Preparations might include ways to stay healthy, such as ensuring you have access to clean water and energy-boosting snacks or ways to stay safe while you’re on the road. Here are a few tips on how to maximize your holiday.

Plan for self-care while you’re on the road

Many people prepare for their needs during a holiday but forget to plan for the trip itself, but this is an essential step, especially if you’ll be traveling for several hours at a time. Whether you’re taking a journey for business or pleasure, you’ll want to ensure that you stay hydrated, have protein-rich snacks handy, and that you’re able to stop and stretch, rest your body, and take a break from the road. Not only will this help you feel better along the way, it will help prevent fatigue and eye strain so you can stay safe on the road and keep other drivers safe, as well.

Plan your activities well

While you may want to avoid over planning on your holiday to prevent stress, it’s important to create at least a loose itinerary that will help you manage your time. Think about the spots you want to visit and do some research online to learn more about the area, the weather forecast, and any potential safety issues you might face (ie. flooding, fires) so you can plan for each activity that you have in mind. Not only will this give you peace of mind, it will allow you to prepare and pack with those details in mind.

Also, look for hotels or lodgings in areas that have received a high walk score. This way, you’re more inclined to skip the car and walk to nearby destinations and attractions. For example, if the neighborhood has a score of between 90 and 100, chances are you can find most places nearby within walking distance, which can make for a much healthier getaway.

Bring the right gear

Once you know which activities you want to participate in, you can start planning for the gear you’ll need. Fishing trips, as an example, require specific equipment, of course, but you may also want to swim, go for a hike, or just spend the day on the boat, and you’ll need a few things to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Sunscreen, a large water bottle, bug spray, a hat to cover your face, and sunglasses are a few personal essentials, but you might also want sturdy hiking boots, reflective gear for evenings, and a solar-powered radio. It’s also a good idea to have a fully-stocked, portable first aid kit.

Know the rules

Whether you’re going to be hiking, camping, staying in a lodge, or sticking to the boat, it’s crucial that you do some research on the areas you’re visiting to find out more about the rules and regulations. In general, holiday-goers will need to clean up after themselves, keep food tightly covered, and have a permit to fish, but there may be more specific guidelines to follow according to the spot you’re staying in. Being familiar with the rules well ahead of time will prevent any issues and allow you to more fully enjoy your stay.

Taking a trip of any kind requires plenty of preparation, but outdoor trips demand a bit more consideration for health and safety. Take care of your body while you’re on the road, and keep up with the most current conditions in the area to ensure that you’re not blindsided by bad weather.