5 Tips for Fitting Outdoor Adventure Into Your Busy Schedule

Life gets busy. Between work, errands, social commitments, and everything else life throws at us, it can feel impossible to carve out time for adventure. The weeks slip by, and suddenly, you realize it’s been way too long since you last hit the trail, set up camp, or simply spent a quiet morning outside with your coffee.

But here’s the thing: adventure doesn’t happen by accident. You have to make time for it, the same way you schedule meetings, workouts, or catch-ups with friends. If you wait for the “perfect” time, you’ll keep waiting forever.

So, how do you fit adventure into a packed schedule? Here are a few ideas to help you prioritize the outdoors without sacrificing your responsibilities.

Treat Adventure Like Any Other Commitment

If you had a doctor’s appointment, you wouldn’t cancel it just because you got busy, right? Treat your outdoor time the same way. Whether it’s a morning hike, an overnight camping trip, or a full weekend in the mountains, put it on your calendar in advance and protect that time like you would any other important commitment.

A great trick is to set a recurring adventure block—maybe every Saturday morning is your designated trail time, or the first weekend of every month is your camping weekend. When it’s already in your schedule, you’re much more likely to make it happen.

Start Small—Microadventures Matter

You don’t need to plan a week-long backpacking trip to feel the benefits of the outdoors. Microadventures—short, local excursions—can be just as refreshing. Try a sunrise hike before work, a lunchtime park walk, or an evening hammock session with a book.

If you can’t get out of town, bring nature to you. Eat a meal outside, take your morning coffee to the backyard, or open your windows and let the fresh air in while you work. Every little bit helps.

Plan Ahead for Efficiency

One of the biggest barriers to adventure is the prep time. If packing and planning feel like a hassle, you’re less likely to go. Make things easier by keeping a grab-and-go adventure bag with essentials like snacks, a water bottle, a headlamp, and a small emergency kit. Keep your hiking gear in one spot so you can get out the door quickly.

If you’re aiming for a longer trip, plan it in advance so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. Have a list of nearby trails and campsites ready so that when you have a free weekend, you can hit the road without hesitation.

Say No to Make Room for Yes

Sometimes, making time for adventure means cutting out something else. Look at your schedule and ask yourself: what’s taking up my time that doesn’t bring me joy? 

Maybe it’s a social event you don’t really want to attend, or another hour of scrolling on your phone. Saying no to things that don’t serve you gives you the freedom to say yes to the outdoors. Protect your time and energy for the things that truly make you feel alive.

Find an Adventure Buddy (or Go Solo!)

If accountability helps you commit, find a friend who also wants to get outside regularly. Planning adventures together makes it easier to follow through.

That said, don’t be afraid to venture out solo—waiting for others to be available can sometimes delay your plans. If no one else is free, go anyway! Some of the most rewarding experiences happen when you embrace solo adventure.

Adventure is an Investment in Yourself

At the end of the day, spending time outside isn’t just about having fun—it’s an investment in your mental and physical well-being. Prioritizing adventure isn’t selfish; it’s self-care.

So, look at your schedule right now. Find a block of time, no matter how small, and make space for your next adventure. You won’t regret it. 🌿🏕️✨

Happy adventuring,

A