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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

The outdoors is the best place to be yourself. With Pride season kicking off, MEC would like to acknowledge the importance of celebrating and including LGBQT2S+ communities in the outdoor industry – and we’ve got events coming up across Canada to do just that.

MEC is proud to represent diversity and inclusion in the outdoors. By signing the [Outdoor Industry CEO Diversity Pledge](https://www.diversifyoutdoors.com/pledge/), we’re committed to active changes in the way we hire, market and engage with both our members and other brands. We also have diversity and inclusion team made up of #mecstaffers, including a group for LGBQT2S+ inclusion.

Want to join us? See our outdoor Pride events happening across Canada, and check out my list of Pride essentials for summer celebrations outside.

## Outdoor Pride events across Canada


MEC is collaborating with LGBQT2S+ groups to host outdoor Pride events across the country. Check out what’s happening near you – there’s everything from Rise and Shine Pride Hikes to a Love Floats Pride Parade on the water.

One example of local groups we’re supporting is Queer Outdoors Vancouver, who aim to connect LGBQT2S+ outdoor adventurers. “The purpose of the group is to build queer outdoors community, plan trips, and share skills and resources,” Mik Turje, the group administrator said, “so that more of us can get outside, learn new skills, and feel safe and comfortable while we do it.”



## Pack up your Pride essentials
Make sure you have what you need to get outside and celebrate what it means to be you, your way.

### A reusable water bottle


Hydration is key on hot summer days. Bring your own [water bottle](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/water-bottles-and-travel-mugs/water-bottles/c/1233) when you head out to cut down on single-use plastic bottles, and look for [one that’s insulated](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/water-bottles-and-travel-mugs/water-bottles/c/1233?filters%5Bcustom_fields.features%5D%5B0%5D=insulated) if you like to keep your water chilly. If you get bored of plain water, add electrolyte tabs or a squeeze of lemon or lime to keep you sipping throughout the day.



[Nuun tabs](/en/brand/nuun/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/food-and-drink/drinks/energy-and-recovery-drinks/c/1176) are electrolyte-replacing drink tablets that are super easy to toss in your bag to jazz up your water throughout the day. They’re great for endurance events (and we all know Pride is just that). Get an extra boost to head from the beach to the parade or march, and then back to the beach.



This Topo Designs retro pack is the perfect size to fit your hat, snacks and sunscreen for a day of celebrating. If you plan to be out all day, toss in the MEC Flash Cloud Gore-Tex Jacket too, just in case the weather gets chilly – it folds up small into its own built-in stuff sack. With this combo, you’re ready for anything.

### Sunscreen


Sun safety is the new cool. Buy [sunscreen](/en/products/travel-gear/sun-protection/sunscreen/c/810), apply it, bring extra for your friends who inevitably forgot it.

### Tasty snacks


Kind bars are tasty and this one has a kick of a few vitamins as well. TBH, I’m more about the chocolate, cherry and [Kind Foundation](https://www.kindsnacks.com/foundation.html): fostering kinder, more empathetic communities.

### MEC Cross Wind 45+10L


Planning to leave the bustle of the city on Pride weekend and hit the trails? The MEC Cross Wind Backpack is universal, so it’s designed to fit a wide variety of bodies and it’s unisex. It’s made to be MEC’s most comfortable pack, so you’ll be gayly frolicking in the forest in no time.



Have fun out there!

*MEC is proud to enable LGBQT2S+ outdoor adventures and connections over the years. A couple of recent faves we’ve supported include Queer Camp in the town of Faro, Yukon, which connects young folks to community and outdoor activity; and Trans Canada, an awesome expedition by James Lovasz that brought trans issues to light as he cycled across the country (@transcanada.bike was supported by an MEC expedition grant).*

*Pride can be a time of celebration, but it can also be a tough time for some folks. If you’re looking for resources, connect with [Pflag Canada](https://pflagcanada.ca/).*

## Related articles
- [The 10 essentials for hiking and camping](/en/explore/the-10-essentials-hiking-camping)
- [7 ways to hike and camp responsibly](/en/article/7-ways-to-camp-and-hike-responsibly)



See how you can join outdoor Pride events happening across Canada, and check out our list of essential gear for summer celebrations outside.

The best ways to celebrate Pride outside

Camping season is upon us, and with it comes visions of marshmallows roasting on an open fire (or however the old saying goes). But what happens to your dreams of the wild life when there’s a fire ban in effect? Can you enjoy a night under the stars without a campfire to curl up by? Is it even worth packing up the car without the prospect of rubbing two sticks together? And what are you going to do with that family size bag of Jet-Puffeds?

Well, contrary to what you may have heard, camping isn’t all about the campfire. In fact, with this list of good alternatives and distractions, you might just decide to go fire-free on your next trip, even if there isn’t a fire ban (okay, maybe not, but they’re good ideas nonetheless). Read on for our best tips and tricks for staying warm, well-lit and entertained without a campfire.

*Super important: Make sure to find out about the specific rules and regulations around fire bans in your area before you camp. When in doubt, consult your local park authority.*

## Take in a light show


Take advantage of full darkness to brush up on your constellation identification skills. “I’m big into star watching, and you don’t need a fire for that!” says Boris Issaev of [Parkbus](https://www.parkbus.ca/), one of MEC’s [community partners](/en/explore/partnerships). Without the added light pollution of a campfire, you’ll be able to see everything there is to see in the night sky above you. Need a cheat sheet? Clip a handy [Night Sky Star Dial](/en/product/4008-584/Night-Sky-Star-Dial) to your pack. And don’t forget to keep your backside happy by conducting your observations from a water-resistant [blanket](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-and-pillows/blankets-and-quilts/c/1409) or [camp chair](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-furniture/chairs/c/1434).

Ready to take your stargazing to the next level? Learn more about [how to navigate using the stars](/en/article/how-to-do-anything-navigate-using-the-stars).



## Make your own mood lighting
Making your own camp lantern is easier than you think. Just fill up a see-through Nalgene bottle with some water and wrap a headlamp around it with the light facing in toward the bottle – backcountry mood lighting achieved. Pool resources to hang them up to brighten up the whole campsite, or go for a walk around the campground by lantern-light. Any budding entomologists will find camp lanterns perfect to spot cool insects that might shy away from an open flame.

Full lantern tutorial:



Camping Hacks: How to make a water bottle lantern

## See your name in lights
Boris from Parkbus also recommends busting out the headlamps and flashlights to try your hand at a little light-writing photography. “It looks really neat at night, and you can take some really cool photos with it,” says Boris. Spell out a message for your friends back home, get this year’s holiday card taken care of early or commemorate a campsite in-joke. Show us your best ones using the hashtag #goodtimesoutside.



## Snuggle up
Be sure to pack layers, as temperatures tend to dip at night, even in summertime fire ban season. Start with a solid base layer, make sure to bring a lightweight fleece and don’t forget a cozy blanket to insulate you from the ground, or curl up in for extra warmth.



S’mores who? Defeat boredom and hunger in one fell swoop with a portable ice cream maker that doubles as a game of catch. Add cream, sugar and vanilla in one end, ice and rock salt in the other, toss it around the campsite for 20 minutes and voila! Your new favourite camp treat, heat-wave friendly and made with whole ingredients you can count on one hand.

Pick your size: [UCO Softshell Ice Cream Ball Pint](/en/product/5040-220/Softshell-Ice-Cream-Ball-Pint); UCO Softshell Ice Cream Ball Quart



Boris from Parkbus also recommends a good quality propane stove for all your camp cooking needs. He says, “Cooking over a nice stove is actually easier than cooking over fire in my books.” Get inspired with camp kitchen recipes and cook like you’re back home in the backcountry.

A propane fire pit may be allowed, depending on your area and the severity of the fire restrictions in place. **Always check local regulations before using a fire pit – rules will vary depending on your area and the current situation.**When in doubt, get in touch with your regional park authorities.

The [Outland Living Firebowl](/en/product/6003-673/Firebowl-Deluxe-Propane-Fire-Pit) is CSA approved, and roasts s’mores and weenies with the best of them (minus the smoke, sparks and wood chopping). With adjustable flame height and natural lava rocks to give it a flickering campfire glow, you might just find yourself loading it into the trunk for all future camping trips too.



## Related articles
- [Camping meal ideas with a twist](/en/article/camping-meal-ideas-with-a-twist)
- [How to choose a headlamp](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-headlamp)
- [7 ways to camp and hike responsibly](/en/article/7-ways-to-camp-and-hike-responsibly)



Contrary to what you may have heard, camping isn’t all about the campfire. Read on for our best tips and tricks for staying warm, well-lit and entertained during a fire ban.

Tips and tricks for camping without a campfire

Between May long weekend and Labour Day, there are only 16 weekends. It’s not a lot of time to squeeze in your ambitious summer plans, like forest walks to waterfalls, road trips to festivals, and long afternoons floating in whatever body of water you can find.

Our advice? Keep things simple when you’re heading out the door. To help you make a speedy getaway, we’ve picked a single pair of pants you can use from sunrise to sunset for travelling, trails and beach-filled afternoons. For women, it’s the [MEC Timeless Capris](/en/product/5057-111/Timeless-Capris). For men, it’s the [MEC Mochilero Stretch Convertible Pants](/en/product/5045-065/Mochilero-Stretch-Convertible-Pants).

Check them out in our summer lookbook:

## MEC Timeless Capris
We’ve shared our love for [MEC Timeless Pants](/en/product/5057-108/Timeless-Pants) in a blog post (see: [The Ultimate Travel Pants](/en/article/the-ultimate-travel-pants)) and now there’s a [cropped version](/en/product/5057-111/Timeless-Capris) to keep your ankles cool and breezy.

### For travel


Whether you’re travelling for a night or a month, you’ll need to pack some pants. Travelling and the Timeless Capris go together like road trips and playlists.

**Awesome for travel because:**

- Pack down super small in your carry-on bag
- Elastic waistband is comfy even if you’re squished in a train seat
- Little zippered pocket holds small valuables or a credit card
- You can wear them with sneakers for long days exploring cobblestone streets, or with nice sandals for splurging on gelato at a fancy spot

**Travel look above**: [MEC Timeless Capris](/en/product/5057-111/Timeless-Capris), [The North Face AllProof Stretch Long Rain Jacket](/en/product/5062-389/AllProof-Stretch-Long-Rain-Jacket), [MEC Sano Shirt](/en/product/5058-739/Sano-Short-Sleeve-Shirt), [Sorel Out N About Plus Waterproof Sneakers](/en/product/5063-349/Out-N-About-Plus-Waterproof-Sneakers)



If you’re heading into the wilderness for a backcountry trek or a climbing mission, we’d recommend something like the [MEC Wanderwall Pants](/en/product/5057-135/Wanderwall-Pants). But if you’re strolling local trails or tossing a ball for your pup in the park, the Timeless capris are just what you need.

**Awesome for local trails because:**

- Hand pockets to stash treats for you or your dog
- Stretchy for hopping over creeks or taking steps two at a time
- Made with recycled polyester and bluesign-approved® material, so you can feel good about your purchase
- DWR finish sheds off light rain in case of summer showers

**Trails look above**: [MEC Timeless Capris](/en/product/5057-111/Timeless-Capris), [MEC Aquanator Rain Jacket](/en/product/5058-135/Aquanator-Rain-Jacket), [MEC Sun Dodger Hiking Shirt](/en/product/5057-126/Sun-Dodger-Short-Sleeve-Hiking-Shirt), [MEC Roam Bucket Hat](/en/product/5056-896/Roam-Bucket-Hat), [Teva Hurricane Sandals](/en/product/5057-691/Hurricane-XLT-2-Sandals)



When the temps creep into high 20s and beyond, it’s time to find some water, stat. Loose layers are key in this scenario – wriggling into close-fitting clothes after a dip is no fun.

**Awesome for beach days because:**

- UPF 30 helps protect your skin from harsh midday UV
- Material dries quickly, so splashes aren’t a big deal
- Lightweight fabric feels cool against your skin

**Beach look above**: [MEC Timeless Capris](/en/product/5057-111/Timeless-Capris), [Prana Mistico Top](/en/product/5062-636/Mistico-Top), [MEC Shoreline Flip Flops](/en/product/5062-813/Shoreline-Flip-Flops), [Patagonia Planing Tote 32L](/en/product/5063-463/Planing-Tote-32L), [Patagonia Lightweight A/C Cover-up](/en/product/5063-234/Lightweight-A-C-Cover-Up)



Warm weather surf trip ahead? Layer your MEC Timeless Capris over a [June Swimwear](/en/brand/june-swimwear/products/clothing/swimwear/c/1036) suit for a designed in Canada outfit. Top it off with the [MEC Sano Shirt](/en/product/5058-739/Sano-Short-Sleeve-Shirt) (if you’re a surfer, you might recognize that it shares its name with a popular beach in California).

## MEC Mochilero Stretch Convertible Pants
Designed in Vancouver, BC, and made for whatever you’ve got planned across the country. The MEC Mochilero Pants come in a [convertible shorts version](/en/product/5045-065/Mochilero-Stretch-Convertible-Pants) for days that start and end cool, and a standard [pants-only option](/en/product/5045-062/Mochilero-Stretch-Pants) for the non-hiker look.

### For travel


Unless you’re travelling somewhere where the sun is blazing 24/7, you’re going to need to pack pants. So why not pack pants that stealthily turn into shorts? They keep your carry-on bag light, since they do double-duty.

**Awesome for travel because:**

- DWR finish sheds dirt to keep you looking respectable between washes
- Lots of pockets hold your phone and camera close by
- Look equally good with a pair of runners if you’re roaming cities for hours, or dressier shoes in case you want to blend in at the fancy coffee shop

**Travel look above**: [MEC Mochilero Stretch Convertible Pants](/en/product/5045-065/Mochilero-Stretch-Convertible-Pants), [MEC All Day Active Short Sleeve Travel Shirt](/en/product/5057-214/All-Day-Active-Short-Sleeve-Travel-Shirt), [United by Blue Baseball Hat](/en/product/5063-438/Baseball-Hat), [Fjallraven Raven Jacket](/en/product/5062-107/Raven-Jacket), [Ugg Brock Waterproof Shoes](/en/product/5062-621/Brock-Waterproof-Shoes)



The [MEC Vapour Duffle](/en/product/5054-185/Vapour-Duffle) is a waterproof travel bag for year-round travelling.

### For trails


Shorts that turn into pants are excellent for covering up on a cool night of camping or during tick season (tuck them into your socks for added protection).

**Awesome for trails because:**

- Colour-coded zippers make it easy to attach pant legs before you’ve had your morning camp coffee
- Stretchy for stepping over logs and rocks
- Made with bluesign-approved® material in a Fair Trade Certified factory, so you can feel good about your purchase
- DWR finish sheds off light rain in case a summer shower kicks in

**Trails look above**: [MEC Mochilero Stretch Convertible Pants](/en/product/5045-065/Mochilero-Stretch-Convertible-Pants), [MEC Aquanator Rain Jacket](/en/product/5058-133/Aquanator-Rain-Jacket), [MEC Sun Dodger Hiking Shirt](/en/product/5056-903/Sun-Dodger-Short-Sleeve-Hiking-Shirt), [Patagonia Houdini Snap T Pullover](/en/product/5062-461/Houdini-Snap-T-Pullover), [Teva Hurricane Sandals](/en/product/5057-688/Hurricane-XLT-2-Sandals)

### For the beach


Heading out for a full day of hiking, paddling and beaching? Mochilero Convertible Pants are good for all the above. Bring the leg portions in your backpack in case it gets brisk out after sunset.

**Awesome for beach days because:**

- UPF 50+ helps protect your skin from harsh midday UV
- Zipper closure on the cargo pocket so you don’t lose your keys in the sand
- Lightweight, stretchy fabric is comfy for kayaking or canoeing

**Beach look above**: [MEC Mochilero Stretch Convertible Pants](/en/product/5045-065/Mochilero-Stretch-Convertible-Pants), [Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Graphic Shirt](/en/product/5062-765/Capilene-Cool-Daily-Graphic-Shirt), [Outdoor Research Sun Bucket Hat](/en/product/5007-602/Sun-Bucket-Hat), [Nomadix Go-anywhere Full Size Towel](/en/product/5059-362/Go-Anywhere-Full-Size-Towel), [MEC Revival Recovery Flip Flops](/en/product/5062-809/Revival-Recovery-Flip-Flops)



When you head to the water, bring a towel without the bulk. The [Nomadix Go-anywhere Towel](/en/product/5059-362/Go-Anywhere-Full-Size-Towel) packs down to a compact size, dries quickly and contains 80% recycled content.

The countdown to make the most of your summer weekends is officially on. Have fun!



## Related articles
- [The best places to travel in 2019 for unique adventures](/en/article/the-best-places-to-travel-in-2019-for-unique-adventures)
- [What to pack in your carry-on travel capsule wardrobe](/en/article/what-to-pack-in-your-carry-on-travel-capsule-wardrobe)
- [Day hiking for beginners](/en/explore/day-hiking-for-beginners)



What if you could have one pair of pants to rule them all? Here’s how to keep things simple when you’re heading out the door.

New for summer lookbook: travel, trails, beach

There’s a common camping misconception that heading out of delivery range means forgoing doughy, cheesy goodness in favour of a few nights under the stars. You can have a Neapolitan deluxe with peppercorn ranch, or you can brush up on your big dipper identification skills. But both? At once? The stuff of dreams.

In fact, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Pizza is to camping as s’mores are to… well, camping. With the right gear and a few good ideas you can whip up a pie that’ll have your camp buddies saying, “Nice one, dude,” in no time. Here are a couple of our favourite methods, arranged in order of fanciness from total newbie to pizza pro.

**Great news for pizza fans**: Even if you can’t make it to a campsite, you can practice most of these pizza methods cooking at home. Use your cast iron skillet in your oven or set up a camping grill in your backyard to test new ingredient combos in preparation for future camping trips.

## Method 1: Straight on the grill


Easiest with a pre-made base. Assemble your toppings, fire up the grill and you’re ready to go. You can even skip the pizza dough and use flatbread, naan, pita or even English muffins (save the rest to have for breakfast with the [best cup of camp coffee you’ve ever made](/en/article/a-coffee-addicts-guide-to-camp-coffee)).

**Fanciness level**: Definitely classier than a pizza pocket

**Pro tips**: Lay some tinfoil over your grill to prevent any cheese-melting messiness. We’ve even heard of people skewering refrigerated pizza dough and bite-sized ingredients on kebab sticks to roast ‘em like marshmallows!

**Grill ideas**: Eureka Gonzo Grill; Lodge Sportsman’s Grill



Just one more thing your one-and-done camp pan can do. Roll out your dough and press it into an oiled skillet. Top with pizza sauce, cheese and your favourite ingredients. Cover with a lid or some foil and cook over your campfire or grill until the top is crispy and brown.

**Fanciness level**: Rustic with a cheesy twist

**Pro tips**: Take advantage of the high walls of your skillet and try making an extra gooey Chicago-style deep dish pizza. Or, if you’re packing picky eaters, skip the toppings debate and use a 6.5in. skillet to make personal pizzas.

**Pick your skillet**: [Coghlan's Cast Iron Skillet 12"](/en/product/6019-955/cast-iron-skillet-12%22?colour=NO_COLOUR), Coghlan's Cast Iron Skillet 10", Lodge 7 Piece Gourmet Set



No, not that kind. Press your dough into the base of the oven (if using a high-walled oven, line with parchment paper to streamline the pizza extraction process once it’s cooked). Try to use a small amount of sauce and low-moisture ingredients (think meats, mushrooms, olives and less juicy veg like peppers) to keep things crispy rather than steamy during cooking. Set the oven over your fire or camp stove, cover with the lid, and place hot coals or stones on top. Let convection do the rest!

**Fanciness level**: Some know-how required – with perfectly crispy on top/gooey in the middle results.

**Pro tip**: Don’t forget your campfire mitts!

**Dutch oven options:** Lodge Dutch Oven, Lodge Cook-It-All



## Looking for recipes?
Get inspired with camp pizza recipes in *Another Fork in the Trail* and *NOLS Cookery,* along with plenty of other meal ideas to make on your camp stove or cast-iron set-up.



*Top photo: David Nuescheler on Unsplash*

## Related articles
- [Camping meal ideas with a twist](/en/article/camping-meal-ideas-with-a-twist)
- [Craft s’mores: boost your camp snack game](/en/article/craft-smores-boost-your-camp-snack-game)
- [Camp kitchen checklist](/en/article/camp-kitchen-checklist)



The stuff of dreams. Here are a couple of our favourite camping pizza methods, arranged in order of fanciness from total newbie to pizza pro.

A pizza lover’s guide to camp pizza

A pizza lover's guide to camp pizza

If you live by the expression, “it’s about the journey, not the destination,” cycle tours are the way to go when you’re travelling. When I was in Cuba, biking was one of the only ways to get away from the typical resort-town experience. In Taiwan, cycling gave me the chance to visit remote mountain towns and drink tea with local farmers. Travelling by bike offers you a totally different experience than backpacking or riding a tour bus – and not just when it comes to getting from point A to point B.

## 1. You make real connections


Let’s be honest – being stuck on a tour bus and breezing in and out of a town with barely enough time to get a selfie isn’t fun. Exploring a city by bike slows things down and gives you a lots of opportunities to connect with locals. In countries where cycling is the norm, people will stop to chat about your route or gear. And in places where long-distance cycling is less common, people may approach you to ask, “Why?!” Either way, cycling opens the door to all kinds of cross-cultural adventures.

## 2. You go at your own pace


Being on a bike gives you complete control over the pace of a trip. It’s easy to pull over and stop when you see something interesting or just feel like taking a break. While cycling through Taiwan, I often stopped at small temples, neat-looking rock formations and roadside fruit stands. You can choose to take a slow, leisurely ride, but you can also push your body – you might even surprise yourself, as your fitness levels improve along the way. And you don’t have to be an extreme athlete to experience the joy of cresting the next hill.

## 3. You get to refuel (lots)
One of my favourite things about cycle touring is that you’re hungry all the time. It’s the perfect excuse to try new foods, so you wouldn’t do wrong to pick a bike touring location based on cuisines you want to try. Countries like Taiwan and Vietnam are known for fast, affordable and delicious food that can you can pick up at roadside stops. And I’ll admit that a double scoop of authentic Italian gelato tastes a lot better when you feel like you’ve earned it.

## Why cycle with a group?


Travelling by bike isn’t always easy, and yes, on some days you’ll likely feel pushed to your limits. But joining a group tour increases your chances of riding safely and comfortably. Here are just a few reasons why setting out on a group bike tour can be great:

- **Mechanical help:** Sometimes you get lucky and can go hundreds of kilometres without so much as a flat tire. Other times, you may feel plagued by mechanical issues which can be frustrating if you don’t have the skills or tools to get yourself going quickly again. Travelling with a group tour removes this stress, so you can focus on the ride.
- **Excellent route choices:** Large highways, steep grades and distances that seem doable as a day ride but can actually be much more difficult (especially when you’re carrying a lot of weight) are a few things to be aware of for route planning. Reading blogs or hiring a local guide can help you find more enjoyable (and realistic) routes.
- **Extra support:** Before you head out, you should practice riding with loads similar to what you’ll be carrying on a cycle tour – fill up those panniers! Check in with your tour company to find out what kind of support is available. Many of them provide vans that carry your gear to lighten your load.
- **Logistics sorted:** There’s nothing wrong with wanting to have a hot shower and a comfortable place to sleep at the end of the day. Booking ahead or riding with a group tour can help with those details.
- **Advice from other riders:** Even small pinches or strains can feel different after several hours in the saddle, so it’s important that you listen to your body. Getting your [bike properly fitted](/en/explore/fitting-your-bike) (whether it’s a touring bike, mountain bike, or recumbent bike) is helpful before a long tour, but fellow riders will be able to share their tips and tricks along the way, too.

When you’re travelling by bike, you get to immerse yourself in the surroundings (the smells, the weather, the bumps in the road), connect with the locals, and move at your own pace. But most of all, you get to appreciate how you got there, feeling the subtle changes in terrain and climate along the way.



## What to pack for a cycle tour
Bike tours force you to be practical with your packing – these are a few basics you’ll need to be comfortable on and off the road:

- A lightweight, [long-sleeved jersey](/en/products/cycling/cycling-clothing/cycling-tops/cycling-jerseys/long-sleeve-jerseys/c/289) for sun protection
- [Bike shorts](/en/products/cycling/cycling-clothing/cycling-bottoms/bike-shorts/c/1668) and a [rain jacket](/en/products/cycling/cycling-clothing/cycling-tops/cycling-jackets/c/1021) for unpredictable weather
- Thin [merino base layers](/en/products/clothing/base-layers-and-underwear/base-layers-and-underwear/c/273?f=CFfabricContent%3AMerino+wool) and a [down jacket](/en/products/clothing/jackets/insulated-jackets/c/270) for higher altitudes and colder climates
- Comfortable [riding shoes](/en/products/cycling/cycling-footwear/cycling-shoes/c/1496), plus a pair of [sandals](/en/products/footwear/sandals/c/1192) for when you’re not on a bike
- [Fingerless gloves](/en/products/cycling/cycling-clothing/cycling-clothing-accessories/cycling-gloves/c/1542?f=CFhandweartype%3AFingerless+gloves) for stronger grips and fewer blisters
- A small [handlebar bag](/en/products/cycling/panniers-bags-and-racks/handlebar-frame-and-seat-bags/c/299) or [backpack](/en/products/cycling/panniers-bags-and-racks/bike-backpacks-and-messenger-bags/c/318) for easy access to valuables and snacks



## Related articles
- [Travelling with your bike](/en/explore/travelling-with-your-bike)
- [How to fix a flat bike tire](/en/explore/how-to-fix-a-flat-bike-tire)
- [How to choose bike bags and panniers](/en/explore/how-to-choose-bike-bags-and-panniers)



See how travelling by bike offers you a totally different experience than backpacking or riding a tour bus – and not just when it comes to getting from point A to point B.

3 reasons to explore a new country by bike

Have a trip planned? See new travel looks and smart sun-safe gear, including stuff for little travellers and durable bags to carry it all.

Spring and summer travel lookbook | MEC Blog

Spring and summer travel lookbook

I grew up in the leafy Toronto suburbs during the eighties, an era of feathered hair, tight jeans and Tears for Fears. Back then, the world seemed an impossibly large and mysterious place. Just catching the subway to Yonge and Bloor felt like a serious expedition, requiring an Adidas bag, lumberjack jacket and Kodiaks.

On summer holidays, when my father lashed canoes to the roof of our family station wagon and we set off northward to the lapping lakes and windblown pines of Algonquin, we might as well have been departing for another continent – this was the stuff of great explorers; the stuff of dreams.



During those formative years, my most important lesson came from an impromptu sermon delivered by my lanky, pocket-protector-wearing physics teacher. Our class had been tossing weights into the air, using ticker tape to measure acceleration due to gravity, when Mr. K. overheard someone grumble that they couldn’t attend the upcoming school gala – a sweaty dance party to be held in the school cafeteria – because they had too much homework.

“Too much homework?” Mr K. bellowed, his face turning red. Our classroom fell silent as he launched into a diatribe. “You should avoid the habit of putting off fun, or anything else important for that matter, in the belief you can save it up for later. Life doesn’t work that way.

“Right now, you probably think you only have to study hard for a few years, get into a good university, and then you can start having fun. But once you arrive at university, you’ll decide to put off fun a little longer, so you can graduate top of class and get a good job.

> “Then you’ll put it off again, until you get a promotion. Then until after kids. Then until you retire. And one day you’ll turn 65 and think: *At last, it’s time for me to have fun*. Then you’ll die.”
>
With that, Mr. K. collapsed in his chair.

In the silence that followed, our class awkwardly resumed our experiment. But his words stuck with me – and changed the course of my life.



In the decades that followed, I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to criss-cross the globe as a writer, photographer and adventurer on journeys that have taken me from Mount Everest to Arabia, from Africa to the high Arctic. I’ve traversed Iceland by foot, Mongolia by horse, and paddled Greenland’s coast in a sea kayak. Recently, I took my young family on an overland journey from our home in British Columbia to a Himalayan monastery, where we spent three months living with Buddhist lamas.



I’m often asked for “top travel tips,” and while a multitude of ideas spring to mind – think big, go longer, take less, seek locals, be careful (but not paranoid), plan less (leaving space for serendipity), don’t be afraid to try a new location – the most fundamental piece of travel advice I can share comes from Mr. K.:

> Never put off until tomorrow the trip you can launch today.
>


This is not easy advice to follow, for as life grows busier and time becomes scarcer, travel dreams too often fall prey to the* “as-soon-as”*syndrome: As soon as I pay off the mortgage, top up my RRSP, re-roof the house, or do whatever. Each and every year in Canada, millions upon millions of vacation days go unclaimed. I would encourage you to avoid such delays and hit the road at any and every opportunity.



I trust in travel as an elemental force for good; a boundless source of hope and possibility. Whether wandering through rainforests, up crystalline peaks, or into unfamiliar nooks in our own backyard, travel reminds us of the vast, complex and richly diverse nature of our small planet. Along the way, we cultivate friendships and understanding for strangers with backgrounds, histories and beliefs different than our own – reaffirming humanity’s essential sameness.

Of course, life on the road is not always easy. With its randomness and unpredictability, travel demands a grit too often missing in our modern lives. But this is a good thing, and as our possessions are pared to the essentials, we live more simply and, in the eternal words of Proust, come to see the world with new eyes.



As Pico Iyer eloquently writes, “We travel, initially, to lose ourselves; and we travel, next, to find ourselves. We travel to open our hearts and eyes and learn more about the world than our newspapers will accommodate… And we travel, in essence, to become young fools again – to slow time down and get taken in, and fall in love once more.”



In this way, the whole magical process brings us back to Mr. K. and his simple maxim: No matter what travel you dream of – an African safari, climbing Kilimanjaro or trekking to Everest Base Camp – don’t wait until it’s too late. Rather, start planning today. Put pennies aside. Book tickets. Mark the calendar. There are only so many tomorrows. Go now.



## Related articles
- [16 rad travel hacks from adventurous Canadians](/en/article/16-rad-travel-hacks-from-adventurous-canadians)
- [The ultimate travel pants](/en/article/the-ultimate-travel-pants)
- [Travel packing checklist](/en/explore/travel-checklist)



Some words can stick with you – and change the course of your life.

The best time to travel is always now | By Bruce Kirkby

The time to travel is always now

Telling people you’ve hiked to Everest Base Camp (EBC) in Nepal can be… interesting. Many people will think you’re the coolest outdoor adventurer they know. Some, despite your heavy emphasis on *base camp*, will even think that you’ve climbed Everest – the entire mountain. Edmund-Hillary style.

Regardless, saying you’ve stood at the foot of the world’s largest peak will never get old. I’ve done this trek as part of a small group tour, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s one of the top trips I’ve done. And while it’s an experience you can’t fully understand until you’ve done it, there are a few things you should know before you go.

## What to expect


Hiking to Everest Base Camp is unlike anything else. You’ll be (comfortably) pushed to your physical limits and humbled by absolutely monstrous mountain peaks. It’s a trip where every moment has the power to surprise you, whether it’s finding a mountainside temple or stumbling upon a brigade of yaks.

### Technical climbing experience not required
It’s a physically-challenging trek, not a technical one. You won’t need to wield an ice axe or wear crampons, but you will need to be sure-footed, especially in the final (sometimes icy) kilometres. Most of your days will be spent climbing forested inclines or meandering along mountain passes – and crossing some pretty impressive suspension bridges. It sounds easy, but the higher altitude makes it more challenging than the terrain you’re used to at home.

### Tea houses and trekking lodges
I had certain notions about sleeping conditions before I made my way to Nepal, none of which included the cozy movie nights I would share with my trekking crew. The entire length of the trek to Everest Base Camp is inhabited to a certain degree, so you can sleep in tea houses or trekking lodges along the way. These are complete with beds (some tea houses provide the mattress and you bring your own sleeping bag, while others provide a full sleeping set-up) and, true to name, serve some of the best tea I’ve ever had.



### A different vantage point
Once you arrive, it’s less about viewing the mountain and more about experiencing it – feeling a sense of accomplishment and community – which is good because you won’t have a decent view of the peak from base camp anyway. Don’t worry though. There are plenty of opportunities to see Everest in all its snow-sheathed glory at other points throughout the trek.

### Strength in numbers
Some people will hike to Everest Base Camp alone or in pairs, but going with a small tour group is a great option. You’ll have guides who set an optimum pace for high-altitude trekking, and fellow travellers to connect with while you sip Masala tea in the evening.

### Preparing for takeoff
Flying to the trek’s starting point in Lukla is epic – snag a seat on the left side of the plane to get the best views – but it can also be unpredictable. Flights are often cancelled due to weather, so make sure you have a few days to spare in Kathmandu. You don’t want to risk missing your flight back home!



### Tips and field notes:
- Spring and fall are great times to trek. If you happen to plan your trip around climbing season (late April/early May), you’ll see a bustling tent city when you arrive at base camp.
- Most tea houses will have extra blankets on hand for super-cold nights, and some have heated blankets or hot water bottles.
- You’ll see a lot of vegetarian options served at meals. It’s recommended you don’t eat meat while hiking to EBC since it has to travel for days by yak from lower altitudes (so it may not be at its freshest).
- Prices rise with the altitude, so buy snacks and other supplies sooner rather than later.
- Bring a book, journal or pack of cards. You’ll have a lot of downtime during the evenings and acclimatization days.
- Keep your gear (and electronics!) in your sleeping bag overnight to ensure everything’s warm for the next day.

## How to prepare for Everest base camp
The effort you put into training before you arrive is worth it – trust me.



### No train, no gain
For at least three to four months prior, you should spend a considerable amount of time on a stairmaster or treadmill with a significant incline. The EBC trek is about mental perseverance just as much as it is about physical endurance though – it can be hard to adjust to the high altitude, so make sure your body *and* mind are prepared.

### High expectations
It’s recommended that first-time trekkers who have no experience at high altitude take Diamox to help with the symptoms (which can vary from slight headaches to more severe dizziness and nausea). Always remember to consult your doctor first to see what they suggest for you. And since it’s a diuretic, be prepared for additional bathroom trips, which can be quite rugged in the mountains.

## Packing tips for Everest base camp
For all the packing details, check out the official packing list from your tour operator. Here are a few of the most helpful pieces of gear I had along:

#### Daypack
On most small group tours, porters will take care of your [sleeping bag](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-and-pillows/c/1405) and [pad](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-pads/c/1416), but you’ll need to carry everything else that you need to access during the day, like snacks and additional layers, in a [20–35L daypack](/en/products/packs-and-bags/daypacks-and-school-bags/daypacks/c/1333?f=idealForSelect%3ACamping+and+hiking%3ACFPacksVolume%3A20+to+29+L).

#### Quality layers
[Merino base layers](/en/products/clothing/base-layers-and-underwear/base-layers-and-underwear/c/273?f=CFfabricContent%3AMerino+wool&b=100-1549-1651-604) are great for keeping warm and wicking away sweat, and a [down puffy jacket](/en/products/clothing/jackets/insulated-jackets/down-insulated-jackets/c/1022) (plus a [waterproof-breathable shell](/en/products/clothing/jackets/rain-jackets/c/1025?f=CFIdealForSimple%3ACamping+and+hiking)) will be necessary to protect you from the elements. Mountain weather is notoriously temperamental – it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in one day.

#### Water system
If treated water isn’t provided by your group tour, then you’ll need a water-filtration system. [Tablets](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/water-bottles-and-water-treatment/water-filters-treatment-and-tablets/water-treatments-and-tablets/c/1243) are definitely easiest as they can be put right into your [water bladder](/en/products/packs-and-bags/hydration-packs-and-accessories/bladders-reservoirs-and-accessories/c/1229?b=100-1552-291-640) or [Nalgene](/en/products/travel-gear/travel-accessories/water-bottles/c/1233?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=nalgene). You can find tablets in Kathmandu, but it’s best if you stock up before leaving home.

#### A few types of footwear
Solid [hiking boots](/en/products/footwear/boots/hiking-boots/c/1497) are the most obvious packing choice – make sure they’re sturdy, well-broken in and you’ve worn them lots before. You should walk around in them for at least a month before your trip.

[Flip flops](/en/products/footwear/sandals/flip-flops/c/1523) or [lightweight sandals](/en/products/footwear/sandals/c/1192) might not seem like the most sensible thing to pack for a mountain trekking trip, but the weather can be quite warm when you’re stationed at Lukla, and you’ll be happy to have them on hand.

[Hut booties](/en/product/5055-859/Hut-Bootie). Bring them. Trust me.



## Related articles
- [How to choose hiking boots](/en/explore/how-to-choose-hiking-boots-or-shoes)
- [Clothing layers: how to stay warm](/en/explore/clothing-layers)
- [How wash a down jacket](/en/explore/how-to-wash-a-down-jacket)



Everything you need to know about hiking to the south base camp in Nepal. Saying you’ve stood at the foot of the world’s largest peak will never get old.

MEC Blog