Venture Wild

Global Adventure Travel
Travel Tips

Taking On The World, One Adventure At A Time

Hi! We’re Kate & DJ, travelers, adventure seekers, and salty souls. We have been traveling full time for the past 7 years, and in that time, we’ve had some big adventures, and our fair share of misadventures along the way! 

 Like most good stories our starts with falling in love, takes some silly and entirely unpredictable twists, and ends with a cliffhanger (we’ve been known to make that last part literal) 

 Having been around the world and back we’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. Venture wild is a place for travelers, explorers, and anyone with an adventurous dream. Whether you’re planning your next trip or just dreaming about adventure, hang with us- inspiration abounds!

 

Travel History 

Countries

U.S. States

Continents

Miles Traveled

Recent Travels

Little bits of where we’ve been and where we’re headed. Catch our most recent adventures here!

How To Pack For Christmas Markets

How To Pack For Christmas Markets

What To Pack For The European Christmas Markets Carry On Only  Tis the season for Christmas Markets! Pipping hot mugs of mulled wine, twinkling lights, and magical December snow, a trip to Europe to visit the Christmas Markets is the ultimate holiday getaway!   ...

15 Tips For Traveling The World And Making It Out Alive!

1. Learn to Laugh instead of cry. Things will go wrong, that’s a guarantee, but how you approach it, is your choice.

 

2. Get lost, purposefully.The best experiences are waiting just outside your comfort zone.

Our Life

We’re Katie + DJ just two hopeless wanderers currently on a quest to explore North America in our rolling home 🚐! Our house may be small but our world is HUGE, and the best part is no matter where we roam, we’re never far from home!

Our Top Experiences Around The World 

1. Swimming With Whale Sharks

Whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean reaching lengths up to 40 feet (12 meters) and weighing in at a whopping 21.5 tons

2. Road Tripping Down The Baja Peninsula

Mexico’s Baja Peninsula is a land like no other, filled with dusty road, massive cacti and home to some of the best wildlife viewing and surf spots

3. Cruising Through The Panama Canal

Over 1 million vessels have transited this artificially made wonder of the world, getting a chance to be among them is an awe-inspiring experience! 

@venture_wild
Kate & DJ | World Travelers

@venture_wild

Travelers 🧳 Adventure Seekers 🏄 and Salty Souls 🌊 On an Endless Trip Around The World 🌎. ⁣
  • Hot take: winter travel isn’t miserable. Being under-prepared is. 
 
Fairbanks, Alaska  hit us with -20°F during the day and a casual -50°F at night. If you’ve never experienced that kind of cold let me tell you- it hurts to breathe. 
 
The big difference between a “this is magical” winter trips and “My finger just fell off ” comes down to having the right gear. And Gloves are 100% one of the most important items not just for warmth but also for function. Because I can promise you a team of sled dogs will not wait while you to fumble with your phone trying to get the shot 🤣 
 
Our absolute favorites are from REI Co-op, and here’s what we’d actually recommend if you’re planning extreme cold travel: 
 
What to Look For in Gloves (for sub-zero adventures): 
 •  Rated for well below the temps you expect 
 •  Waterproof + windproof shell 
 •  Insulated (down or high-quality synthetic) 
 •  Removable liner (so you can dry them overnight) 
 •  Enough mobility to use your hands without taking them off- bonus point for screen friendly finger tips. 
 
Winter travel is bucket list for a reason. 
Investing in the gear that lets you experience more is worth the splurge …Your fingers (and frozen eyelashes) will thank you 😉 
 
#rockporchpartner #gifted @rockporch.creators @rei
  • 𝐒𝐀𝐕𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 for your Lake Tahoe winter trip ❄️ 
 
Snowshoeing Chickadee Ridge ended up being one of our favorite winter adventures in Tahoe—and we almost skipped it. This easy snowshoe hike (about 1 mile uphill) delivers incredible Lake Tahoe views and the chance to hand-feed wild chickadees in the snow. 
 
𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞: 
Start at Tahoe Meadows Trailhead off Mount Rose Highway (NV-431) between Incline Village and Reno. 
 
Winter conditions can change quickly, so drive slowly, check weather and road conditions ahead of time, and be prepared for snow-covered roads. 
 
The chickadees here are tiny, brave, and curious. If you’re patient and stand still, they may hop right onto your hand—an experience we’ll never forget. 
 
𝐏𝐫𝐨 𝐭𝐢𝐩: If you want to see the chickadees but skip the up-close-and-personal part, find a nice rock, pile some seeds on it, and they’ll swoop in for them—still magical, zero gloves required. 
 
𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐝-𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐢𝐩𝐬: 
• Bring birdseed intended for birds only 
• Use plain, unsalted, unflavored sunflower seeds 
• ❌ No bread, no flavored seeds, no human snacks 
• Let the birds come to you—don’t chase them 
 
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝: 
• Snowshoes + poles (rent locally if needed) 
• Warm winter layers 
• Sunflower seeds (plain + unsalted) 
• No experience required—beginner friendly 
 
We loved how peaceful and uncrowded this hike felt—just snow, silence, and tiny birds trusting us way more than expected. If you’re planning a Lake Tahoe winter trip, love outdoor adventure travel, or want a unique winter hike, Chickadee Ridge deserves a spot on your list. 
 
#LakeTahoe #SnowshoeingTahoe #WinterHiking #AdventureTravel #OutdoorAdventure
  • 10% OFF using code: VENTUREWILD for your next escape to Bali with your partner.
 
Luxury Escapes just made it easier to get there. Whether you’re dreaming of a private villa or a clifftop retreat, their app gives you access to “insider” inclusions you won’t find anywhere else—think daily spa treatments, gourmet breakfasts, and airport transfers that make the whole trip feel like a breeze. 
 
When we think of Ubud Bali, we think of that morning the mist rolled over the Ayung River. We spent the day wandering through emerald rice paddies and ending it with a Balinese blessing that made the world feel a little smaller and a lot more magical. It’s those moments—the ones that change your pace—that stay with you forever. ✨ 
 
We’re ready to head back, and we want you to get there for even less! 
 
#ad #luxuryescapes @luxury.escapes #travelfortwo #UbudBali #BaliTravel
  • Ever heard of relocation cruises? Because once you do… your travel bucket list will never be the same. 🚢✨ 
 
We’ve done 2 transatlantic cruises with @virginvoyages — and we’re definitely not stopping anytime soon. Crossing entire oceans, waking up in new countries, and slow traveling in total comfort? Say less. 
 
Relocation cruises happen when cruise lines move their ships between seasons, which means longer routes, epic itineraries, and often incredible pricing.  
 
Think: 
🌍 Europe → Caribbean 
🌍 Mediterranean → South America 
🌍 Alaska → Asia 
🌍 Australia → Hawaii 
 
There are mind-blowing cruise routes all over the world — all it takes is a little searching to find itineraries that will completely change the way you travel. 
 
If you’re a bucket list traveler, adventure lover, or cruise-curious explorer, relocation cruises might just become your new favorite way to see the world. 🌊 
 
Save this post for later & swipe through the carousel for everything you need to know 👀👇 
 
#relocationcruises #bucketlisttravel #cruiselife #adventuretravel #travelinspo
  • Swimming with sea turtles in the Gili Islands, Indonesia 🐢🌊 
 
One of the happiest, most magical bucket-list experiences you can have — and the best part? You don’t need a boat, tour, or fancy gear to do it. 
 
You can literally swim with wild sea turtles straight from the shoreline with nothing more than a mask + snorkel 🤿 
 
📍 Where: Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air & Gili Meno), Indonesia 
🚤 How to get there: Fast boat from Bali or Lombok (about 1.5–2.5 hours) 
🐢 Best snorkeling spots: Turtle Point (Gili T), north shore of Gili Meno, east coast of Gili Air 
⏰ Best time: Early mornings for calm water, clearer visibility & fewer crowds 
 
💚 How to snorkel respectfully with sea turtles: 
• Keep a gentle distance (about 6 feet / 2 meters) 
• Let them swim freely — never chase or touch 
• Move slowly + stay calm 
• Skip flash photography 
• Admire, observe & appreciate 
 
When we treat wildlife with kindness and respect, we protect these beautiful creatures and the oceans we all love 🌍 
 
This is one of those experiences that fills your heart, slows time, and reminds you how magical this planet really is ✨ 
 
Save this for your Indonesia travel guide + add it to your adventure bucket list 🐢🌴 
 
Would you swim with sea turtles? 🤍 
 
#GiliIslands #IndonesiaTravel #SwimWithTurtles #AdventureTravel #BucketListTravel
  • SAVE this if you’re planning a Costa Rica surf trip 🏄‍♀️🇨🇷 
 
Everything you need to know for a surf day in Tamarindo, Costa Rica ⬇️ 
 
Why Tamarindo? 
A top Costa Rica surf destination for all skill levels — beginner-friendly waves, warm water, and room to progress. 
 
Board rentals: 
Surf shops are everywhere, but we went with Witch’s Rock Surf Camp — central location, tons of demo boards, and lockers so you can surf all day worry-free. 
 
Cost: 
Full-day rentals ~$20, totally worth it for a sunset session. 
 
Best time to surf: 
Mid Tide = clean small waves 
High Tide = more crowds + bigger waves 
 
Post-surf eats & drinks (because carbs are everything 🍕🍺): 
    •    El Mercadito — variety of pizza, tacos & sushi 
    •    Little Lucha — tacos and casual eats 
    •    Dragonfly Bar & Grill — sit-down dinner, local & international menu 
    •    Pangas — beachfront dining with sunset views 
    •    Agua Salada — fresh seafood and ceviche 
 
📌 Save this for your Costa Rica surf adventure — future you will thank you 🤙 
👯‍♀️ Share with your surf buddy 
💬 Drop a 🌊 if Tamarindo is calling 
 
#CostaRicaSurf #TamarindoCostaRica #SurfTrip #AdventureTravel #BeginnerSurf
Hot take: winter travel isn’t miserable. Being under-prepared is. Fairbanks, Alaska hit us with -20°F during the day and a casual -50°F at night. If you’ve never experienced that kind of cold let me tell you- it hurts to breathe. The big difference between a “this is magical” winter trips and “My finger just fell off ” comes down to having the right gear. And Gloves are 100% one of the most important items not just for warmth but also for function. Because I can promise you a team of sled dogs will not wait while you to fumble with your phone trying to get the shot 🤣 Our absolute favorites are from REI Co-op, and here’s what we’d actually recommend if you’re planning extreme cold travel: What to Look For in Gloves (for sub-zero adventures): • Rated for well below the temps you expect • Waterproof + windproof shell • Insulated (down or high-quality synthetic) • Removable liner (so you can dry them overnight) • Enough mobility to use your hands without taking them off- bonus point for screen friendly finger tips. Winter travel is bucket list for a reason. Investing in the gear that lets you experience more is worth the splurge …Your fingers (and frozen eyelashes) will thank you 😉 #rockporchpartner #gifted @rockporch.creators @rei
3 hours ago
View on Instagram |
1/6
𝐒𝐀𝐕𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 for your Lake Tahoe winter trip ❄️ Snowshoeing Chickadee Ridge ended up being one of our favorite winter adventures in Tahoe—and we almost skipped it. This easy snowshoe hike (about 1 mile uphill) delivers incredible Lake Tahoe views and the chance to hand-feed wild chickadees in the snow. 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞: Start at Tahoe Meadows Trailhead off Mount Rose Highway (NV-431) between Incline Village and Reno. Winter conditions can change quickly, so drive slowly, check weather and road conditions ahead of time, and be prepared for snow-covered roads. The chickadees here are tiny, brave, and curious. If you’re patient and stand still, they may hop right onto your hand—an experience we’ll never forget. 𝐏𝐫𝐨 𝐭𝐢𝐩: If you want to see the chickadees but skip the up-close-and-personal part, find a nice rock, pile some seeds on it, and they’ll swoop in for them—still magical, zero gloves required. 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐝-𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐢𝐩𝐬: • Bring birdseed intended for birds only • Use plain, unsalted, unflavored sunflower seeds • ❌ No bread, no flavored seeds, no human snacks • Let the birds come to you—don’t chase them 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝: • Snowshoes + poles (rent locally if needed) • Warm winter layers • Sunflower seeds (plain + unsalted) • No experience required—beginner friendly We loved how peaceful and uncrowded this hike felt—just snow, silence, and tiny birds trusting us way more than expected. If you’re planning a Lake Tahoe winter trip, love outdoor adventure travel, or want a unique winter hike, Chickadee Ridge deserves a spot on your list. #LakeTahoe #SnowshoeingTahoe #WinterHiking #AdventureTravel #OutdoorAdventure
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/6
10% OFF using code: VENTUREWILD for your next escape to Bali with your partner. Luxury Escapes just made it easier to get there. Whether you’re dreaming of a private villa or a clifftop retreat, their app gives you access to “insider” inclusions you won’t find anywhere else—think daily spa treatments, gourmet breakfasts, and airport transfers that make the whole trip feel like a breeze. When we think of Ubud Bali, we think of that morning the mist rolled over the Ayung River. We spent the day wandering through emerald rice paddies and ending it with a Balinese blessing that made the world feel a little smaller and a lot more magical. It’s those moments—the ones that change your pace—that stay with you forever. ✨ We’re ready to head back, and we want you to get there for even less! #ad #luxuryescapes @luxury.escapes #travelfortwo #UbudBali #BaliTravel
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
3/6
Ever heard of relocation cruises? Because once you do… your travel bucket list will never be the same. 🚢✨ 
 
We’ve done 2 transatlantic cruises with @virginvoyages — and we’re definitely not stopping anytime soon. Crossing entire oceans, waking up in new countries, and slow traveling in total comfort? Say less. 
 
Relocation cruises happen when cruise lines move their ships between seasons, which means longer routes, epic itineraries, and often incredible pricing.  
 
Think: 
🌍 Europe → Caribbean 
🌍 Mediterranean → South America 
🌍 Alaska → Asia 
🌍 Australia → Hawaii 
 
There are mind-blowing cruise routes all over the world — all it takes is a little searching to find itineraries that will completely change the way you travel. 
 
If you’re a bucket list traveler, adventure lover, or cruise-curious explorer, relocation cruises might just become your new favorite way to see the world. 🌊 
 
Save this post for later & swipe through the carousel for everything you need to know 👀👇 
 
#relocationcruises #bucketlisttravel #cruiselife #adventuretravel #travelinspo
Ever heard of relocation cruises? Because once you do… your travel bucket list will never be the same. 🚢✨ 
 
We’ve done 2 transatlantic cruises with @virginvoyages — and we’re definitely not stopping anytime soon. Crossing entire oceans, waking up in new countries, and slow traveling in total comfort? Say less. 
 
Relocation cruises happen when cruise lines move their ships between seasons, which means longer routes, epic itineraries, and often incredible pricing.  
 
Think: 
🌍 Europe → Caribbean 
🌍 Mediterranean → South America 
🌍 Alaska → Asia 
🌍 Australia → Hawaii 
 
There are mind-blowing cruise routes all over the world — all it takes is a little searching to find itineraries that will completely change the way you travel. 
 
If you’re a bucket list traveler, adventure lover, or cruise-curious explorer, relocation cruises might just become your new favorite way to see the world. 🌊 
 
Save this post for later & swipe through the carousel for everything you need to know 👀👇 
 
#relocationcruises #bucketlisttravel #cruiselife #adventuretravel #travelinspo
Ever heard of relocation cruises? Because once you do… your travel bucket list will never be the same. 🚢✨ 
 
We’ve done 2 transatlantic cruises with @virginvoyages — and we’re definitely not stopping anytime soon. Crossing entire oceans, waking up in new countries, and slow traveling in total comfort? Say less. 
 
Relocation cruises happen when cruise lines move their ships between seasons, which means longer routes, epic itineraries, and often incredible pricing.  
 
Think: 
🌍 Europe → Caribbean 
🌍 Mediterranean → South America 
🌍 Alaska → Asia 
🌍 Australia → Hawaii 
 
There are mind-blowing cruise routes all over the world — all it takes is a little searching to find itineraries that will completely change the way you travel. 
 
If you’re a bucket list traveler, adventure lover, or cruise-curious explorer, relocation cruises might just become your new favorite way to see the world. 🌊 
 
Save this post for later & swipe through the carousel for everything you need to know 👀👇 
 
#relocationcruises #bucketlisttravel #cruiselife #adventuretravel #travelinspo
Ever heard of relocation cruises? Because once you do… your travel bucket list will never be the same. 🚢✨ 
 
We’ve done 2 transatlantic cruises with @virginvoyages — and we’re definitely not stopping anytime soon. Crossing entire oceans, waking up in new countries, and slow traveling in total comfort? Say less. 
 
Relocation cruises happen when cruise lines move their ships between seasons, which means longer routes, epic itineraries, and often incredible pricing.  
 
Think: 
🌍 Europe → Caribbean 
🌍 Mediterranean → South America 
🌍 Alaska → Asia 
🌍 Australia → Hawaii 
 
There are mind-blowing cruise routes all over the world — all it takes is a little searching to find itineraries that will completely change the way you travel. 
 
If you’re a bucket list traveler, adventure lover, or cruise-curious explorer, relocation cruises might just become your new favorite way to see the world. 🌊 
 
Save this post for later & swipe through the carousel for everything you need to know 👀👇 
 
#relocationcruises #bucketlisttravel #cruiselife #adventuretravel #travelinspo
Ever heard of relocation cruises? Because once you do… your travel bucket list will never be the same. 🚢✨ 
 
We’ve done 2 transatlantic cruises with @virginvoyages — and we’re definitely not stopping anytime soon. Crossing entire oceans, waking up in new countries, and slow traveling in total comfort? Say less. 
 
Relocation cruises happen when cruise lines move their ships between seasons, which means longer routes, epic itineraries, and often incredible pricing.  
 
Think: 
🌍 Europe → Caribbean 
🌍 Mediterranean → South America 
🌍 Alaska → Asia 
🌍 Australia → Hawaii 
 
There are mind-blowing cruise routes all over the world — all it takes is a little searching to find itineraries that will completely change the way you travel. 
 
If you’re a bucket list traveler, adventure lover, or cruise-curious explorer, relocation cruises might just become your new favorite way to see the world. 🌊 
 
Save this post for later & swipe through the carousel for everything you need to know 👀👇 
 
#relocationcruises #bucketlisttravel #cruiselife #adventuretravel #travelinspo
Ever heard of relocation cruises? Because once you do… your travel bucket list will never be the same. 🚢✨ 
 
We’ve done 2 transatlantic cruises with @virginvoyages — and we’re definitely not stopping anytime soon. Crossing entire oceans, waking up in new countries, and slow traveling in total comfort? Say less. 
 
Relocation cruises happen when cruise lines move their ships between seasons, which means longer routes, epic itineraries, and often incredible pricing.  
 
Think: 
🌍 Europe → Caribbean 
🌍 Mediterranean → South America 
🌍 Alaska → Asia 
🌍 Australia → Hawaii 
 
There are mind-blowing cruise routes all over the world — all it takes is a little searching to find itineraries that will completely change the way you travel. 
 
If you’re a bucket list traveler, adventure lover, or cruise-curious explorer, relocation cruises might just become your new favorite way to see the world. 🌊 
 
Save this post for later & swipe through the carousel for everything you need to know 👀👇 
 
#relocationcruises #bucketlisttravel #cruiselife #adventuretravel #travelinspo
Ever heard of relocation cruises? Because once you do… your travel bucket list will never be the same. 🚢✨    We’ve done 2 transatlantic cruises with @virginvoyages — and we’re definitely not stopping anytime soon. Crossing entire oceans, waking up in new countries, and slow traveling in total comfort? Say less.    Relocation cruises happen when cruise lines move their ships between seasons, which means longer routes, epic itineraries, and often incredible pricing.     Think:  🌍 Europe → Caribbean  🌍 Mediterranean → South America  🌍 Alaska → Asia  🌍 Australia → Hawaii    There are mind-blowing cruise routes all over the world — all it takes is a little searching to find itineraries that will completely change the way you travel.    If you’re a bucket list traveler, adventure lover, or cruise-curious explorer, relocation cruises might just become your new favorite way to see the world. 🌊    Save this post for later & swipe through the carousel for everything you need to know 👀👇    #relocationcruises #bucketlisttravel #cruiselife #adventuretravel #travelinspo
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
4/6
Swimming with sea turtles in the Gili Islands, Indonesia 🐢🌊    One of the happiest, most magical bucket-list experiences you can have — and the best part? You don’t need a boat, tour, or fancy gear to do it.    You can literally swim with wild sea turtles straight from the shoreline with nothing more than a mask + snorkel 🤿    📍 Where: Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air & Gili Meno), Indonesia  🚤 How to get there: Fast boat from Bali or Lombok (about 1.5–2.5 hours)  🐢 Best snorkeling spots: Turtle Point (Gili T), north shore of Gili Meno, east coast of Gili Air  ⏰ Best time: Early mornings for calm water, clearer visibility & fewer crowds    💚 How to snorkel respectfully with sea turtles:  • Keep a gentle distance (about 6 feet / 2 meters)  • Let them swim freely — never chase or touch  • Move slowly + stay calm  • Skip flash photography  • Admire, observe & appreciate    When we treat wildlife with kindness and respect, we protect these beautiful creatures and the oceans we all love 🌍    This is one of those experiences that fills your heart, slows time, and reminds you how magical this planet really is ✨    Save this for your Indonesia travel guide + add it to your adventure bucket list 🐢🌴    Would you swim with sea turtles? 🤍    #GiliIslands #IndonesiaTravel #SwimWithTurtles #AdventureTravel #BucketListTravel
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
5/6
SAVE this if you’re planning a Costa Rica surf trip 🏄‍♀️🇨🇷    Everything you need to know for a surf day in Tamarindo, Costa Rica ⬇️    Why Tamarindo?  A top Costa Rica surf destination for all skill levels — beginner-friendly waves, warm water, and room to progress.    Board rentals:  Surf shops are everywhere, but we went with Witch’s Rock Surf Camp — central location, tons of demo boards, and lockers so you can surf all day worry-free.    Cost:  Full-day rentals ~$20, totally worth it for a sunset session.    Best time to surf:  Mid Tide = clean small waves  High Tide = more crowds + bigger waves    Post-surf eats & drinks (because carbs are everything 🍕🍺):      •    El Mercadito — variety of pizza, tacos & sushi      •    Little Lucha — tacos and casual eats      •    Dragonfly Bar & Grill — sit-down dinner, local & international menu      •    Pangas — beachfront dining with sunset views      •    Agua Salada — fresh seafood and ceviche    📌 Save this for your Costa Rica surf adventure — future you will thank you 🤙  👯‍♀️ Share with your surf buddy  💬 Drop a 🌊 if Tamarindo is calling    #CostaRicaSurf #TamarindoCostaRica #SurfTrip #AdventureTravel #BeginnerSurf
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
6/6