The Great Outdoors

I believe that life is enriched through exploration.  A life lived indoors is a sheltered and unadventurous life.  So when I want to do something great, there's no where better to go than outdoors.

Nature's beauty never ceases to amaze me.  It's wonderful how the most amazing things are created naturally by the earth.  Taking time to appreciate nature is one of the best ways to spend a day, whether you're going on a nature hike, taking a trip somewhere scenic, or just taking a walk outside.  Here's a few essentials for a foray into nature!

Julia's Outdoor Essentials {featuring Fjallräven Canada}

1~ A Great Jacket

No matter the weather, a jacket is a must.  Pack one that keeps you warm and dry (and stylish as an added bonus!)  

My Picks: Barbour, Fjällräven Canada, J. Crew

2~ Durable Boots

Good footwear can be the difference between a sore, aching hike and an awesome trek through the outdoors.  Make sure you pick a good pair of boots or shoes that protect your feet, support them, and fit you well.  

My Picks: Hunter, LL Bean, Sperry

3~ A Baseball Cap

Baseball caps are essential for protecting your head, shading your eyes, and even hiding messy hair!  I love my pink Vineyard Vines one that I'm wearing here, and these options too!  They all include adorable motifs on the front.

My Picks: Fjallräven Canada, Southern Proper, Vineyard Vines

4~ A Roomy Backpack

Nature is no place for a handbag.  But you can still tote around a cute backpack!  Make sure your pick has room for your supplies, and anything you pick up along the way!  Trust me: one time I came back from a hike with ten different pinecones that I picked up off the trail.  

My Picks: Longchamp, Patagonia, Lululemon

5~ A Warm Coat

If you need heavier layers, a really warm and durable coat is definitely a great thing to buy.  Fleece or fur lined parkas and anoraks are great! 

My Picks: Canada Goose, Penfield, Fjallräven Canada

6~ Good (Healthy!) Snacks

Healthy and delicious snacks will fuel your hike and keep you strong.  Pre-packaged is easier to carry, but you can whip something up too!  

My Picks: Spinach Chips, Quest Bars, Lärabars

7~ A Cozy Sweater

A warm and soft pullover is great for me because I can get cold as it gets later or the weather shifts.  This is especially good to have it you are climbing in altitude.  When I hiked up Corno Bianco in Italy, I started in a tank top and finished in a sweater and a fleece jacket!

  

My Picks:  J.G. Glover and Co, Ralph Lauren, J. Crew

8~ Lots of Socks

Easily the most forgotten essential on a hike.  What if your socks get dirty?  Or wet?  Or cold?  Or (ew) smelly?  Always bring along extra socks for any occasion.  You won't regret it at all!  And the best part is, they take up minimal space.

 

My Picks: Kate Spade, Madewell, J. Crew

Thank you to Fjällräven Canada for sponsoring this post!