Spring is in the air! And after a long winter, you are ready for more adventures outside!
For the usual day out with the family, the unexpected will just creep right up on you and bam! You forgot the cash for parking, one of the kids fell in the lake, and all the water bottles are at home (filled with ice of course) on the kitchen counter.
Who planned this trip?! Well, we all forget things in the rush and bustle to get out the door.
So here is your super checklist of all the essentials for a general day out! You won’t be caught unprepared next time. Special outings will need extra equipment.
Before You Go
Do this before you go.
- Look up any fees for parking or entrance
- Stop for cash if needed for fees
- Write down or print driving directions
- Print a map of the area. For the US, visit caltopo.com to print US paper size maps.
- Check that everyone is wearing proper trip attire.
- Check the weather
- Fill up the car with gas
What to Pack
Check the list of the essentials.
- Water
- Snacks
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Extra Clothes
- Towel
- Diapers
- Wet Wipes
- First Aid kit
- Compass
- Knife
- Seasonal wear: hats, gloves, coats, raingear, umbrella, snowgear, swimwear
When You Get Home
Do this when you get home from the outside.
- Check for ticks. Visit cdc.gov/ticks for more info.
- Wash yourself & clothes for poison oak/ivy
- You can use a product like Technu but Dawn dish soap works well too.
Whew! Hopefully, that covers about everything you need. Now get out there and have a great time!
