It’s hard to believe that 2020 is just around the corner! While most of us are full of aspirational goals to make it our best year yet, the statistics are not on our side. The truth is, most New Year’s Resolutions fail. But with a little planning, any worthwhile goal is achievable.  Here are three resolutions that our crew succeeded at, and the steps they took to get there.

Resolution #1 Make More Time for Family

With the fast pace of modern life, quality family time isn’t just going to happen. You have to make it intentional and fun. The outdoors make an awesome setting for activities that the whole family can enjoy. These tips for raising kids who love the outdoors are a great place to start.

Try creating a weekly or monthly tradition to get the crew together – like a Saturday morning hike, an after work walk at the Arboretum, or a weekend visit to Sliding Rock. On those days when the weather doesn’t cooperate, try a screen free indoor activity. Check out Well Played Board Game Cafe in downtown Asheville, Appalachian Pinball Museum in Hendersonville, or hit up your local bowling alley.

If your kids are used to spending the weekends with friends, consider inviting them to be a part of your family day. It’s an easy way to get your kids more excited and get to know the people they enjoy spending time with.

Be sure to stop by Frugal Backpacker and pick up a passport for our Kid’s Hiking Challenge. It’s absolutely free, and it’s a fun way for to get kids excited about hiking and earn some gear.

Resolution #2 Make Green Choices

We’re constantly surrounded by single use convenience items, and when you’re busy, they can feel impossible to avoid. Lunch on the go? Served in a takeout box with a plastic fork. That extra cup of morning coffee? Served in a disposable cup with a plastic lid, and if you like your coffee extra hot like me, you better double cup it. Pre-washed veggies? Single use cleaning products? You get the idea.

Preparation is key to avoiding these pitfalls. Keep a water bottle, reusable straw, and reusable shopping bags in your car, and you’ll be ready for whatever. Instead of taking your lunch to go, spend a few minutes eating inside, or better yet, try to prepare a simple snack in advance to take with you. Smoothies have become a lifesaver for me. They make it possible to whip up a healthy meal in just a couple minutes with frozen fruits and veggies and protein powder. I pour mine in a Hydro Flask insulated cup and it stays chilled all day.

Another great way to reduce your carbon footprint is by avoiding cheaply made items and fast fashion. It may cost a little more initially, but if you invest in a few quality items, you’ll wind up spending a lot less in the long run, and reduce what winds up in the landfill. Frugal Backpacker often carries closeout deals and samples from top brands, so you can find high quality items at affordable prices.

Resolution #3 Explore New Places

Exploring new places is an incredible way to expand your horizons and have unique experiences. What qualifies as a new place? That’s the beauty of it – it’s up to you!

Our crew loves sharing their favorite trails and local spots. Next time you’re in the store, just ask!

Price, quality, and ethics – most of the time you can only choose two, but that’s not the Frugal way. We’re committed to finding high quality gear that’s produced with a moral compass, and making it available at inclusive prices. That’s why we’re excited about new arrivals from one of our favorite brands with impact – Sherpa Adventure Gear.

The Sherpa People have thrived in an inhospitable environment for generations

Heritage Breeds Quality

Sherpa Adventure Gear was founded in 2003 by Tashi Sherpa, as a memorial to the oft overlooked heroes of the Himalayas, the Sherpas. Sherpa Adventure Gear translates their heritage mountaineering and thriving in harsh conditions into durable apparel and gear that stands the test of time.

Sherpa’s accessories are hand knit in Nepal

Changing Lives – One Product at a Time

But this durable brand is about more than just gear – their focus is on people. They give back to their community by providing living wage employment for women in Nepal. You can see their traditional handiwork on display in Sherpa Adventure Gear’s hats and jewelry. They also work to improve the lifestyles of future generations through education. A portion of every sale goes to fund education for Sherpa youth, many of whom would otherwise not be able to afford to attend school. This life changing education opens up the door to safe employment and lifts entire families out of poverty.

Sherpa customers make it possible for these children to go to school

Be a Part of the Adventure

Among our go-to gifts for this season are the Rolpa Half Zip and Rolpa Pullover from Sherpa Adventure Gear. They feel great and come in several gorgeous colors and they’re frugally priced at just $45 each. That’s an incredible deal on a gift that you can feel good about. Stop by and check them out at our locations in Asheville or Greenville.

Want to know more about Sherpa Adventure Gear’s work? Read their Impact Report.