Ready to try something different? If you’re keen to step outside of your comfort zone and into a dazzlingly unfamiliar destination off the beaten track, it’s time to start planning your first ever adventure holiday.
You’ll see things you’ve only dreamt of, including eye-opening experiences you’d never find on an ordinary package holiday. This is of course a hugely exciting way to travel, but it’s also important to stay safe. Prepare properly and you’ll have an incredible experience that’s memorable for all the right reasons.
How to get ready for your first trip
As adventure travel specialists, the Blank Canvas team has provided support and guidance to many first-time explorers over the years. Our bespoke concierge service is a huge help, as we can tailor trips to suit your level of thrill-seeking and comfort. Not quite ready for that challenging jungle trek or white-water rafting excursion? No problem – we can park that for later and add in an activity you’ll enjoy far more.
But there are also things you can do to stay safe and get the most from your trip, such as:
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Pack for every situation
Prepare for every kind of weather, because you just never know. You could encounter a tropical downpour, or chilly temperatures at the top of a mountain. From sunscreen to waterproofs, make sure you have all bases covered and you’ll be fully comfortable whatever you get up to.
This being said, you should also practice focused packing. This means prioritising what you really need and jettisoning anything you don’t. Pack as light as you can or you’ll end up lugging round a heavy bag full of items you won’t use.
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Choose the specialist kit
If you’ll be taking part in outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, kayaking or climbing, it’s best to choose specialist, high performance kit over casual wear. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but you do want to end up with clothing and footwear that will keep you comfortable and safe.
And feel free to ask the Blank Canvas team for advice on what you’ll need before your trip.
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Listen to local advice
Local people are a vital source of information and tips during your trip, from warnings on weather conditions to where to find the best local food. And make use of our expertise here at Blank Canvas by all means, as our travel experts have in-depth knowledge of all our destinations. We can even put you in touch with the best local experts to speak to.
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Use your common sense
It’s understandable to let loose on this kind of trip, but you should still take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. For example, locking away your valuables and not wandering off on your own at night without telling anyone where you’re going.
Other essentials to remember:
- Memorise or write down local emergency numbers
- There’s no such thing as too much research – find out as much as you can before travelling, it’s all part of the fun of planning your big trip!
- Make use of apps – there’s lots of handy travel apps out there, from currency conversion to language translation and navigation.