Planning an adventure means you’re ready to experience unique and epic travel opportunities. Adventure travel is nothing like visiting tourist destinations for shopping, nightclubs, and posing on the beach in stylish swimsuits for the most photo-worthy photos. While these trips are fun, when you’re wondering how to plan an adventure trip, you have to think more broadly.
Ready for an adventure trip? Here’s how to start planning it.
adventure travel for the bold, brave and fearless, who aspire to trek through the rainforest, climb the tallest mountain, break out in the culture, or step out of their comfort zone entirely. It’s all about seeking a thrill or a meaningful experience. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a small group adventure trip, here are some things to help you plan your adventure.
How to plan an adventure trip
1. Brainstorming
Ask yourself: what do I want to get out of this trip? Whether you’re looking for a sense of fulfillment, peace or cultural exchange, there’s an adventure that can give you all the sensations you’re looking for.
In the film Eat, Pray, Love, Julia Roberts’ character plans a year-long adventure in search of self-discovery. What is your “why” for adventure travel, and how long do you want your adventure to last? Once you determine what you want from your trip, you have a higher chance of getting the experience you want.
2. Budget
Your budget will vary depending on the type of experience you want.
Decide what works for your budget during your research. The goal is to determine how to get the most out of your affordable experience. Don’t let your budget stop you from planning your adventure. It is possible to take an adventure on a budget .
If you’re on a smaller budget, check out Destinations in East Asia and Central and South America. Your money will go further when traveling to these destinations due to the difference in currency value.
Depending on your starting point, it may be closer to home if you need to return in a hurry. If you have a bigger budget, try destinations in Europe, Australia and Canada. Splurge on comfortable living accommodations, food and flights. However, events can be expensive, so you might consider living in a hotel to save money, rather than staying in a hotel to offset the cost.
3. Determine the destination
Consider factors that may affect your trip. When deciding on a destination, you want to know if the weather will interfere with your plans. A quick Google search asking “When is the best time to travel to (insert country)” can help.
When traveling during the pandemic, keep informed about the country’s Covid-19 restrictions. The last thing on your mind is visiting a country during lockdown. Learn about any civic or political issues currently taking place that may cause changes in the day-to-day functioning of the country. Ask yourself, is it safe to visit at this time?
Also, when researching your destination, it’s best to know the cultural norms of the country to avoid cultural shock. Imagine going to an all-white party in a bright pink dress because you didn’t get the memo; that’s how it feels if you don’t do your research.
4. Plan your event
Choose the activity that gives you life!
Make sure you have a solid plan. Saying you want to go to Costa Rica is not a concrete plan. However, say you want to pass through Tortuguero National Park in Wildlife Adventures in Costa RicaBe much more specific!
Here are a few options to consider if you’re not sure what type of adventure you want. Physically active adventures include hiking, travel by walking, Cycling, rock climbing or zip lining. For water activities, you can choose snorkeling, sailboat, kayaking or paddle boards.
If you’re more interested in learning about a different culture, you can choose a program that focuses on local food, art, fashion or history course.
5. Security
Inform your family and friends about your trip, where you will be staying and how they can contact you. Research all the required documents so you don’t get stuck at the customs border upon arrival. Make sure you have the proper visa and vaccinations before you fly. Consider purchasing travel insurance as well as International Health Insurance.
5 Tips for Planning Your Adventure
1. Contact the bank
It’s important to figure out your finances before you go.
Notify your bank that you will be traveling and how long you will be away. You don’t want your bank cutting off your credit card abroad. Know your bank’s international usage policies to avoid spending extra money on fees. Some banks charge fees every time you swipe your card abroad, and those fees add up.
Also, bring multiple bank cards, just in case. Keep in mind that in some countries you may not be able to rely on a credit card. Many economies around the world still rely on cash transactions. (But the good news is that cash affects local economies more directly!
2. Change currency
Exchange small amounts of cash before you leave your home country. You never know when you’ll need some quick cash once you get to your destination. To save money, you don’t want to exchange money at the airport due to the high exchange rate.
In many cases these days, it is also convenient to withdraw money from an ATM when you arrive at your destination. However, as mentioned above, make sure your bank knows you are abroad, and double-check airport maps or information before you arrive to make sure there are ATMs in your terminal.
3. Create an itinerary
You probably won’t even use it. But when it comes to travel, it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. Include a list of food spots, activities, and attractions you would like to see during your adventure. A small structure goes a long way.
4. Bring an extra phone
Even if your destination doesn’t have reception, it’s a good idea to keep an extra phone just in case.
Bring a spare phone, unlocked if you have one, such as an old iPhone or Android. When you’re abroad, you can buy a SIM card and a prepaid plan to access cellular networks when no WiFi is available. Another reason for this is that if you lose or break it, at least it’s not your primary device.
If your phone is unlocked, don’t panic. You just need to be more strategic. Whenever you’re traveling to a new place, check to see if there’s a McDonald’s, Starbucks, or similar multinational known for free WiFi. You can use these to access Facebook Messenger, Whatsapp or iMessage depending on your needs. (Don’t forget about useful travel apps that work offline, like Maps. me and All Trails.
5. Use travel apps
Travel Apps Come in Handy When Traveling Abroad. Browse some of them for a deeper look at what makes your adventure spectacular. Remember to download any apps you plan to use before your flight. Here are some options:
- lonely planet. A variety of curated guides to help you navigate your new environment. The app provides a list of must-see destinations and experiences.
- cultural trip. This app provides free travel inspiration with helpful insights on things to do, what to eat, and where to stay in your desired destination.
- Snapped. Stay in touch with family and friends around the world with free messages and calls. Make sure your family and friends have the app too.
- FB Messenger. Similar to Whatsapp, most of your friends and family members already have this app on their phones. You can make video calls and share photos from your adventures.
- XE Currency Converter. It can be challenging to mentally switch currencies so often. Use a currency converter app and it will do all the math for you. Just add the currency of your country and the currency you want to convert to, add any amount you want to convert, and you’ll know how much it costs.
These are just some of the best adventure travel tips to get you started. Adventure travel planning is key to being prepared for any curveballs your journey may throw. Whether it is trekking in the foothills of the Himalayas still in Philippine Coast Surfing, planning (or not planning) can make or break your experience!
You are ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
Everything is ready! Find a program now and get out there!
The three main parts of adventure planning are determining your budget, destination and activities. Now that you’ve nailed those things, you’re ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Remember, adventure travel is all you do; find peace, seek thrills, and immerse yourself in the culture. Whatever your ideal adventure is, it’s waiting for you. Plan and enjoy!
