Go on a Microadventure!

If you find yourself feeling a bit of cabin fever or like you need a change of scenery but aren’t in the position to take a long vacation, try a microadventure instead.

Alastair Humphreys is an English author and adventurer who encourages people to get outside their comfort zone and go somewhere they have never been. A microadventure is a getaway for busy people that is close to home, inexpensive, short, and effective.

Microadventures shouldn’t be anything that you need to plan out too far in advance, although you want to keep in mind where you are going and prepare for the weather. The main point is to not overcomplicate the process.

Find a friend who is up for the opportunity to get out of town for the evening, pick a place you can go that is close to home, pack some gear and get on the road (or walk, bike, bus, etc). Try heading to a mountaintop, the beach, or forest and catch the sunrise. Take a polar plunge at a nearby body of water and let the icy water get rid of any post-work stress you might have. If you’re feeling a bit unsure about camping outside for the first time, or you’re on your own, take a sleeping bag in your own backyard to get into the spirit. Even if you can’t spend the night outside, there are plenty of daytime options.

Here are some ideas if you need inspiration.

Local Park Visit — open Google maps and look at the public green spaces that are near you. Plan out a route that links any unvisited places together and get out the door.

Every Street (or Every Neighborhood Street) — the challenge here is to run, walk, or bike every single street in your city or town. Of course, anyone living in a major city might find this daunting but start off with just your neighborhood and expand.

Full Moon Hike or Bike — Once a month you have a chance to get outside at night under a full moon. Many cities or towns host a full moon bike ride for the community, check to see if one is available where you are. Even if there isn’t, try a walk or hike under the moon. You might be surprised at the sounds and sights you’ll encounter.

Safety should be a top priority especially traveling anywhere you haven’t been to before. Be sure to learn how to properly use a compass and map. Learn how to orient yourself the old-fashioned way just in case your cell phone dies, or you have no signal. Be sure someone else knows about your plan, where you are headed and when you should return.