Here are a few important items that everyone should consider keeping in their car during the winter months when snow, ice, and inclement weather can often lead to changed plans and in some cases, emergencies, making it extra important to be prepared before hitting the road.
A warm blanket or sleeping bag can be indispensable to not only staying comfortable but also staying alive in harsh winter conditions. The Therm-a-Rest Honcho Poncho Down is an ideal wearable layer for comfort and warmth in the cold as it is easy to put on over anything. The Therm-a-Rest Ramble Down Blanket is a more traditional blanket that balances comfort and packability with some pretty technical features such as downfill and a Nikwax treatment.
Winter gloves and a toque are also essential for waiting in the cold, unexpected car maintenance, shovelling or scraping snow/ice off your vehicle. Outdoor Research Sureshot Pro Gloves feature Ventia™ waterproof inserts, ActiveTemp™ heat regulating technologies, durable leather palms, and adjustable cuff for warmth and dexterity. The Outdoor Research Vigor Grid Fleece Beanie features a concealed ponytail port, ActiveTemp™ thermo-regulating technology to deliver a breathable, warm, moisture-wicking beanie.
Food and drinks you can add water to in case you're stranded, or show up to your destination later than you anticipated due to traffic/slower roads (upon learning that all the restaurants are closed) can be a game changer. Backpacker's Pantry Freeze-Dried Meals have a shelf life of 3-10 Years and are made with healthy and sustainable ingredients. This family-owned producer of gourmet adventure meals has been delivering high-quality freeze-dried meals with an emphasis on taste since 1951. Options like Three Cheese Mac & Cheese, Pad Thai, Fettuccine Alfredo, and Blueberry Peach Crisp will keep you satiated when you need it most.
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To ensure you stay hydrated there is Tailwind Nutrition’s Rapid Hydration which is an all-natural electrolyte drink mix that quenches your thirst and rapidly replaces your electrolytes and Vitamin C. The powder mixes quickly and clear with a clean, light taste to optimize your hydration faster than just drinking water alone.
To quickly and easily prepare those dehydrated meals and to prepare a hot drink the MSR WindBurner Duo Stove System is ideal. This windproof, modular stove system for two features radiant burner technology that offers ultra-efficient performance in a compact size.
In winter a shovel is a must-have for digging out when you least expect it. While the MSR Operator Backcountry & Basecamp Shovel is designed as an avalanche shovel its packable design means that is easy to store in your car when not needed while still being strong and light when duty calls.
The Gregory Alpaca Gear Tote 30L (available spring 2024) is designed to keep all of this stuff stashed and organized in your trunk. Designed for quick and easy access, this tote is made with a collapsible aluminum frame and connected to a flexible base for durability and protection. It’s designed to fit behind the front seat of your vehicle to make use of the footwell space while offering easy access to gear in the back seat. It collapses down to save space when not in use and comes with a mesh bag for storage purposes. The Gear Tote has easy-to-grab handles, reflective gear loops on all sides, and a large interior zippered pocket to separate smaller items if necessary. The Gear Tote is also made from blended recycled fabric to reduce its carbon footprint by 27%.
