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, 2025•26 min•Ep. 208
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, 2025•18 min•Ep. 207
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, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 206
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, 2025•53 min•Ep. 205
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, 2025•18 min•Ep. 203
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, 2025•13 min•Ep. 204
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, 2025•32 min•Ep. 202
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, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 201
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, 2025•22 min•Ep. 199
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, 2025•27 min•Ep. 200
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, 2025•15 min•Ep. 198
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, 2025•47 min•Ep. 197
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, 2025•56 min•Ep. 196
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, 2025•33 min•Ep. 195
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, 2025•26 min•Ep. 194
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, 2025•18 min•Ep. 193
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, 2025•40 min•Ep. 192
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, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 191
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, 2025•18 min•Ep. 190
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, 2025•17 min•Ep. 189
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, 2025•17 min•Ep. 188
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, 2025•24 min
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, 2025•44 min•Ep. 186
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, 2025•56 min•Ep. 185
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, 2025•44 min•Ep. 184
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, 2025•22 min•Ep. 183
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, 2025•51 min•Ep. 182
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, 2025•33 min•Ep. 181
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, 2025•54 min•Ep. 180
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, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 179