With our lives becoming increasingly connected online, it’s unsurprising to want to go off the grid for a few days. After all, having the opportunity to separate oneself from constant stimulation is a kind of freedom that’s needed yet difficult to come by. However, simply getting up and deciding to live off-grid from now on is probably too much for some, so the next best option is to go off-the-grid adventuring.

Some assume that living in extreme conditions in the most remote places in the world is what it takes to have an off-the-grid adventure. But having your first off-the-grid adventure by removing all the conveniences of modern technology might put you off from having another trip in the future.

Thus, it’s best to introduce yourself to this type of adventure by removing the technology you can live without. For example, you can take away your access to the internet and Wi-Fi, but it’s probably unrealistic to remove yourself from access to power and water. An off-the-grid trip can be a great way to have an active weekend as you spend more time outdoors and away from your phone.

Here are ways to ensure your adventure goes without a hitch:

1. Pick A Place

The destination you’ve chosen mostly determines how your trip will turn out. Even though you’re going off-grid, it’s best to know all the relevant details of your destination. For example, you may have fees to pay with the National Park Service and certain regulations to follow. It’s also advisable to be familiar with the nature and wildlife in the area to keep yourself safe.

Experienced adventurers know that nature doesn’t pick its victims—and with good reason, considering how merciless the wildlife is to anyone who foolishly stumbles into its territory. But be that as it may, fending the wildlife by inflicting harm isn’t wise, especially if laws protect that species.

Thus, you must research the place you’ve been eying. See if it can accommodate a traveler and provide enough resources for your trip. After all, choosing a portable power station requires knowledge of roughly how much energy you’ll need. This is so you won’t run out of power in the middle of your adventure, saving yourself from inconvenience.

2. Practice Sustainability

Considering you’re surrounded by nature, one way to enjoy your adventure is by utilizing your environment to the fullest, whether it’s the trees or sunlight. They’re your best alternatives for energy sources if you want your trip to last longer without relying too much on your portable power station. You can also practice survival tricks such as building a campfire and using tools like a torch or a rope.

3. Conserve Supplies

As refreshing as it is to pull away from modern life, it removes the conveniences you’re normally used to. Since you only depend on your resources to survive, you must learn how to conserve them.

Be mindful of your power resources. Estimate how much you can use throughout your trip before you deplete them. As for the rest of your supplies, always update your inventory after using them. That way, you can keep better track of them and have a rough timeline of how long they’ll last before you decide it’s time to go home.

4. Be Prepared

Going off the grid with little to no plans over what you’re supposed to do is already a disaster in the making. Inexperienced travelers are unlikely to last long when going off the grid—much less enjoy it. Your off-the-grid adventure should give you solitude away from your busy life, so it’s essential that everything must be prepared to avoid frustration.

Once you’ve found your destination, check it thoroughly. On top of regulations, find out what awaits you at your destination. Learn the best route to get there and see what the path has in store for you, whether they’re mountain ranges or bodies of water. It’s good to study navigation to have an easier time traveling.

While you may have diligently followed the weather forecast before leaving, the weather can still be unpredictable. Instead of only sticking to one kind of gear, it’s better to pack different clothes for various weather conditions, whether for hot days or rainstorms. Ensure that most of what you’re wearing is moisture-wicking to avoid dealing with wet clothes.

Since there’s no way of telling what might happen to you on your trip, prepare survival tools for various scenarios. Have bug spray to avoid being bitten by pests. Bringing bear spray is also a good idea if you’ll be in a place where bears inhabit. Lastly, keep a complete first-aid kit on hand in case of injuries or accidents.

5. Start Slow

Even though you poured days into planning your off-the-grid adventure, it’s still overwhelming once you get into the thick of it. Mistakes are bound to happen on your first trip. Know your limits and only take a short trip for your first time, ideally around a day or two. Use this opportunity to get your feet wet on off-the-grid adventures. Your first experience should give you a better idea of what to do and learn for your next trip. If you encounter any mistakes on your first trip, know that these will only build your skills for future adventures.

Takeaway

It’s easy to get caught up in everything that’s happening around you. After all, keeping up with all your responsibilities is no easy feat. Thus, it’s understandable why you’d like to take an off-the-grid adventure.

As compelling as it is to take a spontaneous adventure, it’s vital to have everything prepared to avoid frustration during your trip. Remember, your off-the-grid adventure should allow you to relax and de-stress.