GEAR GUIDE:
WINTER CAR ESSENTIALS
The Ultimate Guide to Adventure
It’s funny, but having a car loaded with gear makes me feel like the opportunities for adventure are endless. Not that I need to buy meaningless items to achieve that feeling or look, but that I can use the resources I have and ones that last. I don’t know how many spontaneous stops we’ve made over the years but, like a boy scout, I’m always prepared (and safe!). I try to keep my car stocked with essentials for every season. Here are some of the winter items I keep in my Subaru:
SNOWSHOES
MICROSPIKES
HAT & GLOVES
DAY PACK
My Gregory day packs, Citro 25 and Jade 33 have been the most reliable over the years and have provided the most support for my back. They are perfect for last minute hikes.
WEATHER RESISTANT WALLET
Flowfold makes the best weather-resistant products around. Made out of recycled sailcloth, their wallets and bags will keep your stuff dry.
TREKKING POLE
HAND & BODY WARMERS
HotHands I should probably take stock in these…
HIKING BOOTS
I don’t go anywhere without my L.L.Bean shearling-lined boots. They’re just SO warm. But I also keep a pair of Merrells in the back — my go-to hiking shoe.
EXTRA WOOL SOCKS
Smartwool or DarnTough, I swear I wear these year round.
CHANGE OF CLOTHES
BLANKET
Preferably one that will keep you warm. An outdoor, water-resistant blanket will be even more useful.
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE & DOG BOWL
Reduce waste and get yourself a reusable water bottle. I love my insulated Yeti Rambler because it will stay hot/cold all day long and fits perfectly in cup holders.
EXTRA DOG LEASH & COLLAR
There are a number of times this has come in handy for lost dogs we’ve come across.
TRIPOD
HEADLAMP
…and extra batteries or charger.
FIRST AID KIT
CAR CARE SUPPLIES
Your basic roadside assistance kit and supplies to keep you alive if you get stranded overnight somewhere. Don’t forget toilet paper!
The newest and most vital item that was gifted to us is the Lifehammer window breaker & seatbelt cutter, just make sure you keep it within reach and not somewhere in the back of the car! Read my blog post to find out why this is important.
That’s my list of essentials! Now go find some adventures!
(...also Roo doesn’t ride in the back, she’s just paranoid we’ll leave without her. 😂🐾😍) .
