Spending more time outdoors can completely change the way you think, feel, and live. Whether it's for mental clarity, physical fitness, or just a break from the digital world, becoming an outdoor person doesn’t require a major lifestyle overhaul. You just need to start small and stay consistent.
This guide is for anyone who wants to ease into outdoor life, even if they’ve never hiked, camped, or even walked a trail before.
Getting outside offers benefits that go beyond fresh air. Nature has been proven to:
Reduce stress and anxiety
Improve cardiovascular health
Boost creativity and focus
Help reset poor sleep patterns
Outdoor life also builds confidence. When you learn to navigate trails, read signs, or even just pack properly for a hike, you start trusting yourself more.
You don’t have to drive hours to a national park to become an outdoor person. Start with what’s around you.
Walk in your local park after work
Visit a nearby lake or riverside
Try a short morning trail on weekends
These small steps help your body adjust to outdoor activity and help your mind become more relaxed in open environments.
One of the best ways to start your outdoor journey is through hiking. Even beginner trails can open the door to new experiences.
You can follow this excellent and beginner-safe guide on hiking for beginners to learn the basics, from trail etiquette to what to pack.
I wasn’t always someone who enjoyed being outside. Like most people, I was stuck in front of a laptop for hours every day. A friend once invited me for a weekend hike. I was hesitant, unsure of what to expect.
We hiked a simple 3-mile loop trail. No dramatic cliffs or wild animals—just quiet woods, open skies, and the sound of my own footsteps. That day changed everything. I didn’t become an expert overnight, but that single hike planted the seed. Now, I hike regularly, and it’s a core part of who I am.
You don’t need to buy expensive gear when you’re starting. Here’s all you need:
Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
Water bottle
Weather-appropriate clothes
A small backpack (optional)
As you progress, you can invest in hiking boots, moisture-wicking clothes, and trail navigation tools. Until then, keep it simple.
Becoming an outdoor person is about habits, not heroics. Here’s how to build consistency:
Schedule one outdoor activity per week
Join local walking or hiking groups
Document your progress through photos or journaling
Explore new nearby spots monthly
Once you feel comfortable with shorter outdoor sessions, you can explore longer trails or weekend getaways. Make sure to educate yourself with well-written resources like this ultimate guide to what to wear on a hike, especially before tackling longer routes.
And if you're looking for reliable outdoor content, tips, and inspiration, feel free to check out my personal project at outdoortrekker.com, where I cover beginner tips, trail guides, gear, and more.
You don’t need to be an athlete, thrill-seeker, or survival expert to enjoy the outdoors. Becoming an outdoor person is about making space for fresh air, quiet moments, and steady movement. It starts with one decision to step outside—and once you do, it gets easier every time.
Last but not the least, click here to get motivated for hitting your first hike.
So take that first walk. Try that short hike. Bring a friend or go solo. Just start.