Rivers and Roads

Summer Gear Essentials for Your Next Outdoor Adventure

It’s hot, and only likely to get hotter. From the rivers and lakes to the trails and peaks, it’s time to gear up for summer adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned sun seeker or a rookie in a canoe, adding a few essential items to your bag can elevate your summer adventures and make every outing more delightful.

Here are five must-have items to consider this summer:

Dometic Ice Chest: The Dometic Patrol 19L ice chest is your go-to for keeping ice cold for days, thanks to its high-performance insulation system. Equipped with ice packs or cubes, it ensures your drinks, groceries, fish or bait stay fresh on your outdoor adventures. Designed for the toughest conditions, this impact-resistant cool box features strong, thick foam insulation and a unique labyrinth seal to lock in cold air. With practical accessories like cup holders, bottle openers and fishing rod holders, it’s perfect for campers, aglers, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Find it at Ozark Outdoors in Little Rock.

Float Eureka Silicone Pint Glass: The Float Eureka 16-ounce silicone pint glass is your perfect companion for outdoor adventures, from floating on the river to relaxing on a gravel bar or chilling at camp. Made from durable, food-grade silicone, it’s a safe and ideal alternative to traditional glassware, especially in areas where glass is prohibited. Available in three groovy color combinations — blue/white, green/blue and tie-dye — this pint glass lets you showcase your vibrant personality. Stay hydrated and enjoy your favorite beverages in style with this essential and unbreakable silicone pint glass. Buy it at Float Eureka in Eureka Springs. (Pro tip: Book a paddleboard experience to up the ante next time you’re in Eureka.)

STAR River Tube. Enjoy sun-soaked river days with the durable STAR River Tube. Constructed from heavy-duty .07 mm, 28-gauge vinyl, this tube resists punctures and abrasions, ensuring long-lasting fun. Strong welded seams add low-maintenance dependability, while two handles make carrying and navigating easy. Featuring a Boston-style valve for quick and reliable inflation and deflation, this tube is built for convenience. Find it at Ouachita Outdoor Outfitters before they run out.

Sunscreen: The class of 1999 remembers this well (and, if not, could always stand for a subtle reminder): Wear sunscreen. Summer in Arkansas is not only hot, it’s bright with the opportunity to get sun scorched. Experts note that you should opt for a higher SPF, you need to reapply every couple of hours to reap the benefits. One of our favorite options includes the Banana Boat line. Find it at Buffalo Outdoor Center.

LifeStraw Go Series Water Bottle: Never find yourself in a situation without water again. LifeStraw’s innovative Membrane microfilter stands guard against a host of contaminants, including bacteria like E.coli and Salmonella, parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, and microplastics, sand, dirt and cloudiness. Plus, with longevity in mind, the microfilter lasts an impressive 1,000 gallons, equivalent to five years of daily use, while the carbon filter provides up to 26 gallons lasting, about two months. Find this and refill straws at Uncle Sam’s Safari Outfitters.

All images courtesy of vendors