What is an adventure holiday?
Adventure holidays can be anything you want them to be. You might choose to trek through the Borneo rainforest. Or maybe spot some marine iguanas in the Galápagos Islands. Or perhaps you’d quite like to snowshoe in Slovakia’s Tatra mountains.
And the list is endless. You could kayak on Alaska’s mighty rivers, explore active volcanoes in Iceland or hike Na Pali’s Kalalau Trail. And even if you’re not usually much of a daredevil, you might fancy bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge in New Zealand.
Of course, adventure doesn’t have to mean pushing your limits. You could choose a mix of lying by the pool then adding a little excitement to your day, like zorbing down a hill with your family or laughing together on a banana boat ride.
Put simply, adventure holidays can be as thrilling or as relaxing as you like.
What are the benefits of going on an adventure holiday?
Adventure holidays can be really rewarding. They give you the chance to escape everyday life and gain a real sense of personal achievement and accomplishment. You can step outside your comfort zone, explore new places and experience new cultures.
These trips can also build confidence, improve problem-solving skills and create lifelong memories. They also bring you closer to nature, which could feel like a refreshing change from a typical holiday.
Research shows that spending time outdoors is mentally and physically good for you. And you're more likely to exert yourself in an outside setting than on a treadmill. Who knows, maybe cycling through the Andes is just the pick-up you need.
What to consider when taking an adventure holiday
How adventurous you want to be is down to you. You might want to try something new or stick to an activity that you love. Whatever you decide, it's always a good idea to take precautions when planning your trip and getting travel insurance.
- Are you up to the task? Choose activities that match your fitness levels. If you have a medical condition, always check that it won’t affect your safety or health
- Are you using a reputable company? Make sure you’re using a licensed and certified company that meets safety standards. Always follow regulations and avoid risky behaviour. Even if your policy covers an activity, it may only apply if you stick to the rules
- What do you need to pack? Check if you need any equipment. Do you need any special clothing or footwear? For instance, if you're hiking, you'll need suitable boots for the terrain. Consider packing a first aid kit, sunscreen and insect repellent
- How do you protect yourself? Safety comes first so always act responsibly. Before you go, get travel insurance that covers the activities that you plan to do. Make sure it offers the right level of cover, including emergency medical treatment and compensation for any losses. Once you arrive, save the local emergency number in your phone and find out where you can get medical help if needed
