You can give the gift of amazing days out doing unforgettable activities ranging from spa pamper sessions to thrill seekers’ delights such as driving experiences or flying an aeroplane. My wife is happy, because she can buy me a wonderful present, and I am ecstatic because I get to try out all sorts of brilliant experiences. And it’s not all about me; there are plenty of gifts for her that I can buy as well.

With so much on offer to choose from, I have collated a list of the entire selection of activity gifts available, all sorted into categories for you. I have written about what the experience days are like, and what you need to know before booking.

What are Experience Days?

Experience days are exactly what they say. Rather than buy someone a physical gift they unwrap, you can choose from a huge range of activities and experiences that you can buy. You go to an experience days website such as Red Letter Days and browse through the experience days on offer. When you buy one, your loved one will receive a pack in the post all nicely gift wrapped that gives details of what the experience day is and how to book the day and location that suits them.

Where to get Experience Days

There are a number of experience days companies online. The way they work is that they do all the hard work of making deals with activity providers and then collate them all together so that you can pick and choose which one you want. You then buy an experience day gift voucher. When someone receives an experience day voucher, all they have to do is to go to the company’s website, enter the voucher code, and choose what day and location they want. Experience days vouchers are usually valid for an entire year after purchase, so if you want to give the gift of hot air ballooning for Christmas, your loved one can activate the voucher in the summer when they want to go. Easy.

Each gift experience company has a slightly different selection of experience days on offer. What I do is to choose the experience day that I want, check that the company does it in the location I want and at the best price, and then buy.

My preferred experience day provider is Red Letter Days. Browse the massive selection of activity gifts and you will definitely find an experience day gift voucher that is perfect for the one you love.

The post Valentine’s Day Gift Experiences for the Outdoorsy Boyfriend appeared first on Active Outdoors.

Whoever the outdoor man in your life is, trying to find the perfect gift can be a challenge. As an outdoorsy man, I thought you might like a few hints as to what gifts would be very much appreciated.
I have split these outdoorsy gift ideas into categories, just to make it easier for you to find a gift that is most suitable for your boyfriend. One word of advice, always check to see whether he has them already. I have specifically chosen these gifts because any outdoorsy man will appreciate them even if he has one already. Always good to get a newer version.

Toys for Outdoorsy Boys

To round up this collection of rather nice gifts for outdoorsy boyfriends, I thought I would include a few toys for those with bigger pockets. I have used all three of these gifts, although I don’t own them, yet (hint hint!).

Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard

Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) gives you the ability to get out on the water and control where you go with a spot of paddling. What’s more, you don’t even have to lug around a massive board on the roof of your car anymore because you can rent inflatable stand up paddle boards delivered to your door nationwide in the UK. Fits easily in the boot of your car to add a bit of adventure to your weekend outing with friends or family.

This little beauty is brilliant in that it doesn’t take up much space and can be inflated to provide hours of fun on the water. You can use it on lakes, rivers and in the sea. I have had lots of fun using it in Cornwall where the waves weren’t quite big enough for decent surfing, but were enough to play around in. The beauty of the SUP is that you can then paddle back out into the sea, provided you haven’t fallen off and stacked it coming in on a wave. Oh the days sent with sand in your face.
If you want to find out more, I have a comprehensive review of stand up paddleboarding.

Sublue Underwater Aqua Jet Scooter

The Sublue aqua jet is a battery powered device that pulls you along on or underwater. The WhiteShark MIX PRO can run for 60 mins & fast charging within just 2 hours.  You can capture epic moments using your smartphone by securing it onto the designated phone mount located on the floater. You can still easily attach your action camera onto the universal mount to transform into an underwater filming tool without additional cost.

We have had a few sessions on these at Center Parcs in Eleveden. It is basically a propeller in a secure housing that you hold in front of you. You can position it to move you in any direction. They are awesome fun and allow you to dive under the water and cruise along at quite a good speed.

It makes the perfect gift if you have your own swimming pool or regularly go on holiday near the sea where the water is clear. If you happen to have a golf villa in Portugal, you will probably want to have one.

The Essential Fitness Tracker for The Healthy Man

Now I don’t have my own fitness tracker because I’m not that competitive. I do however know how well I am doing using my phone stats and everyone else’s fitbits. I am such a cheapskate that I use their times and distances from our group runs that they put on Strava. All I have to do is keep up with them.
Having said that, if you want to know exactly how much activity you are doing and how much sleep you get, the Fitbit is the defacto activity tracker. If you get the Fitbit Charge 2 with the heartbeat monitor, you can use it for interval training, and also for calming meditation sessions.
If you want to track routes, distances, times and heartrate, then you might prefer the Garmin Forerunner 35 GPS Running Watch with Wrist-Based Heart Rate Monitor.

Tools

Swiss Army Knife

If you’re indecisive whether to buy this, I’ll make your mind up for you. Buy it. This version of pocket knife is pretty much the perfect Swiss Army Knife because it has fantastic can/bottle openers which double as screw drivers. The scissors are much better than you think, with both blades being very sharp out of the box, and easy to keep sharp. The saw is quite sturdy and top quality. I have cut through three inch diameter branches with it for backwoods camping easily. Great for cutting through branches for a fire pit.
Some say “but do I really need the cork-screw?” – it’s surprising how many times I’ve saved the day with the cork-screw on one of my Swiss Army Knives over the years, when at a party and the host cannot find his/hers for the wine. Oh, and it’s good for untying knots too as well as tangled necklaces.
All round the Huntsman is probably the most perfect of the range, as it has all the main tools you need/want and none of the tools that you’ll probably not really use.

Leatherman Tool

The Leatherman Wave BLACK (with Free Nylon Pouch) multi-tool is a must have to keep in the glovebox. The Leatherman Wave multi-tool is made famous by its outside-accessible blades that can be deployed with just one hand. The new Wave has larger knives, stronger pliers, longer wire cutters, and all-locking blades. Perfect for any job, adventure, or everyday task.
This is just as good quality as you’d expect from a premium brand and so far it’s done all the minor tinkering I’ve set it to without complaint. It has a good selection of tools and the bit driver works well. I got the bit driver extender as well and this feels good in use. It starts to look expensive when you add in the leather case but it ends up being a really compact combination, which is important for motorcycling, camping etc. Expensive but you pay for quality and I’m not disappointed.

Portable Battery Charger Universal Power Bank

Auto-detect: Detects your device to deliver its fastest possible charge speed with 3.4A (max) output. 20,000mAh Portable Charger External Battery Power Bank for iPhone, iPad, iPod, Samsung, most other Phones and Tablets
Huge Capacity 20,000mAh: it charges an iPhone 7 six times, Samsung S6 more than five times, a large capacity of iPad Air 2 almost two times
High-Speed Charging: 2A unique input enables the portable charger to recharge itself twice as fast as 1A input; Dual USB output ports can charge 2 devices at the same time
Safety Protection: Built-in multi-protection system protect the power bank against over current and short circuit. It’ll automatically turn itself off when short circuit or overloading occurs.

Torches

Small Compact LED Lenser Pocket Torch

The Boost light delivers an outstanding 320 lumens from the CREE LED and an amazing 50 hours battery life is achievable on the Low Power (still 40 lumens) light. The re-configured Advanced Focus System optics deliver a wider area of light in either flood or spot beam options than its predecessor the T7 and the new larger Dynamic Switch makes the torch easier to use with gloves on.
I am very possessive over this torch as it has become my household torch, my holiday torch, my cycling torch.
It is very good and very bright. It fits on my mountain bike with an attachment and is perfect in that on roads you can use the half power setting and unlit areas on full power which is excellent as with the beam adjustment it lights up a wide field of view.
On holiday it is perfectly sized for carrying out on those dark beach walks and for lighting the walk back to the villa.

I have a detailed guide to choosing the best LED pocket torch to help you decide.

USB Rechargeable Head Torch

I did a 6am off road run this morning (in absolute darkness, no rain) using this USB rechargeable head torch light. I’m delighted with it. It’s super light weight, has excellent ‘brightness’ allowing me to see hazards such as fallen branches and is comfortable to wear ( I had no cap or hat on). I had been concerned that it might bounce around; not a bit of it!
It is simple to use, then again it’s a light, so you’d expect that.
So if you’re looking for a light for a bit of light running in the dark, this product is exactly what you are after. Easy to charge via USB. Love the idea of no batteries. Very powerful for size glows white or red via button selection.

Body Worn Running Torch

No more holding a torch or having the one strapped to your head bouncing about in that really irritating way. 90-250 lumens of super brightness: High intensity light within 20 meters area illumination distance to ensure you can see potential obstacles or hazards; red taillight with warning triangle for better visibility from oncoming traffic drivers

3 Light Modes With Rechargeable Micro-USB: High beam,low beam, and flashing;synchronous function for headlight and taillight; USB charging only 5 hours, can be used at least 3-5 hours. Please charge every 6 months if you don’t use it for a long time
PERFECT PRESENT: Christmas present or Xmas stocking filler for running lovers. Great birthday gift for men, women or kids
Adjustable Strap With Elastic Chest Band: This running light with flexible strap and adjustable length for comfortable wearing. Fully adjustable fit for runners large and small, just like the straps on a headlamp, you can tighten and loosen the straps to fit your needs
Best Substitute For Headlamp And Flashlight: You’ll Forget You’re Wearing It – It is so comfortable compared to a headlamp that you might just forget you’re wearing anything at all; It keeps your hands free (no holding a flashlight any more)

Food and Drink

Biolite Camp Stove That Recharges Your Phone

Turn fire into electricity! CampStove 2 generates 3 watts of usable electricity and stores it in it’s internal powerbank for USB charging of LED lights, mobile phones, and other devices. The internal, rechargeable 2600 mAh battery stores excess power to charge devices, even without a live fire.
USB charge output with 50% more power than our previous CampStove 1, with updated thermoelectrics creating even more electricity from fire, and Smart LED Dashboard gives you real time feedback on fire strength, power output and fan speed settings
Internal jets have 4 fan speed settings to circulate air for improved combustion and efficiency to boil 1 liter of water in 4.5 minutes
Lightweight aluminum legs fold up for nested portability and durability for camping, backpacking or power outages
The FlexLight is a portable, pliable USB gooseneck for quick, controlled light and internal fire-starter makes setup a breeze.

Drinkpod Pocket Flask for Commuters and Walkers

A 200ml or 300ml flask that is brilliant for taking your favourite hot drink with you when out walking the dog or commuting. A strong and lightweight vacuum-insulated capsule flask made from 18/10 Stainless Steel. This flask keeps liquids hot for 6 hours and cold for 24 hours.
Featuring a plastic lip for comfort – Simply unscrew the lid and enjoy your drink straight from the flask.
100% leak proof even when stored or carried horizontally. Available in a variety of attractive colours and sizes.

Chilly’s Bottles Water Bottle

24 HOURS HOT – 12 HOURS COLD: Carry ice cold water or freshly brewed coffee anywhere you go. Using advanced double wall vacuum insulation, your favourite drink can be kept cold for up to 24 hours or hot for 12 hours no matter what the outside temperature is!
LEAK-PROOF: Designed with an airtight and leak-proof lid to prevent any spills. Feel confident when you throw your Chilly’s Bottle into your bag – No Leaks, ever!

ECO-FRIENDLY & DURABLE: Stop using single use plastic bottles with a reusable Chilly’s Water Bottle. We use premium, food-grade 304 (18/8) stainless steel, a metal recognised for its strength and purity. It also protects against flavour transfer. BPA-free, phthalate-free, toxin-free.
TAKE IT EVERYWHERE: The Chilly’s Bottle’s stylish, revolutionary design is lightweight & the narrow mouth makes it easy to drink out of on the go. Perfect for hiking, yoga, sessions at the gym, traveling, long transport, school, & work. The 260ml & 500ml sizes fit most cupholders & the 750ml fits larger cupholders.
CONDENSATION, SWEAT FREE EXTERIOR: Designed for an active urban lifestyle, the Chilly’s Bottle will never cause water rings on your office desk, slippery hands at the gym or a damp mess in your bag.

Comfort

There’s nothing worse than feeling cold when you are out and about. Coats and trousers are a personal preference, but you can always buy a few things to keep your man warm.

Waterproof Beanie Hat

Hats have to work as both a base layer and outerwear, but they should be considered as an important bit of kit. The waterproof beanie is fully breathable and waterproof which can’t be said for all of its competitors, whilst including a micro fleece lining for warmth and comfort. It has knitted acrylic for minimised water absorption, and also maximised water repellency. This close-fitting comfortable beanie is suited to a multitude of outdoor uses. reflective logo on the front.
Sealskinz also make waterproof socks which are ideal for winter cycling on that wet commute.

Rechargeable Hand Warmer

I have a full review of hand warmers detailing the pros and cons of each type.

The XGUO hand warmer is the perfect solution for blending a phone charger with a hand warmer.
If you are outdoor enthusiasts, the hand warmer is good equipment to hike, camp, hunt, fish and other sport events.
And it’s also good choice for outdoor workers and those who have blood circulation problems.
I bought this because I wanted to keep my hands toasty when out walking the dog in all weathers, as well as having a power backup for my phone. This product solves both problems. It takes a couple of hours to charge up fully using the included USB charge lead.
As a hand warmer it has 3 different heat settings. The highest setting is great for rapid warming when your hands have got freezing cold but the second or lowest setting is fine for maintaining temperature when placed in the palm of the glove or in a zip pouch in the back of mitts.
I am getting about 6 hours heat on the lowest setting (not 8 hrs claimed) and about 4 hours on the middle setting.
As a phone charger using a USB to lightening lead it works fine. When I go skiing or climbing in the extreme cold I plan to put it in a pouch alongside my phone on a low setting to keep the phone warm and I can switch it over to phone charge if I run low on battery.
I found it to be an ideal size for a man’s glove (large). My wife finds it fine in a mitt but on the large size for her small palms in a glove.
My only criticism is that it is possible to accidentally change the settings by knocking the button on the face of the warmer. A recessed button or slide switch might be better. However you soon realise it has got too cold or too warm and it is easy to correct.

The Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Outdoorsy Men who have Everything

If you just can’t find anything to buy the outdoorsy boyfriend or man in your life because he has pretty much everything, this is the solution. Get him this ultimate gift experience voucher from Buyagift. It allows him to choose from thousands of different experiences from cars, adventure, flying, food and weekends away with you. Unbeatable.

The post Gift Ideas for Outdoorsy Men appeared first on Active Outdoors.

If you don’t know, a bucket list is a list of things that you want to do while you can. In this case, you only have this summer to do every activity on the bucket list. So, what are you waiting for? Get going!

1. Messing about in boats

   Take to the water in one of the many forms of boats. You could go sailing, whitewater rafting, canoeing or kayaking, pootle about in a rowing boat, ride a pedalo, take a punt down a river, or just play about in an inflatable dinghy.

2. The Longest Handstand

   See who can do a handstand for the longest. If you can’t do a handstand, practise until you can do one for longer than 10 seconds.

3. Peculiar Picnics

   Rather than have a usual romantic picnic with your boyfriend or girlfriend, do something peculiar. You can hold it in a park, or by the river, or somewhere with a view. But, make it peculiar. You could wear something funny, do something odd, or have the picnic in an unusual place.

4. Watch a sunset

   This is a prime opportunity for romance. Find somewhere where you can watch the sunset. You could just go there and watch, or take a blanket and some food and drink. Perhaps have a BBQ.

5. Go camping

   Spend a night under canvas in a tent. You will want to make sure that you know some great tips on going camping with your boyfriend or girlfriend.

6. Swing on a rope swing

   Make your own rope swing, or find one and have a swing. You could take turns, or have a go at swinging on the rope together. The biggest rope swing in the world.

7. See an outdoor movie, or show your own

   Throughout the summer, outdoor movies are shown across the country. These are at drive ins, or at outdoor movie theatres set up just for the summer. You could host your own movie by using a projector and a sheet in the garden.

8. Go wild swimming

   Rather than going swimming at the local pool, why not find somewhere to go swimming in nature. You could swim in the sea, a river, or a lake. Make sure you know whether it is safe to swim in the location that you choose. Best places to go wild swimming in the UK.

9. Water parks

   You’ve seen the Justin Bieber video filmed at a water park. You can both have some amazing fun going down the flumes and slides. In the US, the water parks have some great water slides where the inflatable raft you go in actually goes uphill.

   
   YouTube Video of Schlitterbahn Waterpark Trip

10. Wackiest rollercoaster photo

    Most of the best rollercoasters have a camera that takes your picture at the scariest moment. Why not see who can pull the wackiest face at that moment on the rollercoaster? You may already be making a weird face due to being about to go down a steep drop. Or enjoy the moment and score this one as just riding a rollercoaster or any fairground ride.

11. Bodyboarding

    The beach, the sun, a tight wetsuit and a bodyboard. Find yourself some waves and get boarding.

12. Sandcastle competition

    Make a big sandcastle. You don’t have to go to the beach for sand though. You could always use the sand pit in the kiddies playground.

13. Go for a bike ride

    

14. You have a variety of choices on how to do this. You could go on a short road trip and visit a place of interest. Perhaps have a go at riding a tandem. If you can’t ride a bike, hire one of those four wheeled bikes or a trike. You often find them on the promenade at the beach. For a bit more excitement, you could go mountain biking through the woods.

15. Crab fishing

    Crab fishing is simple to do. All you need is some line with a string bag of bacon on the end. Rock pools, harbours and piers are all great places to go. You could have a competition so see who can catch the most, or the biggest.

16. Use public transport to go somewhere new

    Work out how to read those timetables and go on a trip to somewhere you haven’t been before. This could be a museum, a park, or even a different shopping mall. Maybe go for a meal.

17. Crazy golf or adventure golf

    There are loads of adventure golf courses now. This can be great fun, especially with some of the themed obstacles. You are bound to end up with your ball in the water at some point.

18. Paper boat races

    Make some paper boats and have a race down a river or stream.

19. Kite flying

    Make, buy or borrow a kite and see what aerobatics you can do with it. Even better, work out how to fly a power kite and get lifted off the ground

20. Take some photos with a theme

    Take some photos that are linked with a theme, such as colour, or places to eat. You could take a picture of yourselves at every pizza place in the area. Perhaps take pictures where you are wearing the same funny hat. There have been some viral photos doing this, such as Oscar the globetrotting dog, or the photos taken by the man who was dragged around the world by his girlfriend.

21. Water fights

    This has got to be on your summer bucket list. Have an awesome water fight. Use water pistols, super soakers, garden hoses, buckets of water, or anything else that comes to hand. You could mix it with washing the car. There you are happily washing the car when you accidentally throw a sponge, or point the hose the wrong way. Before you know it, you are having a water fight, or a stand up row.

22. Make your own movie or play

    Get out the acting skills and film your own bit of drama. You could even go to the lengths of dressing up or making scenery. You could even get a job as extras in a TV, film or music video.

23. Roll down a grassy hill or sand dune

    Simple and free. An easy item to check off of your summer bucket list. For thd ultimate rush, try zorbing in a big inflatable ball.

24. Make the biggest bubble

    As it say, make the biggest bubble. You can use those little bubble pots, or get bubble wands. You can make some really huge bubbles.

25. Live for a day without electronics

    This could be one of the most difficult things to do on the boyfriend girlfriend summer bucket list. No phones, TV, radio, ipods or any other use of electronic gadgets. You will have to make your own entertainment. Still, you have plenty of other things to be getting on with on the bucket list.

26. Play a game of tennis

    Another free thing to do. Most tennis courts in parks are free to use. If they do cost and you don’t want to pay, set up your own net.

27. Make someone smile

    No it can’t be your partner! That would be cheating. Do something together that makes someone smile. It could be doing something nice, or helping someone.

28. Make someone laugh

    This is a bit harder. I am sure that you and your boyfriend or girlfriend can come up with something really silly that will make someone laugh.

29. Draw or paint a view

    Go outside somewhere that has a great view. Draw or paint what you see. You don’t have to be great at art. Just put down your impression on the page.

30. Animals

    Do something to do with animals. Go to a zoo or wildlife park. Go birdwatching. Discover these fun things to do while walking your dog (or someone else’s).

31. Make something special for your boyfriend or girlfriend

    This last item on the boyfriend girlfriend summer bucket list is to make a special gift for your boyfriend or girlfriend. Use all of your art and craft skills to make a gift.

What is everyone else reading about?

If you want to make your summer bucket list even bigger, here are a few other outdoor summer activities you might like to do with your boyfriend or girlfriend:
These are the top 3 things that everyone else reads next:

• Fun outdoor activities do to with your boyfriend or girlfriend
• Tips for Going Camping With Your Boyfriend or Girlfriend
• The Ultimate Outdoor Activities List

The post Boyfriend and Girlfriend Summer Bucket List appeared first on Active Outdoors.

You are so in love, but don’t want to hang around the house making out if your brother or sister will get in the way. What you need are some romantic ideas of things to do outside with your boyfriend or girlfriend, and some places to go to spend time together. To help you out, here are lots of great ideas for fun things to do with your boyfriend that are free or relatively cheap.

The Great Outdoors has a wonderful range of interesting things to do outside. It does help if it is a warm and sunny day, but there are still plenty of fun things to do with your boyfriend or girlfriend outside in winter.

Geocaching

If you have a handheld global positioning system (GPS), then you could go geocaching. Geocaching is where you get the coordinates for a hidden box and then use a GPS to find it. The boxes are usually small waterproof containers or ammo boxes with a log book inside. Some geocaches also have a few goodies such as a book or keyring. The principle is that you leave a new item in the box, and take one of the items out of the box. Look at my Geocaching page for more information on what it is and how to get started.

Theme Parks, Fun Fairs and Amusement Arcades

Theme parks are a great way to share thrilling experiences together. You and your boyfriend or girlfriend can scream your heads off on the fastest rides. If you aren’t up for too many thrills, then there are plenty of more sedate rides. Look for a Tunnel of Love!

You can find out which are deemed to be the best theme parks in the world on my page about Rollercoasters, theme parks and how to beat the queues.

For free fun things to do with your girlfriend or boyfriend, places like Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles or Brighton Pier in the UK provide a place to walk arm in arm, share fries or candyfloss, and enjoy a fun fair or amusements. You can even try to win your loved one a huge teddy.

Water Parks and Flumes

Water parks are a fantastic way to have fun together outdoors in the summer sun. You can share the thrill of the flumes and rides, and discover whether you like them or not. They are a good way to get closer, as you can find out whether your partner is a thrillseeker or scared. You can then choose whether to get more adventurous or to give them a bit of emotional support.
Find out which are the best water parks in the world and what they are like.

Hiking and Walking in the Woods or on the Beach

Hiking or just going for a walk can be very therapeutic. You can walk arm in arm exploring the countryside, and hopefully find a quiet spot to enjoy the scenery. It depends on where you are. If you live near the beach, you could go for a walk along the sand, paddle in the sea, or walk along the pier.

There are plenty of National Trust properties, woods and beaches in the UK that you can visit.  If you get National Trust annual membership for couples, it is then free to get into all of their outdoor places, including free parking.  Their website has plenty of inspiration for more things to do outdoors with your boyfriend.

Walk the Dog

If one of you has a dog, taking it for a walk can be a great excuse to get out of the house and have some time to yourselves. You could go for a walk in the park, or if you have the day to spend together, go further afield.  If you think it will be a bit dull, you might be interested in some entertaining ways to make dog walking fun.

Going to the park is always great as generally it means lazing around in the sunshine. You could make different coloured paper boats and put them on the lake, or have races with them in a stream.

Daisy Chains

If there is a patch of grass near you that is quiet, you can see who can make the longest daisy chain. There is a definite art to it. Just imagine yourself lying in the park, the sun shining down on you and a pile of torn daisies at your feet where you haven’t quite got the hang of it yet.

Picnics

One of the nice things to do for your boyfriend or girlfriend is to put together a picnic and find a lovely spot to sit with your girlfriend or boyfriend by a river or in a park under a tree. You can spend hours eating, and laying in the sun. You can read stories and poetry to each other, and even write poetry just for the one you love.

Pony trekking or horse riding

It can be great fun going on a horse riding holiday with your boyfriend or girlfriend. Check out whether they like horses before you book anything though. There are pony trekking outings for an hour or even a day. Perhaps you can find one where you can ride together along the beach.

Kite Flying

Power kites are fantastic fun and are strong enough to lift you off the ground. You could spend the day in the park or on the beach with your boyfriend or girlfriend flying your kite. Depending on your kite this could be relaxing, thrilling and definitely fun! If you are up for some adventure, get yourself a power kite and see which way the wind blows you.

Boating

You could take your boyfriend or girlfriend for a relaxing day outdoors on a boating lake. Perhaps there is a canal near you where you can hire a rowing boat, pedalo or punt. For the more adventurous of you, hire a kayak, or go sea kayaking. Make sure you know how well your boyfriend or girlfriend can swim incase of emergencies. If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, you could go sailing

Things to do together at the beach

The beach is a fab place to spend time with your boyfriend or girlfriend. There are so many things to do at the beach in the sun together. You could make sandcastles or write each others’ names in the sand with pictures. You could sunbathe and rub sun screen onto each other. Lie back and read a book, or perhaps read poetry to each other. You could write your own poetry for your girlfriend.

If you don’t want to stay still, you could go for a walk along the beach or pier. Then there’s swimming in the sea, body boarding, kite surfing, surfing and even stand up paddle boarding. There is a great new toy call the Waboba Ball, which bounces when you throw it on water. Great fun for throwing and catching games with your boyfriend or girlfriend at the beach.

On the shoreline, you can go roller blading with your boyfriend or girlfriend holding hands. Not only is this romantic, but it may help you to stay upright if you aren’t that good on rollerblades. When you get tired, stop for an ice cream.

Fun things to do at the beach with friends

Go crabbing or rock pool exploring

If you and your boyfriend or girlfriend are looking for things to do on the beach together, you may have fun catching crabs, or use a net to catch fish and shrimps in rock pools. Watch out for the incoming tide!

Dune Surfing and Sandboarding

Another fun thing to do at the beach is dune surfing. If there are any dunes around, get hold of a cheap bodyboard from a seaside shop and career down the dunes. It’s exhausting as you have you have to keep climbing back up again, but a real giggle. Plus, you can then use the bodyboard in the sea if there are any waves to jump around in.  Sandboarding is similar to snowboarding, but on sand dunes.

Watch the sunset together

Grab yourself some food and drink and go out into the countyside or to the beach together. Find somewhere with a view. Put your rug down on the ground and talk while watching the sunset. If you are allowed to stay out when it’s dark, you could lay back and gaze up at the stars.

Something fun to do in the evenings along with watching the sunset with your boyfriend or girlfriend is lighting Chinese lanterns and letting them float into the sky. You do have to watch out for any local regulations regarding the use of Chinese lanterns though.

Stargazing

Looking up at the stars together is so romantic. If you can find a place away from streetlights, such as a campsite or the beach, you will be able to see the stars much better. You may see a shooting star or even be able to spot satellites. Try a spot of astronomy and identify the star constellations.  Remember to wrap up warm though. You can talk about all sorts of things.

Sit by a roaring fire

A nice fire on the beach as the sun sets could be the thing to do with your girlfriend or boyfriend. Toast a few marshmallows.

Wash the Car

You won’t be far from the house, but at least you will be outside. Washing the car can be lots of fun, and will often end up with playing about with sponges and water going everywhere. Be certain that your partner doesn’t mind before you decide to throw the whole bucket of water over them. You could make it into a money making enterprise by asking around the neighbourhood whether people want their cars washed.

Go Fruit Picking

There are plenty of places where you can go fruit picking. You can choose from strawberries, raspberries, grapes, apples, oranges, or whatever you can find. You don’t even have to like the fruit you are picking. Go off with your boyfriend or girlfriend and collect lots of strawberries for your mum. It is a great activity to do together, and you may find that you eat most of what you pick before you get home.

Make a rope swing

Make a rope swing – tyre, foot loop, plank for seat, over stream or river (not fast flowing). Find out more on my page about making the ultimate rope swings

Fun Things to do With Your Boyfriend or Girlfriend Outside in Winter

Even if it is cold and snowy, you and your boyfriend or girlfriend can have fun together. If you are fed up of being stuck indoors, then wrap up warm and get outside in the fresh air. You can go for a walk in the country, which is more magical if it has been snowing. Take a flask with a hot drink in it so that you can stop at a nice viewpoint and keep warm.

A sleigh ride or horse carriage ride together is a lovely things to do. It will cost you though. You can snuggle up together under a blanket and watch the scenery go by.

Free Things to do Outside With Your Boyfriend or Girlfriend

You could build a snowman together. Have a snowball fight, although this can often go rapidly downhill when you manage to get a snowball down your girlfriends neck. Perhaps make an igloo and snuggle up inside with some hot drinks and talk. You will be amazed at how warm an igloo is inside.

Make an ice slide. Find a nice flat stretch of snowy ground and carefully walk over it to compact the snow. Once it is fairly compact, you can then begin trying to slide on it. See how far you can slide without falling over.

If you don’t fancy being truly outside, you could go shopping for winter hats. Find something fashionable or fun. Perhaps you can then find a cafe with a window seat and watch the world go by with your boyfriend or girlfriend and a nice hot cup of hot chocolate.  Or you can make a fire and toast marshmallows.

For winter sports, you and your boyfriend or girlfriend could go skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, sledging, or even better is ice skating (as you can hold hands). If you want to have a real laugh together, try snow tubing or doughnutting. This is where you go down a snowy slope whilst sitting in an enormous inflatable inner tube. When there isn’t any snow about, you can do it at your local ski slope. I have compiled a list of free outdoor winter activities that you could do with your girlfriend or other friends.

Camping

If you are adventurous enough, you could go camping together. I have put together some tips on camping with your boyfriend or girlfriend. To start with, only one night may well be enough, especially if you don’t know each other that well.  Spending too much time together in one go can make or break relationships.

You will need camping gear. If you don’t have your own, you are certain to know someone who will lend you some. It is also best going to a proper campsite with facilities rather than trying to brave it in the wilds. Have a look at my camping kit list for ideas on what you will need to take with you.

What’s Other Things Does Everyone Else Love Doing Outside?

Still looking for more ways to spend time with your boyfriend? If you are stuck for ideas of things to do for Valentines Day, you can always buy an activity gift experience. With a huge selection of activities I offer ranging from pampering spa days, driving fast cars, tanks, champagne at the top of the Shard in London, and pretty much any thing you can think of. I have compiled a list of the most popular activity experience gift ideas for you.

These are the top 3 pages that other couples love to read:

• Boyfriend and Girlfriend Summer Bucket List
• Tips for Going Camping With Your Boyfriend or Girlfriend
• The Ultimate Outdoor Activities List

The post Fun Things to do with Your Boyfriend or Girlfriend Outside appeared first on Active Outdoors.

Take the right things

Make sure you take the right things camping with you. My camping kit checklist has a list of what to take camping with you. You will need a tent that is easy to erect, camp cooking equipment for some lovely meals, and a decent sleeping bag that keeps you cosy and warm.

The most popular things that people buy to take with them camping include:

• Dome or pop up tent. Pop up tents are easy to erect but can be quite entertaining to get back in the bag
• Sleeping bags, or even a double camping hammock. A camping hammock is great fun for couples, especially trying to get in together without falling out
• Portable camping stove. Cooking together on a stove is a good way to get close and share the experience.  Cooking makes things easier if you are not sure of what to talk about.  The focus will be on talking about the food and this makes the experience of camping with your boyfriend so much more relaxed
• Coleman Soft Cooler. A cooler is very useful for keeping the essential food items cool, such as milk, butter and cans of drink
• Insect Repellent. There are lots of critters out there that bite, unless you have some insect repellent.
• A portable outdoor LED lantern or headlamp for camping. You are going to need to see in the dark, and lanterns and headlamps are great for being able to see without having to hold the torch
• Camping chairs. Unless you are happy sitting on the ground, if you can fit one in, take a camping chair.

How long are you going camping for?

If you are planning for being away overnight camping with your boyfriend or girlfriend for the first time, you may be better off taking them camping for just one or two nights to start with. Camping with someone can be quite an intense experience if you don’t know each other that well. Personal habits and preferences become quite obvious, and you want the time to help to develop a great relationship together.

Be patient and understanding. You are both learning about each other as well as how to go camping. If one of you burns dinner, don’t get upset over it or blame each other. These things happen. See if the meal can be salvaged, or go and find a takeaway. Perhaps you may end up sharing the big packet of your favourite biscuits that you remembered to take with you.

Choose where you want to go camping

This is a very important tip. Depending on where you are in your relationship and how your relationship is viewed by your friends, choose where you are going to go camping according to how much privacy you want. If you don’t want your friends to know, you may want to camp in your own backyard. This does have the drawback of having parents around. Then again, it can be a benefit as they can do some of the cooking, and if it rains you can always go indoors.

A public campsite allows you and your boyfriend or girlfriend to get away from everyone you know. There is always the risk of bumping into friends though where ever you decide to camp. You probably don’t want a campsite that has lots of families camping.

You will also need to think about how you and your boyfriend or girlfriend are going to get to the campsite. Is it close enough to hike? If so, how are you going to carry all of your camping kit there? You could arrange for your parents to drop it off while you both walk. Check out whether you can get there by public transport. If all else fails, your parents are bound to give you a lift. You may just have to ignore any awkward questions they may ask about the two of you sleeping overnight together.

You may want to choose a campsite that has proper flushing toilets and shower blocks. It can be a bit too much to deal with if you are trying to look your best for your boyfriend or girlfriend and you only have the woods around you.

How to look like you know all about camping

If you have never been camping before, it is best to practice a few things before you go. Ideally you will want to:

1. Know how to erect your tent
2. Know how to use the stove
3. Know how to cook the basics – beans, boil veg, make a hot drink
4. Know how to keep food fresh and cool

Boys tend to want to show off how well they can erect a tent. So, boys, make sure that you know how to put up a tent before you go. Girls, be supportive of your boyfriend’s attempts to put up the tent! Laughing at him while he struggles to get all of the poles in place is not a helpful way to start your camping trip.

If you are borrowing someone else’s tent, then make sure you practice putting the tent up. Perhaps you might want to practice with your girlfriend. You can then share the learning experience. It all depends on your self confidence.

If you are going to do any cooking, you will definitely want to practice how to use the stove. There are several different types of camping stove available, and each one behaves in a different way. Get used to how quickly they cook food. That way you are less likely to burn things. Always use your stove away from the tent. Tents burn down in seconds, so ensure that you cook away from the tent.

Make sure that you know how to cook the basic things such as beans, and how to make a hot drink. Also, make sure that you take the food with you that both you and your boyfriend or girlfriend like. Be careful during the summer, as food can go off if left in the heat of the day. Dairy products and meat need to be kept cool. Chocolate will usually melt, so be careful.

What to wear camping with your boyfriend

Summer Skater Dresses

One of the easiest things to wear camping is a lightweight floral skater dress.  Very popular in summer and will keep you cool while looking good.  Just be careful if you have to crawl into the tent that you don’t reveal too much.

Warm Knitted Jumpers

When the sun goes down and it gets dark, temperature usually drops quite a lot.  You will need something warm and cosy to wear when camping whilst you snuggle up romantically with your boyfriend.  Your priority is to keep yourself warm.  He is just there to help.  Turtleneck knitted jumpers are lovely and warm.

Jeggings and Leggings

Jeans are a popular things to wear camping, but for additional comfort and figure hugging, a pair of leggings are just the thing.

Camping Nightwear

What you wear at night when camping will depend on the time of year and how warm your sleeping bag (and boyfriend) is.  For a spot of fun, onesies are always a laugh, but you will need to gauge what your boyfriend thinks of them first.  Pyjama shorties are one of the best options of things to wear.  Comfortable, roomy and warm.  The set pictured above is the best selling set on Amazon.

Making camping fun with your boyfriend or girlfriend

That’s the essentials covered, now for some ideas of things to do with your boyfriend or girlfriend while camping.

Go exploring

You and your partner can go exploring. If you are hiking to the campsite, stop for lunch on the way and just enjoy the scenery. Take a little something special to eat that you know your boyfriend or girlfriend loves, for example their favourite biscuits or sweets. You may want to take a camera with you to record your adventure. Make sure that you don’t take any photos of your girlfriend in the morning before she has made herself look presentable. If you do she will hate you for it.

If your campsite is near the sea, you have lots of wonderful opportunities for spending time together on the beach. Remember the sunscreen. It is lovely to have the one you love rub sunscreen onto your skin.

Visit a place of interest

Find out about the local area before you go and choose a few places to visit that you might both like. Perhaps you may find a castle to explore, or some romantic walks. Maybe there is an open air concert or other outdoor event that you could visit.

Take a frisbee or ball

Take a frisbee or ball with you to play throw and catch. Great fun in the sun.

Take a pack of cards

A pack of cards or a board game can be a pleasant way to spend time with your boyfriend when you take them camping. Remember you are having fun, so don’t get too competitive.

Take a good book

You will both need a bit of time to yourself now and then. Taking a book with you will allow you to be in your own head for a while. You can read your book while leaning on your snoozing boyfriend in the sun.

Go swimming

Find out if there is a beach or lake near where you are camping so you can go wild swimming. The campsite may even have its own pool.

Go for a romantic picnic with a view

Go for a romantic walk with your girlfriend. Take a picnic, and enjoy some country scenery.

Go horse riding

Check if there are any riding stables near where you are camping. It can be a wonderful shared experience going horse riding together. It is another thing you can talk about later when it gets dark.

Talking the night away

You will find that much of your day is spend whiling away the hours wandering up to the shop for milk, or fetching water. After a fun day of activities in the outdoors, you will most likely spend the evening chilling out and talking. Talking is good. It could be a very good opportunity to get to know each other better.

Stargazing at night

Camping away from the city lights enables you to see the sky much better. Lie down outside your tent with the lights off and do some stargazing. You will be amazed at how bright they are. You may even see satellites or shooting stars while you are camping with your boyfriend or girlfriend.

Lastly, as a word of warning, be very aware that if you have your torch on in your tent at night it will cast your shadow onto the side of the tent for all to see!  That’s not the sort of image you want on Instagram.

What does Everyone Else Want to Know About Now?

These are the top 3 things that everyone else reads next:

• Family Camping Checklist
• Boyfriend and Girlfriend Summer Bucket List
• Fun Things to do With Your Boyfriend or Girlfriend Outdoors

The post Tips For Things to do While Camping With Your Boyfriend or Girlfriend appeared first on Active Outdoors.