How to Start an Outdoor Adventure Company

You must decide on the type of business you want to run. Do you enjoy water sports? Or maybe you want to open a ski and snowboard shop. The most popular outdoor activities are:

• Backpacking
• Biking
• Hiking
• Kayaking
• Paddleboarding
• Rafting
• Rock Climbing
• Ziplining

Decide what activities you want to offer. Are you going to run a tour company and lead customers on adventures? Will you rent out equipment?

Who Is Your Target Market?

Spend some time on market research to determine who your customers are and what they want. Are they high-adventure seekers? Are they concerned with sustainability? Do they have special physical limitations you should consider? Once you figure out your customer base, craft your business to reach out to them.

Who Is Your Competition, and What Do They Charge?

There is a lot of competition in the tourism business, so you should be able to evaluate other companies. What makes them popular? What is their pricing? How can you distinguish yourself from other outdoor adventure companies?

What Are Your Startup and Ongoing Expenses?

Determine your business needs and expenses, such as purchasing and maintaining equipment and supplies, setting up your business and website, leasing office space, and hiring employees. Develop a budget and project when your business may turn a profit.

When starting a business, you want to make sure you set it up properly and follow your state and local laws. Do the necessary research when choosing your name and acquiring licenses and permits.

Choose a Business Name and Structure

Your business name is your brand, and there are many factors to consider when choosing a name for your business. Make sure you choose a name that is available for use in your state. You can search the Secretary of State's online portal under business names. You may also want to search DBA (doing business as) registrations in your state and county clerk's office. If your name is not registered, you can use it.

Many small business owners operate as sole proprietors, which allows them to include their business income and expenses on their personal tax returns. However, a more popular option is to form a limited liability company (LLC) as a business model. An LLC gives you the flexibility of a sole proprietorship and the personal asset protection benefits of a corporation. For example, as an LLC, if a customer sued you for personal injury from a trip, they could only go after the assets in your business, not your personal property or assets. You can form an LLC by filing paperwork with your state or you can let our trusted partner LegalZoom handle your business formation filing for $99 plus filing fees.

Get Business Licenses and Permits

When running your company, make sure you have the necessary permits and business licenses. You can contact your state, county, and town licensing bureaus; they will direct you to your licensing requirements and applications.

There are risks with any outdoor activity. Have contingency plans in case of an emergency or bad weather. Keep a fully stocked first aid kit when going on outings.

Do you need certifications, such as first aid, to operate your business? Do you know enough about the activity or need additional training? There are courses led by the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) that give you practical experience.

Look into business insurance for your business. As a tour operator, you want to make sure you are protected from any personal injury or property damage claims from your customers.

Outline marketing strategies to reach your target audience. Utilize partnerships and social media. Create a dynamic website to advertise your adventures.

Build Partnerships

Develop partnerships with other businesses. For example, if there is a casual restaurant on the beach, you could offer to operate your paddleboard business from their beach. An outdoor adventure retail store like REI may let you post flyers or business cards about your adventure tours.

Promote Your Business on Social Media

It is critical to have an online presence where potential customers can find you. Post photos of the adventures on social media platforms to lead customers to your website.

Make a Website

Creating a website is helpful to show scheduled trips and allow customers to book trips, pay for tours and equipment rentals with a credit card, and sign liability waivers.

Planning for your outdoor adventure business is similar to planning an outdoor adventure. It requires careful planning and preparation.