Heading into nature is an excellent way to recharge and escape the hassles of the city. While it helps to prepare days in advance, staying adventure-ready is a brilliant idea, especially if you are an outdoor enthusiast. It allows you to enjoy and remain comfortable on even the most impromptu trips. Here are ten accessories every nature lover must have.
1. Tarp and Cordage
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Outdoor adventures should be fun and comfortable. The fact that you choose to spend a weekend in the woods does not mean you should bask all day and freeze all evening. While most camping sites offer cottages and tents, it’s always great to have a tarp and cordage. Tarps are lighter than tents and can be fastened quickly between trees to make a temporary shelter. Besides, they are versatile. You could use them to make a hammock, set up a shade outside your tent, or add a waterproof layer over your tent.
2. First Aid Kit
It’s easy to pick up injuries from outdoor activities. You could fall and hurt yourself, sprain an ankle while hiking, or get sunburns from simply resting on a chair outside your tent. In the wild, you will likely be away from medical facilities, and emergency response will take longer to get to you. You can treat your injuries long enough to get proper medical aid with a first aid kit. Make it a habit to review your first aid kits before trips to restock any essential supplies that may have run out.
3. Multi-tool
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A multi survival tool is among your most valued accessories in nature. It comes with different blades, including serrated and straight edges and dedicated saws. The compact design makes it easy to carry, and the multi-functional nature allows you to saw, cut, tighten screws, open cans, and start fires, among other tasks. Multi-tools are the ultimate symbol of preparedness and self-reliance for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Hand Crank Radio
In the wilderness, you will not always have power and lighting. Emergencies may occur, leaving you without power for extended durations. In situations like that, you need your phone to be on to contact emergency services for help. A hand crank radio is battery-powered and rechargeable by turning the hand crank. It also has USB ports where you can plug in and charge your phone. In addition, it has a flashlight and will allow you to receive emergency and weather updates even when your cellular signal is down. Always keep one of these in your travel bag.
5. Toiletry Kit
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Even in the wild, you must stay clean and neat. While you may not be able to carry all of your home bathroom’s toiletry supplies, you can pack important ones in smaller travel-size containers. Pour in just enough of your body wash, cleanser, and moisturizer. Other essentials for your toiletry bag include disposable razors, a towel, deodorant, and cologne. In case of spillage, most of these supplies will stain your clothes and mess up any liquid-sensitive gear. That is why you need a waterproof toiletry bag or at least a waterproof pouch for the liquids.
6. Protective Wear
In the outdoors, you never know when you will have to battle rain, scorching heat, or freezing temperatures. Always pack some protective wear when you leave the house. Carry extra layers and warm clothes like hoodies for the cold. Hats and sunglasses are excellent for sunny and dusty areas. If you’re visiting a snowy region, bring a pair of snow boots. In essence, make it a point to follow the weather forecast of your travel destination and pack appropriately.
7. Fishing and Hunting Gear
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Outdoor adventures are only complete with fun and functional outdoor activities like fishing and hunting. If you find a camp spot next to a water body, fishing would be an exciting way to get food and enjoy the outdoors. All you need is the right on and offshore fishing gear like fishing rods, baits, carp leads, etc. If you prefer hunting for food or sports, carry your camouflage, hunting rifle, and other hunting accessories. Basically, always have the tools of the trade.
8. Fire Starters
The importance of fire in the outdoors cannot be overstated. If it gets too cold, you can use fire to keep warm. You will need a fire when you are cooking after a successful hunt. If you break off from your group and get lost, you can create a fire to signal rescuers. Also, stories around a bonfire are integral to every camping adventure. Before you set out on that next trip, ensure you’ve packed different firestarters. You could get tinder cubes, waterproof matches, or your regular lighter. Have a variety that lets you make fires even in wet conditions.
9. Self-defense Gear
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Stepping into the wild should be exhilarating. As much as you can never tell what dangers you may face out there, staying prepared is a great way to prevent travel anxiety from ruining your trip. You could carry your handgun, taser, pepper spray, or any other useful and compact self-defense tool. Although you may never need to use these, the peace of mind they offer will take away some fear and allow you to immerse yourself in nature fully.
10. Sturdy Backpack
As an outdoor thrill seeker, you must have a dedicated and convenient place to store your essential travel accessories. Your car trunk may help, but you can’t drive your truck into the lake while fishing or over a cliff while hiking. You require a sturdy backpack that’ll stay firmly and comfortably on your back as you navigate the wilderness. A good travel backpack should have sufficient space and several compartments to keep and organize your accessories for easy retrieval. It should also be waterproof to protect your clothes and electronics. Find a size that fits you and throw in the above-listed supplies in readiness for your next trip.
In a Nutshell
Travel accessories are diverse and personal. The key is to have items that keep you comfortable, hygienic, and safe. In that regard, the above ten items should never be missing in any adventurer’s travel bag. Feel free to add any personal supplies you find vital and stay outdoor-ready!