7 Great Outdoor Activities to Try When Traveling

Whether you're heading to a particular destination or planning to go on a cross-country tour, it is vital to engage in outdoor activities at every destination. How will you get a feel of your chosen destination if you spend all your time inside buildings and vehicles? You haven't indeed visited a place if you haven't explored the wonders of the outdoors specific to your chosen destination.

Since you're reading this article, then it is safe to assume that you're looking to try out some thrilling outdoor activities. Here are some great ideas to consider:

1. Camping

There is simply no better way to get a feel of the outdoors than for you to go camping. Spending the night outdoors connects you to the outside world in the most profound way, enabling you to engage in activities like stargazing or campfire storytelling. There's also the added thrill of sleeping in a tent—think of it as lodging in an outdoor hotel. So get the camping gear, pinch your tent and enjoy!

Apart from being connected to nature, camping provides the opportunity for you to distance yourself from technology and the rest of the world. You get to be alone with your family, friends, or yourself. You can get outdoor camping guides here. Camping is never a dull option.

2. Hiking

Have you ever heard someone say "walk it off" to someone who is under a lot of stress? It wasn't meant to be an arbitrary statement; taking a long walk is scientifically proven to reduce stress. Hiking isn't just a fun activity; it also has several health benefits, making it a very rewarding exercise and a must-do for every destination.

There is also the added advantage of getting to explore the outdoors of whatever destination you're at, giving you a firsthand feel of a unique touch of nature in your chosen destination. If you're lucky, you will also get to observe the wildlife of your travel spot, and there are few things that are as fun and satisfying as hanging out with animals.

3. Surfing

Is there any activity as cool as surfing? It's almost magical how surfers seem to climb the waves, as though they've tamed the ocean. Surfing is an exciting activity, and depending on your chosen destination (that is, whether a beach is available), then this is an activity worth trying. If you do get the opportunity to surf, be sure to learn the local surfer slang. It'll be a great way to impress friends and family when you go back home.

4. Outdoor Movie Watching

Spice up your cinematic experience by going to an outdoor cinema. It's not just ‘90s cool—it's also magical. If you're lucky, the stars will be out, and you'll have a genuinely ethereal experience. Besides, the claustrophobic feel of an indoor cinema will be gone, and you'll be able to breathe in fresh air and be close to nature.

5. Rock Climbing

While this may seem like an extreme sport or an activity reserved for adrenaline junkies, rock climbing is actually a very safe and thrilling activity that has so many benefits that it's almost unimaginable that anyone would not immediately grab an opportunity to engage in it.

Apart from the undeniable thrill of scaling a rock, rock climbing has the added benefit of stabilizing blood pressure, improving cognitive abilities, improving decision making, spurring the development of goal-setting skills, and building self-confidence, amongst many other benefits.

6. Paintballing

Paintballing is a competitive sport that is perfect for friends and family. It is fun and friendly in spirit, making it a fantastic social activity and a great way to let off some steam. Wouldn't it be great to be able to say, "I went paintballing in Sweden?" Paintballing should definitely be on your to-do list for outdoor activities in foreign countries.

7. Skiing

Skiing is arguably the most fun activity to do in snowy countries. You get to wear cool gear—pun intended—while gliding down snowy hills. Imagine all the great pictures you'll take and the thrill of skiing at “adrenaline-rush” speeds. Apart from the memorable moments, you'll get an outdoor experience that cannot be rivaled, and enjoy the view of endless white blankets of ice and snow.

Plan Ahead

It is essential to plan outdoor activities, factoring in safety above everything else. Make sure you consult a travel agency for advice on the best outdoor activities available in the place you're visiting. Hire a tour guide or an expert in the activity you're going to engage in, and never engage in an outdoor activity alone.