Known as one of the best destinations in the world for adventure travel, Chile is an obvious bucket list dot-on-the-map for those wanting epic thrills + discovery to be major players in their vacation. As this mega-skinny, super-long country spans so many climates, it provides a dynamic tapestry of terrain that offers travelers a seemingly endless platter of locations to climb, hike, surf, slide, zip and paddle. Essentially, Chile is a thrill-seeker’s wonderland.

Tip: If you’d rather skip the navigation and booking of this adrenaline-soaked trip, look into one of the many adventure tours offered in Chile.

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Sandboarding in the San Pedro de Atacama Desert

Enter Mars-on-Earth when you reach the Atacama Desert – the driest desert on the planet. With jagged rock formations that seem to be trying to jab the sky, otherworldly dawns and dusks, and mountains of reddish gold sand, Atacama is like a playground for those that enjoy a good ole unconventional adventure, like sliding down a sand dune on a board.

As there’s seemingly endless dunes of all sizes to choose from, everyone from kids wanting to slide down with their belly on the board, to adults wanting to fly across the sands at high speeds, will be set. If you’re in the latter camp, head to Dragon Hill, a 1,148-foot tall dune considered the highest in the world. And to be sure you have the footage to prove your courage, bring that GoPro.

Sandboard San Pedro can help you out with the gear and navigation.

Backpacking in Torres Del Paine National Park

The jewel of Patagonia, Torres Del Paine National Park is the one location you can’t leave Chile without exploring. It’s a blow-your-mind, have-a-spiritual-experience, change-your-life kinda place.

Within this 561,663 acre park is a multi-layered canvas of pristine forests, vast mountainscapes with sculpturesque peaks and cathedrals of granite, lakes that make you feel like you’re peering into the turquoise eyes of Mother Nature, and sun rises and sets filled with colors you didn’t think nature could produce. It’s so spectacular it makes people who usually loathe the thought of backpacking yearn for the opportunity, as it will mean they get to spend more time in this wild landscape.

There are numerous hiking options in the park, all of which are stunning, but the most popular (and challenging) are the W and O circuits. The W circuit, named after the shape of the route when viewed on a map, typically takes five to seven days to complete and takes you past many of the most compelling valleys, rivers, glaciers, lakes and peaks in Patagonia.

The 68-mile O circuit (also called the “full circuit”), is the longer and more demanding route. The O includes the W circuit, plus a trek around the less crowded backside of the Paine Massif – on a map, this looks like an O a three-year-old would draw. This route typically takes eight to ten days.

As Patagonia is home to over 126 species of mammals and birds, you might run into guanacos (llama-like animal), pumas, South Andean deer and Andean condor during your trek. In addition, the full loop will have you encountering a fascinating range of flora, from Patagonia Steppe and Pre-Andean Shrubland, to Magellanic Decidyous Forest and Andean Desert.

Click here for information on fees, reservations and hiking tours of the park.

Kayaking in Patagonia’s Grey Lake

While kayaking in Patagonia sounds lovely, it gets wild when you realize that you won’t just be kayaking, but will be navigating a glacier and icebergs in Grey Lake, home to the Grey Glacier, which totally looks like it could be housing some White Walkers.

Located in Torres Del Paine National Park (that must make the other parts of Chile jealous), this lake is bordered by an icy blue behemoth, chunks of which are sprinkled throughout the lake, and offers enough surface that you could easily spend a full day exploring it.

Just as visiting Torres Del Paine is a must if you’re in Chile, kayaking Grey Lake is a must if you’re in the park, as a paddle through this body of water is a mystical journey you’ll never forget – especially because you’ll take hundreds of photos while there.

White Water Rafting In Pucon

This Chilean mountain town is a popular stop for both Chileans and foreigners, especially those that like to get into a tangle with class three and four level rapids. The Trancura River is the site of this aquatic, heart pounding revelry and has attracted innumerable river guides who are happy to lead your way through the white water – like the folks at Kayak Pucon (they have more than kayaks.)

Beyond the rollercoaster-like thrills, Pucon is flush with natural beauty, enhancing the experience with views of wild ravines, lush valleys, and commanding volcanoes. When you’re ready for smoother waters, head to nearby Villarrica Lake for a paddle. Or, if you want to keep the high-octane times going, you can parasail.

Zip Lining “El Condor” in Pucón

After handing in your oars, stick around Pucon to score many adventurers’ greatest joy (a thrill and bragging rights) by zipping along “El Condor,” South America’s longest zip line at more than 11,483 feet in length. The six stations of this coveted aerial course span the Villarrica, Quetrupillán and Lanín volcanoes, providing one-of-a-kind views of Pucon’s epic wonders.

Summiting, then Sledding Down, Volcan Villarrica

Not for the faint of heart, a trek to the top of this 9,344-foot high, active volcano will result in pee-your-pants astonishing views of a sizzling, steam-filled crater that just might blow at any time. This volcano is so active you need to wear a gas mask for the last portion of the hike, and because a section is covered in a glacier there will be crampons. Essentially, this is an adrenaline-junkie’s dream.

If you can tear your eyes off the ominous crater, turn around and take in spectacular views of Lake Villarrica, Pucon and the other volcanoes in the area. After you’ve snapped your selfies and felt your stomach clench every time your mind tricks you into thinking the ground just trembled, you toboggan down this (usually) snow-covered volcano on a piece of plastic.

Skiing Valle Nevado

Western Hemisphere-ers who yearn for the sensation of carving a sleek path through fresh powder in the summer, will be blissed-out when they hit the Andean slopes of Valle Nevado (because of the whole our-summer-is-their-winter thing.) This favored ski resort outside of Santiago is perched 10,000 feet in the Andes and provides a multitude of groomed runs and snow quality that is largely considered the best in Chile.

Those used to the tree-lined runs at many ski resorts will be in for a unique experience at Valle Nevado, as all runs, and the resort itself, is perched well above the tree line, creating the impression that you’re gliding through the sky. One could easily picture Zeus or other gods, shredding through its freshies.

The terrain here is amenable to all with runs almost perfectly divided between beginner, intermediate and advanced. In addition, the mountain include gullies, rolling terrain, a terrain park, a bordercross run and side country that can be hiked. The “Inca Valley” portion of the resort peaks at 12,040 feet and consists of a stunning valley.

For those wanting a full-on ski getaway, there are three hotels, condos and numerous restaurants at the resort. And if you really want to outdo yourself – and you’re a professional level skier or snowboarder – consider the world class heli-skiing available in the area.

The post 7 Life-Changing Adventures in Chile appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

The fresh air, rush of endorphins, screen-free time with family and vistas so beautiful they make you believe in something greater weave together to infuse hiking with a rare kind of magic. However, this magic can quickly fizzle when primal needs aren’t met, kids start to riot, or the trail you’re on ends up being blah. But with the right preparation you can help ensure your hiking endeavor is more “life enhancing adventure” than “soul sucking trudge.”

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1. Find a peril-free trail.

Nothing sucks the joy out of a hike quicker than worrying about your child slipping off a ledge. So research trails that won’t take you by drop-offs, or other dangerous patches, so you can enjoy your walk without having a death grip on the kids’ wrists. In addition, ensure that the pitch is a match for your broods’ abilities.

Safety Tip: If you’re hiking in an area with bears, mountain lions or other potentially dangerous creatures, have one adult lead the group and another be the caboose so kids don’t wander too far ahead, or fall behind.

2. Be realistic with speed estimates when selecting how far you’ll go.

While one to five miles is doable for most families in a day, you want to factor in when you’ll be able to start the hike, and how far you think your people can walk every hour. This information will allow you to select a hike that won’t be over almost as soon as it began, while also not being so extreme you’re carrying over-it children the last couple miles.

3. Select a trail with fun pit stops.

Water holes, scenic look-outs, a small canyon covered in ladybugs (a real thing!), and other intriguing destinations along a trail, break up a hike by creating clear locations to rest and play for awhile. Online trail maps and reviews will often reveal appealing locales along popular paths.

4. Have a special treat for each resting spot.

If it’s hard to get your littles to walk more than 10 steps at a time, entice them to move with the promise of a tasty treat at each milestone on the trail.

5. Start early.

If you’ve determined that you could totally conqueror a five mile hike… as long as you start early, make sure to start early. It’s all too easy to allow a 7am departure time, for example, to turn into a 8am or 9am or “oh my gosh, how did it get to be 10am” departure time. Don’t let your hike be derailed by the slipperiness of time by prepping your packs, filling water bottles, laying out clothes, setting alarms, and informing the family about the departure time the night before.

6. Make sure everyone has the right footwear.

Blistering feet are one of the surest ways to guarantee your hike will be cut short, or include children on your shoulders using your hair as reins for the majority of the trek. Avoid this misfortune by having all family members wear hiking socks with hiking, or supportive tennis, shoes they’ve already worn in. If they don’t have such shoes, buy some a week or two before your hike and have said family member wear them as often as possible before the big day.

7. Protect yourself from the elements.

The overheating, burns and potential chill that can result from hours outside can be prevented by covering up with the right stuff. First off, find sweat-wicking, UPF clothing that will help keep you and yours cool and unburned. In addition, bring zinc oxide and hats to protect skin that isn’t covered by your UPF duds. Finally, pack layers to account for temperature drops.

8. Pack a first-aid kit.

Scrapes, bites, allergic reactions, sprains, headaches and more happen, especially when you’re communing with the unpredictability of Mother Nature. Be prepared for unforeseen ouchies and oopses by packing a first-aid kit that contains the following:

• Small first aid manual

• Assortment of bandages

• Gauze

• Various sizes of bandaids

• Blister kit

• Anti-itch ointment

• Bug spray

• Antiseptic cream

• Saline solution

• Pain relievers

• Electrolyte replacement

• ‎Antihistamine

• Epi-pen for those with serious known allergies

• Any specialized meds a family member heavily relies on

• Tweezers

• Small pair of scissors

• Matches

9. Bring more water than you think you need.

As a long day hike usually equals a good deal of sweating, and dehydration creates a slew of discomforts, pack at least two-liters of water for each person. Because this amount of water can get heavy, and little kids won’t be able to carry more than about 400 mL, minimize weight by storing water in bladder bags. In addition, if you know you’ll be hiking by water sources, bring a water filtration pump to refill empty bottles.

10. Have kids wear backpacks.

If your littles are too big to be carried in a backpack, have them wear a backpack with their own water bottle and snacks. This will help spread out the weight so the adults don’t end up carrying around an exhausting heap of water, food and other supplies.

11. Pack interest-enhancing supplies.

Binoculars, a magnifying glass, shock-proof cameras, a notebook and pencil and other such items help kids become engaged in the flora and fauna of a trail. If you don’t already have the items you think your kids would enjoy, amp up their excitement for the hike by taking them on an online, or brick-and-mortar, shopping adventure for the supplies.

12. Create a nature-supplied scavenger hunt.

“I’m bored…. When will we be there? My feet hurt!” Kids can easily get sluggish, antsy and irritable during a hike. But coming equipped with creative distractions (like the supplies in tip #11) can erase disgruntled attitudes.

One of our favorite distraction methods is a nature-supplied scavenger hunt list – meaning, we make a list of the various plants, animals and other nature, or man made, features we’re likely to see on the trail and challenge Hudson to spot everything on the list in exchange for a treat after the hike.

If you’re unsure what to put on the list, do some online sleuthing about the plants and animals frequently found on your chosen trail. In addition, items like trail signs, a bathroom, and hiking shoes are sure-bet features to add to the list.

13. Come equipped with songs and games.

In addition to the boredom-fighting-tools above, bringing lyrics to fun, easy songs like “The Ants Go Marching One by One,” “Home on the Range,” “Camp Granada” and “Baby Shark” (duh!), and supply-free games can distract kids from the fact that their feet keep moving forward.

The post 13 Tips for an Epic Day Hike with the Family appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

Intrepid scuba divers not turned off by the chilly temps of Lake Tahoe will discover an aquatic fantasyland of eerie sights and top-notch visibility under the surface of this 122,200-acre lake. The prime perk of diving Lake Tahoe lies in its underwater canvas of shipwrecks, dreamlike forests with 80-foot tall trees that are more than 2,000 years old, and mazes of boulders. And the fact that the water clarity is often pristine makes divers feel like they’re flying above the surface of an alien planet.

As there are pockets of the like still unexplored, it is referred to by some as the Bottomless Lake. This uncharted territory has resulted in lore that includes everything from Lady of the Lake, a murderous mermaid, and Tahoe Tessie, a relative of the Loch Ness Monster, to a teahouse on a tiny island haunted by the hermit Captain Dick Barter who drowned in the waters. If you’re up for a spine tingling adventure, Lake Tahoe is your spot.

Following are compelling Tahoe dive sites worth asking your dive master about.

Note: If you’re wondering who to dive with, Sierra Dive Center will treat you right.

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Rubicon Wall

One of the most spectacular destinations for experienced divers, this dramatic vertical wall features 70 to 100 foot visibility, sightings of fingerling trout that number in the thousands and a true sense of perspective for the yawning size of the lake.

Emerald Bay

The emerald green water at this appropriately named bay gives the impression of diving in the tropics… with the exception of the shocking temp difference. The primary subsurface sights here include cabins and trees, creating the illusion of a long lost logger’s village that was eaten by the lake.

Stateline Wall

After a 900-foot surface swim from Brockway Beach you’ll reach the awe-inspiring 800-foot drop of this wall, which is composed of massive boulders stacked on top of one another.

Diver’s Cove

If you stay close to shore this is a good spot for beginners wanting to explore granite rock formations, a cave and a sunken barge. More experienced divers can head further out where cliffs and sunken trees await.

Meeks Bay

One of the most family-friendly dive sites, Meeks Bay offers a diverse collection of underwater creatures, with common sightings of schools of minnows, whitefish, mackinaw, and crawdads hiding under the aquatic trees. In addition, the pristine beach and ample picnicking sites makes this a fun place to post up and stay for a while.

Carnelian Bay

This is a favorite spot for summer night dives, as you can explore ghost-like fishing boats and motor blocks, massive submerged logs, and a sunken barge. And at night, the crawdads, rainbow trout and bottom sculpins come out to play.

Baldwin Beach

The primary attraction here are the underwater trees, some as old as 6,400 years, giving the site a striking sense of history.

The post Most Popular Scuba Diving Sites in Lake Tahoe appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

We believe scuba diving is one of the most blissful, otherworldly and adventurous activities. It allows you to enter another realm, and adopt a calm, slow, gentle demeanor, all while observing the fascinating dynamics of the community under the sea.

I adore this aquatic endeavor so much that in my early 20s I became a rescue diver and lived on the Caribbean island of Roatan, Honduras for three years. While this experience gave me an in-depth knowledge of how miraculous scuba diving really is, it also gave me insight into what could go wrong, and what can make a dive trip more enjoyable. Following are tips and tricks I acquired during that time.

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1. Choose a location that offers more than scuba diving.

As amazing as scuba diving is, you’ll likely want to do more than just that on your vacation. Selecting a destination that also has amazing snorkeling, beaches, zip lining, or other activities that intrigue you, will allow you and your family to have a well rounded adventure.

2. Become dive certified before you go.

Because you never know how you’ll react during the strange experience of breathing underwater, it’s ideal to test these skills before you reach your vacation destination. In addition, getting the busy-work of studying, and all the requirements that go into becoming dive certified, done before you leave will help ensure your trip is filled with enjoyment and exploration, versus stress about your certification test.

Even if you don’t live near the ocean there are dive shops in almost every major city, and even some smaller towns, that utilize pools and lakes for certification.

3. Research the dive shops in your vacation destination.

The dive shop you select can make or break your trip, as you’re putting your life in their hands. Because we live in the age of ample online reviews, making it easy to read about the experiences of past clients of almost all dive shops, we recommend investing ample time reading these reviews, and even contacting reviewers you would like to ask questions. If you are a newer diver, look for a dive shop that has a reputation of being hands-on and extra cautious.

4. Contact your top three dive shops.

After you’ve narrowed your search to two or three dive shops, contact them to ask about specifics regarding equipment, dive times, preferred dive sites and so on. This communication will give you insight into the competency of the employees at the dive shop, in addition to whether their services will accommodate the unique needs of your group.

For example, if you’re traveling with a group of experienced divers who would like to do more advanced dives, it’s important to confirm the shop can accommodate this preference, and won’t charge an exorbitant fee for the service.

5. Book your dives ahead of time.

After you’ve selected the shop you want to dive with, ask them how quickly their dives fill up. If you have a large group, see if they can set up private group dives. If the shop reports that it’s easy to hop on dives last minute, and you want flexibility with your schedule, hold off on booking until you’re at the destination.

However, if they don’t have much flexibility, talk with your group and decide whether you want to do one or two dives each day, and whether you all prefer morning or afternoon dives – then, book the applicable dives.

6. Say yes to morning dives.

If you think it’s possible to get your group up and out first thing, book morning dives, as this is when the wind is often calmer and the water visibility better. However, don’t stress if you don’t think this is possible, as your dive shop will know where to go for fun afternoon dives.

7. Research dive sites.

Nowadays, almost everything is chronicled online, which means you can get information, and likely photos, of the most popular dive sites in various destinations. While there is no guarantee a dive shop can accommodate all your preferences, especially if you’ll be diving with strangers of various skill levels, dive shops often do their best to get you to the spots you’re most interested in.

8. Bring a good underwater camera.

While you don’t want to spend the totality of your dives with your eyes behind a viewfinder, having a decent underwater camera allows you to capture the most memorable moments of your dive. If you score a sighting of a shark, whale, massive eel, or other epic creature, you want to be able to snap some proof. One of our favorite affordable underwater cameras is the FujiFilm FinePix XP120 Compact Rugged Waterproof Digital Camera (no affiliation.)

9. Nurture your fitness and immune system before you go.

While floating around underwater doesn’t seem particularly strenuous, building up your physical stamina with regular light exercise will set you up for ample enjoyment on your trip. In addition, because issues like sinus infections, colds, or ear-related concerns could completely derail a scuba diving trip, be sure to support your immune system by loading up on immunity boosters like garlic, ginger and citrus fruit.

10. Adopt a diving-friendly diet, and limit alcohol.

A belly stuffed with heavy foods, a headache caused by too much sugar or alcohol, or an empty stomach grumbling for nourishment are all physical circumstances you want to avoid before diving.

Set yourself up for optimal physical and mental enjoyment during dives, by eating a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, protein and water (lots of water!) In addition, avoid stuffing yourself, or running out of fuel, by aiming for five to six small meals during the day, especially if you’ll be doing an afternoon dive. For morning dives, skip a big breakfast and nosh on something that will give you lasting energy, like a banana or one or two eggs.

And now let’s get back to alcohol – hangovers are awful regardless of your location, but are especially painful, and even dangerous, when you’re scuba diving. We’re not saying you can’t indulge in any cocktails during your getaway, but limit it to one or two a day to ensure the primary purpose of your trip (diving!) is not only doable but also enjoyable.

11. Rent a wetsuit if you chill easily.

When I worked as a rescue diver in the Caribbean I always wore a full wetsuit, as I goosebump easily, especially in deeper water.

Even if the ocean feels like bathwater when you’re playing on the shore, the temperature can quickly drop as you go deeper. So even if you’re sweating above water, you’ll likely be pleased to have coverage when you get into the depths. The dive shop will be able to direct you regarding the ideal thickness of the wetsuit.

12. Ensure everyone in your group is clear about the dive master’s plan before you set off.

It is imperative that everyone in your group understands the following:

– Who their dive buddy is.

– How to triple check equipment before the dive.

– The conditions of the site where you’ll be diving.

– The signals the dive master will use to communicate various messages.

– The signals to use if you need to communicate something, specifically panic or equipment malfunction.

– How deep you’ll be going.

– What to do if you get into various sticky situations.

– The animals you may see, helping make sure you don’t panic if you come face-to-face with a hammerhead shark or other such intimidating creatures.

– The plan for ascent and getting back to the boat.

– Any other information you or the dive master feels is important to the safety and enjoyment of the divers.

In addition, remind your group to not be embarrassed about asking questions they might have about equipment. Although you would think all dive masters are on top of conveying this info, and ensuring everyone understands, some get lackadaisical in their role, especially if they’ve recently gone on a string of outings with experienced divers.

The post 12 Essential Tips for an Amazing Scuba Diving Vacation appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

While there’s lasting joy in living near a coastline with renowned surf, there’s something to be said for embarking on an adventure to discover new waves. Not only does a surf trip offer a platter of fresh swell but provides time to play on said swell until your skin is salt soaked and wrinkled. In addition, as many of the greatest waves in the world crash on tropical shores, the waves aren’t the only thing you’ll be relishing.

Because we are a family with a super experienced surfer, a person that thinks a two foot wave is terrifying, and a 6-year-old, we go on frequent surf trips, with the caveat that we can access waves that suit all levels of ability and are located in areas that feature more than surf.

However, it took us ample trial and (expensive) error to figure out what type of surf trip was right for us. These tips are a result of these hard-earned lessons, and will hopefully support you in crafting a surf-centered adventure that stokes out everyone who said yes to the journey.

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1. Create surf criteria with your fellow travelers.

Before selecting a destination for your surf trip, have a powwow with your fellow travelers to come to a consensus on the types of waves you want to surf, additional activities you’ll want to engage in, the preferred form of accommodation, timing and budget.

During this talk, you might discover most of your travel companions want to camp in a locale with hard-to-access, under-utilized surf. Or maybe, most of you prefer simplicity over an uncrowded wave, and are inclined to stay in a vacation home in an area that has easily accessible breaks and a variety of recreational activities.

In addition, consider the range of ability levels you’ll be traveling with, and select an area that caters to all. This criteria will simplify and inform the next step.

2. Do your homework.

Now that you know what your group is hoping to get out of the surfing getaway, you can dive into research about areas that check all your boxes. If you’re looking for more under the radar finds, don’t stop your search at the first few Google results, as you can be sure numerous travelers have also read those articles and will be frequenting those areas. And don’t skip over travel forums, as this is often where nuggets of undiscovered-surf-spot wisdom lives.

3. Research the waters.

While you’re searching for surfable destinations, look into surf conditions, water temperatures, and sea creatures in those areas during the time frame you’ll be traveling. This research might lead you to discover that the waves in a certain area will be way too big for your group, or non-existent, during the time of year you’re wanting to visit. Or maybe, average water temps will talk to you into packing a full wetsuit.

In addition, sea creatures such as sharks and jellyfish are concerns in certain locales in certain months – make sure you’re not heading to such a place during that time frame. Or, make sure you bring gear that helps minimize the attention you may get from these critters.

Finding Secret Swell Tip: Discover potentially underutilized surf spots by using Google Earth to virtually scour the coast. However, before you hit up such a spot head to a local surf shop to glean more information about your discovery, helping to prevent mishap.

4. Think about hurricane season.

Look into if or when the surf destinations you’re interested in habe monsoon or hurricane season. If your only window to travel is during that season, think about choosing a new dot on the globe, or getting trip insurance in case weather puts a kibosh on your trip.

5. Bring the right boards.

After you select the ideal destination, do additional research on the types of waves you’ll likely be surfing so you know what boards to bring. In addition, make sure the selected boards are in good condition, and do any repair work before you head out.

6. Consider joining a surf camp.

If you and your fellow surfers are beginners, or unfamiliar with the surf in the destination you’ve settled on, look into surf camps. Surf camps not only ensure you’ll receive crucial instruction regarding the water and surrounding area that will help keep you safe and firmly planted in a state of stoke, but will also simplify lodging, food and transportation, as many provide all of the above.

7. Research the surf culture.

Now that you know what to expect from the creatures in the water, get to know what to expect from the people in and out of the water. While there’s standard surf etiquette that applies in almost all locations, research might reveal specific customs in the area you’ll be surfing.

You might also learn that some of the spots you’ll surf are frequented by locals, meaning you need to tread lightly and be super respectful – which I suppose we should do regardless of location. Beyond the waters, look into the laws and customs of your chosen locale, especially if it’s in a country you’re unfamiliar with.

8. Ensure you have the proper documentation.

As many surf trips will have you traveling internationally, you’ll need to have a passport that’s valid for at least six months after the return date of your trip. In addition, many destinations require visas and proof of certain vaccinations. Do research through government websites to verify the docs you’ll need to bring. We’ve seen surf trips get seriously derailed because these requirements were overlooked.

9. Select accommodations within walking distance of a preferred break.

Now that you know where you want to surf, see if you can find accommodations that are within walking distance of one of your preferred breaks. This proximity will minimize travel arguments, as surfers can access waves in their own time. Airbnb or VRBO are usually your best bet if you’re trying to find a vacation rental close to a more obscure area.

10. Consider board bag costs when booking your flight.

Some airlines are super accommodating when it comes to board bags (here’s looking at your Virgin Australia) while others charge a hefty price to lug your hefty bag. If, for example, you’re deciding between two flights, locate the sports equipment baggage policy for each of the airlines to discover which offers the best price, and weight and dimension allowances that suit your needs. If flight #1 is $450 but only charges $50 for board bags, and flight #2 is $400 but charges $150 for a board bag, you’ll save with flight #1.

11. Buy a quality board bag.

If you don’t already have a board bag that has the merits to protect your boards during long haul flights and trips down bumpy roads, do yourself a solid by getting one. Ensure the padding is 7-10mm, has tail and nose inserts, and board separators.

It’s also important to note the dimensions most airlines allow for board bags, and ensure the bag you buy doesn’t exceed those parameters. In addition, plan to pack your wetsuits, swim trunks or suits and other soft clothing in the bag to add padding. However, be sure to regularly weigh it as you pack, making sure it doesn’t go over the airline’s weight allowance.

12. Bring extra surf essentials.

Leashes break, fin keys get lost, sun kills wax… stuff happens to the surf tools you need, equaling a total headache if you find yourself 30 miles down a potholed road with pumping surf in front of you and a surfboard that’s not good to go. To avoid this unfortunate situation, pack a rescue kit with extra…

-Leashes

-Leash strings

-Fins

-Fin keys

-Wax

-Comb

-Ding repair kit

Shoot for two extra of each. And now for a tip from my 90-year-old Texan grandmother who always carries duct tape… always: Bring duct tape because it fixes everything… everything.

13. Pack a surfer’s first aid kit.

Because nothing can derail fun quicker than an injury, or even worse, a wicked sunburn, load a first aid kit with all the surfer essentials.

First off, get a basic first aid kit and pocket guide, then add the following, or making sure it’s already in there.

-Zinc oxide

-Zinc oxide based lip balm

-Sunburn soother

-Rash balm

-Vinegar (soak a jellyfish sting with this)

-Swim-Ear Drying Aid

-Eye drops

-Steri strips

-Pain relieving antiseptic

-Advil or Tylenol

-EpiPen

-Electrolyte packs

14. Make a plan with the non-surfers in your group.

If you have folks who won’t be catching a wave while traveling with you, determine how you’ll work together to ensure they also have an amazing experience. For example, maybe you make a plan that surfing will happen in the morning, and group adventures will happen in the afternoon. Or maybe the non-surfers are cool exploring on their own while you surf.

Having clear expectations set before you depart will minimize hurt feelings and frustrations during the trip. We could have prevented some serious rows had we only practiced what we’re preaching.

15. Hire a cook.

Because food prep and clean up can siphon prime surf time, consider hiring a cook to prepare (and clean up after) at least two meals a day for your group. This is especially beneficial if you’re traveling with a big group, and (usually) super affordable if you’re surfing in Central America or Mexico.

16. Rent a 4WD vehicle.

While you’re hopefully staying right next to some great waves, you might know, or will likely hear about other amazing surf spots while you’re there, that require a drive. Keep your options open by renting a 4WD, as many of the best waves are at the end of a dirt road.

This car will also offer more adventure opportunities for the non-surfers if they want to explore while you’re dancing with the waves. Make sure the car you rent can fit all the surfers and boards, or bring roof racks and tie downs.

Insurance Tip: Many credit cards offer rental car insurance for cars booked under that card, minimizing the need for the insurance rental companies strongly suggest. Verify this coverage by calling the number on the back of the credit card you’ll be using. If you’ll be renting a van or motorhome, let the credit card company know, as these vehicles might not be covered.

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I have a recurring nightmare of a tornado ripping through my house. This dream isn’t totally unfounded, as I grew up in Austin, Texas where the threat of tornadoes was present, but not imminent — we have a lot of hills.

But tornadoes ended their Austin hiatus Memorial Day Weekend, 2015, when we were camping at our property by the Pedernales River, outside of Austin. A Super El Nino had been raging for the month of May, slowly refilling the lakes without becoming severe, so we expected rain and not much more.

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Our first day camping was dry until dark clouds pushed in around 2:00 p.m. The rain began and the adults hunkered down under tarps with cards and boxes of wine, while the kids played soccer in a progressively expanding mud pit.

After four hours of mud play I hosed Hudson off and put him to sleep in our tent. Then, the thunder and lightening began, and the sky turned green. My childhood fears reemerged and my intestines felt like they were strangling themselves. I took a deep breath, reminding myself that I’m a chronic over-reactor and that Austin doesn’t have tornados. And then my phone blared, displaying the message, “Tornado Warning- Take cover now!” Well sh*t. We were far from any structures or drainage ditches, and sleeping in propped up fabric.

I ran to my parents in search of comfort and guidance. They looked tense but not panicked. My dad drove to the bridge (our only way back to town) and confirmed that it was flooded. No way out.

Luckily, said river was in a canyon and we were camping on the bluff, so flooding was not a pressing threat… but the tornado warning.

While we weighed our options lightening struck a tree thirty feet away and I sprinted across a water-coated field to my sleeping baby.

In the next five minutes the weather worsened and my now-frantic mom appeared at our tent, telling me to grab Hudson and get to a car. I grabbed Hudson and ran to a nearby Prius, which was not my finest moment, as there were ample trucks I could have chosen. I also had no idea where Eric was, and later found out he had sought safety in the port-a-potty.

The rain was so heavy, sky so dark, and thunder so deafening, our only glimpses of what was happening outside the car came when the lightning would strike, every three to four seconds. We had no way of knowing where the tornado was, but continual warnings on my phone assured me that is was still present.

After four hours in the car, the lightning waned and the warnings reduced to advisories. We returned to the tent and gratefully fell asleep.

At 3:00 a.m. I sat up, knowing something new was coming. Again, my phone started screaming with tornado warnings and my Doppler radar app showed a thick boomerang of blood red reaching from Mexico to Oklahoma.

This time, the lightning and moving water was too thick to attempt a dash to the car. As Eric and I lay listening to the increasing intensity of the rain, thunder, and lightning a new sound joined the party — the sound of an airplane, or approaching train… a tornado.

As the rumble grew closer I placed my body over Hudson’s, tucking the blankets tight around us, trying to convince myself that it would make a difference if the tornado ripped through the patch of cedar trees we were camping in.

That’s when I had my first panic attack — my heart began beating so hard and fast it felt like it was going to choke me. My sweat dripped onto my child, and I started shaking. For an hour, the roar, which easily cut through the constant thunder and cracks of lightning, seemed to come closer, then retreat, then reemerge.

I thought we were going to die. Even if an F-1 (the weakest) tornado hit us, our tent would do nothing to protect us from falling trees.

Stuck outside in a storm teeming with tornadoes (there were three in our area that night) was my worst fear realized. But unlike my fears from childhood, my child’s life was now at risk as well. I can come to terms with my mortality, but not my kid’s.

The red band of terror eventually passed, without a direct hit from a tornado. While the twisters only caused minor damage, the flooding resulted in tragedy, as the nearby rivers rose 20 feet in one hour, resulting in a wall of water that peaked at 45 feet around 3am. Survivors reported a black tidal wave slamming into homes, forcing them onto their roofs, praying for rescue. The flood swept homes off their foundations, and claimed 14 lives.

One home that was carried down river contained a family of four. The parents held their young children as they surrendered to the unthinkable. When the house hit a bridge, they were ripped away from one another and the father was sucked out a window.

Only the father survived.

My heart still aches for this family. I can’t imagine what they went through. I couldn’t stop thinking about them. I couldn’t stop thinking about how surrender is wholly unnatural for parents, especially when it comes to our kids. Our conditioning to fix, to do, to heal, to protect, is threatened by situations that demand a forfeit of control. When faced with a problem, specifically concerning our children, we feel an unbearable desire to shelter them. “There must be something to do,” we think, but that night taught me the painful lesson that sometimes there is nothing we can do.

The next day was still and clear, but with the river still raging we couldn’t leave.

After a day of waiting, we were able to drive back to Austin as we watched a growing blob of hot pink on the radar roll towards our camp. From the safety of my uncle’s house we watched the newscaster report “a large and extremely dangerous” tornado ripping through the area we had just left. An unheard of seven tornadoes were spotted in Austin that day, with twelve feet of moving water rolling through downtown.

While we’re still crazy enough to continue the tradition of camping on our Central Texas property every Memorial Day Weekend, you can be sure we keep a close eye on the radar and pull up stakes long before we get caught in another ferocious display by Mother Nature.

The post Camping in Texas’ Storm of the Century appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

Communing with flora and fauna, snuggling under the stars, unplugging from the digi-world, peeing in the woods… camping can be lovely. But it can also be awful if you don’t take certain steps before and during the trip, especially when you’re camping with your offspring.

After numerous epic-fail camping trips, we were forced to examine what was and wasn’t working in our relationship with camping. This reflection resulted in a solid system for crafting family camp trips that peels away much of the drudgery, revealing the simplicity, joy and family bonding at the heart of this classic form of intrepid vacation.

Even if you don’t think of yourself as a camper, these suggestions can help you push past your reservations and unveil your ability to get down with nature.

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Consider what your family wants out of the trip.

Campouts come in many forms, offering everything from ultimate relaxation to epic adventure. So before you plan the trip, have a family pow wow to determine everyone’s motivations for camping (unless you have teens that are blah about it… you can just decide for them!)

This discussion may lead you to discover that most of your crew yearns for a chill trip where they can fill their days reading and napping. Or maybe, your people want to push their limits by going on a backpacking trip. This discussion will not only help inform where you go, but also what activities you prep for.

Plan ahead.

While you can usually rock up to a hotel the day you want to stay and snag a room, it’s not always like that with campsites. For example, if we want to car camp on the Southern California coast during the summer, we have to make a reservation about three months in advance, sometimes more. In the Big Sur area, you’re usually looking at booking at least nine months in advance. And Yosemite, don’t get us started…

Essentially, some campgrounds are highly coveted and require ample forethought. But not all spots are like that. If you’re not trying to camp in a national park, or near a beach, getting a site is often easier. And if you’re up for the challenge of backpacking to a site you’re almost guaranteed to find a spot.

Choose a campsite that offers the desired amenities.

Is your family jonesing for a camping trip that’s well off the beaten path? Or by a swimmable river? Are you all about the beach, or maybe lake-life? Do you want to make sure there are bathrooms and showers nearby? Consider the camp-criteria of your family, then begin your search for the ideal spot with those parameters in mind.

Tip: Don’t forget to read campground reviews to get the inside scoop on what the area is really like. AAA, CampGroundReviews.com and TripAdvisor are good places to start.

Research campground rules.

Come prepared by checking the website of the grounds where you’ll be camping to see if they have a burn ban (eliminating the need for firewood), precautions for wild animals like bears or raccoons, a curfew, or any other guidelines you should be aware of. In addition, if you’re planning to sleep in a RV or pop-up, confirm they’re allowed and that there are hookups at your site.

Stay for at least two nights.

We started to actually enjoy camping when we began living by this rule. When you only camp for one night, it feels like 75% of your experience is taken up by moving stuff around. However, when you go for two nights (at least) you have one golden day where all you have to do is engage in all the (mostly) fun activities we go camping for in the first place. Because let’s be real, no one camps because they get a kick out of wrestling with a tent and trying to shove 8’x7’ worth of gear into a 6’x5’ trunk.

Create a packing list.

To get you started on this task, we created a thorough camping packing list. However, before you throw all these items in the back of the car, think about what your family will actually use. If you haven’t camped before this can be tricky, but considering your family’s interests and food preferences (more on that below) can help you make an educated guess.

Now that you’ve done your pondering, cross off items from our list you don’t think you’ll use, add any new essentials you came up with, and commit to only packing items from the list that’s left over. And be picky about what “essential” means to you, as one of the biggest headaches of camping is bringing too much stuff.

Note: We included earplugs on our downloadable list because certain campgrounds can be super noisy between 7am and 10pm. To ensure little ones can sleep without distraction, bring plugs for them as well.

Pack more bedding and warm clothes than you think you need.

We know… we just told you to only bring essentials and now we’re telling you to bring extras of something. We say this because it’s hard to know how cold you’ll get in the evening and it’s super uncomfortable and exhausting to be freezing all night. So if you’re staying in a location that gets chilly at night, even in the summer (like California), load up on warmth.

Bring more water than you think you need.

The one thing we almost always have to re-up on while camping is water. When we’re smart, we bring enough for each person to drink two to three liters each day, especially if we’ll be hiking, biking, and doing other campy things. For our family of three, this usually equates to one of those 2.5-gallon jugs with a spout for each day of the trip.

If you’ll be backpacking, bring a portable water filter so you can refill your bottles each time you pass a body of water.

Create menus and snack plans.

One of our greatest camping woes is soggy cooler food. And because we used to be notorious for bringing a week’s worth of food on a two day campout, we woe-d a lot. Don’t be food wasters like us by planning what, and how much, your family will eat for each meal. In addition, plan out healthy snacks that won’t easily spoil. And part of health is balance… so load up those smores fixings friends.

An additional consideration is the extras you’ll need, like butter or cooking oil, and seasoning. Because we used to forget these items ALL THE TIME we now keep oil, salt and pepper in our camping box. And while we’ve included the cooking utensil essentials in our packing list mentioned above, it’s still wise to think through your meals and determine if there’s specialized utensils you need to add.

Tip: Do as much food prep at home to simplify your camp cooking. For example, pre-chop veggies, or throw meat in marinade.

Make a hygiene plan.

As camping often involves hiking, swimming, and even straight up dirt digging, you’ll want to have a way to hose off your family. If you’ll be car camping at a state or federal run facility, research what payment is needed for their coin operated showers. Some require quarters, while others have token machines that take cash. Calculate how many showers your family will likely need and how long each member typically needs in the shower. Most facilities charge $.25 for 4-5 minutes.

If you won’t be staying at a campsite with showers, we recommend bringing a solar shower, and shower tent. For big families, bring two showers, or an extra large one, so you have enough warm water to rinse everyone at the end of the day. Speaking of warm water, fill the bag first thing in the morning and set it in an area that should receive sunlight most of the day.

And finally, towels. Bring one shower towel for each family member and keep them in an area that won’t allow them to be grabbed when the kids are heading to the beach or creek. Have beach towels on hand for those activities.

When you arrive, nest ASAP.

While it can be tempting to start exploring the moment you reach your destination, it’s wise to set up camp first, ensuring you don’t have to do it in the dark when everyone is tired and hangry. Make sure you’re not nesting on your own by assigning each family member set tasks before you pull up. For example, two people can be in charge of tent and bed set-up, while the others create the eating area.

Prep your site before you go on outings.

Prevent animals from ransacking your outdoor home by putting away all food products, cleaning dishes and zipping up tents before leaving your site for an adventure. In addition, make sure your fire is 100% out.

The post Creating a Relaxing + Adventure-Filled Family Camping Trip appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Magnificent geysers cascade up out of the ground. Waterfalls tumble into sparkling rivers. Miles of hiking trails wind through forests, circle the borders of impossibly blue lakes, and offer views of towering rock formations. If you need a vacation, a national park trip can provide a spectacular change of scenery.

The national park system includes 419 national park sites protected for their natural and cultural heritage. The sites attract more than 300 million visitorsa year. These federally protected spaces offer something for everyone, including programs for kids, guided tours, scenic roadways, backcountry camping, and four-star historic lodges. To ensure your vacation is picture perfect, we’ve compiled tips for choosing and exploring your favorite national park.

Pick the Perfect Park

You’ve heard of Yosemite, Zion, and Yellowstone. But what about Wind Cavein South Dakota, Voyageurs in Minnesota, or Kobuk Valley in Arkansas? Crowds flock to the most popular national parks. But you may be able to avoid packed trails and roads by visiting a lesser-known park such as one of these.

• Great Sand Dunes National Park

Sandboard or sled down the tallest dunes in North America in this Colorado park and preserve 170 miles north of Santa Fe. Hike through aspen and conifer forests, and explore grasslands and wetlands on horseback. Swim and fish in alpine lakes, and scope out sandhill cranes on their spring or fall migration. Navigate the sand on a fat bike or borrow a dunes wheelchair. And if you visit during May or early June, bring your swimsuits so you can wade and play in shallow Medano Creek, which has a mysterious surge flow that creates ocean-like waves.

• Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park

This urban park in Atlanta, Georgia, invites visitors to walk through the civil rights leader’s birthplace and Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King served as co-pastor with his father. Also, tour the King Center, which includes Dr. and Coretta Scott King’s crypt and exhibits on both the couple and Mahatma Gandhi, King’s hero.

• Isle Royale National Park

Visitors to this Michigan archipelago must travel across Lake Superior. There, you can kayak or canoe in a multitude of bays and coves; fish; and scuba dive down to several shipwrecks. Explore the Rock Harbor Lighthouse, and look for moose and wolves as you hike or backpack through birch, spruce, and aspen. Take a wheel-chair-accessible boat tour, and spend the night stargazing at one of the park’s numerous campgrounds.

Read the full article here.

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