Nothing is better than free, am I right? These days, entertainment can be rather expensive, but one activity that continues to be a favorite without breaking the bank is hiking. In addition to being a fun activity for the solo adventurer or for a group, it can also help one decompress and unwind from life’s stressors. In this hunting trip guide, we’re sharing 4 free trips Veterans can enjoy. And later, we’re sharing some tried and true tips on how to plan a successful hunting trip. So get ready because we’re breaking down everything from free hunting trips, to backpack packing tips we swear by and everything else in between. So without further ado, let’s begin.Suggested read: Pearl Harbor Survivors: Heroes That Should Never Be Forgotten

The Ultimate Hunting Trip Guide: 4 Free Trips For Veterans

Planning a hunting trip can quickly get expensive when you factor in food, transportation, shotgun supplies, ammo, and clothing. So, cutting costs where you can is rather helpful. We're starting off this hunting trip guide with 4 free hunting trips Veterans can enjoy.

Heroes Rising Outdoors

The Arizona Elk Society knows just how important it is for Veterans to regain their identity and connect with nature. Heroes Rising Outdoors is connected with Hunting Heritage and looks to give back to the military community in meaningful ways. This includes helping Veterans who were severely injured from duty get back to enjoying the activities they once loved. They focus on helping Veterans once again enjoy the great outdoors, providing them an opportunity to heal while they hunt.

Outdoors For Our Heroes

Outdoors For Our Heroes is a nonprofit that helps Veterans injured during service reconnect with nature. They partner with local ranches, equipment manufacturers, and sponsors to make the hunting experience as enjoyable as possible. They worry about the logistics and cost while the Vets focus on making memories. If you are or know a qualified Veteran who would be interested in this experience, all you have to do is complete the online application. They will reach out to inform you of the requirements and process.

Hunt For Vets

Next up in our hunting trip guide is Hunt For Vets. They are focused on helping Veteran families further develop the skills they need to cope with stress and hard times. They also strive to help military families improve their long- and short-term communication skills. To be eligible for a free hunting trip, one must have been honorably discharged, or active-duty. The organization specifically serves military families, and requires that at least one family member accompany the military Veteran.

No Barriers USA

No Barriers USA is an organization that provides programs and free hunting trips for disabled Veterans.The program offers several hunting trip packages and experiences for Vets including: basecamp experiences, backcountry expeditions, and multi-day hiking experiences. Registry for the 2024 program season is now available. Each of these experiences have varying levels of difficulty, so be sure to select the adventure that is best for you.Related read: How to Motivate Yourself to Workout When Depressed – Tips for Vets

Tips for a Successful Hunting Trip: What You Pack Matters

The success of your hunting trip will depend on several factors, the weather, your preparedness, and location to name a few. One of the most important aspects to consider when planning a hunting trip is what gear you are going to bring. Now, deciding what gear is appropriate for your hunting trip will depend on several factors: the season, type of hunting you’ll be doing, and the conditions. Whether you are a seasoned hunting expert or a newbie, it is important to always reassess what equipment you’ll need to bring along. Here are some factors to consider when packing your day bag:

Warm and Dry Are Two Words to Live By

There really is nothing worse than being wet and cold. Once this happens, it really puts a damper on your entire hunting experience. While you might be able to tolerate the cold, it's always best to be prepared for weather changes so that you can stay out in the woods longer and get the most out of your hunting trip. Check out our list below in this hunting trip guide to double check that you’re prepared.In addition to ruining the mood, when the temperature drops, you are at a significantly higher risk for hypothermia. Prepare for weather changes by bringing the following items:

• Quick dry shirt
• A pair of quick dry zip off pants
• Rain jacket
• Extra pair of socks
• An emergency blanket

Fuel Equals Fun, Keep Your Body Hydrated and Nourished

A hunting trip requires you to expend a lot of energy. Therefore, it is important that you come prepared with a lot of water. Because you never know when emergencies will appear, consider packing a LifeStraw in your backpack. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. This lightweight straw allows you to drink directly from lakes, rivers, and streams.Additionally, it allows you to filter water with protection against bacteria, parasites, microplastics, silt, sand, and cloudiness. Be sure to pack lots of protein bars, dry foods, and electrolyte gels so that you can continue to replenish burned calories. This will increase the success of your trip.

Accessibility and Access, You Won’t Use What You Can Reach

Packing a bunch of gear and supplies for your trip is not any good if you can’t reach or find it. That is why it is important to pack items that you will access frequently at the top of your bag.There’s nothing more frustrating than digging through your pack for the salty/sweet trail mix you’ve been craving and 1. Not be able to find it or 2. Having to re-pack your bag.Be sure to pack the items you’ll want easy access to on the top and your heavier, less frequently used items in the bottom of your pack. This packing structure will also make your backpack more comfortable to wear.

Key Hunting Guide Trip Takeaway: Adventure Is Out There!

Whether you are a seasoned professional, or are new to the world of hunting, we hope that this hunting trip guide has better prepared you for that next trip on your bucket list. When hunting, it’s important to set your worries aside and remember to enjoy nature, have fun, and relax. The beauty of a hunting trip is that you can take time to slow down and enjoy the nature surrounding you. So, stay safe, consult our packing list in our hunting trip guide to double check you have everything, and have fun. Now, as Charles Muntz says in the fan favorite Disney movie Up, “Adventure is out there!” We wish you luck with your future hiking endeavors.Read next: 6 Veteran Charities You Need to Know About For Jobs