Get Out, Stay Out - Outdoor Essentials for Exploring this Fall

I know it’s cozy season and many of you (including myself) look forward to staying indoors. But, did you know that spending time outdoors (trails, forest, park, different part of the city) can improve your mood, your relationships with others and yourself? Well, I’m sharing my fav outdoor essentials which will having you enjoying the cooler fall days and nights!

NESO TOTE – a roomy tote that fits park life, beach life, and kids sports life. Made for the beach (separate waterpoof zippered section and buckle straps for the neso tent or beach towels) but so versatile I consider it a bag for everyday life. And with so much room, I can pack quite a bit for our family of four. We went for a walk on the trail at Bronte Provincial Park and I fit two blankets, two water bottles, hammock, snacks, tripod, some books and there was enough room to pack in my sons’ sweatshirts as the day got warmer. You can wear the tote over the shoulder or convert it and wear it as a backpack comfortably!

Other items we own and love: beach table and day tents (beach and side-line)

RUMPL (Puffy Blankets) – hands free blanket – yes please! Take this blanket anywhere and everywhere. The puffy blanket is water repellant, has a clip, weighs two pounds, washer and dryer safe, sustainably sourced and it’s compact. Wear it walking the trails, picnicking, reading a book outdoors and even running errands! We have two puffy blankets, the everywhere mat and the travel blanket. Honestly, we are well underway with the whole family wearing them.

RAINKISS (Sustainable Designer Rain Ponchos): these are the coolest unisex. inclusive one-size fits all design and are made from 100% certified recycled polyester. Their selection of designs and prints are insane!!! I bought the smiley face print and I get so many compliments. Not gonna lie, it’s pricey but worth it for me because fashion and function! Love that the poncho is stored into a pouch all in one and it’s perfect for travel. I keep mine in the trunk. Ponchos are available for kids and dogs!

NAKIE (Hammock): we keep the hammock in our trunk year-round. It’ s portable, compact, lightweight and 100% made from recycled bottles, Australian founded company the hammocks are perfect for hikes, beaches, parks or your backyard. Fits two comfortably and my son is trying to convince me to get another hammock because he just doesn’t want to share!

The next few recommendations are the essentials we take along for the more active outings and longer day trips.

CHEF’N S’mores Roaster: a tabletop s’mores roaster for indoor and outdoor use! High quality made, easy to assemble with simple clean up. It’s such a fun way to roast marshmallows during the fall season and during the winter, keeps those hands warm while roasting.

It’s a super cute gift that I would recommend for the holidays. I’d recommend buying the gel, a multi-purpose lighter and a s’mores pack so it can be enjoyed immediately.

Nanopresso (Portable Espresso Maker): fyi – I’m also a coffee enthusiast! Bought this for my trip to Barbados because my in-laws live in a residential neighborhood and did not have a cafe within walking distance and packing my Nespresso machine was out of the question. To be honest, my husband was skeptical and didn’t think that it was really worth buying. But not only did we BOTH use the Nanopresso, but I used it on the flight there and back.

During my flight, I asked the stewardess for hot water and a glass of milk with ice. Made a shot of espresso and added it to my milk and voila, an iced latte!

Craving a pumpkin spice latte while on that hike? I got you!

YETI – 24 Roadie Hard Cooler : For on-the-go year-round, this cooler is where it’s at. It fits perfectly in a car behind the driver’s seat and in a portable wagon. We use it for those day trips, cottage trips, park hangs, beach outings and hikes. It can fit all things, like wine bottles, cans, BBQ meat and ice cream. It’s the perfect size, but I wish it came with wheels in this size.

The one thing with this cooler is that it’s heavy than your coleman (even when empty), but it serves its purpose and high quality product.