Proper Preparation for an Outdoor Activity in Spring

Spring has sprung! The school year is drawing to a close, the days are getting longer and warmer, and all you want is to spend more time outdoors. Whether to clear your head between homework assignments or spend a Saturday afternoon with friends, there is always a good reason to plan an outing!

Here are a few suggestions for activities: 

• Head out for a walk in your neighbourhood (and cap it off with a visit to a friend)

• Set out on a nature hike

• Get out on your bicycle to explore a more unfamiliar bike path 

• Practice a TikTok dance outdoors

• Organize a picnic

A few tricks to make sure that all goes well:

1. Check the weather forecast

Snow? Sub-zero temperatures? Spring can be unpredictable! Check the weather forecast when planning an outdoor activity and prepare yourself accordingly.

2. What do I wear?

The temperature can change quickly, especially toward the end of the day. Bring clothes that you can put on or remove as needed. You could wear a T-shirt with a vest and a coat, for example. It’s up to you to decide what to wear! 

3. Watch out for mud!

Melting snow and warming temperatures make for messy and muddy trails and sidewalks! If you venture out in your favourite shoes (especially if they’re white!), don’t be surprised if they’re very dirty by the time you get home. You might be better off wearing shoes or boots that you don’t mind dirtying too much! And by the way, did you know that most fabric shoes can be put directly in the washing machine in the unlucky event that you do soil them while you’re out walking? 

4. Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen

Though the sweltering summer days are behind us, the sun’s rays can still be intense, even when it’s overcast. To prevent sunburn, apply sunscreen and wear a hat or a cap!

5. Water is a must!

Even when it isn’t stifling hot, you can still become dehydrated without realizing it. Get into the habit of bringing a water bottle with you wherever you go. You’ll be happy that you thought of it, especially if your activity is taking longer, is more intense than you expected, or if the weather warms up!

Extra friendly tips:

• When leaving for an outdoor activity, regardless of the season, bring a bag of snacks in case you get peckish along the way.

• Make sure to charge your phone before you leave. To take photos, of course, but also in case something happens and you need to make a phone call.

• Even if you don’t always feel like it, tell someone about your plans for the day before you leave. It could be a friend or a family member. 

• In friendship as in nature, respect is a must! Don’t leave any trash behind, let what’s growing keep growing, and do not attempt to touch the animals, even if they’re too cute.

Happy spring outing!