I’M GLAD YOU DROPPED BY
I’ve been lucky to have some pretty incredible adventures — across Canada and in other parts of the world. If you’ve found your way here, there’s a good chance you feel that same pull. Maybe you want to spend more time outdoors. Maybe you’re planning a trip somewhere new. Or maybe you’re hoping to experience a familiar place in a different way. If any of that sounds like you, you’re in the right place!
This space is for those who want to get outdoors, are curious about the world, and want practical, experience-based advice for planning their own adventures.
A LITTLE ABOUT ME
I’m a part-time blogger and currently work for a conservation charity, where I help encourage people to learn, engage, and take action to protect the natural world. Earlier in my career, I worked in the international development sector, which took me to several countries and shaped how I think about travel, sustainability, and our shared responsibility as global citizens.
That perspective carries into my free time too, whether camping, hiking, paddling, or travelling whenever I can.
THE BACKSTORY
I started Out & Across in 2020 as a creative side project. At first, it was simply a place to document my own trips (and stay sane through the lockdowns). Over time, it’s grown into a practical resource for people planning their own adventures. And I really love that.
Here, I share what worked, what didn’t, and everything I learned along the way, so your planning feels easier and less overwhelming. My goal is pretty simple: to help us all get out there often, and a little further than we might have otherwise. To travel thoughtfully, care for the places we visit, and look out for one another (including our wild friends).
Throughout the site, you’ll find firsthand trip reports, planning tips, destination guides, and ideas for outdoor adventures and sustainable travel.
A FEW THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW
I’m a Bluenoser. I grew up in Nova Scotia, spending hours along the Bay of Fundy shoreline looking for crabs and starfish (just to look). That connection to the ocean runs deep, and ocean health matters to me (I even took Oceans 11 and Oceans 12 in high school, though not taught by George Clooney). I’ve also lived in New Brunswick, Ontario, and Alberta.
I’m a paddler at heart. Canoeing has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I went on my first eight-day canoe trip at 13 and later became a Paddle Canada–certified instructor. Canoe, kayak, SUP… if it’s on the water, I’m in!
My first big trip was Halifax–London–Nairobi. At 18, I travelled to Kenya on a short-term volunteer trip. That experience helped shape my career path and led to travelling in roughly 20 countries. Two moments that really stuck with me: watching a pride of lions in Kenya’s Masai Mara and hiking to La Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City) in Colombia.
I studied sociology and international development, driven by curiosity about how people, societies, and the world work. That curiosity shows up in everything I do, from conservation fundraising to wilderness adventures and travel experiences.
I’m a bit of a gear nerd. I spent a couple of years working part-time at SAIL in Ottawa, which helped pay for grad school… and led to more outdoor gear than I probably needed.
I’ve lived in South America, spending five months in Medellín, Colombia, while working remotely. Learning some Spanish, exploring the region, and eating far too much delicious maracuyá.
I’m outside year-round. Spring through fall are spent paddling, hiking, and backpacking, and winter brings skiing, snowshoeing, and a whole new kind of adventure.
BEFORE YOU GO
If you’re looking to try something new or stretch your comfort zone, preparation and the right mindset make all the difference (and good gear never hurts). Whether you’re just getting started or have years of experience, I hope you keep getting out there.
If you’re planning an adventure or just dreaming about the next one, I invite you to stick around. Browse the guides, explore the destinations, and see what sparks your curiosity. And if you have a question, an idea, or a story to share, I’d love to hear from you!
See you out there,
PARTNERS & AFFILIATIONS
Thomas is proud to be an ambassador for Level Six, an Ottawa-based company creating high-quality, sustainably made paddling gear.
Thomas’ outdoor adventures are fuelled by The Oat Company, a St. John’s, Newfoundland–based brand making tasty oat bars with simple, natural ingredients (and no added sugars).
Out & Across is a proud partner of Leave No Trace Canada, promoting responsible and sustainable outdoor recreation.
Thomas has been an instructor member with Paddle Canada, the national association for recreational paddling in Canada.
