The days are longer, the sun is brighter, the night’s are shorter and the air is warm enough that you don’t even need a light sweater. Most of the time anyway, living in Montana means that anything is possible. But despite Montana’s unending threat of ridiculous weather patterns, it’s officially spring! And that means it’s time to start getting up and getting out! But after so long hiding from the harsh winter winds, it’s easy to let a few things slip your mind. That’s why the Montana Gift Corral has gathered a list of must-haves for your next outdoor adventure!

.

.

Something Comfortable

     Montana is home to some of the most indecisive weather in the lower 48. Hiking and traveling across the state takes some preparation. Pack for the elements. Know the weather. In the summer months, any shirt is usually good, but keep in mind the afternoon storms that attack the Rocky Mountains. Prepare for rain, plan on having a wonderful trip! See more apparel by clicking here!

.Something Flavorful

    Going on an adventure through Montana’s breathtaking outdoors is all fun and games until you start to get hungry. Or, even worse, hangry. One of the most important parts of adventures is making sure you have enough snacks for said adventure! I mean, they call trail mix, trail mix for a reason. From jerky to dried fruit to s’mores flavored popcorn, finding the perfect snack for your adventure can be a mini-adventure itself!

.

Something Stylish

    Getting caught in weather you weren’t prepared for can be frustrating, but a good hat can help provide a silver lining! Having a baseball cap can help keep your head cool. A cap can also help keep the bright sun out of your eyes so you can admire Montana’s beauty without squinting or going blind. Or wear a cute knitted hat if you think the day might be windy or chilly. A knitted hat can keep your head warm while also keeping your hair out of your face! See all headwear by clicking here!

.

Something Entertaining

    Why not bring a book with you on your outdoor adventure? Montana is a beautiful place full of history, spooky stories, and wildflowers! Bring a book about wildflowers with you when you go on your hike and see how many you can find and identify! Or bring a book about the history of the county your hiking in, or the mountain range and learn about what people did when they stood where your standing! Or if you’re looking to add a spooky edge to your hike, Montana has plenty of ghost stories that will make your hair stand on end! Too see all books we carry, click here!

.

.

Something Refreshing

    Don’t get dehydrated while you are out and about on your adventures! Make sure you bring a water bottle or water bag with you so you can stay hydrated! Getting caught in the hot Montana sun can be dangerous if you aren’t prepared. Or maybe you could bring a coffee cup with a  little extra pick me up, getting tired half way through a hike can ruin the whole trip! And if you want to put a little something else in the pouches, we won’t tell you not too.

.

.

Something Helpful

.

.

Something Useful

    Okay, that is a lot of stuff you should take with you. But there is one last must-have, a bag! Bringing a solid bag with you to help you carry all of your belongings is a great idea! With a bag you can be prepared while also keeping your hands free so you can properly enjoy your outdoor adventure. Whether you decided to climb a tree, some rocks, a mountain or just prefer having your hands available without having to set a bunch of stuff down, a good backpack is the perfect accessory for any outdoor adventure!

.

.

    Whether you’re going for a short hike or plan on making a grand backpacking trip, it pays to be prepared! Accidents happen, sometimes you lose your footing, sometimes a rock falls, sometimes you run into wild animals, sometimes things just happen. So if you go out on your adventure alone, make sure your prepared for the worst case scenario, tell someone where you’re going and maybe even give them an idea of when you should be back. Because even though playing it safe can ruin some of the fun, it’s better to be able to play again. So pack your bags, and go out and have fun and be safe! After all, the mountains are calling.

.

.

By: Issa Rabideaux

Updated by Chris Wood

Photos courtesy of Issa Rabideaux, Zach Altman, Chris Wood