Active Holidays: Everything You Need to Know
For some of us, the concept of sitting idly on a beach for a couple of weeks and feeling ourselves cook in the sun is simply not that enticing. There are quite a few of us who’d rather be spending our time away doing something fulfilling, challenging and adventurous. Whether that’s a cycling trip in the country or the latest in a long line of Everest base camp treks, active holidays of all shapes and sizes could be the right choice for you.
Choosing Your Activity and Destination
Interests and Fitness Levels: Reflect on activities you genuinely enjoy. If you love the outdoors and have decent stamina, consider a challenging trek. If you prefer water sports, try paddleboarding or kayaking.
Researching Destinations: Look into the terrain, climate, and local culture of potential destina-tions. For example, mountainous regions offer scenic trekking routes, while coastal areas may be perfect for watersports.
Timing and Weather: Consider the season. Some routes are best tackled in cooler months, while others shine in the summer sun.
Preparing for Your Trip
Get Fit Gradually: Begin a simple training plan that focuses on endurance, strength, and flexibility. Reputable sources like the NHS Live Well Exercise Guides provide tips to help you safely build fit-ness over time.
Gear and Essentials: Invest in suitable footwear, clothing, and gear for your chosen activity. High-quality equipment reduces discomfort and lowers the risk of injury.
Packing Smart: Alongside your activity-specific gear, pack essentials like a reusable water bottle, snacks, layered clothing, and a first aid kit.
Safety First
Appropriate Gear: Make sure you have the right safety equipment—helmets for cycling, boots with proper ankle support for hiking, or life jackets for watersports.
Basic First Aid Knowledge: Familiarise yourself with basic first aid and carry a well-stocked kit. Consider reviewing the UK Foreign Travel Checklist for guidance on staying safe abroad.
Emergency Planning: Always have local emergency numbers handy. If you’re venturing into re-mote areas, share your itinerary with friends or family back home and consider travel insurance that covers adventure activities.
Minimise Your Impact
Choose Eco-Friendly Options: If you’re serious about travelling with sustainability in mind look for eco-conscious accommodations, local tour operators who prioritise sustainability, and transporta-tion methods that reduce carbon footprint.
Respect Local Communities: Learn a few words of the local language, follow cultural norms, and purchase goods from local businesses.
Leave No Trace: Stick to marked trails, dispose of waste responsibly, and avoid disturbing wildlife and delicate ecosystems.
Budget and Booking
An active holiday can be tailored to fit a range of budgets. Planning early helps you manage costs and secure better deals:
Set a Realistic Budget: Factor in the cost of flights, accommodations, equipment, permits, and guide fees.
Look for Deals: Compare prices and consider traveling in the off-season when rates might be low-er. Check reputable budgeting resources like MoneySavingExpert for tips on finding discounts and avoiding unnecessary expenses.
Book in Advance: Popular adventure destinations often require advance bookings for permits and guided tours. Early planning ensures you get the best value and availability.
