How to prepare for an adventure

It’s seems counterintuitive to prepare for an adventure. It’s like planning to have fun. What about all that spur-of-the-moment “live the adventure” spontaneity stuff? Just go with the flow. Seize the moment.

Sure, that works sometimes. But over the years we’ve learnt here at Downhill Adventures that most people enjoy an adventure far more when they’re properly prepared for it, simply because you feel more comfortable and safe.

Here are some tips for ensuring your adventure is a memorable one.

The lay of the land: Spend some time before you embark on an adventure familiarising yourself with what the activity involves and what happens in the area where the adventure takes place. This makes the whole experience more interesting and also makes you feel more at ease if you’re doing an activity that’s out of your comfort zone.

Snack attack: It is an unverified fact that when you’re outdoors and being active, you get really hungry. But hungry in that peckish my-body-is-craving-biltong way. Obey the body, we say, and make sure to pack a couple of treats for your journey. Little packets of nuts, jelly sweets, dried fruit and said biltong make for great adventure snacks. Fruit is also good idea, of course. Be sure to dispose of your rubbish responsibly in the great outdoors.

High five for hydration: Technically this point is more important than the one above because dehydration is far more serious than a spot of peckishness. Nevertheless, always take a few bottles of water with you on an adventure. Make sure to drink enough water throughout, especially if you’re in harsh sun or doing something unusually strenuous. Your body will thank you later.

Gear(ed) to go: The right gear can take your adventure from good to great. We’re not talking state-of-the-art gadgets but simply the right essentials. If you’re going on a hike, your Havaianas aren’t going to cut it. Similarly, cycling in a pair of jeans is not the greatest idea. Being comfortable and having the right gear is a massive fun motivator.

Wrapped up: Weather is an unpredictable thing. When you leave on your adventure in the morning it could be the most beautiful, warm day but by noon the weather could change dramatically. (Ever heard of Cape Town’s four seasons in one day?!) You don’t want to be cold on an adventure. It will make you grumpy and detract from your fun. Always take a jersey, a scarf (that can be wrapped around your body) or a lightweight windbreaker with you to ensure you’re snug as a bug should the weather change or the wind come up.

Sun smart: The African sun is glorious. And if you’re going on an adventure there’s a good chance that you’re going to be in it all day. The sun is also really powerful and sunburn is a very real and painful experience. So like that ’90s Baz Lurhman song recommends, “Always wear sunscreen”. You don’t want to burn badly and then have to  miss out on more adventure because you can’t bear the thought of being in the sun. It’s simple, just layer it on lekker! While you are at it, a hat and sunglasses also come highly recommended.

Unplugged, but plugged: Of course part of the reason one goes on an adventure is to get away from it all. To be unconnected from technology and “connectivity” for a while. But there are pro’s to carrying your phone, even if on the trip you keep it on flight mode to minimise distraction. You’ll definitely want to take photographs to capture amazing memories – and share them later on Instagram and Facebook after your adventure. And isn’t part of the reason you’re doing a 5am Lion’s Head hike to check in at the top? #lionshead #hike #alwaysadventure

And in particular, for emergency situations, your phone could come in handy. Should you need help on your adventure with a flat bicycle tyre or some other minor misfortune, make sure you’re fully charged.

Say yes to fun: There’s probably a complicated psychological term for this, but we simply call it the decision to have fun. Before your adventure starts tell yourself that you ARE going to have the time of your life. And you will.

Now, go and prepare for a fun adventure!