As COVID-19 restrictions ease up in many parts of the world, governments have also begun allowing people to engage in many outdoor activities that were prohibited when the pandemic hit. Things are yet to go back to the old normal, but hopefully, being able to do these things again can give people the sense of normalcy they’ve likely desired in the past couple of years.
To this end, we’ve come up with a list of must-try outdoor activities that you can safely enjoy with your family and friends during this time, when the world is still dealing with the impact of the covid-19 pandemic. Before you head out, though, you might want to go shopping for an antimicrobial face mask online to keep yourself and others protected while having fun.
1. Picnic
An outdoor picnic is indeed a great bonding activity that you can enjoy with your loved ones. Look for a nice, spacious area with low foot traffic, or have it in your own backyard or patio. Do a potluck session, take out food from your favorite restaurant, or have food delivered to your doorstep before you go. Also consider choosing a theme and getting creative with your setup, or keep it nice and simple for a hassle-free experience. Whatever way you choose to do it, having an outdoor picnic is definitely something you should try and enjoy again this year.
2. Camping
If you’re a nature-lover, camping is a fun outdoor activity that you can certainly have on your list. There are many things you can do at your chosen camping site, be it building a bonfire, having a jam session, biking around, or stargazing at night. Outdoor camping is also a great way to detox from all the hustle and bustle of city life because it allows you to immerse yourself into a new environment. Invite a couple of friends to make the activity more fun and exciting.
3. Barbecue Party
Who says barbecues are a thing of the past? Gather your friends and family for a night of food, movies, and music! Set up a grilling station out on your deck or backyard and prepare a feast of grilled steaks, hotdogs, and beer. Also consider setting up an outdoor cinema, or bringing out some card and board games. Then, turn up the fun with some lively music.
4. Outdoor Sports
For people who want to stay active in 2022, there are certainly plenty of outdoor sports to try and enjoy. From team sports such as baseball, soccer, and softball, to solo sports such as golf and kayaking, there is definitely something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, wanting to try a new sport to learn, or simply trying to get better at a sport you’re already familiar with, playing sports should be on your list of outdoor activities to do this year.
5. Watching Movies at Drive-in Theaters
As the world adapts to the new normal, people have begun looking for new ways to enjoy the activities they love, like watching movies. To give people the opportunity to see upcoming films in safer settings, businesses have looked to the past for inspiration, paving the way for the opening of more drive-in theaters. This outdoor cinema experience allows people to watch films right in the comfort of their own vehicles. In recent months drive-in theaters reported a surge in attendance, which is not so surprising considering that they have allowed people to keep enjoying the big screen without having to go to a crowded place.
6. Shopping at Flea Markets
A flea market is an outdoor market where vendors gather to sell secondhand items at incredibly low prices. Flea markets are a great place to shop because many vendors sell unique pieces you probably won’t find anywhere else. In addition, flea markets offer a fun shopping experience because you can freely haggle, trade or barter goods with vendors. From obscure book titles to eccentric home furnishings, you’ll definitely find something for yourself at flea markets.
7. Going on a Hike
Hiking is not only fun and stress-busting, it also makes for a great cardio exercise! Apart from that, hiking is a wonderful way to explore the outdoors, discover new places, and meet new people. What’s good about hiking is that you can choose the level of difficulty you’re comfortable with. Choose a hiking route you can do in terms of distance, elevation gain, and your fitness level. For this, you might need to ask around and do some research.
8. Open Water Activities
If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, then you should definitely try out some open water activities to get your heart racing. Surfing, boating, paddle boarding, and scuba diving are just a few of the many open water activities offered by thousands of resorts across the country. These activities might seem daunting especially for beginners, but luckily, most places have onsite trainers who can give you a headstart on the basics.
Now, you’ve got some ideas on what to do on your next free day! Just make sure to read about the current COVID-19 guidelines in your prospective destinations, and follow all the recommended health and safety protocols for a smooth getaway.
