When you go on vacation, it's easy to get stuck going to the same location every time because you know you'll have fun and you know how much everything costs. However, your vacation is a chance to take risks and have an adventure. Next summer, spice up your travels with these ideas.

See Your Favorite Basketball Team on the Road
If you've been avidly following a basketball team for all its TV games, it's time to take your fandom to the next level. Purchase tickets for some of your team's away games, preferably in a few different locations so you can take a long road trip. Pack your gear, find some good travel snacks, and set out in your car. Don't forget to purchase accommodations in each city and to research new restaurants to try. Examine the game schedule and see if you have extra time to visit the cultural sites near your destination. If this seems like too much planning, learn more about travel packages, which allow you to purchase your tickets, accommodations, and more in one step.

Go Camping
Sometimes going to a polluted beach and staying in a jam-packed hotel full of loud people who don't sleep until 3 AM doesn't fulfill your expectation of getting away from it all. To really unplug from the world around you and enjoy the serenity of nature, plan a camping trip. Research the state and national parks in your area to find one that has camping sites and plenty of hiking. If you don't already have a tent, buy one and practice putting it up in your backyard several times before you leave. Pack plenty of food and, unless you know how to cook over a fire, a propane stove. Check the park's guidelines on food storage, since parks that have trouble with bears require visitors to keep their food in their cars. Remember, cell service is often unreliable in parks, so tell your loved ones that you'll be out of contact for a few days.

When you go on vacation, it's easy to become frustrated about how things aren't living up to your expectations. One great way to get around this feeling is to go somewhere you've never been before and try new activities. Even if you're not ready to visit new basketball stadiums or go camping, the next time you go to the beach, make sure to add a different activity to your repertoire.