Nothing can beat a trip into the great outdoors, breathing the fresh air and taking in nature’s exceptional views. It’s the reason why so many people love to go camping, hiking, and backpacking. Nature will always offer us an incredible experience, whether we’re in its forests, up its mountains, or by its lakes.
However, nature is also unpredictable. And it can mean serious trouble if we don’t properly prepare for it. That’s why having the right gear and supplies with you on your outdoor adventure is essential.
There are a few things you need to make sure you have packed. While this is not an exhaustive list, it’s a great starting point to ensure you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable outdoor adventure. Here are some things you should bring with you:
Bring Appropriate Gear
This first one may seem obvious, but many times it gets overlooked. It is challenging to stress enough how important it is to have the proper gear for whatever activity you’re planning. That means ensuring you have appropriate footwear, clothes, and outerwear. But it’s also not a good idea to overpack your bag with clothes since it can weigh you down and make your journey more difficult.
When choosing what type of gear to bring, it’s best to choose versatile pieces that can adapt to any situation. In warmer weather, it’s best to wear a breathable base layer and pack additional layers in case the weather changes. And in cold or wet weather the best thing to bring is a 3-layer waterproof jacket. It protects you from the elements and keeps you warm and dry, all in just one piece of clothing. The ultimate outdoor adventure gear lets you pack light while being fully prepared for any weather, and that is what it enables you to do.
Bring a First Aid Kit
No matter where you’re going or what you’re doing, bringing a first aid kit is always a good idea. Accidents can happen at any time, and it’s best to have one prepared for any of them in case they occur. A basic first aid kit should include bandages, antibiotic ointment, pain reliever, gauze pads, and tape.
You should also include any medication you’re currently taking and common allergy medications, just in case you get an allergic reaction to something on your trip. The worst thing that can happen to you in the great outdoors is suffering from an accident or a bad reaction with nothing to help you. So make sure you always have a first aid kit on hand.
Bring a Map and Compass
Bringing these may sound unnecessary since we all have our phones and GPS, but getting a map and a compass on a trip outdoors is still a good idea.
Technology can fail us in many ways, and you won’t want to get caught empty-handed in the middle of nowhere if you suddenly lose signal or your phone dies. And even if you’re not planning on going off the beaten path, carrying a compass is still valuable. It can help you figure out which direction you need to go to find your way back if you ever get lost. Since they don’t need a battery to function, you’ll feel safe knowing that you can always depend on your map and compass.
Bring Sun Protection
This one is important, especially if you’re planning on spending a lot of time outdoors in the summer. The sun can be extremely harsh, and it’s essential to protect yourself from its harmful rays.
It would be best if you packed a bottle of sunscreen, a pair of shades, and a hat to keep the sun off your face. Coming home after a long trip filled with sunburns is not a pleasant experience and not one you would want to feel for yourself. So make sure you have proper sun protection to prevent that from happening.
Bring a Flashlight
A flashlight is another item you should always have with you, especially if you plan to go hiking or camping. It can help you see in the dark and be used as a signal if you ever need to be rescued.
And since they don’t take up much space, there’s no excuse not to bring one along. Ensure the batteries are fresh before you leave and ready to use when needed.
Bring Emergency Food and Water
Last but not least, it’s always a good idea to have emergency food and water with you outdoors. Nutrition is crucial when you get lost or stranded and need to ration your supplies, and having an emergency stock of food and water can help you last until help arrives.
Pack high-energy foods like granola bars or candy that can give you a quick energy boost, and make sure to bring enough water for everyone in your group. Packing a water filter is also good if you need to drink from a river or stream. No one ever wants to be in an emergency, but it’s always best to be prepared just in case.
The Bottom Line
There you have it! These are the essential things you need to bring on your next outdoor adventure. By having these items with you, you’ll come prepared for anything that comes your way. So get packing and enjoy your time in the great outdoors!
