Cabin in the woods (and 15+ ways to unplug!)

We like to think we’re pretty adventurous. We’re always up for a spontaneous trip, and can often be found at the beach, on the water, hiking our favorite trails, exploring somewhere new, or seeking out experiences.

Maybe it’s wisdom gained with getting older, but if there’s one recreation that we could do without, it’s camping — at least in the traditional sense. Pitching a tent, sleeping on the cold dirt, sticks poking through a thin sleeping bag, who knows what type of bugs finding their way into various hiding spots, and waking up with an achy back… sounds rough.

Enter, Getaway.

Getaway encourages you to escape to the outdoors, rest and unplug from the daily hustle and bustle. To help you do just that, they’ve built several outposts throughout the United States. Nestled in nature, many are within driving distance of major cities, including Portland, Los Angeles, Atlanta, DC, and New York. Each outpost consists of a cluster of tiny cabins, about 150-200 square feet, spaced 50-150 feet apart to ensure privacy.

The cabins have everything you need to relax and nothing you don’t! Each consists of a queen bed (or bunks, if you’re traveling with a family) complete with pillows and linens, situated in front of their large signature window so you can sleep soundly in view of nature and wake up surrounded by trees. Camping in comfort also means amenities such as a private bathroom, hot shower, and composting toilet. With both heating and air conditioning, you can have an adventure at one of these cabins year round.

Designed for short stays, just one or two nights, these simple escapes are ideal for solo travelers, or couples looking for a break from their over-connected lives. Pack only your essentials (toothbrush, toothpaste, toiletries, clothing, meals) and get ready for an unplugged weekend in a modern cabin!

For every cabin booked, Getaway donates to One Tree Planted.

OUR FAVORITE WAYS TO UNPLUG DURING A GETAWAY

+ Disconnect. While in most instances, WiFi is touted as an amenity, at Getway, it’s the opposite. Their primary goal is for you to unplug, so put your phone in the provided lockbox and forget about it. No social media. No work. No distractions!

+ Read a book. Catch up on your TBR stack. In our opinion, Getway pairs well with mystery, adventure, or crime novels. We brought along the Will Dean series, which takes place in the dense forests of a small Swedish town.

+ Play cards. If you’ve come with a partner or children, games are a great way to pass the time. Add in a few snacks in the afternoon, or turn on the lanterns for a cozy evening.

+ Go on a hike. Most outposts are situated in areas with several hiking trails nearby. Before you leave, do some research on the best trails near you, including difficulty, distance, and average length of time to complete. We suggest packing a lunch and bottled water to have a picnic amidst the scenic views. Depending on your location, there may be even a place for you to go kayaking or participate in a water sport.

+ Set up a hammock. After a strenuous hike, there’s nothing better than setting up a hammock (you’ll need to bring your own) and taking a nap in nature.

+ Collect firewood.  Each cabin has firewood available for purchase, but we enjoyed hiking the surrounding area to find previously fallen timber. Remember to remain sustainable, and don’t cut any live trees.

+ Bonfire. Great for relaxing into the evening hours, as well as cooking your meals, each cabin comes with a private fire pit, grilling grate, and outdoor seating (picnic table and adirondack chairs). Note: Pay attention to make sure burn bans are not in effect. If they are, no outdoor cooking is allowed. Make sure to put your food away at night — these cabins are on lots of land where wildlife is present.

+ Meditate and rejuvenate. Perhaps the best part of a camping trip: listening to the sounds of a crackling fire, watching for hours as the flames dance, the smokey scent of burning wood, the howling breeze blowing though the canopy of trees, the buzz of nature coming alive at night.

+ Cook inside. Each cabin has a kitchenette stocked with essentials including a two-burner cooktop, mini-fridge, enamelware, silverware, pots and pans, running water, and more. This is a great option in case of rain, when sitting around a campfire is not ideal.

+ Make s’mores! This one is pretty self-explanatory.

+ Listen to the radio. Each cabin has a small radio. Find somewhere comfy to sit and relax as music from a local station plays softly in the background, or listen to a scary podcast.

+ Star gazing. City-dwellers know all too well, air and light pollution makes it difficult to see the stars at night. Lay down a blanket, or lean back in your adriondack chair, and just look up. It’s amazing how much you can see on a clear night.

+ Morning cuppa. Wake up with the sunrise and step out of your cabin with a mug of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate to slowly start your day.

+ Quiet conversation. Disconnecting from technology makes this a wonderful opportunity to focus on your relationship. Whether you’re hiking on trails, sitting outside, lounging in the comfy bed, or cooking together, you’ll likely notice the ease at which meaningful, engaging conversation can happen when the phones are put away. Maybe it will even inspire you to set “no screen time” when you go back home.

+ Journal. Immersing yourself in the solace of mother nature can provide a peaceful atmosphere for quiet reflection, practicing self-care, or taking some “me time”.

+ Make art. Solo travelers or families alike may enjoy losing themselves in art therapy. Pack a sketchbook or your favorite supplies, and create with no purpose in mind. It’s a great way to de-stress and clear your head.

+ Rest. It’s why you booked a Getaway, after all. You don’t need to fill your day while you’re here. You don’t need to plan a busy itinerary. Don’t be afraid to slow down.