Farm Stays / Agritourism – Check List

Farm Stays / Agritourism

What to Bring & How to Behave for Farm Stays / Agritourism

Farm stays and agritourism offers a unique opportunity to experience rural life, connect with nature, and often learn about agricultural practices. The focus is on embracing an authentic, sometimes rustic, environment and respecting the farm’s routines, animals, and the hosts’ way of life.

Here’s what travelers need to consider for Farm Stays / Agritourism:

What to Bring for Farm Stays / Agritourism:

Practical & Durable Clothing (Expect to Get Dirty!):

  • Layers: Temperatures can vary greatly in rural areas from day to night. Bring versatile layers (t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, light jackets).
  • Work/Outdoor Pants: Sturdy jeans, cargo pants, or comfortable trousers that you don’t mind getting dirty, dusty, or muddy. Avoid delicate fabrics.
  • Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket and pants are essential, especially if you’ll be outdoors for farm activities.
  • Casual, Comfortable Clothes: For downtime, meals, and relaxing.
  • Sleepwear.

Sturdy, Closed-Toe Footwear:

  • Work Boots/Wellies (Rubber Boots): Highly recommended! For navigating muddy fields, barns, or wet conditions. They are often essential for farm work.
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes/Hiking Boots: For exploring the farm, fields, or nearby trails.
  • Casual Shoes/Sandals: For indoor use or very relaxed outdoor moments.

Sun Protection:

  • Sunscreen (High SPF): You’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors.
  • Wide-Brimmed Hat/Cap: To protect your face and neck from the sun.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Lip Balm with SPF.
  • Insect Repellent: Essential, especially in rural areas with mosquitoes, flies, or ticks.

Personal Hygiene:

  • Toiletries: All your usual personal care items.
  • Hand Sanitizer & Wet Wipes: Especially useful after interacting with animals or before meals.
  • Old Towel: You might want an extra towel that you don’t mind getting dirty for drying off after outdoor activities or cleaning up.
  • Water Bottle (Reusable): Staying hydrated is important during farm activities.
  • Headlamp/Flashlight: With spare batteries, useful for navigating in the dark (some farm areas may not have extensive lighting).
  • Basic First-Aid Kit: For minor cuts, scrapes, blisters, and insect bites. Include any personal medications.
  • Book/E-reader/Journal: For quiet downtime, as entertainment options might be limited.
  • Camera: For capturing the scenery and farm life.
  • Small Backpack/Daypack: For daily use during farm activities or excursions.
  • Reusable Shopping Bag: For any farm-fresh produce or local goods you might purchase.
  • Cash (Small Bills): For farm stand purchases or local markets.
  • Old Clothes/Plastic Bags: For packing dirty or muddy clothes/shoes for the return journey.
  • Allergy Medication (if relevant): If you have allergies to animals, dust, pollen, etc.

Etiquette and Responsible Behavior for Farm Stays / Agritourism:

  • Respect the Farm’s Schedule & Rules: Farms operate on specific routines (feeding times, milking, planting). Be punctual for activities and adhere to all rules set by your hosts.
  • Listen to Your Hosts: They are experts on their farm. Follow all instructions regarding animal handling, equipment, safety, and specific chores.

Respect the Animals:

  • Do Not Feed Animals Without Permission: What’s good for one animal might be harmful to another.
  • Approach Calmly: Move slowly and quietly around animals.
  • Follow Handling Instructions: Learn safe ways to interact with different animals.
  • Wash Hands: Always wash hands thoroughly after touching animals, especially before eating.
  • Leave No Trace (of Waste): Dispose of all trash properly. Do not litter on the farm property.
  • Conserve Resources: Be mindful of water and electricity usage, as these resources are often precious on farms.
  • Ask Before Exploring: Do not wander into barns, fields, or areas of the farm without permission. There might be hazards (e.g., equipment, fences, livestock).
  • Mind Your Step: Be aware of uneven terrain, mud, animal waste, and farm equipment.
  • Be Prepared for Dirt & Mess: This is a working farm, not a pristine resort. Embrace the authentic experience.
  • Be Inquisitive & Engaged: Show genuine interest in farm life, ask respectful questions, and participate enthusiastically in activities offered.
  • Respect Privacy: Remember you are staying in someone’s home and livelihood. Respect their personal space and quiet times.
  • Keep Gates Closed: If you open a gate, ensure you close it securely behind you to prevent animals from escaping.
  • Offer Help (if appropriate): If you see a small chore or task, offer a hand, but always ask first.

By coming prepared for a hands-on experience and embracing the rhythm of farm life with respect, you’ll gain a truly authentic and memorable agritourism adventure.