If you’re currently in a relationship, there are perhaps few things you’ll look forward to more than the opportunity to travel somewhere with your significant other. This is an excellent way to break the monotony of both your daily routines, and it can strengthen your bond further as you get to see a new side to your partner that perhaps isn’t always evident in your day-to-day interactions. Your best qualities as individuals and as a couple may also shine through when you leave your comfort zone for an action-packed, nature-filled outdoor adventure.
7 Packing Tips for Outdoor Adventures
One challenge you may have to go through together before you head off on a hike, seaside camping trip, or other similar adventure is packing your luggage. Heavy bags shouldn’t drag you down and hinder your movement, but you should also have access to everything you need for activities like long walks, cook-outs, or laps out on the lake. No need to fret: here’s a practical list of outdoor essentials that you and your partner can check off to ensure you’re quickly ready for whatever the outdoors brings:
#1. Outerwear
If you know that you’ll be spending more time outdoors during your travels, then make sure you’ve got the right outerwear with you. Do check as well the weather conditions of your destination. Knowing in advance that you’ll be encountering rain or snow over the course of your trip will help you and your partner pick the appropriate outerwear to take, without consuming valuable backpack space. Consider packing waterproof jackets that can protect you from both rain and snow, thus consolidating your outerwear needs into one. Also make space in your pack for bandanas, infinity scarves or shawls, and other multi-purpose outerwear layers.
#2. Swimwear
A trip to the beach would make for a great stop during your travels, particularly if you’re heading to a tropical country. Whether you’re planning to just relax on the beach with your partner or take part in various water sports activities, it’s important that you have the right clothing with you. Bring light but durable swimwear that can withstand both wading and other more intensive aquatic activities you may want to try, like snorkelling or paddle-boarding.
#3. Moisture-Wicking Shirts
Feeling sweat drenching your shirt is an all-around uncomfortable experience, and certainly one you’d want to avoid during even your most physically-oriented travels. If you and your partner will be taking on activities that require long exposure under the sun, such as hiking or walking tours, then pack clothes that have moisture-wicking properties so that sweat doesn’t bother you.
Moisture-wicking fabric works by pulling sweat away from your skin up to the top of the fabric, thus allowing it to dry rather than soak through the shirt. Fabric materials that you’d want to look for in a moisture-wicking shirt include polyester, polypropylene, nylon, and spandex, among others. Invest in moisture-wicking shirts that you and your partner can use regularly for future travels.
#4. Versatile Clothing
Next, pack more clothing that can serve multiple purposes or can be worn in various conditions. A pair of leggings, for example, will be comfortable outdoors in both hot or cold weather. Shorts are also comfortable and versatile to wear, not to mention that they’ll likely take up less space in your luggage. Bring accessories that can do double duty as well; for instance, a large scarf can also function as a poncho, a blanket, or be bundled up to form a makeshift pillow. If you want to make your luggage even lighter, find out whether you can do laundry during your travels. Also check beforehand which of your clothing items dry quickly, and bring those in particular. The ability to do laundry will allow you to free up a lot of space in your suitcase or backpack and save you from having to pack a large pile of clothing for the entirety of your trip.
#5. Appropriate Shoes
Make sure you and your partner bring shoes that will be appropriate for your planned activities. Whether you’ll be hiking, mountain climbing, cycling, or simply walking a lot more than you usually do, having the right shoes can easily spell the difference between a fun time and a terrible one. Consider bringing along hiking boots, as these are designed to give your feet better support, especially if you’re anticipating tough terrain. Meanwhile, sports sandals are a comfortable footwear choice for virtually every outdoor activity, from temple tours to beachside excursions. They’re lightweight as well, so they shouldn’t be an issue with regard to luggage space.
#6. Outdoor Accessories and Survival Items
Don’t forget to pack some outdoor essentials that you can bring for added safety and convenience. UV-protective sunglasses can shield your eyes from harsh sunlight and help you avoid dry eyes. A small knife, on the other hand, can be a useful tool for food preparation, making kindling, cutting ropes, and emergency purposes. Also bring along a lightweight but durable water bottle to ensure that you and your partner always stay hydrated during your time outdoors.
#7. A First Aid Kit
If you’re set for a daring adventure outdoors, remember that safety should always be a top priority. Make space in your pack for a travel first aid kit with essentials like elastic wraps, bandages, antibacterial wipes, and antibiotic ointment, among others. In addition, if either you or your partner have conditions that require specific medicines, be sure they’re in the kit as well. Round off the kit with a set of antihistamines for allergies, motion sickness medicine, calamine lotion for itching, and insect repellent.
Wrapping Up
Your travel memories with your partner will be wonderful to share, so don’t let a lack of preparation and planning ruin the experience. Make sure you do your research about your destination beforehand and check the list above to see which items you should bring to make your next travel adventure as a couple one to remember.
What about you, what kind of gear do you take on a hike? Feel free to share any tips & advice below!
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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