7 Survival Kit Items for an Outdoorsy Summer

Not outdoorsy? There’s always that one friend or family member who believes you have it in you. And while you appreciate their confidence and support, you’re still kind of dreading being out in the sun, potentially surrounded by insects and other threats. Worry not! This guide to survival kit items will give you the protection and peace of mind you need. Here are some essentials to pack for your outdoor adventure.

A stick balm is any moisturizer that comes in a stick, also called “multi-balms” in K-beauty. Most are formulated for facial hydration and are packed with skin-loving ingredients like vitamin E and niacinamide. However, you can also use them to moisturize your elbows and knees. They’re also great at giving your collarbone a dewy glow and preventing skin-to-skin chafing between the thighs.

If your skin overreacts to insect bites, always carry insect repellent. Apply citronella essential oil or DEET spray on exposed skin, especially on your legs and around the ankles. In case you do get bitten, apply anti-itch lotion to soothe the area and minimize scratching.

Your hair cannot protect your scalp from the sun 100%, so pack a hat or headscarf among your survival kit items. Wearing one helps prevent sunburn, which can make the scalp painful and sensitive. It also dries out your hair. For extra protection (and major gorpcore energy), use a wide-brimmed safari hat to protect your neck, forehead, and ears, too.

Applying sunscreen before heading out is not enough – you need to reapply every two hours, or more often if you sweat or go swimming. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, UV radiation peaks between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., even on cloudy days. That’s pretty much the entire day, so protect your skin with SPF 30 or higher.

When you’re having fun, it’s so easy to forget that germs live everywhere. Although not all of them are harmful to humans, there’s no way to screen what goes on your skin. To be safe, wash your hands whenever you get a chance using Lifebuoy Antibacterial Hand Wash with Multivitamins+ Total 10, which has vitamins B3, C, and E that deliver nourishment and total germ protection.

Hikers call soon-to-be-blisters “hot spots” – tender areas from chafing. Protect your heels and other susceptible areas with blister pads or hydrocolloid waterproof bandages. You can also use these to dress wounds you may incur while frolicking.

Finally, don’t forget to bring a change of clothes, specifically undergarments. A drive home in a sweaty bra will be long and uncomfortable! Pasties also work, plus they take up less space in your bag. Bring an extra top, too.

You may think there’s nothing special about these survival kit items, but you’ll be thankful to have them, especially during summer adventures outdoors. They protect your skin and hair from the elements and allow you to be outside, worry-free.