience a cardiac episode. In such situations, it’s best to master the basics of CPR and first aid to be properly equipped to provide emergency assistance.
First and foremost, always bring a first aid kit and check that you have enough supplies for all. Additionally, practice these essential skills before you go off the grid. By doing so, you’ll be much safer during your adventure outings and able to provide medical assistance until you can reach a hospital safely.
Ensuring clean water
Clean water in nature doesn’t mean that you can safely drink it, no matter how translucent or cool and fresh it might be based on your personal assessment. Clean water means that you have eliminated pathogens and potential microorganisms that could be harmful to your health. It’s always advisable to boil the water you find in nature.
Additionally, you can use portable water filters designed for such occasions, to help adventure travelers drink water safely wherever they are! However, you should ideally bring your own drinking water or find a nearby place where you can purchase it.
Learn how to start (and manage) a fire
It’s one thing when you have designated barbecue areas and safe fire pits, but when you’re out in the wild and on your own, you should learn how to start and control a fire. Meaning you should be able to keep yourself warm, prepare food and boil water safely. You should also avoid losing control over the fire and potentially wreaking havoc on the local flora and fauna.
This should be practiced in a safe area in your backyard or with someone more experienced. You can start by collecting tinder such as twigs, leaves, dry grass, or other items that will ignite easily. Next, use rocks or something equally safe to create a fire bed that will control the expansion of the flame. You can even try out some of the gritty ways to start a fire. With little to no assistance from modern tools, you can be fully prepared for any scenario.
Packing essentials for an adventure
When you’re planning your yoga retreat, you’ll likely focus on soothing things such as setting up your ideal playlist or packing the most comfortable pair of leggings. For an adventure, you need a completely different approach to packing. Here’s a list of the most essential must-haves to keep in mind:
- A multipurpose knife to help you with food preparation, terrain difficulties, lighting fires, and other tasks.
- A tent and sleeping bags for you and your travel companions if you plan to sleep under the stars. Make sure they are waterproof and suitable for the climate in which you’ll spend your adventure.
- A flashlight that is both durable and perhaps waterproof if you plan on some boating, or any other water-based activities.
- Clothing layers. Temperatures might suddenly change and you could experience bad weather. It’s good to have waterproof and windproof garments to keep you safe and prevent health issues.
- The necessary means to build a fire. You cannot rely on available resources on the premises and should always plan ahead by bringing two lighters since matches are unreliable.
Adventure trips should by no means jeopardize the safety of your travel companions, no matter how exciting or thrilling they might be. Staying healthy, safe, and mindful of your surroundings is crucial for such escapades. Allowing you the freedom to enjoy all activities and destinations you choose with peace of mind. Create a careful plan for your adventure, and make sure you put a strong emphasis on safety for all!
