Well, let’s face it, summer is pretty much over, which means we can prepare to embrace the beauty of fall. The warm vibrant colors of the trees, the sweet cold breeze and the dulcet tones of stepping on crunchy leaves makes fall probably one of the best seasons to go out exploring.

The picturesque beauty of fall lies in its bewildering transformation. It's a time when nature showcases its artistic prowess, painting landscapes with a bright orange and intense red palette that captivates the senses. The inviting chill in the air is a refreshing departure from the sweltering heat, making it the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.

However, as you set out to immerse yourself in the beauty of fall, there are a few Essential Fall Gears that we recommend you carry in your backpack. These fall essentials are not just practical; they enhance your experience and ensure you're prepared for the unexpected twists and turns of autumn exploration.

Here is our list of fall essential gear

1. Bear Spray

Bear activity increases tremendously during fall and the reason for this is because they need to store as much fat and food as possible to survive the harsh winters. During fall, bears can consume anywhere between 12,000-20,000 calories a day!When you step out in the outdoors, there is always a chance to run into wildlife, but more so during fall, and bears can be ferocious creatures despite their deceivingly cute appearance. As the popular saying goes, if not friend then why friendshaped?

A tweet from the National Park Service. Picture courtesy- National Park Service

Jokes aside, nothing is scarier than encountering a hungry bear in the wild. Which is why it’s always important to carry some sort of protection with you in the form of bear spray/ bear mace. Bear sprays are an effective way of safely escaping a bear encounter but it is important you know how to use them.

This useful infographic highlights how to effectively use and discharge a bear spray.

An infographic from the Art of Manliness website describing how to use bear spray. Picture courtesy- Art of Manliness

2. Waterproof Clothing

Waterproof clothes are essential items to carry regardless of the season. Nights often get cold and the mist can leave your clothes feeling damp and wet, which is a sure fire way of falling ill. Furthermore, the weather can be unpredictable, and you wouldn’t want to be caught without a waterproof jacket when it rains.

Other essentials too, like waterproof backpacks, waterproof matches or lighters (if you decide to go camping) can be really helpful. A waterproof backpack, for instance, is a valuable companion for keeping your gear and belongings dry and protected. It ensures that your supplies, from spare clothes to electronic gadgets, remain safe and secure, even when the weather takes an unexpected turn.

If camping is on the agenda, waterproof matches or lighters are invaluable assets. They become your lifeline when creating a fire, providing warmth and sustenance, even in the wettest conditions. When camping in unpredictable weather, these tools can be the difference between a cozy campfire and a chilly night under the stars.

Last but not least, invest in some waterproof sleeves or cases for your electronics. If you are someone who carries expensive equipment with you during your outdoor escapades, investing in waterproof sleeves or cases for your watches, cameras, phones and other electronics can provide an extra layer of security for you and your equipment. 

3. Windproof Clothing

When investing in waterproof clothes for your outdoor adventures, make sure that they are windproof. While hoodies and sweaters are comfortable, they are simply not enough to protect you against the wind. Since it's the wind that amplifies how cold it gets, your first layer of defense when exploring the great outdoors during fall should always be windproof clothes.

While the right choice is to start with a windproof jacket, the windproof strategy shouldn't stop at your upper body. To truly keep yourself safe from the elements, consider investing in some windproof gloves, shoes and thick socks. Windproof shoes, paired with thick, insulating socks, are essential for keeping your feet warm and cozy. Additionally,investing in windproof gloves ensures that your fingers stay toasty and dexterous throughout your adventure, especially if you are considering kayaking or maybe even rock climbing.

This meticulous attention to windproof gear isn't just about comfort; it's also a matter of safety. Properly covering your fingers and toes is crucial for preventing frostbite, a cold-weather hazard that can quickly turn a pleasant outing into a perilous situation.

Giro ambient water and windproof jacket. 

4. Lights

During fall and winter the days get shorter, which means nighttime creeps up on us faster. When exploring outdoors during fall and winter, it is always a good practice to step out with a flashlight, or some sort of light source. Headlamps or flashlights that can be attached to your backpack are a good investment as they don’t fill up your hands.

Being able to clearly see your path in the dark is a huge bonus as it means you can continue your adventure well into the night. Having a source of light can also help spot wildlife in the distance so you can either avoid taking its path or make your presence known and avoid an encounter. 

A hiker with a headlamp

5. Insulated Food And Drink Containers

You know what’s even better than exploring the great outdoors during fall? Having a nice hot meal to accompany you! If you’re considering camping, investing in an insulated food or drink container can do miracles for you! Imagine the feeling of pride and accomplishment when you can just bust out a thermos and take a sip of some nice hot chocolate when you’re on top of a mountain.

The investment in these camping essentials is a smart move, especially if you're a frequent camper. These insulated containers ensure that your food and beverages stay hot, allowing you to relish the flavors and moments of your outdoor expeditions without compromise. So, as you gear up for your next adventure, consider the convenience and joy that insulated food and drink containers can bring to your fall exploration.

Conclusion

As you embark on your fall adventure, remember that nature's transformation is fleeting but incredibly captivating. It's a season that beckons you to explore and immerse yourself in its beauty. With the right essentials in tow, you can embrace fall's wonders and create lasting memories amidst the splendor of the changing seasons. So, grab your backpack, put on your hiking boots, and step into the enchanting world of fall exploration.