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Outdoor Adventure Planning
What's the secret to an outstanding outdoor adventure?
It's no secret - it's all in the planning. Whether you're going on an overnighter, or setting out on a two-week canoe trip - plenty of advance preparation is your key to a safe, successful venture into the outdoors.
Do Your Research
Before you embark on any outdoor activity, know your participants' skills and abilities, and your proposed route. This increases your chances for a safe and enjoyable outing.
What
- What will we do when we get to our destination?
- What knowledge and skills will we need?
- What clothes, footwear or equipment will we need?
- What will we eat?
- What qualifications and experience do the leaders have?
- What are Scouting's policies for the outing?
- What permits and permission will we require?
- What are the skills and capabilities of the group?
- What experience does the group have?
- What is our emergency plan?
- What fears or reservations do the participants have?
- What will we sleep in?
- Will we be accessible by phone? What is the number?
- What is the weather forecast?
- What risks or hazards are we likely to encounter?
- What is our risk management plan?
Why
- Why are we going?
When
- When will the outing take place?
- When are leaders and participants available?
- When will we return home?
Where
- Destination (including route)
- Nearest hospital
- Description of area (rocky, rough terrain, water, etc).
How
- How will we get there?
- How far will we travel?
- How long will we stay?
- How old will the participants be?
- How much will it cost?
Who
- Participants
- Designated First Aider
- Roles and duties of individuals
When working with a new or inexperienced group, spend extra time doing research. Divide the group into smaller segments, giving each one different items to study. Once you've completed your research, you might produce a page describing the adventure. This information will help participants and their parents. You may also refer to it when you plan future adventures...in this way, you'll build up a file library of great planning information!
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