How Do I Get Started with Adventure Travel as a Beginner?
Adventure travel might sound like it’s reserved for ultra-fit hikers, seasoned explorers and people with GoPros permanently glued to their helmets — but in reality, it’s for anyone with a bit of curiosity and a willingness to step outside their comfort zone.
Whether it’s your first time trekking, your first solo trip, or your first stamp in the passport, here’s how to get started with adventure travel — no experience required.
1. Start Small (But Start)
Adventure travel doesn’t have to mean climbing mountains straight away.
Great first adventures include:
• A guided multi-day trek (like Mount Toubkal or the Inca Trail)
• A long weekend of hiking in the UK (Brecon Beacons or Snowdonia are brilliant)
• A beginner-friendly overseas trip with a small group
The key is to pick something that pushes you, but doesn’t overwhelm you. Confidence builds with each trip.
2. Choose the Right Trip for Your Fitness Level
You don’t need to be an athlete — but some basic fitness goes a long way.
Look for trips graded as easy to moderate, with manageable daily distances and plenty of support.
Not sure what you can handle? Drop us a message — we’ll match you with something realistic and rewarding. That way, you’re more likely to enjoy the experience and finish it on a high.
3. Join a Group Tour
Going solo can be brilliant — but starting out on a guided group adventure gives you:
• Support from experienced guides
• A pre-planned itinerary with logistics sorted
• New travel mates with similar goals
• Safety in remote areas
Most of our travellers come alone and leave with a crew of new mates. No awkward “who do I sit with at dinner?” moments here.
4. Gear Up (Without Going Overboard)
You don’t need to blow your savings on the fanciest gear straight away.
Essentials to prioritise:
• A good pair of broken-in hiking boots
• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers!)
• A comfortable daypack
• Refillable water bottles or a hydration system
If you’re joining one of our trips, we’ll send a detailed kit list — and help you figure out what’s worth buying vs renting.
5. Get Travel Insurance That Covers Adventure Activities
Not all travel insurance is created equal. Make sure yours includes:
• Trekking up to the relevant altitude (e.g. 4,000m or 6,000m+)
• Helicopter evacuation if you’re heading into the mountains
• Cancellations and delays
• Personal kit and baggage
We’re happy to recommend reliable providers if you’re not sure where to start.
6. Be Prepared to Embrace the Unexpected
Adventure travel isn’t luxury. It’s not always comfortable. You might:
• Sleep in a tent or basic mountain hut
• Go without a shower for a couple of days
• Get rained on, snowed on, or sunburned (sometimes all in one day!)
But you’ll also watch the sun rise over mountain ranges, share belly laughs with strangers, and feel more alive than you have in years.
Getting into adventure travel is easier than you think. Pick a destination, start moving your body, invest in a few bits of kit, and throw yourself into it with an open mind.
The first step is always the hardest — but it’s also the one that opens the door to a world of unforgettable experiences.
And if you want a hand choosing your first trip? That’s exactly what we’re here for.