Our phones have become a mainstay in everyday life. Leaving the house without your phone can often feel as though you're missing an essential item, but what if you could leave it behind and still stay connected to the world?
When you go phoneless, the feeling of being 'off the grid’ can be freeing, opening you up to new experiences by feeling present in the moment. At the same time, though, it's important to be contactable - especially when going on an epic adventure.
With Vodafone’s OneNumber plan, you can stay connected when it matters the most, while still leaving your phone at home. A smart way to stay in touch without the endless scrolling.
All you need is a compatible smartwatch and smartphone. Here are four activities to try for your next phone-free adventure.
Take to the seas with a windsurfing lesson
Ireland is widely regarded as a windsurfing hotspot thanks to its plentiful prime locations for beginners and experts alike. For a west coast adventure, Galway’s Rusheen Bay is an ideal place to test your windsurfing capabilities. Beginners or more experienced water sports enthusiasts can try their luck at windsurfing, kayaking or paddleboarding, either as part of a lesson or with go-it-alone rental options available. Rusheen Bay is just 5km away from Galway’s city centre, so combined with some brilliant pubs and restaurants just a short journey away, the perfect weekend getaway is fully within your grasp here.
Hike till your heart’s content (or at least beating faster)
If you’re looking for inspiration for your next outdoorsy day, let this be it. Pack up your snacks, water bottles, comfy shoes and weatherproof gear and embark on an elevated adventure. The Great Sugar Loaf in Wicklow provides an ample stage for your first foray into the world of hiking. It’ll take around 90 minutes to walk up and down the mountain (without taking breaks), and if you’re lucky enough to get there on a clear day, you’ll be able to see right across to Snowdonia from the mountain’s peak. Although it naturally gets a little steep towards the summit, the view is most definitely worth it when you get there. Bonus points for remembering a flask of tea for a well-earned break at the top.
See your favourite artists at a music festival
It’s a great year to finally tick Electric Picnic off your bucket list if you haven’t been before. Stradbally Co. Laois is once again playing host to the three-day festival, which runs from 1st-3rd September, and its headline acts have arguably never been better. Pack your camping essentials and head inland to catch acts like Billie Eilish, The Killers, Fred Again, Jamie XX, The Saw Doctors and many more taking the stage for a fun-filled weekend. There’s also a comedy tent, arts and culture hub, mind and body zen area, food theatre, art forest, swimmable lake and much more to explore while you’re waiting for your next unmissable act to start. Just don’t forget the poncho!
Brave a dip in the cold Irish sea
With spots like the Forty Foot and Blackrock Diving Tower often filling up during the summer months, why not try somewhere a little off the beaten track to find a quieter dip into the cold Irish sea? Canty’s Cove in West Cork has been known to showcase alluring crystal clear water, likened to the conditions you’d typically need to fly overseas to experience. The picturesque surroundings include small cliffs, perfect for those brave enough to dare jumping into the water. Just be careful how many people you tell about it, or it won’t be a hidden treasure forever.
With Vodafone’s OneNumber, your phone is no longer a mandatory requirement on your everyday adventures, as you can still stay connected to your network using your smartwatch. Swap your phone for a hands-free connection. Whether you’re tackling a mountain, sea swimming or singing your heart out at a festival, you’ll still be connected when you need it.
Search Vodafone OneNumber or ask about it in-store. Available to customers on a 12 or 24-month Red unlimited billpay plan. Compatible powered on smartphone and smartwatch required. Limitations and terms apply. See vodafone.ie/terms.
