Gearing up properly is essential no matter where your travels take you.

From the town you live in to the far reaches of the globe, there are a multitude of destinations just waiting to be discovered by adventurous souls like you and I. Satisfying your hunger to get out and explore may take you across town or to another continent. But, keep some common principles in mind to make your travels extra rewarding.

Make sure you’re well prepared for your next travel adventure with these tips and must-haves. You can find more travel-related articles and advice on our travel page. Be sure to scroll down to find my favorite gluten-free Granola recipe.

Adventure Friendly Travel Tips

Follow your instincts and keep safety first. Be wary of places that make you question your well-being and be extra diligent if you’re travelling or hiking alone. That being said, step outside of your comfort zone and try new things. Capture your memories in a written travel journal or in pictures so you can reflect, reminisce and share your experiences after your return.

Packing It Up

A sturdy backpack is a practical solution for storing your essentials while traveling. Wherever your adventure might take you, a few items like a water bottle and a snack, a small first aid kit and your cell phone are a must-have. Backpacks keep your hands free to explore and distribute the weight for more comfort. You will want a good quality pack with strong, reinforced seams, sturdy straps and durable clasps/zippers. This canvas rucksack will do the trick nicely and for under $30 its a steal. Get the rucksack here…

Protecting Your Feet

If you’ve ever been on a hike than you know proper footwear is vital for any active traveler. Sturdy hiking boots are the leading choice for adventure travelers. Keep in mind, proper fit and size are critical when purchasing footwear. It affects the support of the boots without friction that will eventually result in very painful foot blisters. A good pair of wool hiking socks will wick away moisture to keep your feet dry and comfortable all day long.

Timberland hiking boots have always been a favorite of mine. They look great, feel great and you can return them for free if necessary. Get the boots here…

Stilling Your Hunger

The adventuring doesn’t need to stop even if you need a break because you’re starving. You can stock up on your favorite store brand snacks. Better yet, try one of these road side snacks and healthy recipes from Julie’s Eats & Treats blog or scroll down for my favorite adventure recipe:

Gluten-Free Blueberry Banana Bread Granola

• 3 cups certified gluten-free old fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup gluten-free pecans halves and pieces
• 1/2 cup gluten-free whole almonds, roughly chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 very ripe bananas
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, room temperature
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1/2 cup unsweetened dried blueberries

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine oats, nuts, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl then stir to combine and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mash bananas until smooth, stir in coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla. Pour into oat mixture then mix with a spatula until coated. Spread out on prepared baking sheet
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, stirring twice.
4. Cool granola completely on baking sheet – it will crisp as it cools – then stir in dried blueberries. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days.

Laying Your Head

If you’re sleeping outdoors during your adventure, a tent is a must to protect yourself. The available sizes, styles and options for a tent are almost endless, but be sure the tent is no larger or heavier than what you can comfortably carry to your destination. Other considerations like rainproof fabric, ease of assembly and sleeping capacity are also important.

Take a look at our Coleman tent review to read about our top pick or get the tent here…

I hope you enjoyed reading our adventure friendly travel tips and must-haves. Have fun satisfying your hunger for adventure and be safe!

Where will your next travel adventure take you? Leave us a comment below.