The sweltering summer has finally passed, and the crisp, refreshing autumn air makes one eager to immerse themselves in nature. It’s safe to say many travel and outdoor enthusiasts have already made plans to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and wander through open fields and mountain ranges to enjoy unique scenery and experiences. Whether you’re hiking or climbing, having the right stylish outdoor gear is essential. So, how should you choose your autumn outdoor equipment?
The principle of carrying items for outdoor sports is to keep it light and practical. If possible, don’t bring unnecessary items, and make full use of the facilities and services provided locally. Additionally, considering frequent movement, try not to carry more than two pieces of equipment. Generally, top-tier brands offer complete product lines, and beginners might consider buying a full set. When shopping, don’t overly rely on brand names, as each brand has different strengths—compare and try out multiple options, because the best gear is the one that fits you.
Recommended purchases for autumn outdoor gear
【Backpacks】
Backpack styles and sizes vary depending on their outdoor use. Whether you choose a mountaineering pack or a hiking backpack, make sure it fits well. For example, check if the height range is comfortable and whether the parts that touch your body have padding. It’s best to try it on in person to assess comfort. When purchasing, pay attention to whether the chest strap, shoulder straps, and other parts are adjustable. Also, carefully inspect whether the internal frame, zippers, and seams are sturdy and durable.
Tips
The difficulty of your destination determines the size of your backpack. If you’re going to a remote area or participating in outdoor activities such as circumambulating sacred mountains or camping by holy lakes, then a set of one large and one small backpack is a more reasonable choice. If it’s not a long trip, you don’t need a backpack over 45 liters.
【Outdoor Clothing】
In autumn, temperatures vary greatly between morning and evening, and the weather in the suburbs is even more unpredictable. Windbreakers and fleece jackets are essential for outdoor trips. Choose clothing that is waterproof, windproof, warm, breathable, and lightweight. Fleece clothing offers good warmth and can be worn alone or layered over a windbreaker. Windbreakers provide protection against wind and rain, serving as the outermost layer of your outdoor gear.
Tips
If you’re hiking or mountaineering, also prepare a set of moisture-wicking underwear. Sweaty clothes sticking to your body are not only uncomfortable but also quickly drain your body heat. Opt for bright colors—vivid clothing is easier to spot in the wild, and if you get lost, your companions can find you more easily.
【Tents】
Tents are the most important piece of equipment for outdoor camping—without one, you have no shelter. The main types are alpine tents and camping tents. There are many brands of camping tents, with prices ranging from 200–300 yuan up to over 2,000 yuan. Generally, 1,000 yuan is the dividing line, with anything above considered mid-to-high quality and below seen as budget-friendly mass-market products. Currently, several domestic manufacturers produce reliable tents. A 3-season two-person tent typically costs between 300–500 yuan, and you should pay attention to the waterproof rating.
Tips
When buying a tent, opt for a 3-season tent with strong wind and rain resistance rather than a single-layer beach tent. Professional alpine tents, due to their smaller size and high cost, are not suitable for car camping.
【Hiking Boots】
When traveling, a good pair of shoes is crucial. Waterproof hiking boots with rigid soles and high ankles are the best choice. Autumn is cooler, and hiking boots offer good warmth and breathability. On rugged, rocky trails, sturdy soles also protect your feet, while the waterproof, high-top design ensures you stay dry even when crossing small streams. When buying, avoid boots that fit too snugly—opt for a half size larger than usual. This way, even with thick socks, your feet will have enough room.
Tips
Cotton socks paired with hiking boots work best to ensure a snug fit. For long treks, wear an extra pair of socks. If the boots are new, break them in beforehand.
【Trekking Poles】
Using trekking poles saves a lot of energy when going uphill or downhill, especially by reducing leg pressure and alleviating fatigue in the waist and shoulders. Walking on stairs for extended periods puts significant impact on your knee joints, and trekking poles can help a lot. In areas with loose rocks or river valleys, trekking poles greatly improve safety and reduce the chances of slipping or twisting an ankle. They also help hikers navigate through overgrown areas and can be used to ward off animals, especially snakes.
Tips
When going uphill, the force from your arms is transmitted to the pole via the wrist strap to create upward momentum. Therefore, when putting your wrist through the strap, don’t reach over the top to grab the handle. Instead, lift the strap, insert your hand from underneath, press the strap against your palm, and then gently grasp the handle. Let the strap support the pole instead of gripping the handle tightly.
【Sleeping Bags】
In summer, temperatures are high, and you can even sleep without a sleeping bag in a 3-season tent. But for autumn nights with cooler temperatures, choose a lightweight fleece sleeping bag. Generally, autumn night temperatures don’t usually drop below 5–10 degrees Celsius, so a cotton sleeping bag rated for 0–15 degrees is suitable. Common materials include four-hole cotton or newer alternatives, which are also adequate for spring camping. Reliable cotton sleeping bags typically range from 200–500 yuan.
Besides the essential autumn outdoor gear mentioned above, you can also consider options like moisture-proof mats, trekking poles, and picnic cookware. Depending on individual physical conditions and travel preferences, you can gradually add more items. Additionally, before setting out, organizers should prepare a detailed plan and route map. It’s also wise to equip some emergency gear, such as a first aid kit, emergency light, compass, and warning signs.
The principle of carrying items for outdoor sports is to keep it light and practical. If possible, don’t bring unnecessary items, and make full use of the facilities and services provided locally. Additionally, considering frequent movement, try not to carry more than two pieces of equipment. Generally, top-tier brands offer complete product lines, and beginners might consider buying a full set. When shopping, don’t overly rely on brand names, as each brand has different strengths—compare and try out multiple options, because the best gear is the one that fits you.
Recommended purchases for autumn outdoor gear
【Backpacks】
Backpack styles and sizes vary depending on their outdoor use. Whether you choose a mountaineering pack or a hiking backpack, make sure it fits well. For example, check if the height range is comfortable and whether the parts that touch your body have padding. It’s best to try it on in person to assess comfort. When purchasing, pay attention to whether the chest strap, shoulder straps, and other parts are adjustable. Also, carefully inspect whether the internal frame, zippers, and seams are sturdy and durable.
Tips
The difficulty of your destination determines the size of your backpack. If you’re going to a remote area or participating in outdoor activities such as circumambulating sacred mountains or camping by holy lakes, then a set of one large and one small backpack is a more reasonable choice. If it’s not a long trip, you don’t need a backpack over 45 liters.
【Outdoor Clothing】
In autumn, temperatures vary greatly between morning and evening, and the weather in the suburbs is even more unpredictable. Windbreakers and fleece jackets are essential for outdoor trips. Choose clothing that is waterproof, windproof, warm, breathable, and lightweight. Fleece clothing offers good warmth and can be worn alone or layered over a windbreaker. Windbreakers provide protection against wind and rain, serving as the outermost layer of your outdoor gear.
Tips
If you’re hiking or mountaineering, also prepare a set of moisture-wicking underwear. Sweaty clothes sticking to your body are not only uncomfortable but also quickly drain your body heat. Opt for bright colors—vivid clothing is easier to spot in the wild, and if you get lost, your companions can find you more easily.
【Tents】
Tents are the most important piece of equipment for outdoor camping—without one, you have no shelter. The main types are alpine tents and camping tents. There are many brands of camping tents, with prices ranging from 200–300 yuan up to over 2,000 yuan. Generally, 1,000 yuan is the dividing line, with anything above considered mid-to-high quality and below seen as budget-friendly mass-market products. Currently, several domestic manufacturers produce reliable tents. A 3-season two-person tent typically costs between 300–500 yuan, and you should pay attention to the waterproof rating.
Tips
When buying a tent, opt for a 3-season tent with strong wind and rain resistance rather than a single-layer beach tent. Professional alpine tents, due to their smaller size and high cost, are not suitable for car camping.
【Hiking Boots】
When traveling, a good pair of shoes is crucial. Waterproof hiking boots with rigid soles and high ankles are the best choice. Autumn is cooler, and hiking boots offer good warmth and breathability. On rugged, rocky trails, sturdy soles also protect your feet, while the waterproof, high-top design ensures you stay dry even when crossing small streams. When buying, avoid boots that fit too snugly—opt for a half size larger than usual. This way, even with thick socks, your feet will have enough room.
Tips
Cotton socks paired with hiking boots work best to ensure a snug fit. For long treks, wear an extra pair of socks. If the boots are new, break them in beforehand.
【Trekking Poles】
Using trekking poles saves a lot of energy when going uphill or downhill, especially by reducing leg pressure and alleviating fatigue in the waist and shoulders. Walking on stairs for extended periods puts significant impact on your knee joints, and trekking poles can help a lot. In areas with loose rocks or river valleys, trekking poles greatly improve safety and reduce the chances of slipping or twisting an ankle. They also help hikers navigate through overgrown areas and can be used to ward off animals, especially snakes.
Tips
When going uphill, the force from your arms is transmitted to the pole via the wrist strap to create upward momentum. Therefore, when putting your wrist through the strap, don’t reach over the top to grab the handle. Instead, lift the strap, insert your hand from underneath, press the strap against your palm, and then gently grasp the handle. Let the strap support the pole instead of gripping the handle tightly.
【Sleeping Bags】
In summer, temperatures are high, and you can even sleep without a sleeping bag in a 3-season tent. But for autumn nights with cooler temperatures, choose a lightweight fleece sleeping bag. Generally, autumn night temperatures don’t usually drop below 5–10 degrees Celsius, so a cotton sleeping bag rated for 0–15 degrees is suitable. Common materials include four-hole cotton or newer alternatives, which are also adequate for spring camping. Reliable cotton sleeping bags typically range from 200–500 yuan.
Besides the essential autumn outdoor gear mentioned above, you can also consider options like moisture-proof mats, trekking poles, and picnic cookware. Depending on individual physical conditions and travel preferences, you can gradually add more items. Additionally, before setting out, organizers should prepare a detailed plan and route map. It’s also wise to equip some emergency gear, such as a first aid kit, emergency light, compass, and warning signs.