May long weekend is coming up. You’ve been cooped up all Winter (is it just me, or did anyone else miss Spring more than usual this year, too?!). You’re ready to get outside, enjoy the blooming trees, breathe in the fresh alpine air, and soak up the sunshine (hopefully the rain, or at the very least, snow stay away this year).
As you’re packed up and on the road to your destination, or you’re about to sit down and enjoy your chilled beverage by the fire, you realize you forget an essential item. I’m here to remind you of a few items that you won’t want to forget!
Nothing can ruin a trip to the great outdoors faster than a dead phone, being soaked from the rain, grimy hands, or *shudder* . . . mosquitoes. Here are the essentials you’ll need (obviously beyond the basics, such as food, water, and good music).
What’s the difference between campers and glampers? If any of these sound like you, you may be a Glamper.
Some may argue that sunglasses are, of course, essential to any great camping trip, but to really reach the coveted Glamping status, elevate your eyewear with some gorgeous polarized shades. The Ray-Ban Wayfarer will always have my heart and is a true classic.
I said earlier that good music is a basic essential of camping with near-equivalent status to food and water, and I stand behind that. However, with a Logitech speaker like this one, you’ll be the coolest around the campsite (just don’t go too crazy with those tunes). Plus, it’s waterproof, so if you wanted to take it out on a boat or a canoe – don’t sweat it. Glamping status achieved.
Rain boots but make it fashion. These gorgeous Chelsea boots from Hunter will keep you dry and fabulous! Wait ‘til you see these Hunter boots in kids’ sizing.
You’re not a regular camper. You’re a Glamper, which means you’re probably bringing your Keurig, or you’ve got a French press, ready with delicious freshly-ground coffee beans ready to brew. This means you need a fabulous enamel mug to accompany your brew. This enamel mug from Mountain Warehouse is a selfie-ready option.
So you’re kickin’ around for the weekend, maybe using this time to get your garden ready, organize the house, or to just relax. If the weather’s right, why not have an elevated picnic with the kiddos or as a date night? Check out visitreddeer.com for seven beautiful spots in Red Deer (Heritage Ranch is one of my faves to explore).
Picnic essentials include an adorable woven basket that you can use after in your home with a couple of chic throws rolled up inside. Plus, pre-make your picnic charcuterie set to include Sunterra Market’s assortment of Snowdonia Cheese, Soleterra d’Italia salami, and fresh fruit.
Psssst! If you’re looking to level up your staycation oasis or patio with some fab furniture, check out our recent blog post by Adwoa, Marketing Manager for her top picks.
Perhaps you’re staying home but looking for ways to entertain the kiddos while still encouraging them to enjoy the outdoors. Having fun on mine and my friends’ trampolines were some of my favourite memories as a kid and sure to give you the coveted label of the “Fun House”. This electric scooter is made for kiddos 6 years and up and will bring a smile to their faces ripping around the driveway and beyond. For the older kiddos, a skateboard is a great option. At Zumiez, you can purchase a pre-built skateboard or assemble your own custom board so your teens can express themselves. Lastly, the Triple Racer Waterslide is only $29.99 – a budget-friendly way to entertain the kiddos at home on a hot day.
Maia is a classic Central Albertan gal who KNOWS her way around Bower Place . . . she grew up exploring it! If she’s not scouting the best of The Great Indoors, she’s probably strapping on her hiking pack to escape to the mountains or grabbing her cowboy boots (she’ll never say “no” to a rodeo). She has a love of free-spirited 70s vibes including eclectic accessories, bright colours, and fun patterns.
Monday to Saturday: 10 AM – 8 PM
Sundays & Holidays: 11 AM – 5 PM