With so many amazing opportunities for adventure out there, how can you possibly choose the right one? These days, adventure seems to always be knocking on our front door, calling us to get outside and do something whenever we can. However, we may not always have the time in the world to dedicate to such awesome trips. Therefore, we need to choose wisely, taking advantage of the time we do have:

Guided adventure or on your own?

Before you plan anything, decide if you’d want to go on a guided adventure or plan it all by yourself. There’s pros and cons to both, and before you just pick, be open-minded about each option. A guided adventure plans everything for you, but you may not be able to go at your own pace. Going by yourself will give you more freedom, but it requires a lot more planning on your end.

Where do you want to go?

If you don’t already know where to go, perhaps looking at a list of guided adventure trips will give you an idea, even if you don’t sign up for one. If you do already know where you want to go, or at least what region, then do more research to see exactly what kind of adventure you’d like to do. This is key, as going somewhere you’re not too crazy about can make for a bad experience.

How long do you plan on going for?

A big part of choosing the right outdoor adventure is knowing how long you can go for. That’s because many outdoor adventure trips can run anywhere from a few days to an entire month. It can be a great option if you know how much time you have, and don’t want to waste a second of it. Going on an adventure by yourself will take a lot of research and organization, so you can figure out exactly how much time you’ll need to do what you’d like to do.

What kind of adventure are you looking for?

Are you looking to do a multi-sport adventure, or are you planning to just do some hiking and maybe see some wildlife? Perhaps you want to learn a new skill, like rock-climbing or photography, or maybe you want to try hiking during the winter for the first time. Whatever it is, you’ll be sure to find it in a guided adventure, and if you go by yourself, you’ll have the ability to design your trip exactly how you like.

How much are you looking to spend?

Any outdoor adventure trip is going to cost you some money, but you have to consider all the benefits you’ll be getting. Almost everything from transportation, meals, accommodations (even if it’s your tent), and a lot of general supplies will be covered. If you go alone, you have the ability to customize your trip according to your budget, but run the risk of leaving something behind.

Are you bringing anyone with you?

Do you want to bring someone along for the adventure? Maybe your family, your children, your friends, a significant other, or even your dog? Some outdoor adventure trips are perfect for bringing people or animals along, while others are not so ideal. This totally depends. Make sure the trip your planning on choosing can accommodate everyone in the group, from the dogs, to the kids, to even family members who may require a wheel-chair accessible destination.

What about health and safety?

No matter what kind of trip you’re doing, you’ll have to make sure it’s safe. If you’re planning on doing extreme sports while on your outdoor adventure, you’re going to want to make sure that either you know how to work the gear, or the company running the trip has a perfect safety. When it comes to this, don’t settle for any outdoor adventure that can’t provide a reliable experience.

What are your goals?

For some people, choosing the right outdoor adventure is all just about having a good time, meeting new people, and trying something a bit different. For others, it might have a much deeper meaning. Make sure that your plan matches your goals. If you’re hoping to make new hiking friends, then you might not do it as easily if you choose to alone. Likewise, if your goal is to complete a trail in record time, then you might not be able to do it on a guided adventure.

How are the reviews?

You probably wouldn’t stay at a hotel if it has horrible reviews. The same goes for choosing an outdoor adventure, especially a guided one. If the reviews really aren’t good, then go somewhere else. Try searching out some personal blogs and see what the details of their experience may have been. If you plan on doing an adventure by yourself, then you can also read reviews of specific trails, destinations, activities in a certain place, and the general region you’re visiting as a whole. Use your judgement.

Any outdoor adventure is sure to be an amazing time. Just make sure you choose the one that’s best for you!