As a travel nurse, you will spend several hours a week indoors. Being outdoors has many health benefits such as reducing stress and anxiety, boosts immunity, provides Vitamin D, and improves mental well-being. Now that the weather is warm, we have compiled a list of our favorite summer activities to enjoy on your next day off.
1. Hiking
What better way to enjoy the great outdoors than hiking? Not only will you have gorgeous views throughout your journey, but it is also a great way to exercise. If you are unsure of nearby hikes, try the AllTrails app to view trails within the area. For adventurous people, if you have a few days off in a row, search day trip trails to spend even more time outdoors. Pack up your camping gear, hike to a destination that interests you, and stay there for a few days. Make sure you have the proper clothing and equipment before leaving for your hike. It is also important to check the weather or have clothing ready for if the weather suddenly changes.
2. Visit the Beach
For those less adventurous, visiting a nearby beach is also a great way to relax and soak up the sun. Go for a swim or lie on the beach with a good book. You can also walk along the beach, go fishing, or grab your friends for a round of volleyball. Whether you are near the lake or ocean, going to the beach is a great activity for your day off.
3. Amusement Park / Local Fair
Unleash your inner kid with a trip to an amusement park or local fair. Get a group of friends and enjoy the day together. Play carnival games, eat food, and get your adrenaline pumping on roller coasters or the Ferris wheel. Visiting an amusement park or local fair is a great way to take your mind off work and just have fun.
4. Farmers Market
For a less expensive outdoor activity, visiting a local farmers market is a great way to go outside and explore the town. If you are into cooking, the farmers market will have many vendors selling their home-grown fruits, vegetables, or spices. Depending on your town, there may be crafters and food trucks to visit throughout the market. Farmers markets are also a fun way to see what foods the locals enjoy. Most farmers markets are weekly throughout the summer, but make sure to check your town’s website for dates.
5. Outdoor Concert
Another fun summer activity is going to an outdoor concert. Outdoor concerts are a great way to not only enjoy the season, but also to listen to your favorite artists. Make memories with your friends while jamming out. Many local fairs also offer live concerts, so make sure to check them out wherever your contract is located.
6. Picnic / Barbecue
Another less expensive option for being outside is going on a picnic or having a barbecue with friends or family. Have everyone bring a dish to pass and spend the day outdoors eating good food and being around people close to you. You can also have a picnic during your hike or while relaxing on the beach. If you are new to the area, pick a site that interests you and have a picnic there.
7. Drive-In Movie
One of our favorite summer activities is going to a drive-in movie theater. Experience the olden days either by yourself or with friends to watch a movie in your car. Grab your favorite movie snacks and listen to the movie via speaker. If you or your friend drives a truck, deck out the cargo bed with pillows and blankets for an even more cozy experience.
8. Explore Downtown
If you are staying in a new town for your current assignment, spend the day exploring the city. Take a walk downtown to view local shops and restaurants. You may find some souvenirs to remember the city with or try different foods that are unique to the town. Spending the day downtown is also a great way to familiarize yourself with different businesses and routes.
Of course, there are several other outdoor activities to do in the summertime. Being outdoors and getting some fresh air is always a great stress remedy. What are your favorite summer activities?
