Active Travel Adventures - podcast cover

Active Travel Adventures

Looking for a FUN adventure for your next vacation? Active Travel Adventures curates multi-day world wide adventure travel holidays for reasonably fit folks who love to hike, bike, paddle or otherwise stay active for a more immersive experience when they vacation and explore our planet and its people. These are all adventures that YOU can do, especially if you train (I'm 64, so if I can do it, so can YOU!). It's easy to find the right adventure for you: We cover mild adventures like cycling (flat) the historic and beautiful Netherlands, to taking an African safari, to taking a walking holiday from one medieval village to the next on historic paths in Europe. And if you are up for a bigger challenge, then check out climbing Kilimanjaro, trekking to Everest Base Camp or Annapurna in Nepal's majestic Himalayan mountains, or hiking the Mont Blanc circuit through Italy, France and Switzerland. But most adventures we cover are rated a 3 out of 5 for difficulty. Examples include (eBikes available) cycling Greek islands or island hopping from Split to Dubrovnik in Croatia (both while sleeping on a cool ship!), hiking in Banff, the Dolomites, Patagonia, or trekking to Machu Picchu. Long distance hikes we cover include the Coast to Coast and Cotswold Way in England, the West Highland Way in Scotland and other famous UK trails. Of course, we often cover doing an El Camino, including the French Way (Camino Frances), the Portuguese Way, the Primitivo, the original way from Oviedo. We've even BIKED the El Camino! We have also walked the Camino's sister trail, the Kumano Koda trail in Japan. If you like the water and to paddle, we've rafted the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon (and we've hiked the Grand Canyon, too!) as well as through Canyonlands National Park. We've rafted the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, as well as day trips as part of other trips on the Pacuare River in Costa Rica and the Tulley River in Australia. We've also snorkeled the Galapagos Islands and the Great Barrier Reef! Naturally, we cover the amazing National Parks, including Olympic, Acadia, the Grand Canyon, Arches, Zion, Arches, Rocky Mountains and more! Sometimes we even travel on horseback, including in Iceland, Ireland and other exciting destinations! Often the trips are multi-activity, like the ones in New Zealand, Italy, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Costa Rica. On multi-activity trips, we mostly hike, but we usually do some biking and paddling as well. Sometimes we go on expedition cruises, like to Antarctica, the Falkland and South Georgia islands or to Greenland. Here we hike and get to paddle among the icebergs, while traveling on a small ship for closer access to the amazing landscape! On occasion we backpack and camp, but mostly we day hike and stay in comfortable inns at night. We have backpacked St Olav Ways in Norway, the Kungsleden trail in Sweden, in Iceland and Greenland, as well as section hiked the Appalachian Trail, or 'AT'. We visit exotic countries like Bhutan, Vietnam and Thailand. In short, we cover the world's most exciting adventures that regular people can do on their vacation. Sometimes, we cover skills that you need in order to go on an adventure, from traveling solo, how to choose a tour company, how to save money for travel, how to save money ON travel, and outdoor skills you need to learn (also check out our sister podcast, the Adventure Travel Show podcast (ATSP) for deep dives into adventure skills). ATA's mission is to inspire and empower you to lead a bigger life through adventure travel. Travel the Active Travel Adventures way! Be sure to visit the ActiveTravelAdventures.com website where we make it easy to find the right adventure for you! You can search by time of year you can travel, what activity you want to do and which continent you want to visit. Learning about all the outdoor skills from ATSP are available to check out there as well. We aim to be your one stop shop for adventure travel! One the website, you can see photos and videos of the adventure covered, plus get more information about the trip covered. You can also get a FREE Travel Planner for each adventure by signing up for our once a month newsletter.
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Episodes

Bear Safety Tips for Hikers and Backpackers

Learn how to hike and backpack safely in bear country plus how to determine whether a bear is a black bear or a brown (grizzly). You'll learn what to do if you are attacked by a bear. How you respond is DIFFERENT depending on which type of bear you encounter! You'll learn about proper wilderness food storage and how to hang a bear bag, and why bear spray is best. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See more cool info about today’s show. Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (...

Aug 14, 202526 minEp. 208

Lightning Safety Tips for Hikers and Bikers

Learn what to do when you are threatened by lightning, especially if you are caught exposed outdoors including the proper safety position and what to do if someone gets hit by lightning. You’ll also learn what constitutes a safe shelter during a thunderstorm. This is important information that could save your life! We cover: What is lightning? The five types of lightning and typical strikes from them What position to take when lightning is striking nearby How to determine a safe shelter The thre...

Aug 14, 202518 minEp. 207

Climbing Kilimanjaro : Trek Africa's Highest Mountain

Have you dreamed about climbing Africa's tallest mountain in Tanzania: Mount Kilimanjaro? Join Kit as she interviews Damon about he and his wife and friends successful summit of Kili on the Lemosho Route, the prettiest route of them all and the one with the greatest success rate. We discuss what Damon saw and what it was like each day of the climb. We talk about dealing with high altitude. We will learn about the food, guides and porters, and other important details about this amazing adventure....

Aug 07, 20251 hr 8 minEp. 206

Understanding and Buying Travel Insurance

Learn the nuances of buying travel insurance so you're actually covered for unforeseen accidents, delays, sickness, theft and more. Many claims are denied because people don't understand their policy. Don't make that mistake and learn what to buy. On today's show you'll learn WHY and HOW to buy travel insurance, what it generally covers before and during your trip, and how to make a claim. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES HERE Travel Insurance quote : Get a quick quote and compare policies and prices WITHOUT...

Aug 07, 202553 minEp. 205

How to Plan a Walking Holiday in Europe : Walk from one medieval village to another!

What is a Walking holiday? A walking holiday is one where you walk, usually from one village to another via beautiful countryside, have lodging at the end of the day, often you have luggage transfer so you don't have to backpack and thus just carry a daypack. In short, a walking holiday allows you to truly see the destination at a slow pace so that you can really understand the people and culture you encounter on your travels. It's a wonderful way to explore and have an authentic adventure! In t...

Jul 31, 202518 minEp. 203

10 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Campsite

Learn the secrets to choosing the best campsite for your next outdoor adventure! There are ten things to consider before you set up camp to make sure you are safe and comfortable. Listen to today's episode to get the scoop. Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!). Get the monthly newsletter here . CONTACT KIT Resources RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES ******* EMA...

Jul 31, 202513 minEp. 204

How to Cross Rivers Safely While Hiking

Learn how to safely cross rivers while hiking with expert tips on gear, technique, and decision-making. Avoid one of the top causes of trail deaths with these essential tips. Crossing rivers may not seem as frightening as bears or lightning—but it’s the most dangerous part of many wilderness hikes. Drowning is the #1 cause of death in U.S. national parks and river crossings are a major threat on trails like the PCT and Appalachian Trail. Learn how to evaluate river safety before crossing Learn h...

Jul 31, 202532 minEp. 202

How to Save Money FOR Travel

Learn new ways to save money for your next adventure! Today's episode teaches you areas that you can tap into to build your travel savings account (or any saving account for that matter). You'll learn ways to spend less, save more and earn more, and do so in way that work for YOU and your lifestyle and values. Complete SHOW NOTES HERE . In the SPEND LESS area, you'll learn easy ways to cut costs on: Food and Drug Entertainment Coffee Shop Transportation Housing Utilities and Insurance Membership...

Jul 24, 20251 hrEp. 201

12 Ways to Avoid Solo Supplements

Today we learn how to avoid the dreaded solo supplements that can add up to as much as 100% of the cost of your adventure! Discover the 12 ways to waive or reduce the dreaded single supplement add on fees. We cover: What is a solo supplement anyway and why do I have to pay them? How to find companies that waive single supplements and/or offer roommate matching services Why when you book matters when it comes to paying solo supplement charges How to use Search and Google Alerts to help you reduce...

Jul 17, 202522 minEp. 199

Learn How to Backpack

I learned how to backpack after the age of 50, when at the time, I didn't even hike. Which means if I can do it, so can YOU! I've now been backpacking over a dozen years and have compiled a system of the best practices to safely learn how to carry you 'home' on your back. We discuss how to condition your body to carrying weight, and how to do so progressively and safely so you minimize any change of injury. Couple this episode with the How To Buy, Fit and Pack Your Backpack to develop YOUR backp...

Jul 17, 202527 minEp. 200

How to Build a Camp Fire - Even When It's Wet

On today's episode, we learn how to build a campfire even in the rain. Yes it's hard, time consuming and tedious, but it's doable. You can learn how plus you'll learn how to make a fast fire when the weather cooperates! Here's what we cover today: Four ingredients to make a camp fire plus my favorite cheap fire starter that guarantees to light Tips for choosing WHERE to build your fire Three fire building techniques Camp fire management tips Putting out your fire and how to check to be sure it's...

Jul 10, 202515 minEp. 198

Foreign Language Learning Tips for Travel

How to Learn a Foreign Language In today’s show I interview Kerstin Cable of the Fluent Company about ways we can improve our language learning skills. We learn what works and what doesn’t in our quest of how to learn a new language. We cover: Why it’s smart to learn at least a few phrases of a foreign language before you visit a country that speaks it Why bumbling and massacring a language is a great way to learn The importance of +1 or ‘zone of proximal development’ is important How much time ...

Jul 10, 202547 minEp. 197

How to Train for Hiking at Altitude

Kit interviews Certified Personal Trainer and Coach, Becki Rupp of Trailblazer Wellness about what we need to know, and how to prepare for our big mountain adventures. We discuss: Altitude or Mountain Sickness, and when it is serious The importance of training for your adventure Who gets altitude sickness (hint: anyone and it doesn't matter if you are fit) Symptoms of mountain sickness and when to turn back Tips to minimize discomfort The importance of hydration and carbs Breathing exercises and...

Jul 03, 202556 minEp. 196

Croatia Island Hop by Boat and Bike

In today's episode, our group gets settled into our beautiful motor yacht and begin biking some of Croatia's most stunning islands, like Korčula, Mljet, Brač and Hvar as we boat and bike our way from Split to Dubrovnik. We climb cliffside hills that overlook the majestic, crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, bike through olive groves and vineyards, and explore quaint, historical villages and fortresses. We end our tour in the UNESCO walled city of Dubrovnik - it's a magical vacation! Note: ...

Jul 03, 202533 minEp. 195

Camping Tent vs Tarp Pros and Cons

Deciding whether to purchase a tent or tarp when you camp is one of your more important (and costly) gear decisions. There are ten important considerations for determining whether a tent or a tarp is best for your situation. The problem is, there is no one perfect camping shelter for you AND for each kind of adventure. There are definite pros and cons to each. Learn all about them on today's show. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important information and links for choosing the right tent or tarp for you...

Jun 26, 202526 minEp. 194

Hiking Gear : Choosing the Right Hiking Footwear for Your Adventures

Learn how to choose between hiking boots, hiking shoes and trail runners for your feet and adventures on today's show. Gear is expensive and if your feet aren't happy, you won't be happy. So get tips on choosing the right footwear for you on today's show. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important information and links for choosing the right hiking footwear for your adventures Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planne...

Jun 19, 202518 minEp. 193

Camper's Gear Guide to Choosing your Sleep System : Sleeping Bag, Pad and Liner

Learn what features to look for before you buy a sleeping bag, sleeping pad and sleeping bag liner. Discover how to maintain your gear to extend its life. You will get tips on buying camping gear for both car campers, backpackers, bike packers and those going on kayak or canoe tours. Gear is expensive - don't make a buying mistake! We cover: • How to choose a sleeping bag • Camping versus Backpacking sleeping bags • Sleeping bag Thermal Ratings • How to choose the right shaped sleeping bag • Fem...

Jun 12, 202540 minEp. 192

Adventures in Utah's Mighty 5 National Parks

Discover the extraordinary red rock canyons, unbelievable arches and other unique landscapes of Utah's "Mighty 5" National Parks! We visit Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks, plus the cool town of Moab. Our guest, Ally, tells us about her hiking adventure with ATA affiliate Active Adventures [ BONUS: Email Kit to get an exclusive Discount Promo Code to save on your Utah or any Active tour!] COMPLETE SHOW NOTES Get details, see photos and more on today's show ...

Jun 05, 20251 hr 12 minEp. 191

Choosing a Portable Water Filtration System for Your Outdoor Adventures

Don't get sick! Learn the different ways to purify any source of water on today's show with a portable water filter system. You'll learn the different chemical and mechanical means of purifying lake, stream and river water. Be safe and hydrated by choosing the right water treatment system for your outdoor adventures! I've had giardia - one of my most UNPLEASANT experiences:) Learn from my mistake! COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important links for choosing the right portable water treatment system for ...

May 29, 202518 minEp. 190

How to Choose, Fit and Pack Your Backpack

Backpacks can be your most expensive gear choice so choose wisely to get the backpack that is best for your body and budget. Learn how to fit a backpack and just as important, how to properly pack it on today's show. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important information and links for choosing, fitting and packing your backpack. Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!). Get the monthly newsletter...

May 22, 202517 minEp. 189

Wilderness Emergency Backpack and Day Pack Survival Kit

Emergencies can happen while you are in the wilderness. Improve your odds of getting back home safely and with minimal discomfort by packing an emergency backpack kit. You can adapt your basic kit to whatever risks your adventure calls for. Be sure to review your entire emergency kit before you head into the wild to make sure you are prepared in case you or someone else has an emergency and needs attention. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES HERE Unpleasant emergencies can be brought about by: Sudden change in...

May 15, 202517 minEp. 188

Outdoor Etiquette & Leave no Trace Principles

Learn the unspoken 'rules' and proper manners of the wild on today's show so that you can minimize your impact on the environment and leave the world a better place. Complete Show Notes HERE There are three main areas to consider when we talk about minding our manners in outdoor environments. We will discuss proper behavior in regards to the landscape, wildlife and other people we encounter. We will discuss Leave No Trace principles, trail sustainability, dealing with wildlife encounters, inform...

May 08, 202524 min

Slovenia Hike, Bike & Kayak Adventure

We explore Slovenia’s Triglav National Park region and visit Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj on one of Kit's favorite European adventures! We hike the base area of the Julian Alps from Kranjska Gora. We bike from there to Lake Bled. We raft the Sava River, and learn about kayaking Lake Bohinj and the Savica Falls. In Ljubjiana, Slovenia’s capitol, we take a food tour, a history tour and a day tour to Škocjan Caves, the Lipsic Stud Farm, and the Predjama Castle. Learn all about this beautiful, fun and ...

May 01, 202544 minEp. 186

Trek Annapurna in Nepal

Hike the famous Annapurna Sanctuary in Nepal - considered one of the world's most beautiful treks! Today we talk with Stan Jacobson, a 72 year old adventurer who trekked in Nepal's incredible Annapurna Mountain range with Active Adventures. We hear his story about his unforgettable adventure travel holiday. SAVE!!! Go with ATA affiliate, Active Adventures (based in New Zealand). EMAIL ME for an exclusive Active Adventures Promo Code and save $200 off of any of Active's exciting tours! COMPLETE S...

Apr 17, 202556 minEp. 185

Essential Travel Safety Precautions To Avoid Becoming a Victim

Learn practical tips and techniques to avoid being a victim when you travel. We cover tips to avoid pickpockets and robberies, plus how to stay safe in a crowd and on public transportation. We also cover my ATM safety tips, debit card safety, and how to make sure no one drugs your drink. In addition, we’ll look at ways to prevent getting sick while traveling and what to do in man made or natural disasters. We also discuss odd laws that you can go to jail for in other countries - many for common ...

Apr 03, 202544 minEp. 184

Sustainable Tourism, Ecotourism and Responsible Travel

Learn about the three pillars of sustainability: enviromental, social and economic and how you can better reflect your values when you travel. That way the places you love will be enhanced by your visit, rather than hurt. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important tips and links for planning your next adventure - sustainably! Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!). Get the monthly newsletter he...

Mar 20, 202522 minEp. 183

Kenai Fjords-Denali Alaska Hike and Paddle Adventure

Explore Alaska's magnificent Kenai Fjords and Denali National Parks by land and sea on today's exciting adventure! We hike iconic Alaska trails to get stunning views of the rugged landscape loaded with wildlife and glaciers. We kayak to watch brown bears feeding on salmon while bald eagles soar above. We float raft down the river to spot yet more wildlife. And we take a jeep safari through Denali where we get the opportunity to see even more wildlife on this unforgettable active holiday. COMPLET...

Mar 06, 202551 minEp. 182

Boondocking : Learn How to Camp for FREE

Learn how to camp for FREE on US public lands. 'Boondocking' is a great way to see the USA! Learn how to find amazing campsites for no cost on today's show. You learn the 'rules' for setting up camp on public and sometimes private lands as well as the best way to find a great free campsite. You'll learn what to look for in a boondocking site, as well as tips and recommendations for safe boondocking. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool...

Feb 20, 202533 minEp. 181

Boat & Bike Europe : Adventure Cycling Tours

Finally: a fun and affordable way to explore Europe! Join us today to learn about taking a European vacation on a boat and bike tour, where you can see some of the best destinations in Europe on a mostly all inclusive tour. On a Boat and Bike tour, you only need to unpack ONCE as your 'hotel' is a beautiful sailing ship or barge with a private bath. Each day you cycle to explore a new destination, either with a guide or self-guided, as your ship moves with you. On today's show, we interview well...

Feb 06, 202554 minEp. 180

Wilderness First Aid

Do you know what to do if you or someone you meet in the wild gets hurt? Some accidents require more than the rudimentary items in your backpack emergency kit! On today's show, we speak with Casey, a Wilderness First Responder expert, to learn different ways we can gerryrig 'supplies' to fix what's gone wrong. We find out some important medical tips that can help you figure out what to do if you are injured out in the middle of nowhere. It's an episode you hope you'll never need to use, but will...

Jan 30, 20251 hr 9 minEp. 179
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