How to plan a fall trip like a cozy introvert
Peak cozy season has arrived in Canada. In the north, we have four seasons and many will argue that fall is the best one. With distinct phases that revolve around apple picking, forests ablaze with bright orange leaves, Halloween, and crisp slow mornings with coffee, it’s hard not to *fall* in love with the season. (Pun absolutely intended.) If your heart is leading you to travel, even if it’s just to a neighbouring town or city, don’t hesitate.
With the right books, comfort food, and days immersed in the fall colours, this is the ultimate time of year to get cozy, relax, recharge, and connect with the stunning Canadian landscape. This is an introvert’s dream come true. If you haven’t picked a destination yet, we’d recommend a wilderness stay in B.C. or a long weekend in Quebec. Here’s how to plan your getaway like a cozy introvert.
Find a hostel tucked away in nature
The key to cozy introverting (yes, it’s a verb now) in fall is to start with an ideal location. Our wilderness hostels are nestled in the mountains in thick forests and near beautiful bodies of water. There, you can truly appreciate crisp fall mornings or bright changing foliage as you hike along some of the country’s best trails. If you’re wanting a low-key stay, simply enjoy a cozy, restful day. Not able to make it to Western Canada this year? Quebec is also known for having some of the best colours in the country at this time of year. Or, you could keep going and hit up an East Coast seaside stay to watch the cool ocean waves as you appreciate the view from a comfy spot indoors.
Select page-turning books from your nightstand
A cozy fall escape is a great time to actually read a book or two from the stack piling up on your nightstand. Whether that’s a travel memoir or a page-turner novel set in Canada, the plan for the day must include tea, a sweater, a quiet space, and hours of uninterrupted time. Let the sound of rain or rustling leaves be your background music while you get lost in those pages.
Pack all the wooly layers
Fall is famously sweater weather so when compiling your packing list, don’t leave out the chunky knits, big scarf, wool socks, fleece and toque. The goal is cozy, never chilly. Do you need the toque in late October or early November? Perhaps not. But would it be cozier with it? Duh. The day’s plan involves getting wrapped up, adding a blanket, a candle and a mug of herbal tea, and not budging. If you do insist on moving, the fall hike is where it’s at. With fleece and flannel of course.
Get out for a fall hike
Hiking is a Canadian traveller’s love language. There’s no better way to soak in fall than under a tree canopy of red and gold. Stop to take in the view, notice the crunchy leaves as you hike, or linger by a lookout with a thermos of something warm (we recommend carrot soup or green tea). This is the season made for unhurried moments. Explore at your own pace and let the quiet of the forest reset you. The chilly fall air can be refreshing but before you get too chilly, head back to your cozy room or shared common space to enjoy some velvety hot chocolate.
Don’t skip the small touches
We host backpackers of all kinds. If you can get anywhere on a shoestring budget and can easily spend a year on the road, we know before you even check in. And if you’re the kind of traveller who can make any hostel space your adorable home away from home, we see you. When planning a little escape to truly rest and recharge, this type of traveller won’t skip the details. You want to be lounging in total bliss and you taking in the views of red maple leaves swaying in the breeze… and not thinking about how you wish you brought a favourite weekend treat. Think of this as your reminder before you pack that you’re going to need your favourite sweater, quality coffee, a small candle, snacks, comfy shoes, and that well-worn pair of sweatpants. You’re welcome!
Don’t go light on the tea and comfort foods
Hibernation season is coming. In Canada, when the temperatures start to drop, we slow down, get cozy, turn to quieter hobbies… and comfort foods. During this time of year, a lot of us want seasonal foods that warm the body and soul (like poutine, pumpkin pie, squash soup, and apple crisp). If you’re stuck for activities to do with travel buddies one day, consider that problem solved: a trip to a farmer’s market in the morning followed by preparing a simple meal with in-season produce afterwards makes for a special fall day.
That’s it! Enjoy your fall trip. Follow this guide and your only problem will be that you’re too relaxed and toasty to want to check out. We’ll be happy to extend your stay if that’s the case! Life’s responsibilities can wait a day or two, right?
