In life, we have many different relationships but the place of the family remains unrivalled. Forming and maintaining a special bond with your family is incredibly important. One of the best ways to do so is by going on a nature trip.
Back to Nature?
Oftentimes, we get so caught up in the daily grind that we don’t get to embrace the simplest joys that life has to offer – the sound of birds chirping and the clear blue sky. Going on a nature trip creates the opportunity for you to relax, to truly be present at the moment and enjoy each other’s company against the backdrop of nature in all its glory.
In addition, going on a nature trip can be fun and enriching. Your children are bound to learn something new. Most importantly, it allows for an avenue to an experience away from screens, malls and crowds that create a memory to last a lifetime.
Speaking of crowds, given the current situation with COVID-19, congregating in indoor spaces is a recipe for disaster. So what better time than now to take a drive on the road less travelled?
In the midst of all the border closures, the idea of a nature trip may sound far fetched but you really don’t have to go anywhere too far. There are many places to explore within our sunny island, such as Coney Island, Mount Faber and Changi Beach among others. You just need to drive a little further from the madding crowd, pitch a tent somewhere, stretch your legs out and let nature take your breath away!
What to bring on a family outdoor trip
Given that you’re going to spend a fair bit of time outdoors, it’s imperative to make the most out of it. As such, depending on what you plan to do, you would want to pack things like bicycles, skate scooters, a ball to kick around, a picnic mat, strollers, a first aid kit and of course food, for what’s an outdoor trip without a good picnic?
Our roads are known for their infamous traffic jams, so when going on a long drive, you might want to consider bringing games; books and all manner of entertainment so you can focus on driving—because we all know what happens when children get bored in the car. Not forgetting infant or booster seats for the little ones. Safety first, always!
Space for all that matters
I’m enticed by the idea of a long drive and spending quality time outdoors but never quite got around to going on a proper one for the sheer lack of space in my car. With three children, it’s almost impossible to get everything into my regular sedan car.
But it all changed when I was given the opportunity to test-drive the 7-seater Mitsubishi Outlander that I found, after trying out, to be great for the outdoors!
Mitsubishi Outlander
I took two of my three children and headed off on a mini family outdoor trip. I must say that the moment I collected the car, I was immediately inspired to hit the out. For starters, just looking at the car gave me all the feels of a good outdoor adventure trip.
The Mitsubishi Outlander is spacious yet not bulky at all. It looks perfect for uneven terrain. I didn’t have to worry about scraping a bumper if I went over a bump!
Here’s an added bonus: it is still stylish even though it is a little rugged, completely unlike the typical ‘mom car’ kind of SUV that reminds me of a school bus. And for mums like me who like to keep a semblance of my pre-mom days, this is perfect!
Spacious, Comfortable & Flexible Seating
My boys squealed in delight at the sight of the Mitsubishi Outlander. They were in awe of how the car looked and jumped in right away. Once in the car, we were pleasantly surprised to discover just how spacious the interior is and how comfortable the leather seats are. My boys had no trouble getting in and out of the back seat, and here’s the best part – there’s an armrest in between them. This barrier is very useful in deterring them from conspiring mischief while I’m driving.
I didn’t bring my child seats along for the test drive but I have no doubts that I can easily fit the boys’ booster seats and my toddler’s child seat without a squeeze. Not having to squeeze means less squabbling and that’s a huge bonus for me. Mums would relate to this, I’m sure of that.
For child seats, there are two tether anchors behind the second-row seats. Safety is of utmost priority, especially when driving children, so I appreciate this feature!
If you’re not using a child seat, there are over-the-shoulder seat belts even in the third row, so it’s perfect if your kids’ friends decide to tag along.
There are various configurations to explore and the car can range from two to seven seats—depending on your needs for the day.
Interior Features that Meet All Your Needs
As the driver, one thing I really like about the Mitsubishi Outlander is how uncomplicated everything is. I’m not the best with technology and it gives me a sense of confidence that I can manage without an extensive tutorial from my hubby.
The car comes equipped with hands-free Apple CarPlay. All I had to do was connect my phone with the USB cable and voila, my phone was pretty much mirrored onto the LCD screen. From the GPS, to making phone calls and playing music, everything was a breeze.
The driver’s seat is elevated and that is a bonus for me as it gives me better visibility while driving and I can also control the music, Bluetooth and cruise controls. Perfect!
Another feature I really like is that the temperature of the air-con vents at the front of the car can be adjusted individually, so I can enjoy a stronger blast of the air-conditioner without worrying about my front passenger freezing! I also like that there are air-con blowers at the back of the car to ensure that my kids are comfortable. Perfect for our sunny weather!
Did I also mention the convenience of cup holders in the front and rear? May not seem like the most important feature, but if you’ve been on a long drive with children, you would share my sentiments. A cup holder is essential to prevent unwanted spillage!
The Back End
Now let’s talk about the trunk. I usually have to play a game of Tetris of sorts to fit my strollers and the likes in the trunk. The Mitsubishi Outlander, on the other hand, offers ample trunk space for all that I need to bring. Also, folding the third-row seats makes even more space for the bulkier stroller for my littlest one.
There is also a hidden compartment for the privacy shield cover, flat-tire kit and space for umbrellas.
All in all, the Mitsubishi Outlander offers a world of possibilities without compromising on space and having a comfortable ride even in the most uneven plains. When I get my hands on it, I’m definitely going to be planning a whole lot of family outdoor trips for the outlander fuels the moments!
Drop by the Mitsubishi showroom and test drive the Outlander.
Also, exclusively for TAP readers, you will receive a $500 service credits when you book a Mitsubishi Outlander.
Seeing is believing so book your Mitsubishi Outlander test drive here.
Terms & Conditions apply. Find out more at mits.sg
Remember, life is short. Seize the moments. Go on those exhilarating outdoor adventure trips and make memories!