Imagine this scenario; you’re ready to head outdoors + adventure...but you want someone to join you. Someone to keep you company, someone to laugh at your jokes + someone to help carry snacks. You’ve messaged all your go-to adventure buddies but they have to work extra hours or attend a wedding or have a head cold. In other words, they can’t join you for a plethora of reasons.
Now what?!
You have two options.
Option 1: Take on your adventure solo, which is an endeavor we strongly recommend if you’re ready for it
Option 2: Find more adventure buddies to hit the trails with.
Let’s assume you want to bypass Option 1 in favor of having someone along for the ride, to share your crazy wilderness endeavor with. So let’s take on Option 2.
How exactly do you go about finding a new adventure buddy? More importantly, what do you need to know about this new adventure partner to ensure you’ll both enjoy your time outdoors? We have a few tips + we’d love to hear about what’s worked for you...
Where To Find New Adventure Buddies
For starters, you need to find someone interested in taking on adventures with you. You’ll want to find someone who’s into what you do + has at least a few other things in common with you. This will keep the chatter easy + the adventures fun. Here are a few places to start searching new trail friends…
...ask your current adventure besties for connections with their other friends.
...connect with like minded explorers on social media, such as local FB groups, through IG conversations + by attending local running/biking/outdoor store meet-ups.
...be conversational + friendly while out on the trails + say ‘yes’ to invites for post-adventure drinks or coffee if you feel comfortable.
You never know where you’ll meet your next co-adventurer. You just might be pursuing a rack of running gear at a local running store, chatting with someone about your need for crew support at your upcoming trail race + having someone nearby overhear you then volunteer to help out...true story, it happens! Basically, stay open minded, you never know where you’ll meet your next adventure buddy!
What To Ask Potential Adventure Buddies
Once you find yourself a potential adventure buddy, what do you need to know about them before you head out onto the trails with them? You’ll learn a lot about each other while you’re out there exploring, no doubt. But what do you really need to know before committing to time together in the wilderness? There are a few topics worth discussing, such as…
...what is their experience in the wilderness? You don’t want your first trip outdoors to be leagues above their comfort or skill level.
...what is their safety vs risk threshold? Everyone has limits, so be honest about yours before you’re put in a position where you feel unsafe.
...what are their expectations for their time spent in the wilderness? Make sure you’re both chasing the same thing, whether it be sunrises, chill afternoons or the perfect s’more.
Those questions all seem to be directed toward your newfound friend, but keep in mind, you need to answer them too. Be honest with yourself, even if it’s intimidating. This is the only way to ensure you’ll at least start on the right foot to enjoy your time exploring together.
How To Keep New Adventure Buddies
So, you’ve agreed to adventure together + you may have even survived your first trip into the woods together...with a smile. Now what?!
Assuming you want to stay adventure buddies, keep adventuring! If you’re lucky enough to live near each other, head outside together whenever your goals + schedules align. If you live hours apart but really clicked on your adventure...plan another!
Even if your first adventure wasn’t perfect
Ultimately, when you’re seeking out a new adventure buddy...be open-minded yet honest. With both yourself + your newfound explorer. You never know who you’ll end up befriending, as unlikely as it may seem in the beginning. It’s like dating, but more relaxed, with fewer expectations + many more stunning views.
