Active Travel Adventures

In Part II of our Camino adventure, we, as a group of Active Travel Adventures listeners, walk "solo together' to complete the Portuguese Way Camino Coastal Route with the beautiful Spiritual Way Variant.  We all had the same itinerary and lodging, but we could walk our own Camino, each day deciding whether to walk with others in the ATA group, solo or with new friends met along the way.

You'll learn what to expect when doing an El Camino ("The Way") to Santiago in Spain, where the relics of St. James are said to be buried under t...

Today we, as a group of Active Travel Adventures listeners, walk "solo together' to complete the Portuguese Way Camino Coastal Route with the beautiful Spiritual Way Variant.  We all had the same itinerary and lodging, but we could walk our own Camino, each day deciding whether to walk with others in the ATA group, solo or with new friends met along the way.

You'll learn what to expect when doing an El Camino ("The Way") to Santiago in Spain, where the relics of St. James are said to be buried under the magnificent cathedral.

You'll g...

We (the Active Travel Adventures Community) are looking at a group of us booking the entire ship (24 guests maximum) for a week in July of 2027 to explore the northern Friesland region of the Netherlands.  I am still working out the details, but is should be under €2000 per person, double occupancy.  Note that we would sail in '27 NOT '26.

When I interviewed my affiliate Boat Bike Tours top guide Tamara (Tammy) about her personal favorite European tour, she said hands down it was Friesland, in northern Holland: beautiful scenery, interesting culture and history and best of all...

Learn different and tasty ways to get the nutritious fuel you need to climb your next summit without running out of steam.  You'll find out when it's good to eat junk food and when you need to pile on the carbs, protein and/or fat.  Let my hiking nutritionist friend Lucy teach you proven techniques to make sure you've got the right food in your pack for your next outdoor adventure.   Bikepackers can use these tips, too!

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links and get more details about planning your nutrition for hiking adventures.

Get FREE...

Many of you are familiar with the disappearance of Gerry Largay, trail name Inchworm.  

In 2013, Gerry went missing near Stratton Maine on her thru hike of the Appalachian Trail.  After Maine’s most extensive search in their history, she was not found.  In fact, it wasn’t until more than two years later that a surveyor found her remains.  So while you may be familiar with the story as it made international news, you probably don’t know that Gerry was my friend and hiking buddy.  

Gerry stepped off the trail to go to the bathroom, a...

Learn several ways to make sure you are getting the best price possible for your next flight!  Finding great airfares can be tricky, but with these travel hacks, you can try to outsmart the airlines!

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links more cool info about today’s show.

Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here.

CONTACT KIT

Resources 

RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPAN...

Learn what to do when you are threatened by lightning, especially if you are caught exposed outdoors including the proper safety position and what to do if someone gets hit by lightning.  You’ll also learn what constitutes a safe shelter during a thunderstorm.  This is important information that could save your life!

We cover:

Learn how to hike and backpack safely in bear country plus how to determine whether a bear is a black bear or a brown (grizzly).  You'll learn what to do if you are  attacked by a bear. How you respond is DIFFERENT depending on which type of bear you encounter!  

You'll learn about proper wilderness food storage and how to hang a bear bag, and why bear spray is best.

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See more cool info about today’s show.

Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and each m...

Learn the nuances of buying travel insurance so you're actually covered for unforeseen accidents, delays, sickness, theft and more.  Many claims are denied because people don't understand their policy. Don't make that mistake and learn what to buy.

On today's show you'll learn WHY and HOW to buy travel insurance, what it generally covers before and during your trip, and how to make a claim.

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES HERE

  Travel Insurance quote: Get a quick quote and compare policies and prices WITHOUT giving them any identifiable information unless you choose to buy.

Have you dreamed about climbing Africa's tallest mountain in Tanzania: Mount Kilimanjaro?  Join Kit as she interviews Damon about he and his wife and friends successful summit of Kili on the Lemosho Route, the prettiest route of them all and the one with the greatest success rate.

We discuss what Damon saw and what it was like each day of the climb.  We talk about dealing with high altitude.  We will learn about the food, guides and porters, and other important details about this amazing adventure.  

We also discuss Damon's after Kili trek wildlife safari in t...

Learn how to safely cross rivers while hiking with expert tips on gear, technique, and decision-making. Avoid one of the top causes of trail deaths with these essential tips.  Crossing rivers may not seem as frightening as bears or lightning—but it’s the most dangerous part of many wilderness hikes.  

Drowning is the #1 cause of death in U.S. national parks and river crossings are a major threat on trails like the PCT and Appalachian Trail.   

Learn how to evaluate river safety before crossing

Learn how to choose the best place to cross

Learn the secrets to choosing the best campsite for your next outdoor adventure!

There are ten things to consider before you set up camp to make sure you are safe and comfortable.  Listen to today's episode to get the scoop.

Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here.

CONTACT KIT

Resources 

RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES

******* EMAIL ME FOR PROMO DISCOUNT COD...

What is a Walking holiday?

A walking holiday is one where you walk, usually from one village to another via beautiful countryside, have lodging at the end of the day, often you have luggage transfer so you don't have to backpack and thus just carry a daypack.  In short, a walking holiday allows you to truly see the destination at a slow pace so that you can really understand the people and culture you encounter on your travels.  It's a wonderful way to explore and have an authentic adventure!

In today's episode we cover the six...

Learn new ways to save money for your next adventure!

Today's episode teaches you areas that you can tap into to build your travel savings account (or any saving account for that matter).  You'll learn ways to spend less, save more and earn more, and do so in way that work for YOU and your lifestyle and values.

Complete SHOW NOTES HERE.

In the SPEND LESS area, you'll learn easy ways to cut costs on:

You'll learn...

I learned how to backpack after the age of 50, when at the time, I didn't even hike.  Which means if I can do it, so can YOU!  I've now been backpacking over a dozen years and have compiled a system of the best practices to safely learn how to carry you 'home' on your back.

We discuss how to condition your body to carrying weight, and how to do so progressively and safely so you minimize any change of injury.

Couple this episode with the How To Buy, Fit and Pack Your Backpack to develop YO...

Today we learn how to avoid the dreaded solo supplements that can add up to as much as 100% of the cost of your adventure!

Discover the 12 ways to waive or reduce the dreaded single supplement add on fees.

We cover:

How to Learn a Foreign Language

In today’s show I interview Kerstin Cable of the Fluent Company about ways we can improve our language learning skills.  We learn what works and what doesn’t in our quest of how to learn a new language.

We cover:

On today's episode, we learn how to build a campfire even in the rain.  Yes it's hard, time consuming and tedious, but it's doable.  You can learn how plus you'll learn how to make a fast fire when the weather cooperates!

 Here's what we cover today:

In today's episode, our group gets settled into our beautiful motor yacht and begin biking some of Croatia's most stunning islands, like Korčula, Mljet, Brač and Hvar as we boat and bike our way from Split to Dubrovnik.

We climb cliffside hills that overlook the majestic, crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, bike through olive groves and vineyards, and explore quaint, historical villages and fortresses.

We end our tour in the UNESCO walled city of Dubrovnik - it's a magical vacation!

Note:  In our previous episode #106 Part I of our Croatia Bike...

Kit interviews Certified Personal Trainer and Coach, Becki Rupp of Trailblazer Wellness about what we need to know, and how to prepare for our big mountain adventures.

We discuss:

Deciding whether to purchase a tent or tarp when you camp is one of your more important (and costly) gear decisions.  There are ten important considerations for determining whether a tent or a tarp is best for your situation.

The problem is, there is no one perfect camping shelter for you AND for each kind of adventure.  There are definite pros and cons to each.  Learn all about them on today's show.

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important information and  links for choosing the right tent or tarp for you.

Get FREE Travel Planners for A...

Learn how to choose between hiking boots, hiking shoes and trail runners for your feet and adventures on today's show.  Gear is expensive and if your feet aren't happy, you won't be happy.  So get tips on choosing the right footwear for you on today's show.

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important information and links for choosing the right hiking footwear for your adventures

Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here.

Learn what features to look for before you buy a sleeping bag, sleeping pad and sleeping bag liner. Discover how to maintain your gear to extend its life. You will get tips on buying camping gear for both car campers, backpackers, bike packers and those going on kayak or canoe tours.  Gear is expensive - don't make a buying mistake!

We cover:

• How to choose a sleeping bag

• Camping versus Backpacking sleeping bags

• Sleeping bag Thermal Ratings

• How to choose the right shaped sleeping bag

• Female and children’s...

Discover the extraordinary red rock canyons, unbelievable arches and other unique landscapes of Utah's "Mighty 5" National Parks!

We visit Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks, plus the cool town of Moab.  Our guest, Ally, tells us about her hiking adventure with ATA affiliate Active Adventures [BONUS:  Email Kit to get an exclusive Discount Promo Code to save on your Utah or any Active tour!] 

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES Get details, see photos and more on today's show here.

Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and each month you will get...

Don't get sick!  Learn the different ways to purify any source of water on today's show with a portable water filter system.  You'll learn the different chemical and mechanical means of purifying lake, stream and river water.  Be safe and hydrated by choosing the right water treatment system for your outdoor adventures!  I've had giardia - one of my most UNPLEASANT experiences:)  Learn from my mistake!

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for choosing the right portable water treatment system for you, plus more cool info about today’s show.

Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adve...

Backpacks can be your most expensive gear choice so choose wisely to get the backpack that is best for your body and budget.  Learn how to fit a backpack and just as important, how to properly pack it on today's show.

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important information and links for choosing, fitting and packing your backpack.

Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here.

CONTACT KIT

Resources 

Emergencies can happen while you are in the wilderness.  Improve your odds of getting back home safely and with minimal discomfort by packing an emergency backpack kit. You can adapt your basic kit to whatever risks your adventure calls for.  Be sure to review your entire emergency kit before you head into the wild to make sure you are prepared in case you or someone else has an emergency and needs attention.

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES HERE

Unpleasant emergencies can be brought about by:

Sudden change in weather

Getting injured

Ge...

Learn the unspoken 'rules' and proper manners of the wild on today's show so that you can minimize your impact on the environment and leave the world a better place.

Complete Show Notes HERE

There are three main areas to consider when we talk about minding our manners in outdoor environments. We will discuss proper behavior in regards to the landscape, wildlife and other people we encounter.  We will discuss Leave No Trace principles, trail sustainability, dealing with wildlife encounters, informal rules of the trail, camping and camp fire best practices, and when to report t...

We explore Slovenia’s Triglav National Park region and visit Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj on one of Kit's favorite European adventures!  

We hike the base area of the Julian Alps from Kranjska Gora.  We bike from there to Lake Bled.  We raft the Sava River, and learn about kayaking Lake Bohinj and the Savica Falls.

In Ljubjiana, Slovenia’s capitol, we take a food tour, a history tour and a day tour to Škocjan Caves, the Lipsic Stud Farm, and the  Predjama Castle.

Learn all about this beautiful, fun and relaxing active adventure...

Hike the famous Annapurna Sanctuary in Nepal - considered one of the world's most beautiful treks!

Today we talk with Stan Jacobson, a 72 year old adventurer who trekked in Nepal's incredible Annapurna Mountain range with Active Adventures.  We hear his story about his unforgettable adventure travel holiday.

SAVE!!! Go with ATA affiliate, Active Adventures (based in New Zealand).  EMAIL ME for an exclusive Active Adventures Promo Code and save $200 off of any of Active's exciting tours!

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about tod...

Learn practical tips and techniques to avoid being a victim when you travel.

We cover tips to avoid pickpockets and robberies, plus how to stay safe in a crowd and on public transportation.  

We also cover my ATM safety tips, debit card safety, and how to make sure no one drugs your drink.  

In addition, we’ll look at ways to prevent getting sick while traveling and what to do in man made or natural disasters.  We also discuss odd laws that you can go to jail for in other countries - many for c...

Learn about the three pillars of sustainability:  enviromental, social and economic and how you can better reflect your values when you travel.  That way the places you love will be enhanced by your visit, rather than hurt.  

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important tips and links for planning your next adventure - sustainably!

Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here.

CONTACT KIT

Resources 

RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPAN...

Explore Alaska's magnificent Kenai Fjords and Denali National Parks by land and sea on today's exciting adventure!  

We hike iconic Alaska trails to get stunning views of the rugged landscape loaded with wildlife and glaciers.  We kayak to watch brown bears feeding on salmon while bald eagles soar above.  We float raft down the river to spot yet more wildlife.  And we take a jeep safari through Denali where we get the opportunity to see even more wildlife on this unforgettable active holiday.

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your adventure, photos and more...

Learn how to camp for FREE on US public lands.  'Boondocking' is a great way to see the USA!  

Learn how to find amazing campsites for no cost on today's show.  You learn the 'rules' for setting up camp on public and sometimes private lands as well as the best way to find a great free campsite.

You'll learn what to look for in a boondocking site, as well as tips and recommendations for safe boondocking.

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about toda...

Finally:  a fun and affordable way to explore Europe!  Join us today to learn about taking a European vacation on a boat and bike tour, where you can see some of the best destinations in Europe on a mostly all inclusive tour.

On a Boat and Bike tour, you only need to unpack ONCE as your 'hotel' is a beautiful sailing ship or barge with a private bath.  Each day you cycle to explore a new destination, either with a guide or self-guided, as your ship moves with you.

On today's show, we interview well-loved Boa...

Do you know what to do if you or someone you meet in the wild gets hurt?  Some accidents require more than the rudimentary items in your backpack emergency kit!

On today's show, we speak with Casey, a Wilderness First Responder expert, to learn different ways we can gerryrig 'supplies' to fix what's gone wrong.  We find out some important medical tips that can help you figure out what to do if you are injured out in the middle of nowhere.  It's an episode you hope you'll never need to use, but will be glad you listened!

Hike and Kayak Iceland!

Kit interviews Brad about his amazing Iceland adventure where he hiked the rugged landscape to see waterfalls and cave dwellings, he glacier hiked in crampons, and kayaked among icebergs in this land of Fire and Ice.  It’s a magical adventure travel destination you’re sure to add to your Bucket List!

Brad went with my affiliate, Active Adventures.  They offer ATA listeners an exclusive discount.  EMAIL ME for the Active Adventures Promo Code.

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool info abo...

Best Travel Podcasts for 2025

Learn about the 25 Best Travel Podcasts for the new year on one of my most popular shows of the year!

In this brief episode, you'll get a quick low down on the winning shows to see if you should add the show to your rotation.

See the COMPLETE LIST HERE

Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here.

CONTACT KIT

Best Adventure Travel Vacations

I've traveled the world over the last eight years, mostly going on active adventure holidays.  On today's show, I talk about the very best adventures I taken on all seven continents.  On each adventure, we hike, bike and/or paddle as we explore new cultures and landscapes.

Each of these adventures have been covered in depth on the Active Travel Adventures podcast and website and are listed below.  Be sure to check them out for more details and to see pics and get more information on planning your next adventure.

S...

Yellowstone and Teton National Park Adventures

Hike, bike and paddle on two of America's most popular national parks:  Yellowstone and Grand Teton in northwest Wyoming!

One today's show, you will hear what you'd see and do, you'll learn about the landscape and wildlife, and details about our guest Irene's trip with my long-time affiliate Active Adventures (EMAIL ME for an exclusive ATA Active Adventures discount Promo Code good for any of their amazing worldwide adventures!).

Yellowstone is the USA's first national park and one of the busiest, so I highly recommend going with on...