There’s a reason that the Scouting America motto “Be Prepared” has endured for well over a century. It applies to daily life, as well being ready for any type of weather when we’re away from home. Mother Nature throws at us the expected and unexpected, and the best we can do is plan for both.
Traveling, especially across the country or overseas, adds a whole extra layer (more on layers in a minute!) and requires some added diligence, since we can’t just run back to the house and grab whatever may be needed.
Here, we’ve gathered our best tips for packing for outdoor adventures, whether your destination is balmy or brisk—or subject to change without notice!
Banking on the Essentials
There are some items that should be on any to-pack list, not matter the forecast. These include:
A Water Receptacle. Hydration is one of the most important elements of taking care of ourselves while traveling. And, while advice varies on how much we need per day, the average is about two liters. Standard water bottles seem like an obvious choice, but they can be cumbersome to carry and bulky to fit in a bag. Collapsible bottles work well because they’re lightweight, can be flattened when not in use, and can usually be clipped to a belt loop to free up hands. Bringing a handful of electrolyte powder packs can be a good idea, too.
Broad-spectrum SPF. We often only think of sunscreen when it’s hot and sunny, but we need protection from exposure even when it’s cloudy or cold. Look for a minimum of SPF 30, which will block roughly 97% of UVB rays. Don’t just pick up any tube off the shelf, though; consider sunscreen sticks instead. Not only are they TSA friendly, they’re also easy to apply, leak proof, and pocket portable. Oh, and remember lip balm, also.
Hearty Snacks. Staying fueled in harsh weather conditions is critical, and nutrient-dense, shelf-stable foods provide the most bang for our buck. So, think trail mix packets, granola bars, nut butters, or jerky. Just read the labels carefully, and avoid high sugar, excessive sodium, and long lists of unpronounceable ingredients.
A Whistle or Personal Alarm. File this under “just in case.”
A First-Aid Kit. Ditto!
Beating the Heat
Heatstroke, dehydration, exhaustion, and sunburns are the most common effects of high temperatures. The top two essentials noted earlier will go a long way. But there’s more:
Breathable Clothing. Wearing as little as possible isn’t really an option here. We need lightweight, loose attire made of nature fibers such as cotton, linen, and merino wool. Choose light colors to not only reflect sun, but also make hitchhiking ticks more noticeable.
Insect Repellant. Ticks, mosquitoes, and other pests thrive in hot, humid environments—and can carry dangerous diseases. Be sure to bring something that contains DEET or picaridin and opt for wipes or stick applicators for ease in transporting.
A Lightweight Hat. A head covering adds extra protection from UVB rays, and there are many foldable options available for compact packing.
A Rain Poncho. Certain climates are known for their unpredictable weather shifts. We don’t want to be caught in a downpour without any gear! Thin, hooded ponchos are ideal because they fold up, allow for ventilation, and don’t take up the space of an umbrella.
Braving the Cold
Frigid weather can be just as harrowing as blistering, but the good news is there are plenty of options for combatting it.
Layers, Layers, Layers. Multiple levels from thin base to fleece middle to insulated outer not only keep us warm, they also prevent overheating, which can lead to sweating. And staying dry is critical. If we’re exerting ourselves, being able remove a layer is also important to adjust our body temperature.
The Right Socks and Footwear. A single pair of thick wool socks can be enough, or combining one thin synthetic with another heavier wool works, too—just as long as we’re allowing for proper circulation in our feet. Insulated, thick-soled, waterproof boots are a must as well.
Hand Warmer Packs. These can be a lifesaver if all of the above aren’t quite enough. They’re typically inexpensive and small enough to tuck in our pockets, and they heat up pretty quickly once activated.
Emergency Blankets. Here’s one last item that can come to the rescue—that’s also lightweight and compact. These waterproof, windproof, mylar thermal sheets protect from hypothermia by retaining up to 90% of body heat. Whew!
Written by Allison Kay Bannister.
