Immerse Yourself in Nature the Next Time You Travel

Traveling is all about experiencing different cultures, trying unfamiliar foods and making new friends. However, it also gives you opportunities to notice differences in environments and climates. One of the easiest and most effective ways to do that is to prioritize taking part in activities that encourage you and your travel companions to enjoy nature’s abundant beauty. Looking for some ideas? Check out the suggestions below.

Ride Across a Sandy Beach on Horseback

Many people participate in relaxing strolls in the sand while listening to the sound of crashing waves. If you want to spend time on the beach in a way that’s less typical, see if there are providers in your area that offer horseback riding excursions.

Your elevated position while sitting astride a horse gives you an alternative perspective to the one you get while standing on the ground. Plus, feeling the warmth of the animal’s body against your skin and learning how to communicate with the creature in ways it understands both add interesting facets to your overall experience and help you create memories.

Choosing a company for your horseback riding experience isn’t easy. However, there are things you can look for that indicate an equine’s owners take proper care of it. Also, remember that reviews from people who signed up for trips with particular companies are also informative sources that could inform your decision.

Sleep in a Hammock

Hammocks are popular accessories for adventure-ready travelers. Some even bring them from home instead of reserving them in their destinations. Because hammocks are so easy to set up and offer an impressive amount of comfort, you may want to consider sleeping in one for at least one night during your next trip.

Doing so allows you to experience elements of nature more intensely than you would by simply sleeping in a bedroom with the window open. For example, breezes feel more obvious on your skin, and you’ll become more aware of the insects and other creatures that wake up at night and make noises.

Be sure to check the forecast beforehand and determine whether you need to bring extras to remain comfortable through the night. In a conventional sleeping situation, you can raise the thermostat temperature or turn on a ceiling fan for consistent comfort. When you’re outdoors, planning is essential.

Go on a Hike

Besides being a wonderful way to enjoy nature, hiking is adaptable for all ability levels, child and pet-friendly and very affordable. Before embarking on a journey, it’s a good idea to learn hiking tips to make things pleasant and safe.

Bring snacks that give you energy, and don’t forget to pack a compass and maps to use in case you lose your way. A first aid kit is another essential item for your backpack, as well as rain gear.

Hiking also lets you try walking meditation, which is an excellent way to relieve stress and help you tune into the world around you. As you put one foot in front of the other, pay attention to the sound each step makes, the way the ground feels underneath you and the rate of your breathing. Doing those things could help you forget about life’s stresses and concentrate on the present.

Plan a Stargazing Trip

For generations, the night sky and the stars within it have helped people feel a sense of serenity. That’s especially true if they’re missing loved ones while recalling that the absent individuals might be looking up at the sky at the same time. People also intentionally view the stars to gain perspective and remember that they are comparatively tiny occupants in a gigantic universe.

Whether you seek out one of the best stargazing sites in the world or find a remote, little-known area, this activity could turn into unforgettable memories. It also stimulates natural curiosity, so it works well if you’re bringing kids.

Before you go, consider buying a chart or downloading an app on your phone that helps you understand which constellations you’re looking at when you find them. Also, check and see if there are parks in your destination that might host guided stargazing nights. Then, you’ll get expert assistance in making sense of the night sky. Remember, it can get cold at night (even in the summer), so be sure to bring a blanket and a warm article of clothing — just in case.

As you can see from these suggestions, it’s not difficult to get back to nature and fully appreciate it while you travel. Even if it’s been a while since the last time you took a nature-centric excursion, now is the perfect time to start planning your next one.

Kacey Bradley is the lifestyle and travel blogger for The Drifter Collective, an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Kacey graduated with a degree in Communications while working for a lifestyle magazine. She has been able to fully embrace herself with the knowledge of nature, the power of exploring other locations and cultures, all while portraying her love for the world around her through her visually pleasing, culturally embracing and inspiring posts. Along with writing for her blog, she has written for sites like U.S. News, SUCCESS, Tripping.com and more! Follow Kacey on Twitter and subscribe to her blog to keep up with her travels and inspiring posts!