Five outdoor activities to do on your next regional road trip

After being stuck at home, unable to hit the road and have fun weekend road trip adventures, now is your chance to make up for lost time. Whether it's just for an afternoon drive or a weekend road trip away, there is plenty to see and do in your own backyard. Here are five fun outdoor activities you can do across regional Australia that also supports local businesses, win-win!

Heading to wineries is just as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Most wineries are placed within extremely scenic landscapes, whether it is by the coast or up in the hills, there is a plethora of regions to choose from. They're usually about an hour’s drive from the main capital cities, making for a perfect day trip.

If you are looking for a weekend away, they can even be a great place for a staycation with some wineries offering bed and breakfast accommodation and packages.

If you are a wine drinker, visiting wineries can offer up heaps to do, you can enjoy some tastings, winemaking classes, tours of the vineyard and even grape picking if you are up to the challenge.

Even if you are not a wine drinker, many wineries are just a great place to sit back and eat some lunch in-house, have a picnic, walk around the gardens (some even featuring their own outdoor gallery) and try some of the local produce.

On top of that, many wineries have their own wine and local produce store so you can support the area and pick up some tasty treats while you are there.

Fruit picking is a great outdoor activity that is not only satisfying but even more delicious to enjoy while you're there.

Depending on the time of year and climate, you can pick a variety of fruits such as cherries, strawberries, blueberries, stone fruits, apples and more. A great way to check seasonality is to look at the local tourist guides or even a quick Google search will be sufficient.

The great thing about fruit picking is the fact you can take your time, eat while you pick, and even buy some to bring home usually at a reduced price. However, unlike other previous summers, due to COVID restrictions, you may need to book ahead.

The fruit is as fresh as it gets and miles better than anything you can buy in the supermarket. We promise.

Outdoor markets are a great place to check out local wares and produce unique to the area, while also helping to support local businesses.

Be sure to bring some bags with you and even some cash as it is still commonplace for these markets and vendors to mainly accept cash-only and may not have facilities to support card purchases.

Many outdoor markets also have their own website and social media pages so you can check what stalls might be there or their current attendees meaning you can plan your purchases and activities in advance, or you can just wing it.

You can pick up a variety of products such as in-season locally grown meats and produce, baked goods, crafts and homemade things, vintage items, or you can even grab a bite to eat and just hang out and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.

If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, perhaps you would rather spend the summer at the beach or an aquatic destination? Maybe you are an avid surfer or someone who is looking to pick up a new skill or two?

Whether it is surfing, swimming, paddle boarding, windsurfing, motor/paddle boating or snorkelling - there are so many ways to enjoy the water this summer. You can bring your own equipment, hire gear, or book guided tours and packages, especially if you are thinking of trying your hand at something new. 

With so many beautiful coastal regions in Australia, there is a lot you can do. Before you head out make sure to check for rips and check the water warnings, plus don’t forget to slip, slop, slap!

You will be happy to know that if you are choosing any of the activities above the scenic drives are almost a given, especially in Australia.

With plenty of itineraries available online, you can build and plan your trip based on the activities above while also taking the most scenic route along the way. Whether you are after a coastal view, rainforest, mountain, or some twisty turns there are plenty of scenic drives to choose from.

The best part is they also go through some beautiful towns which are well worth the stop and detour, plus it is a great excuse to stretch your legs and take a break.

If you are planning on doing a road trip it is important to make sure you have things in order such as roadside assistance, spare tyre/repair kit or anything you might need in an emergency. You never know what might happen while you are out on the open road.

Additionally, a first-aid kit (if your car does not already have one) and any other essentials you might personally need are a must.

Lastly, don’t forget to have fun!

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