Curious who Nick is? Nick Boettcher has been an avid motorcyclist, photographer and camping enthusiast for the past 25 years. Originally from New Zealand, his epic journeys have taken him across the UK, Europe and Scandinavia. When he's not braving the outdoors, he is a Senior Product Designer and UX specialist, currently based in Helsinki. If you are curious to find more about his adventures then read on!
Q. What are some essential safety tips you've learned through your experiences that you can share with our readers?
A. Do your best to be prepared for most basic types of injuries. Having antiseptics, plasters, and bandages will save you a lot of grief. If you are doing a lot of walking, having blister plasters with you is a must. What will also save your life is mosquito repellent. From Scotland to the Scandic countries, those little flying spawns of a demon will love taking your blood. The bites will swell up and itch for days! Wearing long sleeves and trousers will help, but in some cases they are devious enough that they'll get through your clothes and even a cap on your head. They'll also find any exposed skin. You'll learn to love the smell of the repellent knowing it is saving you from days of torment. Lastly, and importantly, let someone know where you are going and how long you will be. From a warmth perspective, the right clothes are important, but also ensuring there are enough layers between you and the ground to prevent you getting cold at night. Try fitting into your gear a blanket you can put under your sleeping mat or mattress, so the cold from the ground doesn't reach you so easily.
Q. Who has been your biggest inspiration in the realm of outdoor adventuring, and why?
A. What got me into motorbiking was watching the film, "The Motorcycle Diaries". What got me into motorbike camping was watching "The Long Way Round." The sense of freedom a bike gives you when you travel is something I haven't yet been able to beat. I've gained a lot more inspiration from r/motocamping on Reddit, as those people don't have the benefit of support and camera crews following them around. They have mastered the art of getting a lot of gear into and onto a motorbike, and even figuring out how little you can get away with. The photos and videos they share get me motivated to get out there and do it myself. I've been more inspired by the everyday person than a celebrity.
Q. What does a typical day look like for you when you're on an adventure? And how do you prepare for such an expedition, both mentally and physically?
A. I get most excited the night before I start my journey, and possibly also the most nervous. I'll go through all my gear a number of times, and pack and repack until I'm truly satisfied I have everything I need, have got rid of what I don't need, and everything is where I need it to be. Regardless, I keep making the same mistake of taking too much, realising I could get away with taking less each time. Take some biodegradable clothes washing liquid, and only take clothes for about 3/4 days, and factor in making the time to wash and dry them. It's good having a rest day or two. Depending on where you go, learn to love being without technology and instant access to people and information. Focus on enjoying the environment you are in and the peace it can bring you. If you are going to be doing a lot of walking, make sure you've worn your shoes and feet in so you don't cause yourself so much pain.
Q. What advice would you give someone looking to embark on their first major outdoor adventure? Are there any books, documentaries, or resources you'd recommend to someone wanting to deepen their understanding and skills in outdoor adventuring?
A. I've mentioned r/motocamping, and this is a good place to start. On there you'll find people who have more detailed adventures on their own personal social media accounts. There are plenty of people who love sharing their travels , recommendations for gear, and suggestions on how to eat well while away from the luxuries of home. I would also recommend learning what foods are easy to carry, but contain plenty of nutrition and flavour. You do need a lot of expensive gear to cook and eat well, but it helps knowing what you should cook. There is a wealth of knowledge to be found on that interwebs and you'll easily go down a rabbit hole on a variety of topics.
