why planning ahead before an outdoor activity is important essay

Principle 1: Plan Ahead and Prepare

When outdoor visitors plan ahead and prepare, it helps to accomplish trip goals safely and enjoyably while simultaneously minimizing damage to the land. Poor planning often results in a less enjoyable experience and damage to natural and cultural resources.

The Basics:

• Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll visit.
• Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies.
• Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use.
• Visit in small groups. Split larger parties into smaller groups.
• Repackage food to minimize waste.
• Use a map and compass to eliminate the use of rock cairns, flagging, or marking paint.

Practice the Skills of this Principle

What to Keep in Your Pack

How to Plan a Hike

Backcountry Trip Planning

Why is it important to plan ahead and prepare.

• It helps ensure the safety of groups and individuals.

• It prepares you to Leave No Trace and minimizes resource damage.

• It contributes to accomplishing trip goals safely and enjoyably .

• It increases self-confidence and opportunities for learning more about nature.

Six Elements to Consider When Planning a Trip

• Identify and record the goals (expectations) of your trip.

• Identify the skill and abilities of trip participants.

• Gain knowledge of the area you plan to visit from land managers, maps, and literature.

• Choose equipment and clothing for comfort, safety, and Leave No Trace qualities.

• Plan trip activities to match your goals, skills, and abilities.

• Evaluate your trip upon return and note changes you will make next time.

Other Elements to Consider

• Regulations/restrictions
• Land boundaries
• Average skill and speed of the group and anticipated food consumption (leftovers create waste which leaves a trace!)
• Group size (does it meet regulations, trip purpose, and Leave No Trace criteria?)

Meal Planning

Planning for meals and lightweight snacks that require minimum packing and preparation time lightens loads and decreases garbage. One-pot meals require minimal cooking utensils and eliminate the need for a campfire. Remember, a stove Leaves No Trace. It can be helpful to remove food from its commercial packing and repackage it. This method can reduce the amount of garbage your group must pack out at the end of the trip and reduce bulk.

Examples of Poor Trip Planning

A poorly prepared group may plan to cook meals over a campfire only to discover upon arrival at their destination that a fire ban is in effect or that firewood is in scarce supply. Such groups often build a fire anyway, breaking the law or impacting the land simply because they have not planned for alternatives.

A group that has failed to develop good travel plans may be unable to travel as fast as expected. The terrain may be too steep, or the trails too rugged. These groups often resort to setting up camp late at night, sometimes in an unsafe location. Poor campsite selection usually leads to unnecessary resource damage. In addition, the group may never even reach their planned destination.

Principle 2: Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces

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The 7 "Leave No Trace" Principles of Outdoor Ethics

• Chapman University

Treehugger / Dan Amos

• Conservation

We all have a responsibility when it comes to enjoying the great outdoors. Staying mindful of the effects that our presence has on the environment, as well as its plants, wildlife, and ecosystems, is a pivotal part of our place in the natural world.

The “Leave No Trace” principles were originally designed as a set of minimum impact practices for visiting backcountry settings in the mid-1980s, but they really apply anywhere—whether it's in a massive national forest or in your own backyard. Studies by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics have shown that just 30 minutes of education on how to be responsible outdoors using Leave No Trace ethics can help children change their sense of connection to nature and improve the likelihood that they’ll leave behind objects they found while outside.  

The next time you plan on camping, hiking, or any other outdoor activity, be sure to keep the following guidelines in mind.

Principle 1: Plan Ahead and Prepare

Responsible outdoorsmanship begins well before you step outside, since a trip into the wilderness can easily go from bad to worse if you’re not prepared . That’s why it's important to plan ahead by learning about the rules and regulations for the areas you’re planning to visit, researching weather, and packing accordingly.

In order to reduce your impact on the natural and cultural resources, it is also recommended to schedule trips during off seasons and visit in as small groups as possible. Consider not only the weather and restrictions, but also the terrain, private land boundaries, and how long it will take your group to complete activities (such as hiking).

Principle 2: Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

According to the National Park Service, “durable surfaces” refer to any maintained trails, designated campsites, rock, gravel, sand, dry grass, and snow. While camping in areas near lakes and streams, be sure to set up camp at least 200 feet from bodies of water in order to protect riparian areas.

Restrict use to established hiking trails and campsites, altering sites as little as possible to keep the natural landscapes just as pristine as you found them. Keep campsites small and focus activity in clear spaces that are free from vegetation, and walk in a single file in the middle of trails to reduce damage, soil erosion, and the development of new paths in undesirable areas.

Principle 3: Dispose of Waste Properly

Principle three is all about the cardinal rules of the outdoors: pack out what you pack in. Waste, including leftover food and garbage, has the power to affect wildlife, water sources, natural habitats, and even other people. This also applies to human waste (as well as toilet paper and hygiene products), since improper disposal can pollute water sources. While washing dishes, carry water at least 200 feet away from streams or lakes and always use eco-friendly soap .

Principle 4: Leave What You Find

If you do end up needing to clear an area of surface rocks, sticks, or pine cones, make an effort to replace them before leaving (and remember that the best campsites are found, not made). When camping inside designated campgrounds with legally constructed facilities like fire rings, do not move them or dismantle them in any way—this can lead to additional impact as they will need to be rebuilt.

Also, avoid carving into trees, hammering nails into trees, or picking too many wildflowers as they may be native plants and slow to reproduce. It is important to leave other natural objects such as rocks, leaves, and even twigs put as they’re needed for animals to build nests or provide essential nutrients. Rather than taking souvenirs from nature, snap a photo instead!

Principle 5: Minimize Campfire Impacts

As wildfires continue to impact natural areas more and more each year, it is essential to learn the tricks and trade of responsible campfire use. While gathering around a campfire is a time-honored tradition that most campers wouldn’t dream of skipping, the overuse of fires and increasing demand for firewood can contribute to pollution or spread invasive insects .

Consider investing in a campfire stove or even a solar oven to replace your campfire at least for a portion of your trip. Most importantly, be sure to fully extinguish fires when you’re done. Check out the National Park Service’s guide to campfire safety to learn more.

Principle 6: Respect Wildlife

In the matter of wildlife, quiet observation is the name of the game. Not only can touching or feeding wild animals be stressful for them, it can also be dangerous, alter their behaviors, or expose both of you to diseases. Keeping your distance and refraining from disturbing wildlife—no matter the animal—helps lower the chances of accidents. On the same page, be sure to store food and trash securely and properly to avoid human-wildlife conflicts .

Principle 7: Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Last but certainly not least, principle seven is a reminder to always be courteous and considerate of others. Things like excessive noise, destructive pets, or damaged surroundings can lessen the quality of other visitors' experience. While hiking, yield to others on the trail when it's safe to do so, and prioritize outdoor travel during off-holidays or weekdays so as not to add to overcrowding (especially in busy destinations).

Walsh, Ailsa. " Research Reveals 30 Minutes of Leave No Trace Training Increases Kids Connection to Nature ." Leave No Trace , 2018.

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Home » Blog » Leave No Trace: The Seven Principles (and Why You Should Care About Them!)

Leave No Trace: The Seven Principles (and Why You Should Care About Them!)

I love adventuring around the world and seeing everything nature has to offer. While traveling though, I like to make sure others after me have the same positive experience that I did. The best way I make sure to do this is by practicing the 7 Leave No Trace Principles everywhere I go.  In this blog post I am breaking down what Leave No Trace (LNT) means and providing information on each of the seven principles.

Leave No Trace: The Seven Principles

The Leave No Trace Principles are guidelines that help people plan, prepare, and adventure more consciously. These seven principles were set up with our planet’s well being in mind. By practicing the LNT principles you are reducing your impact out in nature .

PRINCIPLE #1: PLAN AHEAD AND PREPARE

The very first Leave No Trace principle is to plan ahead and be prepared . Planning ahead helps you to be prepared and plan for the conditions ahead by ensuring the safety of groups and individuals. It also helps minimize resource damage during your trip. 

There are a few elements to look out for when planning and preparing for an outdoor trip. These include: 

• Identifying and recording the goals and expectations that you will have for your trip. 
• Identifying the skills of the people going on this trip with you and your own.
• Do research on the area you plan to visit. Find information about the land managers, gather maps of the area, and read guides about the park/location.
• Plan trip activities that fit your skills, abilities and trip goals. These include hiking, backpacking, and even camping. By making sure these activities fit your skills and those of your group (if applicable) you are ensuring safety and avoiding any serious injuries or problems during your trip. 
• By making sure you have all of the above, you can better know what things to pack to be better prepared. 
• Upon return, evaluate your trip and take notes of any changes you will make for your next trip. 
• Knowing what equipment to bring and clothing to wear for the weather that you will be expecting can be crucial. Make sure to check the weather before going. 
• You want to make sure that the terrain you are exploring is suitable for your skill level as well as for your group.
• It is important to read current regulations, restrictions, and boundaries.
• It is important that if you are going on a hike or backpacking trip to know how fast you and your group hike to each destination, how much food to pack, how much food will be consumed during each meal, and the plan for leftovers. Leftovers create waste which leaves a trace. If left behind, it can attract animals or cause foul odors leading to bad experiences for other hikers that will be hiking through that same area. 
• Group size – Making sure that everyone in your group abides by Leave No Trace principles and that it meets any regulations for that park/location is important before going on your trip. Also check to see if reservations need to be made prior. 

There are various guides here that will help you be more prepared for your next trip.

PRINCIPLE #2: Travel and camp on durable surfaces

When traveling or camping outdoors, your main goal should be to adventure with minimal impact by avoiding damage to the land and waterways. Damage to these areas can cause erosion, killing of plants that may be endangered, or contamination to clean water sources. 

TRAVEL ON TRAILS

If you are hiking in an area that has a trail, it is important to stay on the trail as much as possible . When you see other hikers on the trail, you should provide space for them to pass while trying your best to stay on the trail as well. When communicating with others, it is important to avoid shouting or making loud noises. 

TRAVEL OFF TRAILS 

Travel off trails refers to hikers that are not utilizing a designated trail or that travel to remote areas. This can occur when searching for bathroom privacy, exploration near and around campsites, and so on. When traveling off trail it is important travel on surfaces or vegetation that are able to withstand the impact of your travel or that are able to remain in stable conditions.

These surfaces include: 

• Rock, sand and gravel
• Ice and snow
• Impact tolerant vegetation – not all vegetation should be trampled. This varies. For example, you shouldn’t walk on a field of wildflowers but you can walk on grassy areas. 

Some areas that you shouldn’t step on are: 

• Living soil – There are certain soils that are considered “living soil” which can be found in desert environments. These are called cryptobiotic crust or crypto. They are consisted of tiny communities or organisms that are blackish in appearance and irregular crust raised upon the sand. You can learn more about this type of soil here and how to spot them during your travels so you can better avoid them. 
• Desert puddles and mud holes – Like water is so scarce in the desert and it is such a precious resource for all living things, it is important to avoid walking through these desert puddles, mud holes, or even disturb the surface water in any way as they are also home to many tiny desert animals. 

Related Article: A Beginners Guide To Hiking

CAMP ON DURABLE SURFACES

Setting up a tent can be one of the most important aspects of low impact. It is very crucial to know where to set up your tent and how to make the most of the area without harming the environment. Here are a few tips: 

• Choose a campsite in a high use area – It is important to camp 200 feet away from any waterways. Always allow enough time and energy in the day to select an appropriate site. It is important to also avoid camping close to any hiking trails. You want to make sure that you also have some sense of solitude while camping. It is best to set up camp on designated camping areas if there are any available for you to use. If not, choose a campsite in a high use area. These are easy to find as the vegetation cover is already lost. This includes not just tent camping but also camp kitchen areas and traffic routes around your campsite. 
• Camping in undisturbed remote areas – These are more for skilled adventurers as these areas have few visitors and show little to no impact of human traffic. It is important to spread out the tents that are being set up, avoid repetitive traffic around the campsite, and move camp every night. This is more for through hikers or backcountry hikers. Like the previous type of camping, it is important to set up camp 200 feet away from water. 

**Please note that some campgrounds have designated campsites less than 200 feet away from water, which is okay to use. If it is not a designated campsite it is best to avoid camping close to the water. 

Related Articles: A Beginners Guide To Backcountry Camping ; Getting a Good Night’s Sleep when Backcountry Camping

PRINCIPLE #3: DISPOSE OF WASTE PROPERLY

One of the things I see most on the trail is waste that is left behind by other travelers. Making sure you dispose of your waste properly can make everyone’s experience on the trail and campgrounds much more enjoyable and also lower your impact. Remember, our main goal here is to leave no trace that we were there. 

HUMAN WASTE

It is important to dispose of your human waste properly. Let’s be honest, no one wants to step on someone else’s poop or see tampons laying on the ground on the trail. Here are a few ways to properly dispose of your human waste:

• Cat holes – Make sure that your cat hole is 200 feet away from water sources, 6-8 inches deep and 4-6 inches in diameter. Leave your waste in it (human waste only please), cover it up, and disguise it with natural materials when finished. You can also lay something heavy on it like a rock to keep animals from digging up your waste. If camping, make sure to disperse each cat hole. It is good to dig a cat hole with a garden trowel but you can also use a stick, rock, or other natural resources to dig your hole. 
• Latrines – many places have latrines and in some locations are more applicable. This is good when camping with young children or for more than a few nights. You can build your own latrine but if you do make sure to ask your land manager first about latrine-building techniques and regulations. So your feces can decompose faster it is best to throw some soil on top after every use. 
• Toilet Paper – use plain white, non-perfumed brands and dispose properly by burying in a cat hole or placing it in a plastic bag that you will pack out. Best is to pack it out. 
• Tampons – Make sure to always pack these out by placing them in a plastic bag and disposing them in proper trash containers. 
• Urine – It is best to urinate on rocks, pine needles, and gravel as it is less likely to attract wildlife. Dilute your urine with water can help minimize the negative effects. 

OTHER FORMS OF WASTE

I’m sure we are quite familiar with the saying, “ Pack it in, Pack it out! ” In other words, whatever waste you bring or create during your trip, take out and dispose of all of it properly. Here are a few tips:

• Plan meals carefully and clean up after yourself after every meal. Put all trash in a garbage can and dispose of leftovers properly. 
• Inspect your campsite and make sure you take all of your trash and even other people’s trash with you.

To wash dishes, yourself, or other things you must carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes before cleaning. If washing dishes, make sure to strain your dishwater and scatter it. Any food scraps must be properly disposed of in the trash. 

SOAPS AND LOTIONS

Soap, even if it’s biodegradable, can affect the water quality of lakes and streams. Always wash and rinse yourself 200 feet away from waterways. Make sure to be careful with the lotion, sunscreen, insect repellent, and body oils that you use as they can contaminate these vital water sources as well. 

PRINCIPLE #4: LEAVE WHAT YOU FIND

We love to pick cool looking rocks, plants or even sticks. However, it is important to leave these items as you find them . Here are a few key points to follow to help minimize your impact. 

MINIMIZE SITE ALTERATIONS

Leave all areas you visit just as you found them. Do not dig trenches, damage the area, or remove plants so you can set up camp. If you create a fire ring it is important to break it up and before you leave the area. In some high impact areas there will be legally constructed facilities such as fire rings which should be left in place. 

AVOID DAMAGING LIVE TREES AND PLANTS

You should not pick flowers or plants from the wild. One person picking one flower may not seem bad but if every visitor picks a flower it can cause a very negative impact to the environment in this area. 

Do not hammer nails into trees for hanging things or even carve anything into them such as your initials or words. You should also keep an eye on where you walk as you may step on precious vegetation. 

LEAVE NATURAL OBJECTS AND CULTURAL ARTIFACTS

In many national parks and protected areas it is illegal to remove natural objects. The wildlife uses the environment to build their homes or even nurture themselves and their young, so it is important to leave these items behind. For instance a deer eat maple leaves because it is an excellent source of vitamin C for a pregnant deer. 

PRINCIPLE #5: MINIMIZE CAMPFIRE IMPACTS

There is nothing better when camping than to sit by the fire. However, it is important to ask yourself first, “Should I build a fire?” You have to take into consideration the potential damage to the backcountry. You should also ask yourself what the fire danger is for that time of year and the location you are in. Many parks and locations have restrictions so it is important to abide by these regulations as well. Will your fire leave a trace?

Here are a few tips on how to minimize your campfire impact. 

• It is important to camp in locations where wood is abundant. Try to avoid making fires in higher elevated areas or in the desert where wood is scarce. 
• Is there an existing fire ring? Many well established campgrounds have fire rings in place for you to use and even sell firewood in the campground shops. When using these it is important to keep the fire small and burning only when you are using. Never leave a fire unattended. 

There are other types of campfires you can build as well but it is important to know how to properly build them, care for them, put them out, and break them up to leave no trace. You can learn more about the Mound Fires and Fire Pans on the Leave No Trace website here . 

CAMPFIRE SAFETY

• NEVER leave a fire unattended. 
• Keep wood and fuel sources away from fire. 
• Use approved containers for fuel. 
• Supervise young children around the fire. 
• Thoroughly extinguish all fires and burn all wood to ash. 
• Pack out any campfire litter. Never burn plastic items, aluminum foil or foil-lined items. 

PRINCIPLE #6: RESPECT WILDLIFE

For your safety and theirs, it is important to respect wildlife . It is very important to always keep a safe distance from any wild animal that you see. Quick movements, close distance, loud noises, or other factors may cause the animal to flee or even possibly attack in self defense. 

Do not feed the animals. Many people don’t know the proper diet for these animals and feeding them can cause them to get sick. It also may not be safe to you. 

Please do not pick up animals no matter how cute they may look. They may bite or attack due to the stress of being handled. They also may have rabies or other diseases that can be harmful to you. If the animal is sick or wounded it may react with biting, scratching, kicking, or other ways just to get away. 

Always observe wildlife from far away. Keep in mind that YOU are a visitor to THEIR home! 

Remember that 200 feet from waterways we discussed before? This is also a great way to allow animals free access to water sources without invading their space or them invading yours. 

PRINCIPLES #7: BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHER VISITORS

Everyone you encounter outdoors is trying to enjoy their visit one way or another. It is important to be courteous towards others . This includes keeping your pets under control, keeping noise to a minimum, being respectful to others, not littering the area or damaging it in any other way, and keeping music to a minimum. Always ask yourself, “Will this cause a negative experience for the people around me?” If the answer is yes, then you should find a way to make it enjoyable for everyone. 

Side note – as drones become more and more common, please consider the noise impact you have on others when you fly in busy locations. I was visiting a popular lake recently and had to listen to 5 drones buzzing around for the entire duration on sunrise. Just because it may be legal to drone doesn’t always mean it’s the right choice.

There are many ways to be considerate to others. You can read all about them here .

LEAVE NO TRACE SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES

Leave No Trace is a hot topic for the outdoor community on social media , and for good reason. It’s obviously very important that we consider the potential damage of a fragile location before geotagging it on our social channels.

Some things I always keep in mind before geotagging are:

• Does this location have infrastructure to support large crowds? (e.g. parking lots, toilets, trash facilities, accessible roads, maintained trails, information signs, etc.)
• Is the area particularly fragile and could easily be damaged by large crowds? (e.g. alpine tundra, lack of maintained trails, lack of established campsites, etc.)
• Is this location an already well-known/highly visited place? (e.g. Mount Rainier National Park VS a lesser known unmaintained backcountry trail outside of the park).
• Would the locals want me to geotag this location? (e.g. Some local communities are desperate for tourism in order to keep their businesses running, and others would very much prefer you not geotag their local sights).

Another thing to keep in mind when it comes to LNT and social media is to be aware of what you are portraying and speaking about online . Do your photos and/or captions promote behaviors that are damaging to the environment or may encourage others to do so? Be sure you are doing your best to promote good Leave No Trace practices and stewardship, as well as following local rules and regulations.

Always keep in mind: how can you use your social media platforms for good? As the LNT Center for Outdoor Ethics promotes: “Be mindful of the platform you have and the people you reach when posting and commenting about the outdoors” . Read more here .

SHAMING AND LEAVE NO TRACE

I have sadly witnessed some pretty horrible online shaming and bullying when it comes to Leave No Trace. There are even accounts on Instagram that solely exist to “expose” people who have broken the seven principles, and they often go about education in a very cruel way.

Please remember that you were once new to outdoor adventures. You made mistakes when you were learning how to properly hike and camp in the backcountry. Not everyone had the privilege of growing up in a family that values the outdoors and teaches their children about LNT. Have some empathy and always turn to education instead of shaming and bullying.

In fact, there is no actual evidence that shaming and/or bullying is an effective way to influence people’s choices in the outdoors. Instead, I think it often leads to people getting upset and feeling like they need to defend their choices, rather than everyone having a civil conversation and learning from it.

I do not endorse online shaming and bullying in the name of Leave No Trace and I encourage you to follow the same path.

Here is my advice for reaching out to someone who appears to have disrespected the environment and may need some education for future adventures:

• Send them a DM (direct message) instead of leaving a public comment.
• Be polite and introduce yourself.
• In a respectful way, explain why you think their actions were wrong and how they could do better next time.
• Be helpful by linking any articles that may assist them in learning more (e.g. those by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics or even this blog post).
• Always aim for meaningful conversations instead of throwing accusations.

RECAP OF LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES

I really hope this article on Leave No Trace helps you enjoy the outdoors to its fullest and with a minimal impact to the environment! Remember that just like you love to enjoy the great outdoors and everything it has to offer, so do others.

• Always plan ahead and be prepared.
• Don’t forget that it is important to travel and camp on durable surfaces and dispose of waste properly.
• Always leave what you find.
• Do you best to minimize your campfire impact.
• Respect the wildlife at all times.
• Be considerate of other visitors.
• Always be mindful about what you portray online. 
• And last but not least, help educate others and avoid shaming people for their wrong doings. 

Together we can help minimize our impact in the wild and help make it be a happy place for every one to enjoy!

PIN this to refer to later! 

Inspiration for your outdoor adventures.

• A Beginners Guide to Hiking
• A Beginners Guide to Backcountry Camping
• The Ultimate Winter Hiking and Camping Guide
• Holy Grail Hiking and Camping Gear – 2019
• Getting a Good Night’s Sleep when Backcountry Camping

Disclaimer: This blog post is written in reference to resources produced by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics in relation to the Leave No Trace Seven Principles – © 1999 by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: www.LNT.org.

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The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics protects the outdoors by teaching and inspiring people to enjoy it responsibly by delivering cutting-edge education and research to millions of people every year.

The  seven principles of Leave No Trace  provide an easily understood framework of minimum impact practices for anyone visiting the outdoors. Although Leave No Trace has its roots in backcountry settings, the principles have been adapted so that they can be applied anywhere — from remote wilderness areas, to local parks and even in your own backyard. They also apply to almost every recreational activity. Each principle covers a specific topic and provides detailed information for minimizing impacts. They are well established and widely known, but they are not static.

Learn more from the  Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics . 

1. Plan Ahead & Prepare

2. Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces 

3. Dispose of (Human) Waste Properly

3. Dispose of (Other) Waste Properly

4. Leave What You Find

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

6. Respect Wildlife

7. Be Considerate of Others

7 Principles

#1: plan ahead and prepare.

Adequate trip planning and preparation helps any traveler accomplish trip goals safely and enjoyably, while simultaneously minimizing damage to the land. Poor planning often results in miserable campers and damage to natural and cultural resources.

Why Is Trip Planning Important?

• It helps ensure the safety of groups and individuals.
• It prepares you to Leave No Trace and minimizes resource damage.
• It contributes to accomplishing trip goals safely and enjoyably.
• It increases self-confidence and opportunities for learning more about nature

Things to Consider When Planning a Trip

• Identify the skill and ability of your group.
• Gain knowledge of the area you plan to visit from land managers, maps, and literature.
• Choose equipment and clothing for comfort, safety, and Leave No Trace qualities.
• Plan trip activities to match your goals, skills, and abilities.

Other Elements to Consider

• Regulations/restrictions
• Private land boundaries
• Average hiking speed of group and anticipated food consumption
• Group size (does it meet regulations, trip purpose and Leave No Trace criteria?)

#2: Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces

The goal of travel in the outdoors is to move through natural areas while avoiding damage to the land or waterways.  Travel damage occurs when surface vegetation or communities of organisms are trampled beyond recovery. The resulting barren area leads to soil erosion and the development of undesirable trails. 

Travel on Trails

• Land management agencies construct trails to provide identifiable routes that concentrate foot and stock traffic. 
• Concentrating travel on trails reduces the likelihood that multiple routes will develop and scar the landscape. It is better to have one well-designed route than many poorly chosen paths.  Try to stay within the width of the trail and not shortcut trail switchbacks.

Travel Off-trail

All travel that does not utilize a designed trail such as travel to remote areas, searches for bathroom privacy, and explorations near and around campsites is defined as off-trail. Two primary factors increase how off-trail travel affects the land: durability of surfaces and vegetation, and frequency of travel (or group size).

• Durability refers to the ability of surfaces or vegetation to withstand wear or remain in a stable condition.
• Frequency of use and large group size increase the likelihood that a large area will be trampled, or that a small area will be trampled multiple times.

Camp on Durable Surfaces Selecting an appropriate campsite is perhaps the most important aspect of low-impact backcountry use. It requires the greatest degree of judgment and information, and often involves making trade-offs between minimizing ecological and social impacts. A decision about where to camp should be based on information about the level and type of use in the area, the fragility of vegetation and soil, the likelihood of wildlife disturbance, an assessment of previous impacts, and your party’s potential to cause or avoid impact.

Choosing a Campsite in High-use Areas Avoid camping close to water and trails, and select a site which is not easily visible to others. Camping 200 feet (70 adult steps) away from the water’s edge is recommended because it allows access routes for wildlife. Be sure to obey regulations related to campsite selection. Allow enough time and energy at the end of the day to select an appropriate site.  When leaving camp, make sure that it is clean and appealing for other campers who follow.

#3: Dispose of (Human) Waste Properly

The Center encourages outdoor enthusiasts to consider the impacts that they leave behind, which will undoubtedly affect other people, water and wildlife.

Human Waste

• Proper disposal of human waste is important to avoid pollution of water sources, avoid the negative implications of someone else finding it, minimize the possibility of spreading disease and maximize the rate of decomposition. In most locations, burying human feces in the correct manner is the most effective method to meet these criteria. Solid human waste must be packed out from some places, such as narrow river canyons. Land management agencies can advise you of specific rules for the area you plan to visit.
• There are several EPA-approved, commercially produced pack-out systems available that are easy to use and sanitary for backpacking/hiking use.  As more and more people enjoy parks and protected areas every year, packing out human waste is likely to become a more common practice to ensure long-term sustainability of our shared lands. In some environments, particularly in fragile alpine settings, land managers may require that all solid human waste must be packed out.
• Learn how to bury your waste by digging a cat hole.

#3: Dispose of (Other) Waste Properly

Other Forms of Waste

• “Pack it in, Pack it out” is a familiar mantra to seasoned wildland visitors. Any user of recreation lands has a responsibility to clean up before he or she leaves. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash and garbage.
• Plan meals to avoid generating messy, smelly garbage. It is critical to wildlife that we pack out kitchen waste, such as bacon grease and leftovers. Don’t count on a fire to dispose of it. Garbage that is half-burned or buried will still attract animals and make a site unattractive to other visitors.
• Carry plastic bags to haul your trash (and maybe someone else’s). Before moving on from a camp or resting place, search the area for micro-trash such as bits of food and trash, including organic litter like orange peels or pistachio shells.
• To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes. Scatter strained dishwater. Hand sanitizers that don’t require rinsing allow you to wash your hands without worrying about wastewater disposal.
• For dishwashing, use a clean pot or other container to collect water, and take it to a wash site at least 200 feet away from water sources. This lessens trampling of lakeshores, riverbanks and springs, and helps keep soap and other pollutants out of the water. Use hot water, elbow grease, and soap if absolutely necessary. Strain dirty dishwater with a fine mesh strainer before scattering it broadly. Do this well away from camp, especially if bears are a concern. Pack out the contents of the strainer in a plastic bag along with any uneaten leftovers.

Soaps and Lotions

• Soap, even when it’s biodegradable, can affect the water quality of lakes and streams, so minimize its use. Always wash yourself well away from shorelines (200 feet), and rinse with water carried in a pot or jug. This allows the soil to act as a filter. Where fresh water is scarce, think twice before swimming in creeks or potholes. Lotion, sunscreen, insect repellent and body oils can contaminate these vital water sources.

#4: Leave What You Find

Allow others a sense of discovery by leaving rocks, plants, archaeological artifacts and other objects of interest as you find them.

Minimize Site Alterations Leave areas as you found them . Do not dig trenches for tents or construct lean-tos, tables, chairs or other rudimentary improvements. If you clear an area of surface rocks, twigs or pine cones replace these items before leaving. Consider the idea that good campsites are found and not made.

In many locations, properly located and legally constructed facilities, such as a single fire ring, should be left in place. Dismantling them will cause additional impact because they will be rebuilt with new rocks and thus impact a new area.

Avoid Damaging Live Trees and Plants Avoid hammering nails into trees for hanging things, hacking at them with hatchets and saws, or tying tent guy lines to trunks—thus girdling the tree. Carving initials into trees is unacceptable. The cutting of boughs for use as sleeping pads creates minimal benefit and maximum impact. 

Picking a few flowers does not seem like it would have any great impact and, if only a few flowers were picked, it wouldn’t. But, if every visitor thought “I’ll just take a few,” a much more significant impact might result. Take a picture or sketch the flower instead of picking it. 

Leave Natural Objects and Cultural Artifacts Natural objects of beauty or interest such as antlers, petrified wood or colored rocks add to the mood of the backcountry and should be left so others can experience a sense of discovery. In national parks and many other protected places, it is illegal to remove natural objects.

The same ethic is applicable to cultural artifacts found on public lands. Cultural artifacts are protected by the Archaeological Resources Protection Act. It is illegal to remove or disturb archeological sites, historic sites or artifacts such as pot shards, arrowheads, structures and even antique bottles found on public lands.

#5: Minimize Campfire Impacts

Fires vs. Stoves: The use of campfires , once a necessity for cooking and warmth, is steeped in history and tradition. Some people would not think of camping without a campfire. Campfire building is also an important skill for every camper. Yet, the natural appearance of many areas has been degraded by the overuse of fires and an increasing demand for firewood. The development of lightweight efficient camp stoves has encouraged a shift away from the traditional fire for cooking. Stoves have become essential equipment for minimum-impact camping. They are fast, flexible and eliminate firewood availability as a concern in campsite selection. Stoves operate in almost any weather condition—and they Leave No Trace.

Should You Build a Fire?

• The most important consideration when deciding to use a fire is the potential damage to the backcountry.
• What is the fire danger for the time of year and the location you have selected?
• Are there administrative restrictions from the agency that manages the area?
• Is there sufficient wood so its removal will not be noticeable?
• Do group members possess the skills to build a campfire that will Leave No Trace?

Existing Fire Rings The best place to build a fire is within an existing fire ring in a well-placed campsite. Keep the fire small and burning only for the time you are using it. Allow wood to burn completely to ash. Put out fires with water, not dirt. Dirt may not completely extinguish the fire. Avoid building fires next to rock outcrops where the black scars will remain for many years.

Firewood and Cleanup

• Standing trees, dead or alive, are home to birds and insects, so leave them intact. Fallen trees also provide bird and animal shelter, increase water holding capacity of the soil, and recycle nutrients back into the environment through decomposition.
• Stripping branches from standing or fallen trees detracts from an area’s natural appearance.
• Avoid cutting or breaking branches from standing or downed trees. Dead and down wood burns easily, is easy to collect and leaves less impact.
• Use small pieces of wood, no larger than the diameter of an adult wrist, that can be broken with your hands.
• Don’t bring firewood from home. Either buy it from a local source or gather it responsibly where allowed.
• Burn all wood to white ash, grind small coals to ash between your gloved hands, thoroughly soak with water, and scatter the remains over a large area away from camp. Ashes may have to be packed out in river corridors.
• Replace soil where you found it when cleaning up a mound or pan fire.
• Scatter unused wood to keep the area as natural looking as possible.
• Pack out any campfire litter. Plastic items and foil-lined wrappers should never be burned in a camp fire.
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Keep wood and other fuel sources away from fire.
• Thoroughly extinguish all fires.

#6: Respect Wildlife

Learn about wildlife through quiet observation. Do not disturb wildlife or plants just for a “better look.” Observe wildlife from a distance so they are not scared or forced to flee. Large groups often cause more damage to the environment and can disturb wildlife so keep your group small. If you have a larger group, divide into smaller groups if possible to minimize your impacts.

Quick movements and loud noises are stressful to animals. Travel quietly and do not pursue, feed or force animals to flee. (One exception is in bear country where it is good to make a little noise so as not to startle the bears.) In hot or cold weather, disturbance can affect an animal’s ability to withstand the rigorous environment. Do not touch, get close to, feed or pick up wild animals. It is stressful to the animal, and it is possible that the animal may harbor rabies or other diseases.

Sick or wounded animals can bite, peck or scratch and send you to the hospital. Young animals removed or touched by well-meaning people may cause the animals parents to abandon them. If you find sick animals or animals in trouble you should notify a game warden.

Considerate campers observe wildlife from afar, give animals a wide berth, store food securely and keep garbage and food scraps away from animals. Remember that you are a visitor to their home.

Allow animals free access to water sources by giving them the buffer space they need to feel secure. Ideally, camps should be located 200 feet or more from existing water sources. This will minimize disturbance to wildlife and ensure that animals have access to their precious drinking water. By avoiding water holes at night, you will be less likely to frighten animals because desert dwellers are usually most active after dark. With limited water in arid lands, desert travelers must strive to reduce their impact on the animals struggling for survival.

#7: Be Considerate of Other Visitors

One of the most important components of outdoor ethics is to maintain courtesy toward other visitors . It helps everyone enjoy their outdoor experience. Many people come to the outdoors to listen to nature. Excessive noise, uncontrolled pets and damaged surroundings take away from the natural appeal of the outdoors.

Technology continues to shape the outdoor experience. Personal preferences range from high-tech outdoor travelers, who might want to listen to music and collect images on their devices, to an anti-tech perspective that favors a minimal use of gadgets. Different strokes for different folks, but be sure to thoroughly consider how your experience is affecting the way someone else enjoys the outdoors. For example, earbuds may be a less obtrusive way to enjoy music than external speakers.

The general assumption on a narrow trail is that hikers headed downhill will step aside to allow an uphill foot traveler to easily pass. In many places, there’s an expectation that hikers will yield to equestrians, and that bicyclists will yield to both hikers and equestrians on trails. Stay in control when mountain biking. Before passing others, politely announce your presence and proceed with caution.

Bright clothing and equipment, such as tents, that can be seen for long distances are discouraged. Especially in open natural areas, colors such as day-glow yellow may contribute to a crowded feeling; consider earth-toned colors (ie. browns and greens) to lessen visual impacts. Keep pets under control at all times. Some areas prohibit dogs or require them to be on a leash at all times.

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Leave no trace seven principles.

Each of us plays a vital role in protecting our national parks. As we spend time outdoors, in the natural world and in wilderness, it’s important to be conscious of the effects our actions may have on plants, animals, other people, and even entire ecosystems. Following the Leave No Trace Seven Principles , summarized below, can help us minimize those impacts. They can be applied anywhere, at any time, while taking part in recreational activities.

• Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you'll visit.
• Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies.
• Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use.
• Visit in small groups when possible. Consider splitting larger groups into smaller groups.
• Repackage food to minimize waste.
• Use a map and compass or GPS to eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns or flagging.
• Durable surfaces include maintained trails and designated campsites, rock, gravel, sand, dry grasses or snow.
• Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.
• Concentrate use on existing trails and campsites.
• Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy.
• Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent.
• Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails.
• Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.
• Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite, food preparation areas, and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food and litter.
• Utilize toilet facilities whenever possible. Otherwise, deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished.
• Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.
• To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.
• Preserve the past: examine, photograph, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts.
• Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them.
• Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.
• Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.
• Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the environment. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.
• Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.
• Keep fires small. Only use down and dead wood from the ground that can be broken by hand.
• Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.
• Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.
• Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, [habituates them to humans], and exposes them to predators and other dangers.
• Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely.
• Control pets at all times, or leave them at home.
• Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.
• Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.
• Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail.
• Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock.
• Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors.
• Let nature's sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.

These principles were established by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, and built on work by the US Forest Service, National Park Service, and Bureau of Land Management in the mid 1980s. This relationship continues today. The principles are based on and informed by scientific research in the fields of recreation ecology and human dimensions of natural resources. Take a look at the science behind the principles on the Leave No Trace website.

Thank you for doing your part to protect our natural world.

Leave No Trace Seven Principles © 1999 by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: www.LNT.org.

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Last updated: June 16, 2022

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Your Adventure Coach

Helping new(ish) backpackers have safer, more comfortable hikes.

Plan Ahead And Prepare

Leave No Trace Principles / June 22, 2017 by Mallory

Any time you are going out for a hike, whether it’s just for a day hike or a week long trip, you need to plan ahead and prepare for what’s going to happen, so that you aren’t forced into making poor decisions while out on the trail.

What is Leave No Trace, anyway?​

In a nutshell, Leave No Trace is made up of seven principles that guide us to leave the least amount of impact and damage on the natural areas we recreate in.

The Leave No Trace Seven Principles are:

• Plan ahead and prepare
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces
• Dispose of waste properly
• Leave what you find
• Minimize campfire impacts
• Respect wildlife
• Be considerate of other visitors​

© 1999 by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: www.LNT.org

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience, see my full disclosure for more info.

I will write up a specific post about each principle, and even at that I can only touch on the basics in a blog post. For now, let’s start at the beginning with plan ahead and prepare.

What do we mean by ‘plan ahead and prepare?’​

When you’re planning on going out for a hike, preparing properly isn’t only a Leave No Trace issue, but could also be a safety issue.

Make sure you do your research and ask the right questions before your trip so you know what to expect and you can bring the appropriate gear, clothes, and food.

Before a day hike, you’ll want to know the weather forecast, round trip mileage, terrain/elevation gain, how much water you should bring, if are pets allowed (if you have pets,) and lastly, always, always, always bring a headlamp. Just in case you end up staying out longer than expected, if you get lost, injured, hike slower than planned, take a mid day nap and lose track of time. It can happen to anybody!

For an overnight backpacking trip, there are a few more things to consider, on top of everything we just talked about.

You need to find out if camping is permitted where you’ll be hiking, if you need a permit to camp, if bear canisters are required, where the water sources are, if camp fires are permitted, how much food you need, do you have the appropriate gear and clothes, and what precautions you need to take around the local wildlife.

For safety’s sake, always leave a copy of your plan with a trusted friend, so someone knows where you’re going and when you’ll be back.

Research the terrain and know you’re own limits so you don’t get stuck in a dangerous situation.

Plan to be able to treat or prevent injury, illness, and sunburns. Bring your own personal medication and let other hikers know of any pertinent medical conditions or allergies.

And please, for the sake of the environment and you’re fellow hikers, plan and prepare to pack out all food and trash and anything you else brought into the woods with you and maybe even any trash you may find along the way.​

One last tip to plan ahead – make a plan for how you will use the bathroom in the woods – without leaving any waste or biohazard behind for other hikers.

To learn about Leave No Trace, check out these posts:

• ​ How To Poop In The Woods
• Why You Should Always Hang Your Food
• How To Pick A Good Campsite
• How To Travel and Camp On Durable Surfaces

About the author, Mallory:

After studying Recreation, Park & Tourism Management, Mallory spent several years teaching environmental education, guiding hikes, and leading backcountry trips. Her life-changing trek from Georgia to New York on the Appalachian Trail is what sparked the creation of Your Adventure Coach, to share backpacking tips and resources with as many new hikers as possible.

Share with your hiking buddies!

Plan Ahead and Play It Safe for Your Next Outdoor Adventure

Outdoor recreation is in high demand as visitors seek experiences among the nation's public land and water destinations in record numbers. Planning ahead and understanding what to expect for your trip is more important now than ever. Visitors also have an opportunity and responsibility to respect these special places and each other along the way. In this article we offer helpful tips and recommendations so you can make lifetime memories (the good ones) on your next outdoor adventure: Embrace Safety, Plan Ahead, Manage Your Reservations, and Be Kind and Courteous to All.

A guide to planning and preparing for an epic outdoor trip

Embrace Safety

John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir (Joshua Davis, US Army Corps of Engineers)

Knowing what to expect as you plan for a safe visit to public lands and waters across the country will help ensure you arrive ready. These are just a few safety tips and reminders, but it is best to thoroughly read descriptions and important trip planning information of the places you plan to visit from the experts who live and work in those areas.

• Check the Weather: The weather can change suddenly and dramatically. Be prepared by monitoring weather conditions before you set out for the day.
• Respect Wildlife : Stay a safe distance from wildlife, keep your campsite area clean and store food in airtight containers, and never feed wild animals. Check here for more wildlife safety tips  from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
• Prevent Wildfires, as "Only You" Can: First, find out if there are fire restrictions prior to your trip. If allowed, learn how to properly build, maintain and extinguish your campfire from our good friend, Smokey Bear .
• Make a Plan, Tell a Friend: Map out your route, pay attention to your surroundings, and let someone know where you are going and when to expect your return. It is always best to travel with others rather than on your own.

Manti-La Sal National Forest (Stella Klaus, Share the Experience)

The outdoor recreation landscape has evolved with more people discovering natural spaces and falling in love with these special places. Adapting to higher demand requires a bit more advanced planning and can help reduce stress when traveling, especially to popular locations.

• Seek Information: Visit agency websites for updates and search Recreation.gov for trip inspiration and reservation opportunities. 
• Reserve a Campsite:  Be aware that you can reserve most campsites  six months prior to your arrival date , and some popular campgrounds can book up in minutes. Identify when reservations are available for the dates you plan to visit and have a back-up plan. Try mid-week or non-peak seasons for popular locations that tend to book up quickly if you have flexibility in your schedule. Also, take time to research nearby locations and recommendations that may have availability for the dates you are traveling – you may just find a new favorite!
• Install the Recreation.gov Mobile App : For more spontaneous visitors there are also first-come, first-served campsites that offer Scan & Pay, a Recreation.gov service to pay on site once you arrive through the mobile app. Install the app prior to your trip, to ensure you have access while you are on the go.
• Purchase Site and Activity Passes in Advance : There are a variety of passes that you can purchase in advance for added convenience. Learn more about  which passes are right for you .
• Schedule Tours or Purchase Tickets : Did you know that many public lands and waters offer rich programming to help you learn what makes that place special? Take a look at a variety of tours and tickets  available for your next trip.
• Secure a Permit: There are some experiences and locations that are so unique and in such fragile ecosystems that a limited number of opportunities are available each year. These experiences often require some skill, knowledge, and a lot of advanced planning. Think whitewater rafting, backcountry hiking, wilderness backpacking, and other activities. Learn more here .

Manage Your Reservations

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument (John Vermette, Share the Experience)

We hope you enjoy your reservation, but we all know life happens – things come up (especially these days). As courteous visitors to public lands, please cancel your reservation if you do not intend to use it. This opens space for others! Heads-up! Visitors who do not arrive at the campground by a certain date and time and do not cancel, may forfeit their reservation, and are assessed service fees. These service fees are returned to the managing agency for care and upkeep of the facility. Learn more about  standard campground policies from Recreation.gov participating agencies.

• Adjust your stay: You may have made your reservation six months ago and now you need to leave a day early to attend your cousin’s wedding. Here is how you modify your campsite reservation  so you can enjoy nature and then join friends and family for the celebration.
• Arrive on time:  Did you know campgrounds have check-in and check-out times? Review your reservation confirmation email so you maximize your campground experience. Also, keep in mind, many locations have security gates that are locked at night. Just another reason to check all the details in your reservation confirmation email and Need to Know information.
• Park in Designated Spaces: Friendly reminder – campgrounds typically have just enough space for one or two vehicles per campsite. If you have a large family or are expecting a few friends, check the campground facility page on Recreation.gov or your reservation confirmation email to understand if the campground has overflow parking and what fees apply.
• Install the Recreation.gov app:  Quickly and conveniently view the details of your reservation, modify  or cancel reservations, or simply book a  new reservation all from your mobile device. Available at select campgrounds, the Recreation.gov mobile app now features Scan & Pay to pay directly from your mobile device for first-come, first-served campsites  and  activities .  Install the app  before you leave home as connectivity in the outdoors can be limited or non-existent.

Be Kind and Courteous to All

Bryce Canyon National Park (Lin Chao, Share the Experience)

Let's all take a pledge to make our outdoor and cultural spaces a safe, welcoming, and respectful space for all. This includes taking care of the lands and waters, as well as those who choose to recreate within these spaces. Here are just a few tips from our Recreate Responsibly  friends for being a kind and courteous camper. 

• Build an inclusive outdoors. Be an active part of making the outdoors safe and welcoming for all identities and abilities. 
• Respect others.  There is space for everyone and countless outdoor activities. Be kind to all who use the outdoors and nature differently. 
• Leave no trace. Respect the land, water, wildlife, and Native communities. Follow the seven Leave No Trace principles .
• Make it better.  We all have a responsibility to sustain the places we love. Volunteer, donate, and advocate for the outdoors.

Explore Related Trips

• Planifica con anticipación y juega seguro en tu próximo viaje
• Road Trip Tips for Exploring Public Lands
• 5 Ways to Prep for Summer Camping

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Planning your trip and preparing is the first step to enjoying nature and outdoor activities responsibly. This is the first of the seven principles of Leave No Trace .

And why is it important to plan and prepare? You enjoy the outing and the activity more, you avoid accidents, you guarantee your safety and that of your team. You also avoid damaging the natural area you visit or interfering with natural processes, for example, the mating season of an animal.

Some tips to prepare your trips are:

• Find out about the place you want to visit, for example the weather, opening hours, road conditions, regulations and if there is an entrance fee. Consider having another option in case the place is closed or difficult to access.
• Check the weather. Will it be very hot? Will it rain? Will it be cold? This is important to know what clothes to wear.
• Check your equipment and verify if it’s the right one for the activity you will be doing, for example if you will be hiking or camping.
• Prepare your vehicle and be sure to bring a tool kit. We recommend bringing a flashlight, shovel, jack, spare tire, etc.
• Take garbage bags with you, it’s likely that you will not find cans and you will have to take the garbage with you and deposit it in another place.
• Bring enough food, coffee and water. Use thermos, cutlery and reusable containers, so you avoid carrying things that could be thrown away on the way.
• If you take your pets don’t forget the leash and bags to collect their droppings.
• Tell your family or friends that you will be away and the day and time you plan to return. Make sure you have a way to communicate based on where you’re visiting.

Outdoor essentials

• Compass, map and GPS.
• Sunscreen protection.
• Extra clothes.
• Illumination.
• First aid kit.
• Matches, candles, etc.
• Repair kit and tools.
• Extra food.
• Emergency shelter.

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Leave No Trace Principle 1 – Plan Ahead and Prepare

• April 2, 2019 August 6, 2020

This is the first in an eight-part series, where I will really dive deep into the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics ’ seven principles. Each blog post will detail one of the seven principles, and then I will wrap things up in an additional post. I took the Leave No Trace Trainer Course recently and loved it. I highly recommend the course to everyone. In this blog post, we are going to dive deep into the Leave No Trace Principle 1 – Plan Ahead and Prepare

Those who have been following this blog for a while know I love being spontaneous and going where the winds blow me. But even if you are like that, you can still plan ahead and prepare even if you are spontaneous. Now, there is a difference between preparing as a safety measure and being spontaneous and open with your plans.

For example on a trip out west once, the only plan I had was to go west. In doing so, I planned for every type of location where I could end up. I knew I could come across black bears and mountain lions; however, I was not going north where there are grizzlies. There was a chance I could run into snow, and I did, so I prepared for that as well. I prepared for the overall trip but left the details up to fate.

Not preparing or planning ahead properly is not only bad Leave No Trace practice, but it can also get you and your group into trouble.

Most search and rescue missions come from people not preparing before they go out into the wilderness, and the majority are preventable.

We go into the wilderness to be surrounded by nature, to get away from other people, and to be free of modern society. However, with those activities, we increase our risk of something bad happening to us.

If you are not prepared and an accident happens in the wilderness, it will be hours before help can arrive.

There always is great risk involved in hiking, camping, and backpacking, but you can greatly minimize that risk with Leave No Trace Principle 1 – Plan Ahead and Prepare.

So how do you practice Leave No Trace Principle 1 – Plan Ahead and Prepare?

Research your area.

The first thing you can do to plan ahead is one of my favorite things of all time: Research the heck out of your planned area. If you are traveling to a national forest, state park, or national park, familiarize yourself with their website.

It is on their websites you will find valuable information like general weather conditions, what to expect on certain hiking trails, and how to prepare for wildlife. You can also find out important information: like are dogs are permitted in the area? Do you need permits to hike and camp and how to obtain them, or whether the campgrounds fill up quickly if they don’t take reservations.

I also read blogs (like this one!) from people who have visited the areas before. These first-hand experiences can be extremely valuable. For example, researching visiting Big Bend National Park, its website stated that there was no legal border crossing into Mexico within the park. But when I got there, we found that not to be true. I stated that as so in my blog post about Big Bend. However, you still want to call and visit with park personnel to double check to make sure the information is still relevant.

And speaking of calling the park, that is also a great way to practice Leave No Trace Principle 1. No one knows what’s going on in the park at the time you want to visit like the park personnel.

Know the Policies and Guidelines

National parks are different from state parks and they are both different from national forests and other types of public lands. And each park or forest is going to differ from each other within the same system.

For example, in the Ouachita National Forest, you can camp anywhere, unless its stated no camping. But in some national parks, you have to make reservations for a backcountry campsite. So before you take off into the backcountry, it’s good to know what it’s policies are.

Wilderness areas have stric ter guidelines than non-wilderness areas, and national parks are generally stricter than national forests, but not always. It is your responsibility to know what the policies and guidelines are before you go in.

Know the weather

Not preparing for weather can make you very uncomfortable at best and kill you at the worst. You want to check the weather before your trip, but you also want to familiarize yourself with the area too. For example, are you in an area that is prone to flash flooding without warning?

I planned out a backpacking trip once. Although I checked the weather the day before I noticed on the second night there was a chance of severe storms. I changed our plans and hiked a different area so we could go to an established campground on our second night if we needed to take shelter.

And yup, we spent the entire night in the bathroom. The next day there was structural damage and trees down in the park. I was glad we were able to take shelter, even if it meant sleeping in a bathroom.

Plan your backcountry itinerary

This is helpful so you are not forced to walk more miles than you can handle or aren’t camping on non-durable surfaces (Leave No Trace Principle 2!).

At some national parks, they have backcountry campsites so you can plan your trip accordingly. If you are going somewhere that does not have backcountry sites, study the map and try to find good places to camp. You can then map out how far you want to hike and plan a trip itinerary.

If you’ve day hiked parts of the trail, make note of places that will make a good backcountry campsite.

Study and carry a map

By studying the map, you can know where you are going and what to expect. I love maps and studying them, so this one is fun for me. Having a map with you and knowing how to read it is one of the best ways to keep from getting lost.

Also if you study a good topographical map, you can assess how steep or rugged the terrain is going to be. This helps prevent you from tackling too big of a hike, getting in over your head, and having to call search and rescue.

Bring the correct gear

After you learn about your area, you will know where you need to bear bag, carry a wag bag, etc. You are going to want to be sure you have the proper gear as well as the 10 essentials.

Want a FREE downloadable backpacking Strategic Plan? Click here !

For example , when I hiked the Caney Creek Trail I failed to plan ahead and prepare. There are several water crossings and the creek was higher than normal. I failed to bring water shoes and trekking poles and had to cross barefoot. My tender feet couldn’t take it and I ended up falling into the water on the last crossing, my boots scooping it up. I had to hike the rest of the hike with wet soggy feet.

Let someone know where you are going and when you will be back

Leaving a plan with someone helps search and rescue personnel pinpoint you better in the event something goes wrong. It is much easier and search and rescue can find you much quicker if they know your itinerary rather than just a general location.

This not only is much better for you, but it also prevents putting others in danger and prevents search and rescue personnel from causing more impact to the area.

Now, I love spontaneity and once on a day hike I wanted to explore another area that I hadn’t planned to hike. I started to go leave my planned trail, and then I realized if something happened to me no one would know where I was. So I made plans to come back another day to explore that section.

To practice Leave No Trace Principle 1, not only makes sense to keep you safe but it also helps minimize impact. If you have planned ahead and prepared properly, you do not put yourself in a position where you have to cause more impact than necessary. You also greatly reduce your chance of having to call for search and rescue, which could cause much more impact.

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10 Outdoor Safety Tips to Protect Yourself, Others, & the Environment

• Improving short-term memory;
• Reducing stress;
• Increasing vitamin D levels;
• Improving sleep;
• Strengthening the immune system;
• Increasing happiness;
• Improving vision;
• Inspiring creativity;
• Restoring mental health.

While there are many pros to being outdoors, recreational activities can also pose a threat to the environment and frequent recreational adventurers. Whether you are camping, hiking, or visiting a park, it is crucial to maintain certain best practices to help ensure the safety of you, your family, other outdoorsmen, and the integrity of the environment. 

1. Plan Ahead

To make the most of your outdoor time, it’s important to plan before leaving for your destination . Preparing for different scenarios can help you and your family have a successful outing while staying safe. Before leaving for your destination, consider the following preparation best practices:

• Check the accessibility of your destination. This includes looking up the hours of operations to ensure the trail or campground is open, as well as directions if you are planning to take more than one car. 
• Look at the weather in advance. Different weather patterns may cause trails or campgrounds to become impassable. Knowing the weather beforehand can help you be prepared for any type of scenario. 
• Get advice from experienced outdoorsmen. If you are going to a destination for the first time, it can be helpful to get advice from people who have already been there. This advice can include which campgrounds to go to, activities to participate in, and safety precautions.
• Go during the safest time of day. If you are participating in outdoor activities for the first time and have never been to the destination, it’s important to go during a safe time of the day. Make sure you have enough daylight to see where you are going and to ensure you won’t get stuck in an unknown location at nighttime.

2. Communicate

Many hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts may find themselves lost during an excursion. This situation can become instantly overwhelming and may push back your expected arrival time. Outdoor recreation can come with risks, and it’s important to let friends and family know your plans in case something happens. Consider telling a few friends and family this pertinent information:

• A basic timeframe of your arrival;
• An itinerary with numbers you can be reached at;
• Phone numbers of the people you are going to be with;
• Updates to your location when you have cell service;
• Specific trails and campgrounds that you will be using. 

By sharing this information with friends and family, they will be able to alert authorities faster in worst-case scenarios. 

3. Bring the Right Gear

Bringing the right equipment or gear can help ensure you have a successful outdoor adventure. Many outdoor activities need special gear. Additionally, you should take weather and climate into consideration so you can stay comfortable. For instance, hikers will need the following gear:

• Hiking boots or shoes;
• Moisture-wicking pants and jacket;
• Food and water;
• Navigation tools;
• First-aid kit;
• Extra clothes;

Additionally, campers will need the following gear:

• Sleeping bags, pads, and pillows;
• Headlamps and flashlights;
• Camping chairs and tables;
• Camping cutlery, plates, and mugs ;
• Cooler with drinks and food;
• Trash bags.

While this is not an exhaustive list, it is a good starting point. It is also important to consider buying durable gear that lasts since you are likely to use it again and don’t want to buy new items every year. 

4. Don’t Go Alone

While many people enjoy camping or hiking alone, it can be overwhelming for outdoor beginners. Some dangers of camping or hiking alone include:

• Medical emergencies;
• Getting lost;
• Encountering predators;
• Being unfamiliar with your surroundings;
• Encountering strangers that make you uncomfortable;
• Forgetting essential gear;
• Overestimating your abilities.

Bringing a friend or two with you when you camp or hike can be helpful if you encounter any of the above problems. Additionally, bringing experienced campers or hikers can help you learn the essential skills you need to successfully do these activities alone.

Even if you can’t bring another human with you, you might still enjoy camping with your dog .

5. Practice Leave No Trace

Leave No Trace is a set of seven principles that helps outdoor enthusiasts maintain the integrity of the outdoors. While Leave No Trace was created to maintain backcountry areas, it has adapted to fit a variety of outdoor settings and recreational activities. The seven principles are as follows:

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Poor planning can lead to damage to natural resources. By planning, outdoor adventurists can minimize their impact on the land while staying safe.
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Campers and hikers must stick to trails and campgrounds to lessen the risk of soil erosions and undesirable trails.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Outdoor enthusiasts should be cognizant of the impact of the waste left in the wilderness. This includes proper disposal of human waste, trash, spilled foods, cigarette butts, plastic, and fishing line.
• Leave What You Find: This principle minimizes site alterations and avoids damaging live trees and plants. Additionally, campers and hikers should leave cultural objects where they stand on public lands. 
• Minimize Campfire Impacts: Campfires can degrade the natural appearance of many areas due to smoke and the increasing demand for firewood. Use existing fire rings or bring your firewood to help maintain the natural appearance of camp areas. 
• Respect Wildlife: Wildlife and plants should not be disturbed. Campers and hikers should travel quietly to avoid stressing the animals. Never touch, feed, or get close to wild animals. 
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Maintaining courtesy toward other outdoor enthusiasts can ensure that everyone enjoys the outdoor experience. Excessive noise, uncontrolled pets, and damaged areas can lessen other people’s experiences.

6. Stay in Designated Areas

Camping or hiking in designated areas can help lessen the impact you have on the outdoors. According to the Leave No Trace travel principle , the goal of outdoor travel is to move through natural areas while avoiding damage to land and waterways. 

Hikers should try to stay on constructed trails to avoid making multiple routes that scar the landscape. Additionally, these trails have already been vetted for safety. If there are no constructed trails, hikers must be considerate of the surface durability, vegetation, and the size of the hiking group. Stick to rock, sand, or gravel surfaces, and try to limit trampling on vegetation. 

Campers generally have two options when it comes to choosing campsites: front-country camping or backcountry camping. Frontcountry refers to campgrounds that have designated camping spots. These spots consist of a firepit, a parking space for car camping , a picnic table, and sometimes take a reservation to hold them. These spots can help campers limit their impact on the environment by setting up the boundaries of their campsite. 

Backcountry campsites are typically first-come, first-serve. Campers should look for flat, durable ground that can withstand a lot of walking and storage. Avoid camping on fragile vegetation, like flowers or grass, and do not set up tents near water.

7. Leave Wildlife Alone

While seeing animals in the wild can be inspiring, it is best to leave them alone. Loud noises and quick movements can cause the animal stress and affect its ability to live in rigorous environments. If the animal becomes dependent on campers feeding it, it could lose its ability to hunt or forage. 

It is also important not to feed or touch the animal to avoid potentially transferring diseases like rabies. Additionally, if animals feel trapped or cornered, they could attack by biting, scratching, or pecking. Dealing with a medical emergency in the wilderness can be stressful and overwhelming. If you see an animal that is hurt or sick, leave it be and notify a park ranger as soon as possible. 

Campers and hikers may engage in physical activity during the warm-weather season, which can easily lead to dehydration. Signs of dehydration include:

• Feeling very thirsty;
• Urinating and sweating less than usual;
• Dark-colored urine;
• Dizziness. 

To combat these symptoms while outdoors, consider these tips to help keep you hydrated:

• Use insulated bottles to keep water cold;
• Drink often rather than chugging a lot of water at once;
• Replace electrolytes if you sweat a lot;
• Drink more water at higher altitudes;
• Hydrate before you go on hikes;
• Wear sunscreen to avoid sunburns, which can speed up dehydration.

9. Bring a First Aid Kit

Although campers and hikers may not expect to get hurt, it’s important to bring a first aid kit just in case. However, first aid kits for the outdoors may look different than typical first aid kits you see at home or in school. For instance, because you have limited space, outdoor first aid kits generally only have the bare essentials. It should carry items that will address common outdoor maladies and pertain to your health situation. A common outdoor first aid kit should include the following:

• Prescription medication labeled in a bag;
• Single-use packs of ibuprofen, Imodium, and an antihistamine;
• Moleskin or athletic tape;
• Bandages in multiple sizes;
• Sterile gauze;
• Latex gloves;
• A small knife or scissors;
• Antiseptic ointment.

10. Be Mindful of Your Group

If you are camping or hiking with a large group, it’s important to be mindful of everyone’s comfort level and abilities. For instance, if you are including new campers, it may be difficult for them to camp in the backcountry for the first time. Additionally, inexperienced hikers may find ten-mile hikes uncomfortable and dissatisfying. For everyone to enjoy the outdoors safely, get the group’s perspective on what is and is not attainable for your outdoor adventure. Lastly, assign roles for people so that no one person is left doing all the work. For example, someone can be in charge of cleaning up the campsite while another is in charge of cooking food. This way, everyone will get to contribute to the excursion. 

Outdoor adventures can be fun, however, there are some risks associated with them. By adhering to the safety tips above, you can ensure that your outdoor recreation adventure is safe and successful. 

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Essay on Outdoor Activities

Students are often asked to write an essay on Outdoor Activities in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Outdoor Activities

Importance of outdoor activities.

Outdoor activities are essential for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They offer numerous benefits such as improving our health, mood, and environmental awareness.

Benefits of Outdoor Activities

Engaging in outdoor activities can help us stay physically fit and reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease, obesity, and stroke. Being outdoors also boosts our mood and reduces stress levels. It improves our mental clarity, creativity, and overall happiness. Outdoor activities allow us to appreciate the beauty of nature and instill a sense of care for the environment.

Examples of Outdoor Activities

There are many enjoyable outdoor activities to choose from. These include walking, hiking, cycling, swimming, playing sports, gardening, camping, and fishing. Even simple activities like sitting in a park or taking a walk around the neighborhood can have positive effects.

Getting Started

Getting started with outdoor activities is easy. Start with an activity that you enjoy and gradually increase the intensity and duration over time. Remember to wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and stay hydrated. It’s also important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary safety precautions.

Outdoor activities offer numerous benefits for our physical, mental, and emotional health. Embracing outdoor activities can help us live healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives. So, make time to get outdoors and enjoy the many benefits it brings.

250 Words Essay on Outdoor Activities

What are outdoor activities.

Outdoor activities are fun things we do outside in the fresh air. These activities include playing sports like soccer and basketball, going for a walk, riding a bike, or even having a picnic in the park. They are a great way to get out of the house and enjoy nature.

Playing outside is not just fun; it’s also really good for our health. It helps us get fit and stay strong because we move our bodies a lot. Being in the sun gives us vitamin D, which is important for our bones. Also, being outdoors can make us feel happy and calm, taking away stress and worries.

Outdoor Activities and Learning

When we spend time outside, we learn new things without even realizing it. For example, when we play a game that involves teams, we learn about working together and helping each other. If we explore a park, we might discover different plants or animals and learn about nature.

Enjoying Outdoor Activities Safely

It’s important to stay safe while having fun outside. This means wearing the right clothes for the weather, like a hat on a sunny day or a warm jacket if it’s cold. We should also tell someone where we’re going if we’re exploring a new place. And always remember to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

In conclusion, outdoor activities are a great way to have fun, get healthy, and learn new things. So, let’s go outside and enjoy the adventure that awaits!

500 Words Essay on Outdoor Activities

Outdoor activities: a path to health, happiness, and harmony, physical benefits of outdoor activities.

Spending time outdoors can significantly improve our physical health. Outdoor activities, such as walking, running, cycling, or gardening, help us burn calories, strengthen our muscles and bones, and boost our cardiovascular health. Regular exposure to sunlight also aids in the production of vitamin D, essential for strong bones and a healthy immune system.

Mental and Emotional Benefits of Outdoor Activities

Outdoor activities have a profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Being surrounded by natural beauty can help us relax, clear our minds, and restore our inner peace. Outdoor activities also provide opportunities for social interaction, which can combat loneliness and promote a sense of community.

Environmental Benefits of Outdoor Activities

Outdoor activities can inspire us to appreciate and protect the natural world. By spending time in nature, we become more aware of the importance of conservation and sustainability. We learn to tread lightly on the earth and make choices that minimize our environmental impact. Outdoor activities also provide opportunities for us to learn about different ecosystems and the plants and animals that inhabit them.

Easy and Accessible Outdoor Activities

There are numerous outdoor activities that are easy to incorporate into our daily lives. Walking, running, and cycling are simple yet effective ways to get moving and enjoy the outdoors. Gardening is a relaxing and rewarding activity that can be done in even a small space. Birdwatching, hiking, and camping are great ways to explore nature and connect with the environment.

Conclusion: Embracing Outdoor Activities for a Fulfilling Life

Outdoor activities offer a wealth of benefits that can enrich our lives in many ways. Whether it’s a brisk walk in the park, a hike in the mountains, or a day spent gardening, spending time outdoors can improve our physical and mental health, connect us with nature, and inspire us to live more sustainably. Embracing outdoor activities is a key to living a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

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• ADVENTURE /

The Importance Of Safety Planning And Preparation For Outdoor Activities

20 February, 2023

You might think that the only thing you need to worry about when you're planning an outdoor adventure is packing the right gear. But there's one other important thing to consider: safety.

Before embarking on any hike, climb, or camping trip, it's crucial to do some safety planning and preparation. Think about what could go wrong and how you would respond in various situations. 

What if you get lost? What if somebody in your group gets injured? What if bad weather rolls in? Thinking about potential hazards and developing a game plan can help reduce the risk of something going wrong and ensure everyone has a safe and fun time outdoors.

Importance of Planning And Preparing For Safe Outdoor Activities

Being outdoors has many benefits for your mental and physical health. For example, it can reduce stress and improve concentration, to name a few. However, failure to plan properly can negate all of the wonderful opportunities that nature offers you. In this section, we’ll discuss the importance of planning and preparing for your outdoor activities.

• Formulating safety guidelines for your trip offers a feeling of security and lets you focus on having fun.
• A safety plan shows you’re mindful of your companions.
• Preparing for an outdoor activity ensures you carry the essential gear you need during your outdoor activity.
• Provides an opportunity to understand the area you’re visiting.
• A safety plan can equip you with the first aid skills you may need in case of an emergency.

Safety planning and preparation also include:

• bringing appropriate gear
• checking the weather forecast
• ensuring you have enough water & food
• wearing proper attire and footwear
• communicating your plans with others.

How to create a safety plan and what to include in it.

When engaging in any type of outdoor activity, it is critical to have a planned and practical safety plan beforehand. To create a safety plan, first, identify the type of activity and its potentially hazardous elements.

Next, establish a start and end point for the activity and provide contact information if there’s an emergency. If necessary, build a timeline for the activity and specify contingencies for potential hazards such as adverse weather conditions.

Additionally, create communication protocols to include communication methods if cell phone coverage is weak or nonexistent. Remember to also include information on over-the-counter medications needed in case of injury, prepare first aid kits or identify where to get supplies, research public land and regulations related to the activity area, assess participants' health levels before embarking on said journey, etc.

Lastly, evaluate possible risks during the activity and come up with mitigation strategies ahead of time. Establishing a clear plan before traveling helps ensure that an outdoor adventure remains safe for everyone involved.

Things you need to consider when planning and preparing for outdoor activities.

When planning and preparing for outdoor activities, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind.

Review The Safety Hazards Associated With The Activity You Will Be Participating In

Participating in any kind of activity comes with a certain set of risks and safety hazards that you should always take into consideration. It is important to review these safety hazards beforehand to prepare accordingly and ensure everyone involved takes extra precautions.

Before engaging in any activity, make sure to get appropriate guidance on correct safety techniques and take all other necessary steps to prevent unintended incidents while enjoying the activity. Such a review can help you avoid accidents or injuries, so you should not neglect or overlook it.

Make a plan to avoid or mitigate those hazards as much as possible.

It is important to make a plan to avoid (or reduce) hazardous situations when possible. Identifying potential risks and evaluating any associated consequences can ensure that you identify potential hazards and take measures to mitigate them.

Once you have identified the risks that may occur during your trip, consider creating a plan to combat any negative outcomes. This typically involves implementing measures such as reducing exposure to situations that may trigger an accident, increasing safety practices, and integrating new technologies into your existing processes.

Additionally, it’s important to inform your travel crew of potential hazards and provide necessary resources for corrective actions. Regularly updating safety protocols, testing equipment for proper operation, and understanding the changing environment are all critical components of any successful risk avoidance or mitigation plan.

Proactively addressing and eliminating risks before participating in any outdoor activity can create a safer environment and protect your crew from harm.

Follow all safety guidelines and procedures while participating in outdoor activities.

Outdoor activities come with certain risks, some of which are unavoidable. However, following safety guidelines and procedures can help manage these hazards. Taking the time to properly plan and prepare before heading outdoors can make a world of difference when it comes to staying safe and having a successful trip.

Consider bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and other necessary supplies, especially when engaging in activities in more remote or extreme conditions. Also, stay up to date with weather forecasts that may affect your outing, such as thunderstorms or heat waves.

Make sure you are physically fit enough for the activity you plan to undertake, and don't forget to tell trusted family or friends where you're going and when you'll be back. When planning an outdoor adventure, remember that safety always comes first.

Other Factors to Consider:

You'll want to make sure you bring the right gear, like plenty of water, first aid kits, and flashlights, to name just a few. Furthermore, it never hurts to research the area you're visiting so you know what terrain and weather conditions to expect. Planning for contingencies, such as knowing where the nearest medical facility is should someone get injured or become lost, is also key.

Lastly, ensuring everyone in your group is on the same page regarding safety practices can help ensure a safe and fun time outdoors. Taking the time to thoroughly plan and prepare takes some effort up front, but it's well worth it when you see how much smoother your outing goes.

It's important to be prepared and have a safety plan in place before you head out for your next outdoor adventure. By taking the time to think about what could go wrong and how you would deal with it, you'll be much better equipped to handle any situation that comes up.

You may also want to consider getting health insurance. First, however, check out the best insurance health quotes to identify one that fits your adventure and prepare for eventualities. While no one likes to think about worst-case scenarios, it's always better to be safe than sorry.

So, whether you're heading out for a day hike or an extended backpacking trip, take the time to plan and prepare first.

Kirsten Thomas

Kirsten Thomas is a fitness and sports enthusiast who loves to travel and is passionate. Her next goals include being an event speaker for women who are successful in the health and wellness industry and writing her own book.

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Why Is It Important to Spend Time Outdoors Essay

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Why Is It Important to Spend Time Outdoors: Essay Introduction

Health effects of spending time outdoor: essay body, exercise & outdoor activities: essay body, mood & concentration benefits of outdoor activities: essay body, essay about outdoor activities: conclusion, works cited.

Do you like spending time in nature with family and friends? Then you will definitely enjoy writing an essay about outdoor activities! But why is it important to spend time outdoors? Essay example on this page has the answer: check it out!

Spending time outside the serenity one is used to have positive effects on the physical and the mental health. Research shows that spending leisure time in those activities not confined to your area improves both the physical and mental well-being.

Outdoor activities includes walking, fishing, running, playing, mountain hiking, biking, horseback riding, boating and fishing, kayaking, picnicking and swimming. It is also healthy to spend time in nature settings for example watching the rivers flowing, adventuring the forests and game parks (Sisson 1).

Research proves that engaging in outdoor activities is significant to the growth and development of the body and the mind. However, this can be achieved through other means like indoors, but with a lot of trouble and expenses (Komaroff 1)

Many people like serenity of spending leisure free time in nature so that they can reduce or eliminate the stress and fatigue of engaging in day-to-day activities. The natural scenery and fresh air outside have the positive effects for both adults and the kids. The overall quality of children’s life improves when they are actively engaged in outdoor activities.

Engaging in outdoor activities means that a person will get enough sunlight. Sunshine acts as a source of vitamin D. When the sunlight hits the skin, the process starts from the involvement of the liver and kidneys; this eventually results in the development of the biologically active form of the vitamin. Many other vitamins do not have powers to fight back the diseases as compared to the vitamin D that has been proved more powerful.

Research proves that vitamin D protects the body against serious diseases like cancer, heart failures, stroke and the diseases of the mind like depression more than other vitamins do. A good source of vitamin D is the exposure of the arms and legs to sunlight for ten to fifteen minutes. Age and the skin color affect the rate at which the skin receives Vitamin D from sunlight.

Older people above 65 years of age generate vitamin D four times the people in their twenties while the dark skinned people produce about half the levels of vitamin D in their blood compared to the white skinned people. Ultra Violet light is the one that generates vitamin D when in contact with the body. However, the UVB light might be blocked by the sunscreens (Komaroff 1).

Research shows that engaging in outdoor activities enables human beings especially children to get more exercise. Researchers from Britain argue that a child who engages in outdoor activities is double active than those engaging in indoor activities. This research was undertaken using machines that track the movement of 1,000 children throughout the day.

It is advisable that one engages in those activities that keep the body in motion for a good body exercise for example walking, hiking, biking, gardening, and cleaning up the yard among other vigorous activities. A good exercise is good for the growth and development of a child (Komaroff 2).

Research shows that human beings become happy if they exercise in outdoor activities. Natural light tends to boost people’s mood and the only place one can access natural light is by moving out of the enclosures. Physical activities relax and cheer up people. Spending time outdoors makes an individual more proactive, cheerful and initiates a happy mood.

Researchers call the practice of exercising the body in the presence of nature as the “green exercise”. Such exercises are significant to the growth and development of the mind. Researchers from England argue that engaging in a green exercise for at least five minutes improves self-esteem, enjoyment and mood (Komaroff 2). Outdoor activities have the mental benefits such as the overall stress reduction.

Thinking capacity also tends to improve through improvement of attention that enhances connectivity in the brain and allows people to have good focus. Workouts also give one an opportunity to be joyous (Sisson 2). Spending time outdoor improves concentration. Children with emotional and mental disorders tend to experience the feeling of depression, lack of concentration and are not hyperactive.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children causes lack of concentration when they are subjected to too much work indoors. Research shows that such children will have better focus and improved concentration if subjected to the outdoor activities. Studies show that children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) perform better in examinations after a scenery walk through a park than after an indoor walk in the neighborhood.

Other studies show that outdoor exercises have positive effects on children with ADHD. Adults who have a shorter span of concentration also experience this condition and engaging in outdoor activities may solve this (Komaroff 3). Spending time in an open natural setting drastically decreases the symptoms of ADHD, mental and behavioral disorders in children.

Workouts in a natural environment offer an emotional and behavioral release for the people with depression while the challenges faced during the adventure in outdoor activities help in regaining trust, self-confidence and improved self-esteem (Sisson 2).

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh showed that patients with spinal surgery might heal faster when exposed to the natural light. When they are under medication, they tend to experience pain and stress. Another study reported that when a patient views outside through the window it has a positive impact on the healing process. This is due to the fresh air coming in from the window (Komaroff 3).

Other studies have also shown that, spending leisure time in nature decreases prevalence to diseases such as blood pressure, heart failure, and sympathetic nerve activity. The anti-cancer protein and natural killer cells increase over time to prevent the infection and the growth of the cancer cells.

Body exercises done outdoors in green and blue natural, water like swimming enhance the growth of such body protective cells. Studies have also proved that engaging in outdoor activities increases body energy, more positive hyperactivity, less depression, anger reduction, less confusion, and reduced stress as compared to the indoor workouts (Sisson 1).

Spending time outdoor means going outside the enclosed setting to a natural space where one gets enough time to adventure what is new in the natural setting. Researches proof that engaging in outdoor activities is beneficial for the growth and development of the physical and mental wellbeing of an individual. In children, spending time outdoor prevents the emotional and behavioral disorders.

A lot of research has been done to counter the claims that indoor activities play the same role as those by the outdoor activities in the physical and mental health of an individual such as the cost and the trouble associated with indoors. For a healthy living, both the children and the adults must be engaged in the outdoor activities in the natural setting such as rivers, mountains and forests.

Komaroff, Anthony. A Prescription for Better Health: Go alfresco. Boston : Harvard Health Publications, 2012. Print.

Sisson, Mark. The Rich and Measurable Benefits of Spending More Time in Nature . Oxnard: Mark’s Daily Apple, 2012. Print.

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IvyPanda. (2020, March 11). Why Is It Important to Spend Time Outdoors. https://ivypanda.com/essays/benefits-of-spending-time-outdoor/

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IvyPanda . 2020. "Why Is It Important to Spend Time Outdoors." March 11, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/benefits-of-spending-time-outdoor/.

1. IvyPanda . "Why Is It Important to Spend Time Outdoors." March 11, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/benefits-of-spending-time-outdoor/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Why Is It Important to Spend Time Outdoors." March 11, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/benefits-of-spending-time-outdoor/.

The Importance of Planning Ahead

Let’s say you’re finding yourself having to do a large task; or maybe, you’ve got several large things that need to be accomplished or carried out all at once. This feels overwhelming, doesn’t it? To make things easier for yourself, you decide to just go about what you need to do without any forethought. In other words, you’re “winging it”. However, this is a big mistake. 

If you don’t have a plan for what you’re doing,  you’re potentially not just placing yourself in danger, but others as well . Planning ahead is absolutely vital, no matter what it is you’re planning ahead for. If anything, it’s essential and demonstrates professionalism, something you’ll need with your career no matter what field it may be. Here are five reasons why planning ahead is unquestionably important in both your professional and daily life, and how it can help relieve stress in the long-run. 

1) It reduces stress  

Knowing that you need to achieve multiple goals is undoubtedly stress inducing. With a  distinct rise in stress and anxiety levels during 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic , stressful situations can quickly snowball into feelings of panic or unease. You’re most likely to be stressed over an event that is going to take place, a deadline that is drawing near, or maybe you feel as though you could do something wrong. 

Planning ahead will reduce stress, as you’ll know how to approach the issues you might be facing instead of going headlong into it without knowing what to expect or how to adapt. Careful planning will allow you to analyse the situation and determine the right path for success. It does not matter whether you’re planning in advance for something days or even months away, you’ll feel satisfied knowing that everything will be under control and you won’t be worrying about that day when it comes, allowing you to live in the moment once all the planning is done. 

2) It enables better risk versus reward situational analysis  

As mentioned in the previous reason, planning allows us to analyse the situation so we can then decide what to do next. If we rush into the problem without any precognition, then things may go awry and escalate even further than before. The principal thing here is to take a step back and look at what is present. 

You’ll need to consider what risks are going to be created. Are they very likely to happen? Are the chances very low? If consequences do occur, will they be large or small? Just because there are going to be risks, especially if they’re sizable ones,  doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still go ahead with the plan if it’s the only course of action you can think of . It’s a gamble but taking risks is a part of life as it helps us grow by learning where things went wrong. Failure is  never  a terrible thing. 

3) You’ll learn to be proactive  

Whenever we find ourselves confronted with an event that may be daunting or stressful, it can trigger a physiological response in us. This is referred to as the fight-or-flight response which, despite its name, actually has three different possible manners of reacting to an occurrence. These three reactions are fight (you’ll immediately respond to the situation without thinking of a course of action), fright (you’ll freeze up and not be able to do anything because you don’t know how to handle the situation), and flight (you avoid the situation entirely and, in some cases, get as far away from it as you can). 

Such behaviour is an example of being reactive, but what you need to learn is  how to be proactive . Tying in to the two previous reasons, this means you’ll carefully figure out what to do before you execute your idea. Once you learn how to do this, you’ll eventually pick it up as a habit and use it as a replacement for your old reactive one, making it second nature. 

4) You’ll leave room for changes and updates  

While it’s certainly good to have a meticulous and detailed plan of action, not everything can always be maintained. Nine times out of ten, you’ll be finding that your course of action is going to change, whether that’s in the leadup to the execution of the plan or as it commences. By formulating a plan during the beginning stage of a task, you can think of alternate paths to take if your primary idea has  started to go askew . It doesn’t matter if these changes are only little ones; as long as you know how to bounce back, then everything will be fine. Remember – expect the unexpected! 

However, you might find that you’re changing the plan even though nothing has gone wrong. This is also perfectly acceptable, especially since you know what your alternate route (or routes) will be. 

5) You’ll know exactly how to reach your goals  

Of course, you know what your  goal  is. It’s only a case of  how  you’re going to get to it, and this isn’t something you can easily do by rushing into things. By incorporating and understanding the previous four reasons, you’ll know precisely how to achieve what you set out to do. 

Nobody should act without a proper plan. The thought of having to carry out a large task, if not several of them at once, can be a great cause of stress, which can be heavily reduced if you know exactly what you’re doing. With a plan implemented, it gives you a chance to analyse the various paths you could eventually take and consider the possibilities of where things could go wrong. Even if the likelihood is high that things do go wrong, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go ahead with what you had mapped out as things might turn out better than you expect them to.  

Planning also gives the benefit of learning how to be proactive instead of reactive and running into the tasks without any forethought. You’ll additionally contemplate any possible changes or updates to what you have decided whether or not it has disrupted your original plans, allowing you to calculate how you’ll reach the goal set out for yourself. 

This article covered just five reasons why planning ahead is an important practice that must be used. If you would like to know how Ceed can help you live a more proactive and productive lifestyle,  contact us today !  

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Outdoor play: why it’s important for students

Children produce more energy aerobically compared to adults. Children are able to maintain their high energy levels throughout the day without feeling fatigued as quickly as adults. Integrating outdoor breaks, such as recess or outdoor lunch, allows children to exert their energy in a healthy and manageable way. Outdoor time offers many cognitive, emotional, and physical benefits. While prioritizing outdoor time may be a challenge to some,  it’s important to emphasize and raise awareness of the importance of outdoor play and recess. 

Outdoor time offers many benefits to a child’s physical and mental health . In this post, we will discuss why outdoor play is necessary for a child’s development regardless of their age.

Recess improves social skills 

Outdoor time during school hours encourages children to interact with one another and work on socialization, a lifelong trait that will guide them through their life. Learning how to share, work together, and communicate clearly are best learned through continued practice. Kids learn numerous communication skills, like adaptation, problem-solving, and negotiation through outdoor play. 

Outdoors encourages creative thinking

Outdoor time boosts imaginative thinking and creativity –   children take an average of 15 minutes to decide what to play and who to play with. Through unstructured play, children are free to create their own worlds and have control over what narrative they choose, which is a fun break from their busy schoolwork. When exercising their creativity, they are able to broaden their views and  ways of thinking. Activities and free play during recess provide an opportunity to grow creatively, which directly impacts their classroom performance by improving their concentration and retention.   

Reduces stress and anxiety 

Stress is the reality of everyday life for most students. Luckily, unstructured play is the best means for reducing stress and anxiety during school hours. Nature provides a restorative environment and stimulates all senses, relieving a child from any built up emotions they may undergo. From hearing the birds chirp to seeing the trees or touching the grass, recess provides an open space for play with endless possibilities to get all energy out in a robust way. Because outside time reduces stress and other negative emotions , acknowledging opportunities for outdoor activities is not only beneficial to students, but to the teachers and staff as well. 

It boosts self esteem and encourages problem solving

Connecting with peers through imaginative play or mastering physical skills in the playground are opportunities for children to flourish. In an environment where a child is taking risks or experimenting with skills, their confidence is likely to boost as they feel comfortable enough to step out of their comfort zones. During recess, students often have to practice their problem-solving skills to compromise or settle disagreements with peers. It’s vital to allow them to resolve issues between themselves in order to build resilience.

Establishes healthy sleep cycles and mood stabilization  

Vitamin D from sunshine helps improve mood stabilization and healthy sleep cycles. The physical benefits the sun provides to children are many, one being that they are able to focus for longer periods of time without disruptions. Outdoor activity also supports both heart and brain function. There is no doubt that physical activity is healthy for a child’s development. Having a scheduled time during their 6+ hours of school gives children a period to exert their energy in a safe space.

Recess contributes to student success 

Prioritizing outdoor play is essential to a child’s development regardless of age. Encouraging children to take advantage of outside time will help them learn new physical skills, such as balancing or sliding, while also evolving their social skills and academic achievement. The combination of fresh air and sunshine are known to increase overall health and spirit. Whether it’s imaginative play or social play with fellow classmates, recess is crucial to their physical and mental health. The CDC recommends a minimum of 60 minutes a day of physical activity for children. Though physical education classes or recess may meet part of that need, it’s important to raise awareness of the value outdoor time offers.

About Hazel

Hazel Health, the leader in school-based telehealth, partners with school districts to provide mental and physical health services to K-12 students where they are–at school or home. Hazel’s diverse, culturally competent providers specialize in the health challenges of children and teens and partner with parents and school staff to make the best care decisions for students. Hazel is committed to improving health care equity and is available regardless of family income, geography, insurance status, or ability to pay. Hazel’s mission is to transform children’s access to health care, because when students feel better, they learn better.

Learn more at hazel.co .

Hazel Health is the nation’s largest and most trusted provider of school-based telehealth. By partnering with districts and health plans across the country, Hazel transforms schools into the most accessible front door to pediatric healthcare. Today, Hazel’s licensed providers deliver teletherapy and virtual care (in school or at home) to over four million K-12 students, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. Hazel aims to remove all barriers to the mental and physical health care that children need to thrive: in school, at home, and in life.

Hazel Health, the leader in school-based telehealth, partners with school districts to provide mental and physical health services to K-12 students where they are–at school or home. Hazel serves nearly 2 million students across 100 school districts, helping to reduce chronic absenteeism and unfinished learning by addressing gaps in health care access. As an extension of the school health team, Hazel helps schools immediately address student physical and mental health care needs. Hazel’s mission is to transform children’s access to health care because when students feel better, they learn better.

Learn more at Hazel.co/hazel-in-schools .

Hazel Health, the leader in school-based telehealth, partners with school districts to provide mental and physical health services to K-12 students where they are–at school or home. Hazel helps school districts address chronic absenteeism, unfinished learning, and school enrollment, by addressing gaps in health care access.

Hazel Health, the leader in school-based telehealth, partners with school districts and families to provide mental and physical health services to K-12 students where they are–at school or home. Instead of waiting for an appointment with a doctor or therapist, children can see a Hazel provider for a telehealth visit, at no cost to families. With guardian permission, Hazel’s telehealth platform allows children to connect with a health care provider within minutes, or a therapist within days of referral. Hazel’s providers can help with everything from allergies and stomach aches to anxiety and depression. With Hazel, children can get the care they need when they need it.

Learn more at Hazel.co/how-hazel-works .

Hazel Health, the leader in school-based telehealth, partners with school districts and families to provide mental and physical health services to K-12 students where they are–at school or home. At no cost, and regardless of insurance status, Hazel’s providers can help with everything from allergies and stomach aches to anxiety and depression. With Hazel, children can get the care they need when they need it.

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Related content

Why Is Planning Important? (25 Reasons)

There’s a familiar wisdom: “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” I’ve always held this thought close because it captures the essence of why planning matters.

It’s the feeling of crossing off that last item on your to-do list that rewards a well-made plan. It’s about facing the busyness of life with intention, not just action.

Planning goes beyond simple lists; it’s about setting realistic goals for what we can accomplish. It helps all of us, regardless of how swamped we feel.

Keep reading, and find out why planning isn’t just a task — it’s an essential life skill.

Table of Contents

Planning Sets Clear Goals and Objectives

Planning aids in making informed decisions, planning identifies potential obstacles and trials, planning outlines steps to achieve these goals, planning ensures adaptability and flexibility, planning enables the setting of priorities, planning promotes financial stability and control, planning minimizes risks and uncertainties, planning improves time management, planning allows for better resource allocation, planning helps in tracking progress and performance, planning fosters a proactive approach to tasks, planning encourages long-term vision and foresight, planning boosts confidence and peace of mind, planning facilitates efficient workflow coordination, planning optimizes productivity, planning enhances team communication and collaboration, planning minimizes crisis management needs, planning allows for better quality control, planning spurs personal and professional growth, planning establishes a sense of direction and purpose, planning enhances strategic thinking, planning maximizes available opportunities, planning enables consistency in actions and results, planning cultivates discipline and responsibility, frequently asked questions, final thoughts.

Clear goals and objectives give direction to our efforts. When we plan, we establish what we want to achieve and how we’ll get there, creating a roadmap for success. This guides our daily actions and ensures all tasks contribute to an overarching purpose.

Having precise goals and objectives deters us from distractions and keeps our energy channeled toward productive activities. This prevents wasting effort on unrelated tasks and maintains everyone’s focus on what’s important.

Goals and objectives are the motivators that keep us focused and striving forward. They rally a team around a common cause and can create a shared sense of accomplishment.

With everyone working towards the same aims, the collective effort can achieve greater results and foster unity within the group.

Informed decisions are the product of careful planning and groundwork. When we plan, we collect data, explore various scenarios, and decide how to utilize resources best.

This preparation enables us to choose actions that advance our goals in the most effective way.

Here’s why preparation is crucial for informed decision-making:

• It gives us insight into our current situation through thorough data analysis.
• We can predict and evaluate risks, preparing us for different eventualities.
• By understanding our resources, we can allocate them where they’ll make the most impact.

Armed with comprehensive information, our choices are more strategic and less about guesswork. When the unexpected happens, a solid plan provides us with a framework to adapt our decisions swiftly while keeping our goals in sight.

Planning thus equips us with the framework for consistently making good choices and staying agile.

Every journey toward a goal can encounter roadblocks. Planning helps us foresee these potential obstacles, allowing us to strategize ways to either avoid or overcome them.

Recognizing such hurdles in advance prevents them from derailing our plans and allows us to progress smoothly toward our objectives.

Identifying challenges ahead of time is advantageous:

• It prompts the creation of contingency plans.
• We can minimize the impact of challenges on our progress.
• We are better equipped to stay the course even in the face of adversity.

Awareness of potential obstacles optimizes our use of time and resources — key factors in maintaining a steady pace toward our goal.

Moreover, this aspect of planning strengthens our problem-solving skills. It makes us question assumptions, plan for contingencies, and increase our overall strategic acumen.

Planning creates a step-by-step guide towards your goals. It’s like following a recipe; you have all the necessary steps laid out for you.

Each step is a clear action that moves you closer to your goal. This way, you can avoid feeling overwhelmed and focus on one task at a time. Completing each step also builds momentum, giving you small wins and boosting your motivation as you progress.

Having a plan with outlined steps provides structure to your efforts. It prevents confusion about what needs to be done next and keeps you aligned with your final goal.

This structure is essential for making consistent progress and actually achieving what you set out to do.

When you plan, you’re not just deciding what to do; you’re also preparing to adjust when needed.

Changes can come from anywhere — new trends, unexpected events, or new information. Planning ensures you can adapt to these changes without straying from your main goals.

• New information : When you learn something new that could impact your goals, you can adjust your plan to include it.
• Unexpected events : If something happens that you didn’t see coming, you’ve got a framework to figure out the next steps.
• Changing trends : Trends can shift quickly; with a plan, your goals can evolve as needed.

Flexibility in planning is all about staying relevant and effective. This adaptability is essential for long-term success in a world that’s constantly changing.

Having a plan helps you figure out what needs your attention the most. When multiple tasks are competing for your time and resources, it’s important to know which ones are crucial for your goals.

Planning helps you see the big picture and identify which pieces of the puzzle are key:

• You know what is urgent and needs to be done right away.
• You understand what is important and can contribute significantly to your goals.
• You find out what tasks can wait or be delegated to others.

This way, you can focus your time and effort on where they will have the most impact.

Prioritizing stops you from spreading yourself too thin and ensures that important tasks are not overlooked. It helps you stay productive and effective, making the best use of your time and resources.

When you have a plan, you’re better able to handle your money and keep your finances steady. Planning means you keep track of how much money you have, how much you’re spending, and how much you need for the future.

It’s like planning a trip; you make sure you have enough fuel in the tank to get to your destination without running out.

By planning, you budget for expenses , save for emergencies , and invest for growth . This way, you’re not caught by surprise with bills you can’t pay. It’s about control — making sure you’re in charge of your money instead of money worries controlling you.

Financial stability comes from this kind of careful planning. Whether for your own life or a business, being stable with your money means less stress and more space to focus on reaching your goals. Stability and control go hand in hand, and planning is the key to both.

Life is full of things we can’t predict, but planning helps you deal with them better. By thinking ahead, you can figure out what might go wrong and have a plan to handle it. This doesn’t mean you can avoid all risks, but it does mean you’re ready for them.

• Spotting trouble : When you plan, you look for things that could cause problems.
• Getting ready : You make plans for how you will deal with these troubles if they happen.
• Staying calm : Knowing you have a plan in place helps you stay calm when faced with risks.

Reducing risks and being less uncertain makes it easier to move forward toward your goals. It’s about being smart before problems happen instead of just reacting to them after they occur.

Good planning is like a recipe for managing your time well. It helps you see how much time you have, what you need to do, and when you should do it. With a plan, you’re less likely to waste time because you know exactly what your tasks are for the day.

Planning ahead means you set aside time for the important things and cut out what’s unnecessary. This allows you to focus on what’s really needed and get things done more effectively.

With a plan, you can balance work, rest, and fun, making sure no part of your life takes over completely.

When you manage your time through planning, your days feel less rushed and more productive. You’re able to work smarter , not harder, because you’ve laid out a clear timeline for your tasks.

Having a plan means you understand where to best use your resources, which include time, people, and money. It ensures you are not wasting any of these valuable resources on things that do not help you reach your goals. Think of it like packing for a trip; you need to decide what’s essential to take with you to have a successful journey.

When you plan, you:

• Assign resources where they’re needed most.
• Avoid spending on things that aren’t important.
• Make sure you have enough resources to finish what you start.

By doing this, you make the most out of what you have. You put every part of your resources to good use, which means less waste and more efficiency. Better resource allocation helps you reach your goals faster and more smoothly.

Keeping track of how well you’re doing is a big part of reaching your goals. Planning lets you set up ways to measure this progress. It’s like having milestones on a road trip — each one you pass shows you’re getting closer to where you want to go.

Through planning, you:

• Set benchmarks that show you how far you’ve come.
• Can see if you need to work faster or slower.
• Get to celebrate small successes on the way to your big goal.

These measures help you understand if you’re on the right track or if you need to change how you’re working. It’s an important part of making sure you’re moving towards your end goal and lets you feel a sense of achievement as you see the progress you’re making.

Planning makes you proactive, which means you take charge of what needs to be done instead of just reacting to things as they happen. It’s about being ready and taking the initiative.

When you’re proactive, you’re not waiting for problems to appear — you’re already working to prevent them or get a head start on solving them.

With a proactive approach, you are:

• Staying ahead of problems.
• Preparing for opportunities.
• Always thinking about the next step.

This method of dealing with tasks makes you more efficient and less stressed because you’re not constantly putting out fires. Instead, you’re setting things up so that problems are less likely to happen.

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Being proactive gives you a sense of control over your work and your life, making you more confident in your ability to handle whatever comes your way.

Putting together a plan encourages you to look ahead and think about the future. This isn’t just about guessing what might happen; it’s about preparing yourself to meet and even shape the future you want.

Having a long-term vision means you have a clear idea of where you want to be down the road, and foresight is about understanding the steps you need to get there.

With foresight, you create a roadmap for the coming years, not just for the immediate time. It helps you to:

• Stay focused on the bigger picture, even when smaller, day-to-day tasks compete for your attention.
• Anticipate changes and possible trends in your field, so you’re never caught off guard.
• Align your short-term efforts with your long-term goals to make sure everything you do contributes to where you want to end up.

Long-term vision and foresight mean that you are working today with tomorrow in mind. It keeps you moving in the right direction, making sure that each step takes you closer to your ultimate goals.

Knowing that you have a plan in place can really help with your confidence. It’s like having a map when you’re in unfamiliar territory — you feel more secure and ready to face what’s ahead.

When you plan, you know that you have thought things through and are prepared for different possibilities.

Peace of mind comes with this confidence. You’re less anxious about the unknown because you’ve laid out a path to follow. This makes it easier to focus on the here and now, knowing you’re set for the future.

Workflow coordination is all about making the work process smooth and efficient. Planning plays a key role in this because it helps organize tasks and ensures everyone knows what they’re supposed to do.

If your team is like a machine, then planning is like the oil that keeps all the parts moving without friction.

Planning helps to ensure that:

• Every task is assigned to the right person.
• Work is done in the right order to avoid backtracking or delays.
• Everyone knows what to do and when so they can prepare and act quickly.

Good workflow coordination means the work gets done faster and with fewer mistakes. It saves time and helps everyone stay on track. When people work well together, more can be done, and the whole team or project moves forward more effectively.

Planning can help you do more in less time. It’s like having a clear map when you’re on a road trip — you know the best route to take and avoid getting lost. With a detailed plan, you spend less time figuring out what to do next and more time actually doing it.

Good planning means you’re:

• Clear on what tasks are most important.
• Ready to start working right away.
• Not wasting time on things that don’t help you reach your goal.

By focusing on the right tasks, your work is more effective. You get more done because you’re not sidetracked by unimportant tasks. Planning sets you up for a productive day, every day.

When you plan with a team, everyone knows what’s going on. It’s like having everyone in sync, each person playing their part at the right time. Planning helps people work together better because they know what’s expected and when.

Here’s how it helps teams communicate and work together:

• Clear roles : Everyone knows what their job is.
• Shared goals : The team is united and moving in the same direction.
• Updates and feedback : It’s easier to share progress and talk about what’s next.

When teams have good communication and work well together, they can achieve much more. Problems get solved faster, and everyone feels part of the success. This is how great teamwork happens, and it all starts with a solid plan.

Dealing with emergencies can be stressful. However, if you plan ahead, you’re less likely to face a crisis.

Planning lets you see problems before they become big issues. It’s like putting a safety net under a tightrope walker — if something goes wrong, you’re prepared to catch the fall.

Good planning means:

• You’re not always “putting out fires”.
• You can stay calm because you have a plan for when things get tough.
• You can focus on moving forward instead of always fixing things.

By reducing the need for last-minute solutions, planning saves you stress and trouble. Instead of reacting to problems, you’re ahead of them. This helps keep everything running smoothly, and when surprises do happen, you’re ready to handle them.

Quality control is making sure that everything you do meets a certain standard. Planning helps with this because it sets out what those standards are and how to reach them. It’s like a chef tasting a dish at different stages to make sure it’s turning out right.

With a plan in place, you can check your work as you go. You can fix small mistakes before they turn into big problems. This way, the final result — whether it’s a product, a service, or any project — is the best it can be.

Good planning sets up checkpoints where you can review what’s been done. This helps you stay on track and maintain the quality of your work.

Better quality control leads to better outcomes and happier people, whether they’re customers or those using what you’ve created.

Growing as a person or in your career doesn’t just happen — it comes with trying new things and learning from experiences.

Planning gives you a structure to follow as you aim to get better in different areas. It’s like having a workout routine; by following it, you get stronger and fitter over time.

Here’s how planning helps you grow:

• Setting goals : You know what you want to improve on.
• Learning new skills : You make time for training and practice.
• Reflecting on progress : You look back at what you’ve done and see how far you’ve come.

By making plans for growth, you push yourself to keep learning and improving. You’re not stuck in one place because you’re actively working to get better. This not only helps in your personal life but also boosts your career.

Feeling like you know where you’re going gives your actions meaning. Planning creates a sense of direction and purpose, like having a personal mission statement. It keeps you moving forward with intention instead of just going through the motions.

When you have direction and purpose:

• You’re more motivated to achieve your goals.
• You make choices that align with what’s important to you.
• You have a reason for doing what you do every day.

Having this direction helps steer all of your actions. You know why you’re working hard and what you’re aiming for. This sense of purpose drives you to keep moving toward your goals, even when it gets tough.

Strategic thinking is all about making plans that will help you in the long run. It’s like playing chess; you need to think about your moves and how they will affect your future game.

Planning encourages you to develop this kind of thinking because you have to make decisions that are not just good for now, but for the future too.

With planning, you learn to look ahead, think about trends, and anticipate what might happen. This helps you make smarter choices and plan better strategies. Strategic thinking is a skill you can get better at over time, and planning is a great way to practice.

Developing strategic thinking through planning means you are better prepared for the future. You can set goals and figure out the best way to achieve them. This kind of thinking is valuable in all areas of life and can lead to better decisions and more success.

When you have a plan, you’re ready to grab opportunities as they come. It’s because you have a clear idea of what you need and what you can do. Planning helps you make the most of chances that could help you move forward with your goals.

Planning lets you:

• Identify opportunities : You can spot chances to improve or grow.
• Prepare to act : You’re ready to go when a good opportunity shows up.
• Match opportunities to goals : You can tell if an opportunity will actually help you with your goals or not.

Being ready and able to take advantage of opportunities is important. It can mean the difference between making a big leap forward or missing out. Planning helps you be in the right place at the right time with the right tools.

Consistency means doing things in a steady and reliable way. When you plan, you create routines and habits that make sure you keep doing what works. It’s like a daily workout routine that helps you stay in shape.

Here’s how planning helps you stay consistent:

• Daily tasks : You know what you need to do each day.
• Expectations : Others know what they can expect from you.
• Results : Keeping up consistent actions leads to consistent results.

A plan helps you stick to a successful formula without getting distracted by new, unproven ideas. This kind of consistency can build trust if you’re working with others and help you make steady progress toward your goals.

Discipline is about making yourself do the things you need to do, even when you might not feel like it. Responsibility means that you are the one in charge of your actions and their outcomes. Planning helps develop both of these qualities.

With a plan, you have a schedule to stick to, which helps you build discipline.

You are also the one making the plan, which means you’re taking responsibility for what needs to be done. It’s like deciding to save money by cooking at home instead of eating out — you’re choosing a plan that requires discipline but is better for you in the long run.

A good plan helps you take control of your life and your goals. This can lead to better habits and more success, personally and professionally.

What are some common misconceptions about planning?

There are some common misconceptions about planning that may hinder its effectiveness or value. Here are some examples:

• Planning is only for big or complex projects : This is a misconception that planning is not necessary or useful for small or simple projects. However, planning can help any project by providing clarity, direction, and structure, regardless of its size or complexity.

Planning can also help avoid potential problems or risks during the project execution.

• Planning is a one-time activity : This is a misconception that planning is done only at the beginning of a project and then forgotten. However, planning is an ongoing process that requires constant monitoring and updating to reflect changes or feedback in the environment.

Planning can also be flexible and adaptable to accommodate new opportunities or challenges that may emerge during the project execution.

• Planning is the same as strategy : This is a misconception that planning and strategy are interchangeable terms. However, planning and strategy are different but related concepts that serve different purposes:

– Strategy is a long-term and comprehensive plan that defines the overall direction and goals of the organization. – Planning is a short-term and specific plan that outlines the activities and tasks to implement the strategy.

What is the difference between planning and goal setting?

Planning and goal setting are two related but distinct concepts.

Goal setting involves the process of defining specific objectives or desired outcomes that you want to achieve. This could be anything from a personal goal like running a marathon to a professional goal like achieving a specific sales target.

The key characteristic of goal setting is that it focuses on specific outcomes you want to achieve.

Planning , on the other hand, involves determining the strategies and tactics necessary to achieve those objectives. In other words, planning is identifying the steps you need to take to achieve your goals.

While goal setting and planning are distinct concepts, they are closely related and essential to achieving success.

Goal setting helps ensure you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, while planning provides a roadmap for how to get there. Even the most well-defined goals can be difficult or impossible to achieve without effective planning.

Does planning take away spontaneity?

Not necessarily. While planning organizes your time and tasks, it also allows you to set aside time for spontaneity and flexibility. Good planning accounts for the unexpected and adapts to changes.

What should I do if my plan isn’t working?

If your plan isn’t working, assess what is going wrong. Do you need more time? Are the steps not clear? Adjust your plan based on your assessment. Sometimes, consulting with others or taking a break can provide fresh insight.

As we end, let’s remember why planning stands out as a smart move. It’s the key that starts the engine of our daily actions. With a solid plan, we make clear decisions, save time, and dodge troubles.

You know the feeling when things just work out? That’s planning, doing its magic!

Let’s keep it in mind — the time we spend making plans today is our investment in a smoother tomorrow. Simple planning can make the big things and the small daily tasks easier to handle.

This applies to all of us, no matter where we come from. Let’s all plan a bit better and watch how it helps us build strong and happy lives.

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Jessa Claire

Jessa Claire is a registered healthcare provider. Music lover. Daydreamer. Thalassophile. Foodie. A hardworking Capricorn. Most days, an incurable empath. An old soul. Down-to-earth. Vibrant.

When she's not writing, she can be seen relaxing with headphones on or engrossed in her favorite fan fiction book.

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10 Factors to Consider When Planning an Outdoor Event

When you think about outdoor events, you probably think of: festivals, fairs, and sunny days packed full of fun and great memories.

What you may not think of: professional meetings and conferences can also benefit from fresh air, increased capacity, and ease of access. Not to mention the freedom you have to lay out your maps and activate different spaces. No walls, no limitations!

Outdoor settings can be a great way to level up all types of events, like:

• Company all-hands
• Executive retreats
• Networking sessions
• Team-building events
• Marketplaces or exhibitor spaces
• Fundraisers
• Education and workshops

And a ton of others, too!

But, let’s be honest. When you think about outdoor events, you might also think: risk.

Indoor venues often come pre-planned, with reliable processes, tons of amenities, and no question of rain or shine. Outdoor events need to be planned to T to ensure that there aren’t any surprises for your staff or attendees—but don’t worry.

With these ten considerations, you’ll be ready to conquer risk and say hello to the great outdoors.

1. Have a back-up plan

Sounds basic enough but this fundamental is frequently ignored. Rain dates for outdoor events used to be common practice. Due to the difficulty in coordinating schedules, they have fallen out of favor. It may be time to revive this practice as nothing dampens the spirits more than spending time outdoors getting drenched.

One approach to a back-up plan is a flexible agenda. Schedule the outdoor component for the morning or, for a multi-day outdoor event, schedule it on Day 1. If Mother Nature does not cooperate, then you can slide the outdoor portions to the afternoon or another day.

Recommended Resource: Are you planning an in-person event with outdoor activities?  Download the free eBook, Experience Design: The Complete Guide to Creating Memorable Events and learn how to design a memorable experience that meets your event goals🏆. Download Now

2. Select a location with indoor and outdoor venues

Great examples include an outdoor venue that has a chalet, an indoor amphitheater , or an auditorium. Reserve that space and use it as your backup in case of rain.

A couple of times, my company has planned beach dinners for corporate events in sun destinations. Unfortunately, hotels and resorts aren’t able to “spin on a dime”. Twice we were able to select indoor venues without a 4th wall. This provided a great view of the outdoors so participants got the best of both worlds and remained dry. – Anne Thornley-Brown specialist in Executive Retreats

3. Make inquiries about curfews and get permits

Depending on their proximity to residential areas, some outdoor locations may have curfews to limit the disruption to local residents. Be sure to find out about curfews and build a buffer for your outdoor event. If you fall behind schedule, you may have to end the event before the full agenda has been completed. Also, ensure you research whether or not you will need to obtain a permit to host your event outdoors.

4. Be sure to make arrangements for protective cover

The expression “run for cover” is often used to refer to the reaction to a sudden downpour. On hot days or in locations with extreme temperatures, like the desert, providing cover and protection from the sun is just as important.

Consider canopies over tables or a marquee. Remember, marquees cannot be ordered at the last minute. Event planners need to order them in advance and they need to be set up and ready to go. 

5. Provide hydration stations

For hot weather events (particularly those involving alcohol) it’s important to provide sufficient hydration stations for attendees. To minimize the environmental impact of your event, opt away from single-use plastic water bottles. Instead, provide plenty of refill stations and include a branded water bottle in your event swag bag. You can offer this to your sponsors for extra revenue.

6. During transitional seasons, ask participants to come prepared for changes in weather conditions

For example, in the spring and fall, remind them that the weather can change abruptly so ask them to bring boots, warm jackets, hats, mittens, extra socks, and a plastic bag for wet articles of clothing.

7. Keep an emergency kit handy

When planning outdoor events, this increases the number of things that could go wrong. So be sure to prepare for the unexpected. Pop into the dollar store and pick up extra sunscreen, insect repellent, After Bite, umbrellas, and rain ponchos. Remind participants to pack an extra pair of socks and a plastic bag for wet clothing.  Keep an Epi-Pen handy in case someone gets stung by an insect.

8. Select activities that will work well whether they are used indoors or outdoors

There is nothing worse than getting a group all pumped up about an activity and then canceling it. For example, a company that creates outdoor events that brings buyers together with suppliers had a sand castle competition on their agenda. Participants were really looking forward to this. When the rain came it was canceled and the indoor replacement was not as appealing. With careful planning, an approach could have been found to bring this event indoors or an activity that was less dependent on weather could have been selected.

With careful planning, event planners can avoid many of the pitfalls of outdoor events and ensure that everyone has a great time.

9. Ask participants to communicate any discomfort immediately and be prepared to change your plan

I once organized an event in the spring that involved an outdoor campfire. It was warm enough but, unfortunately, by the time we got to the firepit in the evening, the ground was soggy. Participants had been asked to wear boots and warm socks but, despite our reminders, many showed up with only running shoes. Rather than toughing it out when so many people were not prepared, the better plan was to give people a chance to change their wet footwear and socks and head to the lounge with a fireplace that we had reserved as a backup. – Anne Thornley-Brown specialist in Executive Retreats

All of these tips will work in tandem to save outdoor events and ensure that participants enjoy the event and go home in great spirits.

10. Check if your venue is accessible for all

This isn’t something that often features on lists but it’s important to consider all of your attendees and their accessibility needs. Can the venue you are selecting provide reasonable adjustments to include attendees with disabilities both indoors and outdoors? 

The University of Birmingham Conference & Events suggests the following as a starting point to consider accessibility for your event:

• Parking including disability bays or adequate room around each parking space for access
• Accessible and clear pathways: uneven or soft terrain like grassy fields can be challenging
• Clear and regular signage, in sans-serif font
• Quiet and covered areas with seating and some privacy
• Well-trained staff who are wearing identifiable uniforms

Outdoor events are a great way to bring attendees together safely while offering them a different experience. It’s important to consider all the factors shared to create a memorable experience for your attendees.

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Seven Reasons Why We Avoid Planning Ahead and What to Do About Them

The following post was written by Kamran Akbarzadeh, PhD, founder of Dream Achievers Academy. View the original post here: https://www.dreamachieversacademy.com/seven-reasons-why-we-avoid-planning-ahead/

Many of us take action without proper planning. As Benjamin Franklin said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Many fail because they do not take the time to think ahead and plan for success. Without a plan, you have no roadmap to see which routes can take you from where you are to where you want to be.

Planning ahead is an important aspect of dream achieving process. By planning ahead, you become proactive and foresee issues or roadblocks that may come your way and therefore plan the actions to avoid the roadblocks or face them confidently. As author Lester Bittel said, “Good plans shape good decisions. That’s why good planning helps to make elusive dreams come true.” Hence, planning ahead is necessary for effective leadership and long-lasting success.

Despite the benefits of proactive planning, many of us do not like to plan ahead in our personal or professional life. We either wait until the last minute to plan what we want to do or jump into action without any plan. Our lack of interest in planning ahead is rooted in our belief system. The following seven reasons explain why we avoid planning ahead.

1. We are reactive rather than proactive

When we are in reactive mode, we do not plan to perform tasks or meet objectives until we are asked to, or it is urgent. We do not respond appropriately and therefore our reactive plans rarely work. Until we become proactive, we will have little interest in planning ahead.

2. We are not organized

Those who plan ahead are typically better organized than those who do not. We may like the idea of being organized or even expect others to be organized but since we lack organization, we do not believe in the benefit of plans. Indeed, our plans may fall apart, and when this occurs, we lose interest and become even more disorganized. This continues until we hit a roadblock and become aware.

3. We are not self-disciplined

Those who are self-disciplined create order in their personal and professional lives. They have the willpower to stick to their values and take the right actions based on the right plans. Without a well-developed plan, it is difficult to be self-disciplined. As Ramez Sasson said, “Self-discipline is not a severe and limited behavior or a restrictive lifestyle. It is a very important ingredient for success, any form of success.”

When we lack self-discipline, we tend to avoid following through with our plans, which is another reason why we do not like to plan ahead. We come to the conclusion that planning stops us from doing whatever we want to do. We forget that doing whatever we want to do is different from what needs to be done. Without a good plan and self-discipline, we cannot do what is needed to do to get to where we want to be faster.

4. We procrastinate

Some people are good at making plans but procrastinate about implementing the plans. Others procrastinate about planning ahead. They delay planning for success because they think that it is too early to plan, they are not ready, or they may not need a plan at all. The more we procrastinate, the harder it is to come up with effective plans that lead to success.

5. We don’t know how to plan effectively

Planning ahead requires knowledge. There are tools for effective planning but if we do not know them we will not be a successful planner. Therefore, not knowing how to plan effectively results in a lack of interest in planning ahead.

6. We think planning is a waste of time!

We normally don’t do what we don’t believe in. If we think that plans do not work and that planning ahead is a waste of time, we are right! We get what we focus on. We need to change our mindset and see planning as a necessary and important step.

7. We are not patient

Another reason why some of us do not like planning is that we are too hasty and cannot wait for the plans to come to fruition. We just want to jump right into the execution part without the plan in hand. This attitude to planning results in incomplete plans, low productivity, and losses.

About the Author:

When I look back at my life, I see all the events—good or not so good—that have happened in my life as pieces of a chain that were connected together to take me to where I am right now. If one of these pieces were missing, I would not be at this stage in my life. I call some of these events the turning points of my life, and definitely, founding Dream Achievers Academy has been one of those turning points.

Back in 2009, despite my personal and professional success in the engineering and project management fields, I still felt that something was missing inside me; I felt that I was not truly happy inside. I felt that I was not living and leading on purpose. I knew what I was supposed to do, but I was delaying it all the time. I thought I was not yet ready for growth, but in fact, I was standing in my own way.

My desire for adding value to people and helping them grow and achieve their dreams and visions motivated me to finally found Dream Achievers Academy in December 2009.

Since the establishment of Dream Achievers Academy, I have been much happier and more successful. I have authored two award-winning books,  Leadership Soup , and  Get What You Want  that will be part of my legacy. I have also served many through my  training ,  coaching , and  speaking  services.

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