If you’ve had some burning questions about the world of outdoor recreation, but have been too nervous to ask, you’ve come to the right place!

The outdoors can be an intimidating place. If you’ve had some burning questions about the world of outdoor recreation, but perhaps have been too nervous to ask, you’ve come to the right place! You might be apprehensive about camping in a tent for the first time or uncertain about the ‘correct’ way to do things. It can take a lot of bravery to take that first leap into a new activity. Read below for some common questions we get from students. Hopefully you’ll feel like you have better insight and can confidently tackle your next venture into the outdoors!

1. How do you poop?

It’s really not that bad, I promise! Think of all the less-than-desirable public bathrooms you’ve had to use in your life. Compared to that, going out in the wilderness is actually quite pleasant. There are different regulations about human waste depending on where you are, so it’s a good idea to do some research about the area you’ll be in ahead of time. Generally speaking, you’ll dig a ‘cathole,’ do your business, and pack out any toilet paper you use. If you’re in an area that’s pretty high-use with a lot of people around, or has other special rules around human waste, you might use a fun tool called a wag bag. It’s where you have to pack out EVERYTHING.

For more detailed information, be sure to check out this blog post.

2. What about spiders/mosquitoes, etc.?

Yes, they’re out there. Hiking in a cloud of mosquitoes hasn’t likely been the highlight of any outdoor trip. However, there are ways to prepare so you can stop worrying and start enjoying all of the amazing things about where you are. For example, there are mosquito head nets you can wear to keep those pesky guys off your face, or you can put on long sleeves and pants. You can learn where a good place to set up camp might be to avoid an insect onslaught. There are all sorts of tips and gear to make your adventure more enjoyable.

3. What if I’m not in good shape?

So what?! The outdoors is for everyone, no matter your skill level or how in shape you are. Getting outside is a great place to start a journey toward improved health, wether that be physical or mental. Research has shown that exercising outdoors has so many positive mental and physical benefits, including improved mood, enhanced self-esteem and more.

Keep reading on this subject here. 

4. What if I get my period?

If your menstrual cycle starts while in the great outdoors, don’t sweat it. That’s why you packed plenty of feminine hygiene supplies, whether that be a reusable Diva Cup, period underwear, tampons or pads. Prefer some additional self-care around that time? Pack some feminine wipes along with your supplies. Proper backcountry etiquette is to pack out used supplies, same as your toilet paper. If carrying that waste around with you grosses you out a little, try bringing along a few odor-free resealable bags such as these. This keeps your used products out of sight and out of mind. 

5. Can I afford the gear?

Gear can be expensive—but it doesn’t have to be if you get creative! It shouldn’t be a barrier to the outdoors being a welcoming place for everyone. There are a few ways you can try to offset costs including: renting, borrowing or purchasing used gear. Most people I know took years to accumulate their outdoor gear, so don’t feel like you need to get everything all at once. You can often find something used that will work just as well for you.

Check out these two blogs for tips around where to buy and what to buy new vs. used:

30+ Outdoor Apps, Groups, Classes and Resources Every Outdoorist Should Utilize

New or Used? Your Guide to Buying Outdoor Gear

And, don’t forget about borrowing. Chances are you might know someone who has the gear you need, but they aren’t using it at the moment. Ask your friends, co-workers, family or utilize online groups geared towards the outdoors.

6. Is it too late to start as an adult?

Of course not! I grew up in the flatlands of Nebraska and didn’t go backpacking for the first time until I was in my 20s. You don’t have to be the kid who has been on skis since they started walking to get out and enjoy the wilderness. I took my mom on her first backpacking trip in her 50s and it was amazing. You just have to be willing to learn and ask questions. One of the reasons I love working for Outward Bound is being there with people as they experience the wilderness for the first time, whether they’re 12 or 42. Get inspired by some of these people!

7. Will people judge me as a beginner?

Everyone has to start somewhere. Yes, there are a lot of people who are very knowledgeable out there, but there are just as many folks in the outdoor community who are learning skills for the first time. The magic happens when these two groups of people meet. Many local gear shops and organizations across the country host meetups, skill-building clinics and events for people across all skill levels and interests to join together, meet and learn from each other.

Want to read more on this subject? Check out this blog: The Beauty in Diverse Experience Levels in the Outdoors 

8. What if my outdoor adventures don’t look as cool as everyone else’s on social media?

I’m definitely guilty of portraying only my best, most photogenic moments on social media. My Instagram feed doesn’t feature the moments when I’m eating chips on the couch and watching Netflix. You have to keep things in perspective and remember that social media doesn’t display the full story! Plus, constantly comparing yourself to everyone else is exhausting. There will always be someone else out there doing something more epic than you, but that is okay. As long as you’re digging what you’re doing, that’s all that matters.

And one of the best parts about getting outdoors? You get to take a break from being so plugged in, celebrate your accomplishments and be in the moment.

Do you have any questions we didn’t cover? Comment below!

About the Author

Cristina Woodworth is an Outward Bound logistics coordinator and assistant Instructor at the Northwest Outward Bound School in Mazama, Washington. During the off-season, you’ll most likely find her on a mountain bike, a pair of skis, or lounging around with a good book. She has a degree in journalism and enjoys writing, photography and videography as well.