The benefits of travel go beyond broadening horizons, as it can actually be good for one’s mental health. A study published in the journal Nature in 2020 found that people who experience regular changes of scenery tend to feel happier and more relaxed in their surroundings. Lauren Wood, a 20-year-old traveler, is a firm believer in the positive effects of travel. She is currently traveling full-time while completing a degree online, seeking experiences that push her out of her comfort zone and make her feel alive. However, one experience in Hawaii pushed her a little too far.
While living and volunteering on a farm in Oahu, Hawaii, Wood and her sister decided to hike to Ka’au Crater one day. What was supposed to be a couple-hour hike turned into a terrifying seven-hour nightmare. Fog surrounded them, rain soaked them, and they lost phone service and maps. Despite being experienced hikers, the situation quickly escalated as nightfall approached.
Wood’s video captures the fear and stress of the situation as they struggled through the muddy, slippery terrain. They eventually found their way back by following a map on an app, but the experience left Wood shaken. She kept the ordeal a secret from her parents, who remained unaware of how close she had come to getting seriously lost. Wood learned important lessons from the experience and now makes sure to be fully prepared with maps, location sharing, and weather checking before embarking on any hike.
Wood’s advice to other travelers is simple: “Be prepared.” She emphasizes the importance of being properly equipped and informed before setting out on any adventure. Despite the frightening experience on the Ka’au Crater hike, Wood’s love for travel and seeking new experiences has not waned. She continues to document her adventures on social media, capturing the magic of adventure and nature. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of being mindful and prepared when exploring new places, ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
