Must-pack gear from your favourite outdoors brands

Spending time in nature is not only soothing for the soul, it’s also beneficial for both reducing stress and rejuvenating healing. Whether it’s fishing at your favorite watering hole, hiking a new trail, or camping at a national park, being prepped with the right gear can make a major difference on how smooth the outing goes.

So we turned to you to tell us your favorite spots to shop for outdoor essentials—and reveal them here, along with some top products from each.

This weather-resistant tent is filled with thoughtful features, like doors on both sides for access options, crosspole construction for quick set-up, no-see-um mesh in all the windows, and heavy duty PE flooring to keep the base dry. Designed to fit three people, with a front vestibule storage area, it's pretty much glamping rolled into a 3.9-kilogram bag.

Made with sturdy 420D ripstop polyester, this tackle bag has three tackle boxes inside, providing a ton of storage space packed in a 22 by 13 by 16-centimetre space. Plus, a 10-year warranty adds extra peace of mind.

Whether it’s a child’s first camping trip or a seasoned hiker’s overnight adventure, this hooded sleeping bag will keep them cosy down to 2-degrees Celsius conditions. Weighing in at 2.3 kilograms, the polyester design has a full-length zipper closure making it easy to get in and out.

No matter how dim the road ahead may be, light up the way with this torch that shines up to 50 metres ahead with 10 LED bulbs. Powered up by four 1.5-volt D batteries (included with purchase), its yellow colour makes it easy to spot if things go dark unexpectedly. It’s also great to have around the house for sudden power outages.

Just how well does this freezer bag do its job? It’s capable of holding ice for up to three days, keeping your drinks cold through a long weekend out in the wild. The chill comes from its powerful insulation, doubled down by a base that blocks out radiant heat. With a zipper top, side carry handles, and shoulder strap, there’s no reason not to tote a cold beverage anywhere you go.

Dinner for four al fresco? Yes, please. This dining set comes with four enamel plates, bowls, and cups, plus stainless steel forks, spoons, and knives. With easy-to-clean surfaces and a roll-up pouch to store the cutlery, the 2.75-kilogram set will make you want to eat all your meals under the stars.

This folding chair has a four-can cooler built right into its armrest, so that your drink is always within reach. The other side has a mesh pocket—perfect for storing additional snacks. Add a cushioned seat and back support, and you’ll never want to get out of this camping chair.

For those taking their first ventures into overnight hiking, this 75-litre backpack is a solid entry point. The adjustable padded shoulder straps and foam lumbar pad mould to the body for ultimate support, while the water-repellent material and an extra waterproof cover are prepared to shield you from the elements. With an assortment of pockets to store all the necessities—including spots for water bottles and a sleeping bag—the polyester carrier will keep you hands-free to focus on the road ahead.