”People say you have to travel to see the world. Sometimes I think that if you just stay in one place and keep your eyes open, you’re going to see just about all that you can handle.” ~Paul Auster, Smoke

Traditionally, vagabonding requires taking an extensive break from your “normal” life. However, you don’t have to travel the world to experience an adventure. There are plenty of opportunities right in your backyard.

Last weekend one of my best friends came up to visit and I took her on a number of tiny adventures in Portland. We went on a walking tour of the city, checked out various art galleries, hiked in the park, enjoyed the happy hour scene, and more! It was fun to reconnect with one of my girlfriends and get to know Portland a little better.

Exploring Portland by foot made me realize that I don’t have to travel the world to experience a little adventure. Don’t get me wrong, there is a lot to be said for traveling extensively. It can change your perspective. However, going on an adventure at home can be just as fun.

If you love exploring, then this post is for you.

Let’s get going with a few tips:

1. Slow down.

It’s so easy get caught up in the rush of everyday life. So slow down and notice your surroundings. Be mindful of the small details in your own neighborhood.

2. Do all your errands by bike.

Riding a bike is fun and a lot faster than walking or running. You’ll be able to cover more ground and can stop along the way to check out local cafes, parks or other city attractions.

3. Walk or run in the early mornings.

Walking or running in the early mornings is a great way to see your city in a new light. The streets are quiet and it’s amazing what you’ll notice when you’re out and about. Every time I go for a walk or run I notice something different in my neighborhood.

4. Take small weekend trips.

Now that Logan is done with his Ph.D. we’ve been exploring Oregon. We took a lot of bike camping trips this summer, went to the Oregon coast, and by the time you read this post we will be exploring Mt. Hood.

And we’re even thinking about taking a few winter bike camping adventures. Camping is inexpensive and a perfect way to reconnect with nature.

5. Explore your local farmer’s market.

Attending local markets is a great way to get to know farmers in your community. Plus, buying and cooking new food can be an adventure. If you’re feeling adventurous you can plan a field trip to a local farm in your community.

6. Get your volunteer groove on.

Sometimes the best way to explore your neighborhood is by volunteering. When I moved up to Portland, I only knew a few people and realized I needed to get plugged into a volunteer network. I found the perfect home at Living Yoga. I’ve met amazing new friends through this organization and have gotten to know the yoga community in town.

So if you’re not volunteering, consider setting aside a few hours a week to do so. Or sign up for a monthly volunteer day with your family.

7. Try a new restaurant.

I love eating! It’s one of my favorite activities. Breaking bread with good friends and family members is one of the greatest joys in life.

As I’ve said before, simple living isn’t about austerity. I still spend money, I just try to do so mindfully. When I do spend my cash, I treat myself to small pleasures (like trying out new restaurants).

8. Step out of your comfort zone and try something new.

It’s easy to get stuck in everyday routines. So it’s incredibly important to try new activities and add diversity to your routine. For example, there are always fun and unique bike related events in Portland. When I first arrived in town I tried to attend as many as possible. One of the most memorable rides was an Art By Bike event. A group of cyclists rode to different art galleries in the city. It was crazy fun and I met a few new friends too.

So sign up for a community event calendar and attend different events. You’ll be amazed by all the interesting people you meet.

9. Go with the flow.

Planning has it’s place. But, sometimes it’s nice to go with the flow by taking opportunities as they arise. Incorporate extra time and flexibility in your schedule to explore so you don’t have to rush.

Remember, there’s no need to rush. Be mindful, observe your surroundings, and have fun!

“Think of mindfulness as ‘hanging out, happily.’ Don’t expect a radically altered mind state – unless felling happy and relaxed is radical for you. Happy and relaxed probably will happen…But having an agenda adds unnecessary and unrealistic complexity to what should be simple.” ~Sylvia Boorstein

If this post helped you, please spread the love. An easy way to do that is by clicking the Facebook “Like” button or the Retweet Button. Thanks for your support.

You don’t realize how much noise you’re surrounded by everyday, until you go into nature.

So turn on all your senses and think of these things: golden yellow fields of grain, lush green trees, the smell of freshly brewed coffee, the sound of birds singing, the wind blowing through your hair, bright flowers, and panoramic views of mountains and farms.

Our senses were on overload at Stub Stewart State Park last weekend. We rode our bikes from Portland, through the burbs, into beautiful farmland, and finally started climbing into the forest. The sights, sounds, and smells were absolutely incredible. Car camping doesn’t compare to the adventure of bike camping.

So if you are looking for cheap, fun, and exciting summer entertainment, then I highly recommend camping by bike. It’s the perfect way to get a fantastic workout, enjoy beautiful state parks, scenery, and stay off the internet.

And it’s one way to get your minimalist groove on. Camping by bike is a great way to figure out what you need and don’t need. Bikes can handle a lot of extra weight, but you’re the one who has to pedal it up a hill. So try to keep your load light, that way you can pedal fast and enjoy the scenery.

How much will it cost?

Depending on the park you go to, you’ll end up spending between $5 and $20 for a camp site, per night. Rest assured you are getting the best deal; hiker/biker camp sites are typically half the cost or less compared to sites for cars and RVs.  And make sure you bring some cash with you!

Planning your route

Do some research on the internet, pick your spot, and start planning.

You have a lot of resources at your fingertips to start planning your route, including Google Maps, bikely, AAA road maps, and USGS maps made of paper.

A word of caution: Google Maps now allow you to map your route by bike.  However, a number of people have noted that google bike maps aren’t that accurate and might unintentionally put you into high traffic areas. So before you hit the road make sure you reconcile your planned route with an updated map of the area. And make sure you take a look at the Google street view option to double check for bike-friendly streets.

So what do you need for this kind of adventure? Let’s take look at a minimum gear list:

1. Bike

2. Bike racks

3. Bike bags, panniers, [buckets] or a bike trailer

4. Bike lights

5. Spare tubes / patch kit

6. Air pump

7. Chain lube

8. Tent

9. Sleeping bag

10. A set of clothes to wear on the bike

11. A set of clothes off the bike

12. A warm jacket (even if its crazy hot outside it can get cold at night).

13. Bike helmet

14. Gloves

15. A hat

16. Rain gear

17. Extra socks

18. Towel

19. Toiletries

20. Flashlights and/or headlamp

21. Spare batteries

22. First aid kit

23. Food

24. Water is one of the most important items you need to bring. A dromedary water bag is a really easy way to carry a lot of extra water on your bike. Don’t get dehydrated out there!

26. Maps

27. And last but not least, a camera or notebook. You’ll want to record this adventure.

Additional resources

For only $3.00 USD you can pick up a copy of Shawn Granton’s amazing little Urban Adventure League Cycle Touring Primer. Granton’s guide is handmade, small, and has a number of excellent tips and tricks for those of you who want to start traveling by bicycle. The guide focuses on bike camping and touring in the Pacific Northwest. However, his tips can be applied to any geographic location.

And before you say, “ohhhh I can’t possibly go bike camping because I have kids,” read these articles for some inspiration:

• Bike camping at Stub Stewart State Park with kids

• 7 kids, 6 adults, and an unforgettable carfree camping trip