So, you’re thinking about planning an outdoor adventure with your family? Great! There are so many wonderful places to explore and activities to enjoy together. But where do you start? Outdoor family adventures can be a great way to spend time together and have some fun. Here are seven steps to planning an outdoor adventure for your family:
1. Choose a destination
Whether you want to stay close to home or travel somewhere new, pick a destination that everyone will enjoy. If you’re looking for something adventurous, consider hiking or camping in a beautiful location. If you’d rather stay closer to civilization, check out local amusement parks or zoos.
2. Plan your route
Once you’ve picked a destination, map out the route you’ll take to get there. This is especially important if you’re traveling somewhere new – make sure you know how to get around and where all the attractions are located.
3. Pack the essentials
Make sure to pack everything you’ll need for your adventure, including sunscreen, hats, and insect repellents. Make sure to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, especially if you’ll be out and about all day. This will help keep everyone’s energy up and minimize fussing.
For example, you could pack sandwiches, healthy apple pie oat bars, fruits, and vegetables for a picnic lunch or bring along a thermos of hot water for tea or coffee. You may also want to bring along camping gear if you’re planning on spending time outdoors.
4. Make a schedule
This is especially important if you have young children – make sure they know what’s happening each day and what time they need to be up and ready to go. Having a schedule will help keep everyone organized and minimize meltdowns. Younger kids will have different needs than older kids, so be sure to plan accordingly.
5. Consider entertainment
Depending on your destination, you may want to bring along some entertainment options. This could include things like binoculars, a deck of cards, or a book for older children. If you’re going camping, consider packing a small radio or MP3 player. Board games and puzzles are also great options for keeping everyone entertained on long car rides.
6. Be prepared for emergencies
No matter how well you plan, something is bound to go wrong at some point. Be prepared for the unexpected and have a plan B in case things don’t go as planned. A typical First Aid kit should suffice for most outdoor adventures.
7. Let everyone have a say
This is your adventure, but that doesn’t mean you should do all the planning by yourself. Let each member of your family choose at least one activity they’re looking forward to doing. This will help make everyone feel invested in the adventure and ensure that everyone has a good time.
There you go! Planning an outdoor adventure for your family can be a lot of fun. By following these seven simple steps, you can ensure that everyone has a great time. Whether you’re exploring a new destination or staying close to home, there’s something for everyone in the great outdoors. So get out there and start planning!