I don't need en excuse, but if I did I would use my outdoor hobby. Take up hiking/backpacking. My day hikes are anywhere from 2-5 hours. If I'm backpacking I might be gone for a whole day or two. It's an activity you can do with others, BUT, it's also very common to see solo hikers and backpackers, so you wouldn't need someone to corroborate your "outing".