If you’ve been here for more than five minutes, you know I won’t stop talking about walking. It’s free, interactive, and one of the most underrated tools we have for healthy aging. But here’s what I’ve learned after decades of daily trips during every season Minneapolis can throw at me: the right gear is the difference between a trip you endure and a trip you look forward to.
So today I’m sharing my outdoor travel essentials, the non-negotiables that I reach for on every trip. Some of these took me years (and a lot of wasted money) to figure out, so consider this your shortcut.
How I Picked These Outdoor Travel Essentials
All the products on this list earn their place the same way: I actually use them. There’s nothing here that’s a habit I check out all week. These are things that stay by my front door, in my travel bag, or on my body, and many of them are repurchased. If it didn’t survive a Minnesota winter or a humid July around a lake, it didn’t make the list.
Clothing: Dress for the Trip You Want
Let’s start with what you’re wearing, because nothing slows you down faster than leggings that fall to the ground or an ill-fitting sports bra (we’ve all been there). Here’s what I wore before I headed out the door:
Check out more of my athletic gear finds:
Electronics: The Technology That Keeps Me Honest
I’m a data girl at heart. My Oura ring has become my accountability partner, and a good podcast or playlist can carry me the extra mile without even realizing it. The best part? None of this technology is complicated.
Sun Protection: Non-negotiable, Even in Minnesota
Men, I’ll say it plainly: sun protection is skin care, and it’s health care. I don’t care if it’s overcast or 20 degrees, if I walk outside, I’m protected. Your future face will be so glad you did the same.
Check out more of my ideas for the best skin protection in my classification of the best anti-aging skincare products.
Walk Boosters: Turn Your Walking Into Exercise
This is my favorite stage, because it’s where everyday quiet walks become strength training. Adding load while walking builds muscle and bone density without adding a single minute to your routine. I say I’m obsessed with my weighted vest, and I’m not quiet about it.
Check out my 7 favorite fat burning walks to improve your results even more!
Safety Gear: Be Visible, Be Smart
Morning and evening commutes are great, but drivers can’t avoid what they can’t see. A few pieces of inexpensive safety gear buy you a lot of peace of mind, and they’re even more important as the days get shorter.
Hydration and Fuel: What’s in My Water Bottle
Use these simple tips to drink more water every day and increase your water intake levels.
Start with One Thing
Here’s my honest advice: you don’t need everything on this list to start walking. You need shoes and a front door. Start where you are, then add gear as walking becomes a habit you protect.
But if you’re already on the move and want to love it more, choose the one category that solves your biggest annoyance. If your feet hurt after walking, get better walking shoes. If boredom is slowing you down, get your favorite headphones. And if you want more results from the same 30 minutes, that weighted vest is calling your name.
Traveling has carried me through all stages of my life, from the morning at KARE 11 to walking with my grandson today. These important things ensure that nothing gets in the way.
PS. In which category are you weak? Tell me in the comments!
Shop more of my favorite finds at My Amazon store!
