The Texas Adventure Bag
Adventure bags let you say yes to spontaneous adventures. I’ve carried one in my car for a decade. Here’s what and why.
What is an Adventure Bag?
What's an adventure bag, you ask? It's bag of possibilities, the ready-to-roll bundle of joy, packed with all the essentials for impromptu outings and last-minute Lone Star frolics. Get an invite for some afterwork swimming? I’ll be there. See an inviting patch of shade? Boom, say yes to an impromptu picnic. Break in the clouds? Let’s take a hike. Adventure bag to the rescue!
The Urban Ten Essentials
So, what goes into a Texas-sized adventure bag? Here's our list, but remember: it's more of an art than a science. Feel free to toss in a harmonica or a frisbee or a rubber chicken – whatever tickles your fancy.
Real life Adventure Bag
The Bag: Anything goes, but just make sure it’s organized enough that you love using it. This weird one hangs on my car while camping and I’m obsessed.
Spare Swimsuit: Because in Texas, you're never more than a stone's throw from a swimming hole, a creek, or a water park. Be ready to make a splash anytime!
Hammocks: Nothing says relaxing outside like finding a pair of trees with a view and stringing up a hammock. Throw a couple of Kammok Roos in your bag and be the chillest dudette in the park.
Playing Cards: Whether it's a friendly game of poker or a heated round of Go Fish, simple playing cards can keep you lingering in the sun while others get bored.
Headlamps: Darkness is just sunshine in hiding, y'all! Headlamps mean saying yes to late-night treks, spooky stories, or a night paddle. I’ve used the Petzl Actik since 2019 when I wanted something bright and rechargeable.
Picnic Blanket: Because why not turn every meal into a picnic? An old sheet can work great.
Bug Spray & Sunscreen: Don’t let sun and skeeters ruin the picnic. Protect yourself! No one likes to end a day of fun looking like a lobster or a pin cushion.
Multi-tool: You never know when you'll need to open a bottle, fix a hammock, or scare a raccoon with a menacing pair of mini-pliers. I wore the Leatherman Sidekick when I led camping programs with TPWD and it’s still going strong.
Snacks: Because nothing kills the adventure vibes faster than a hangry companion. Get something that can stand the heat of your car - trail mix and dried mango are my go-tos.
Adventure Shirt: Get your chameleon shirt - something that protects from sun while paddling, but looks sharp while sitting down to margs and queso after.
So there you have it, folks. Your car is now a conduit for fun, a vessel for vibes, a...well, you get the idea. With your adventure bag packed, you're always ready for a good time. Remember, the bag is just the beginning - it's up to you to find the adventure.
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