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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

Whether you’re about to go ski touring around snowy peaks in the BC backcountry, travel through lush rainforests in Southeast Asia, or board a plane for a trip on the other side of the country, knowing how to pack efficiently is undoubtedly one of the most useful skills to have.

As senior equipment designers at MEC, James Brittain and Mark Knight are packing experts. They devote one-third of their time to travelling – across Canada and around the world – to visit factories that make our gear, meet with materials suppliers, and scope out new places to explore outside. They’re also the people behind the designs of MEC backpacks (along with tents, sleeping bags and more), and offer up these practical packing tips:

### 


Roll or fold: Packing Tips from MEC Designers

Both James and Mark are advocates for rolling their clothes rather than folding them.

The beauty of this technique is that you can easily stuff these “burrito-shaped packs” – as James calls them – inside items with empty space, like your shoes. Plus it means you can unroll your clothes without them ending up all creased. Mark points out that another advantage of rolling your clothes is that you don’t have to rummage through stacks of folded items to find a specific shirt.

### Store smaller items inside bigger items
Besides your clothes, you can get creative with how you store other items in the empty spaces of your belongings. For instance, on hiking trips, Mark recommends that you stuff your [sleeping pad](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-pads) or a [storage bag](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-quilts-and-pillows/compression-bags-and-stuff-sacks) inside your [outdoor cookware](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen/outdoor-cookware). He explains that, “not only does this help eliminate the unused space, it also serves as protection for your pot so it won’t get crushed.”

### Categorize your stuff with packing cubes


To make it easier to find things jumbled in your backpack, use [packing cubes](/en/products/travel-gear/luggage/travel-pouches-and-packing-organizers). James likes to separate his belongings into different categories for each packing cube: one for electronics, another for first-aid items, a third for cooking utensils and so on. Each packing cube is colour-coded and labelled for clear identification.

Not only does this help you stay organized, it’s also handy in emergency situations when other people might have to sift through your bags to find something fast. Let’s say you get injured in the backcountry, and you’re unable to open your bag and grab a first aid kit. With a properly labelled packing cube, your travel buddy can find the first aid kit with ease.

Mark uses packing cubes with two compartments to separate his clean clothes from his dirty laundry. This is a great way to help keep your fresh t-shirts away from your well-worn socks, and when you get home, you can empty the “dirty” compartment straight into the washing machine.



### Keep everything dry
Travelling to a rainy destination? Mark has these three simple tips to keep your belongings dry:

1. Put a [rain cover](/en/products/packs-and-bags/pack-accessories/rain-covers-and-pack-liners) over your backpack. Besides keeping your backpack free of moisture, a rain cover will also help protect your bag from tree branches on the hiking trail.

1. Store vulnerable items in a [waterproof stuff sack](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-quilts-and-pillows/compression-bags-and-stuff-sacks) and then put the sack in your backpack. This will keep your items dry, even when you need to put your bag down on wet, marshy ground.

1. As you’re packing up from a camping trip, put the wet portion of your tent in the outer compartment of your backpack so that it’s exposed to fresh air and can dry more quickly.

Consider these packing tips when prepping for your next trip. You never know how much you’ll want to bring back home, so get creative with how you squeeze in that extra souvenir t-shirt or two.

*Looking for more travel tips? Check out [16 rad travel hacks from adventurous Canadians](/en/article/16-rad-travel-hacks-from-adventurous-canadians).*

*Photo credits: Redshinestudio / Shutterstock.com*



Roll or fold? How do you pack up a wet tent? Use these creative packing tips from MEC experts to make travelling easier.

Roll or fold? Packing tips from the pros | MEC Blog

Roll or fold? Packing tips from the pros

Every so often, you wind up outside on one of those perfect nights – when the moon is shining bright and the stars are out, lighting up the sky in a way you don’t see from the city. Imagine if you could point out directions to your friends using only the stars as your guide. Turns out it’s not as challenging as it might sound. All you need to do is familiarize yourself with a few constellations, and you can impress your pals with a navigation trick that few people know.

Of course, there’s no substitute for learning to navigate using a [GPS](/en/products/watersports/marine-navigation/handheld-gps) or [map](/en/products/travel-gear/books-maps/maps) and [compass](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tools-and-accessories/compasses) – but if you want to add more skills to your navigation toolkit, here are some ways to start:

#### 1. Look for Polaris, the North Star, to find north


Polaris, also known as the North Star, is the brightest star at the tip of the Little Dipper’s “handle.” It’s the only star that appears to remain static in the night sky, thanks to its position right above true north – the direction of the North Pole.

If you’re having a hard time finding the North Star, you can use other constellations, like the Big Dipper, to help locate it. Find the Big Dipper’s “ladle” and imagine that soup is pouring out from it. The flow from this hypothetical space soup will lead right to the North Star. If you see a constellation that resembles a “w,” that means you’ve found Cassiopeia and have gone too far. Backtrack a bit and you’ll spot Polaris, nestled cozily between the Big Dipper and Cassiopeia.

#### 2. Use Polaris to find your latitude in the Northern Hemisphere
If you’re north of the equator, you can use Polaris to determine your latitude. Normally, a sextant or a quadrant is used to measure the angle between Polaris’ position and the northern horizon, but that’s not an object that we tend to keep handy on a camping trip. If you happen to be outside without a sextant, you can use your fists to measure the angle.

Stretch your right or left arm out in front of you, with your hand closed in a fist, towards the horizon. Place your other fist above and continue stacking one over the other until one of your fists meets Polaris. Each fist approximates 10 degrees, so you can use them to help count how many degrees separate the North Star from the horizon to find your latitude.

#### 3. Seek help from Orion to find south


To find south, you’ll need to locate the constellation Orion, which looks a bit like a bent hourglass. In the Northern Hemisphere, Orion is visible primarily during winter. Eight major stars make up Orion’s body: one star – Meissa – represents the head; two stars – Betelgeuse and Bellatrix – represent the shoulders; another two – Saiph and Rigel – serve as the feet; and three – Alnitak, Alnilam and Mintaka in the middle – make up Orion’s belt.

You’ll want to look for Orion’s sword, which is made up of three stars that hang off of the belt. Follow its point and it will show you south when Orion is oriented close to vertical (like the image above).

Not sure if it’s Orion you see in the sky? You can use a star dial or a stargazing app to help you identify different constellations.

#### 4. Follow the stars for direction
Just like the sun, stars travel across the sky from east to west. Keep track of which direction they seem to be moving to determine which way you’re facing. If you want something more precise, look for Mintaka, the star located on the right side of Orion’s belt – it rises close to true east and sets close to true west.

A compass or GPS device is essential for serious navigation, but it can be refreshing to take a tech-free approach by looking to the stars above for guidance. Whether you’re out exploring the wilderness late at night or you’re just looking to show off a cool party trick at your campsite, consider the sky your celestial road map.

#### Want to improve your navigation skills?
Browse some [books](/en/products/travel-gear/books-maps); they cover everything from map reading to digital navigation.

*Photo credits: **[Ryan Hutton](https://unsplash.com/photos/worms-eye-view-of-trees-during-night-time-Jztmx9yqjBw)**, Vector FX / Shutterstock.com, Yuriy Kulik / Shutterstock.com*



All you need to do is familiarize yourself with a few constellations, and you can impress your pals with a navigation trick that few people know.

How to do anything: navigate using the stars | MEC Blog

How to do anything: navigate using the stars

The best presents are often things that can’t be wrapped or put in a box. Yet amid the frenetic rush of holiday gift giving, last-minute birthday hunting, and the countless other celebrations that now demand some flashy token of our love (Halloween, Easter, etc.) it’s easy to forget that the greatest gifts we ever give our children are the ones that come for free: love, time and attention.

So this year, as you struggle to choose meaningful presents from amid reams of plastic and junk – something that will bring a smile to their face, something that aligns with your values, something that builds family bonds instead adding to a landfill heap – consider doing something revolutionary, and in lieu of more *stuff* (or at least, alongside stuff) give a piece of *yourself* too, in the form of a simple IOU note.



Maybe you promise to teach your child a new skill, like how to light a fire in the rain or how to paddle a J-stroke. Perhaps you set a shared goal of biking a century ride together or learning to roll a kayak. Or plan a special weekend away where they navigate, with your help, to a distant camp. Such uninterrupted time, spent together outdoors, is invaluable for kindling curiosity, building confidence, teaching independence and perseverance, and imbuing respect for nature and an instinct for adventure.

What follows are a few simple suggestions to get your own ideas flowing. Think of these as small acts of defiance. Or perhaps, the greatest gifts of all.



### IOU a phone-free day
Our omnipresent phones may be the greatest attention-stealing devices ever invented. So why not provide your child with the antidote: a hand-written coupon, cashable at any time, requiring you to leave your mobile device behind for one entire day.

Could you do it? Sounds scary, that’s for sure. What’s really scary is that going without a phone, for just a day, can seem so daunting. Of course you can do it! No one is so important that they can’t unplug for a day. So give your precious kids 24-hours of straight up, unadulterated, undistracted you. They will love it.

### IOU a night under the stars
Camping doesn’t have to be an ordeal. No need to pack the car and head for the hills, your little one will be just as thrilled to sleep out in the backyard. Perhaps aim for August, at the height of the prolific Perseid meteor shower (it runs annually from July 17 to August 24). Or instead, maybe a new moon, when the stars are their brightest and constellations easier to identify. Maybe make it your co-mission to see the northern lights together (keep an eye on online aurora trackers and set out when conditions look promising). Whether you spot the elusive aurora borealis or not, your child will enjoy free reign to unzip the tent door at any hour of the night to peek.



### IOU tickets (to something, anything)
The [Best of Banff Mountain Film Festival](https://www.banffcentre.ca/banffmountainfestival/tour) is a great way to kindle a child’s interest in wild places and adventurous activities. Or perhaps you’ll choose tickets to the local theatre, live music or a public speaker. The important thing is that you’ve got something marked in the calendar, together.

### IOU five bike rides
Maybe you teach them to ride. Maybe you set a goal of riding 50km together by the end of the summer, and train towards it.

### IOU every run on the hill
Why not a pledge (or challenge) each other to ski every run at your local hill together, marking them off, one by one, on a trail map taped to a wall at home? It doesn’t matter how long it takes.



### IOU how to light a fire (or another skill)
Promise to teach them a fundamental skill: how to light a fire, how to paddle the stern seat of a canoe, how to safely use a knife or axe or how to read a map and navigate in the wild. Such skills build confidence and last a lifetime.

### IOU shared lessons
If you aren’t confident teaching a new skill, why not enroll in lessons and learn together? Learn to surf. Join a climbing gym. Take a photography course. Climb a mountain.

Of course the possibilities are endless. Promise to read a book under a tree. Or have a picnic beside the ocean. Go beachcombing. Or bungee jumping. Plan an overnight canoe trip. Or a month in the high Arctic. It doesn’t matter, as long as it’s time spent together.

If you want to impact your child’s life for the better, whenever possible, choose memories, not stuff.



Wondering what to get your kiddo for the holidays, birthday or more? Think outside the packaging with these gift ideas for kids that aren't things.

IOU: 7 priceless gifts for kids | MEC Blog

IOU: 7 priceless gifts for kids

We’ve all heard it before: the [science of happiness](https://www.harvardmagazine.com/2007/01/the-science-of-happiness-html) tells us that we gain maximum satisfaction from getting out and doing things. The reason? A huge part of who we are stems from the sum total of our experiences. Travel, bike rides, beach days, hikes and the like end up becoming an ingrained part of our identity, and we begin to identify with what we do. What better boost for the people you love the most?

Here are experience-based gift ideas centred around having a great time:

### National or provincial park visit
Now’s the time to send your favourite outdoor buddy an invite for a camping, hiking or paddling trip to one of your favourite parks – and to mark your calendar for the day that campsite reservations open (heads up: regular fees still apply for camping and reservations). If your campground of choice is booked, it’s the perfect chance to try a new spot.

### Lessons for a new activity
Have someone special in your life who’s always wanted to try SUPing, skiing, climbing or mountain biking? Lessons are the best way to help get them started. Learning from an expert not only gets your giftee familiar with the ins and outs of safety, but it also helps them build a strong foundation for athletic progression and meet other newbies who are taking up the same sport.

### A tune up
Give the gift of smooth rides. Whether your loved ones are partial to planks or wheels, any pair of skis or bike will inevitably need a tune up to keep them in working order. MEC stores offer professional [ski shop services](/en/explore/ski-shop) and competitive rates. Our bike shop techs service all makes and models and can recommend a [bike tune-up package](/en/explore/bike-service) that best fit your rider’s needs.

### A weekend escape
There’s nothing quite as refreshing or relaxing as a weekend away, especially when someone else (like you) takes care of all the planning and details. Some ideas? Book a rustic cabin, playful yurt, ski weekend, traditional hotel or something totally different you find listed online – like an airstream or treehouse – and make the most of the wilderness or city. Bring some boardgames and wine, and leave your phone on airplane mode.

### Race entry
Have a devoted runner or rider in your life? Help them get a head start on their goals by grabbing them race entry. Bonus points if you choose a race or ride away from your hometown so you can combine it with a weekend escape.

### Drop-in passes
Gym membership sales surge every December, with lots of people resolving to devote their lives to fitness in the New Year, but numbers start flailing again as early as February. Instead of getting someone a membership that might not suit their year-round exercise habits, grab them a couple of drop-in pass to their favourite spin studio, bouldering gym, community centre, swimming pool or crossfit box.

Some ideas: Passport to Prana is in 7 Canadian cities, and lets pass holders try every yoga studio in their city once for maximum *om* output. In Toronto and Vancouver, [ClassPass](https://classpass.com/) lets attendees try out a wide selection of fitness studios for a flat monthly rate.

### Passes to your local snow resort


Whether it’s already cold and white or snow has yet to fall, nothing quite gets a powderhound as excited as a day on the slopes. Pick up a lift ticket for the snow-obsessed someone in your life (or two if you want to join them), so they can tuck through trees at Tremblant, carve corduroy at Blue Mountain, or run laps at Lake Louise.

### Equipment rentals
Know someone who’s interested in tackling a new sport but isn’t ready to commit to all the equipment it takes to make it happen? Offer the [gift](/en/product/5027-227/e-gift-card) of a gear rental so they can try out a new activity, like snowshoeing, kayaking or paddleboarding.



Gift ideas for the active, outdoor-loving person in your life. According to the science of happiness, these experiences will make people smile. See how to make it happen.

Experiences to give this holiday

A great addition to any fitness plan, interval training alternates high intensity exercises with recovery periods over a given time period. The good thing about interval training is that it helps you get stronger for other activities like climbing, hiking, running and biking.

Whether you want to up your performance for a specific activity or find a new way to get in shape, interval training will help you make the most of your workouts.

### Before you start
Interval training isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s effective because of its high intensity approach.

According to former MEC Ambassador and road cycling coach [Allan Prazsky](/en/explore/mec-ambassadors), it’s important to have a base fitness level that’s sufficient enough to properly do a series of intervals without incurring injury. Before you throw intervals into the mix, you should start with a routine of cardio and strength training to help get your body ready for this next step up.

To get the maximum benefits out of interval training, Allan also recommends that you make sure that the intervals are specific to the demands of your fitness routine or competition. These benefits include increased [VO2 max](https://upsidestrength.com/vo2max-testing/) (the volume of oxygen you use), reduced blood lactate levels, better resistance to fatigue, improved neuromuscular efficiency and increased peak power.

### The right equipment


To maximize your training, you’ll want to have the right equipment on hand. This means proper [workout clothes](/en/products/running/running-clothing) and footwear; a [watch](/en/products/electronics/watches-and-trackers) for time keeping; your current heart rate and heart zone measure; and a [heart rate monitor bundle](/en/product/6030-517/garmin-hrm-fit-womens) that can estimate your VO2 max, outputs and recommended recovery time.

### Interval training ideas
Once you’re ready to get going, here are some workout ideas to get you started

##### 1. Tabata intervals
I have a love-hate relationship with Tabata intervals, which involve 20-second spurts of high intensity followed by 10 seconds of rest over 8 cycles. The beauty of the Tabata interval is that you can do it with just about any exercise, and it requires very little time.

I’ve found that the easiest way to keep time is to create a music mix that plays for 20 seconds and then stops for 10 seconds. Once you’ve chosen your time-keeping tool, you can warm up and decide which exercises to do. For example, you can stick to running, biking, swimming or rowing for the eight cycles, or you can add in some squats, push-ups, sit-ups or any other strength-building exercise. If you want to push yourself, try to match your distance or your repetitions during each cycle.

##### 2. Sprint for time
Another type of workout involves picking a distance (such as 100m on a track or two points on a street), and then sprinting to your chosen finish line. Once you’ve reached the finish point, walk back to the start and repeat four to ten times. Keep track of how long it takes you to sprint your distance, and try to match that time during every set.

##### 3. Sprint for distance


You can also sprint for a pre-determined time (30 seconds), rest for a pre-determined time (1 minute) and repeat 4 to 10 times. Use the same start point and try to replicate your distance during each set.

##### 4. Sprint for fun
If you just want to have some fun, you can mix up how you do your intervals. Put some music on and run for an entire song, then rest during the next one. Or you can walk for one song, jog for the next and sprint every time the chorus comes on.

If you’re feeling ambitious, then try Allan’s personal favourite interval, which he calls “Magic 8-Balls.” Do three to five eight-minute sets performed at your VO2 max. It’s important to take your time resting between each set. Allan says each break should last between 8 to 12 minutes to allow for maximum recovery. As he puts it, “They hurt so good.”

Now that you’ve got the basics, you can start incorporating interval training into your fitness plan. Good luck!

*Note: Since this type of training places big demands on your heart, make sure you check with your doctor to see if high-intensity training is alright for you. It’s also important to start slow, with a few intervals for a short amount of time.*

*Photo credits: Angela Aladro mella / Shutterstock.com, baranq / Shutterstock.com.*



## Related articles
- [How to choose an activity tracker](/en/explore/choose-an-activity-tracker)
- [Be a better runner: how to get fast with speed work](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-get-fast-with-speed-work)
- [How to choose running shoes](/en/explore/how-to-choose-running-shoes)



Make the most of your workouts with these interval training tips. This high-intensity workout helps you get stronger for things like climbing, hiking, running and biking.

How to do anything: Master interval training | MEC Blog

How to do anything: Master interval training

Late October and early November often signal the start of Canadian winter (the solstice is a bit behind), and for the Greater Toronto Area surf community, this time of year boasts the biggest and best waves.

“I always tell people that surfing on the lakes makes you a better surfer,” says Antonio Lennert, founder of Surf the Greats, an MEC Outdoor Nation collaborator organization. “Most of the time our waves are messy and hard to catch, but they do clean up nicely and stack up just like the ocean when the conditions are right.”

The local surf season starts in the fall and goes all the way to the spring. Fall through winter generates the biggest, most consistent waves. “The best time to surf in Toronto is during the winter when the big snowstorms come. When Ashbridges Bay works it gets really good – it’s pretty cool to be able to see the CN Tower while you’re riding a wave,” he beams. “Scarborough Bluffs has a few different breaks suitable for surfers ranging from beginner to advanced. Come fall and winter, some of those spots hold pretty big waves that look and feel just like the ocean, plus you get the natural beauty of the bluffs in the background.”



So if you’re ready to come out of Lake Ontario with icicles dripping from your wetsuit… how do you know when to head out in the first place?

“As most people have seen, the lakes are usually flat,” he explains. “Our swells are often short-lived since they only last as long as the storm system moving through the area.” Antonio credits strong winds as a result of low pressure systems blowing for at least 5 hours for generating 2–3-ft waves. “When [the winds] are blowing consistently from the same direction, they push water, which creates small waves that grow larger the further they travel.”

Other wave-making factors include the depth and size of the lake, as well as air and water temperature. As Antonio explains, the colder the air and water, the least amount of wind is needed to generate waves. “That’s one of the reasons why Lake Ontario goes flat during the summer months,” he clarifies. “However, Lake Erie is the shallowest lake, which is why we can surf there during the summer.”

As hurricanes roll through the Atlantic Ocean in the fall, weather systems move through the Great Lakes, and with water and air temperatures cooling, waves start rolling in to Toronto’s shoreline on nearly a weekly basis. “As winter approaches and air temperatures go below freezing, the water temperature stays just over zero … allowing us to surf sizable waves with very little wind.”



Antonio runs Surf the Greats’ wave forecasting workshops (sometimes held at MEC stores), which give newbies and experienced surfers a wealth of information and tools to surf the Great Lakes. They include further science behind wave formation, how to understand weather maps and charts, apps to use, and even an intro to established local surf spots.

For Antonio, safety and self-rescue go foot-in-leash with chasing waves. “Having the proper equipment is rule number one. If you are a beginner, we recommend a soft top board and a warm [wetsuit](/en/products/watersports/watersports-clothing/wetsuits?facets.Ideal%20for=Surfing) (think 6mm thick). And understanding the conditions is key. We have different types of currents on the Great Lakes and knowing how to avoid and get out of them is very important.” Some of the area’s best surf breaks have tricky entry points and rocky bottoms, so choosing a spot you’re comfortable with is paramount to staying safe. “Never surf alone,” he says, adding that the beaches aren’t supervised in the colder months. “Go with a friend and paddle out where there are other surfers.”

The changing nature of the Great Lakes is something Antonio has come to live for, and hopes to expose more Toronto-area residents to it over the years. “They can go from completely flat to having 6-foot waves breaking in just a few hours and then stop completely shortly after. It makes the chase very rewarding.”

*Photos by [Lucas Murnaghan](https://www.instagram.com/lucasmurnaghan/).*

*Want to try surfing? Check out **MEC Outdoor Nation** and* [*Surf the Greats*](https://www.surfthegreats.com/pages/about) *for the latest events, and don’t forget to tag your freshwater Instagram pics with* [**#myhomewaters**](https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/myhomewaters/) *to help protect Canada’s waterways.*



Tips on when and where to surf in Ontario from Surf the Greats. This Toronto-based organization aims to share the stoke for surfing in the Great Lakes, including spots like Scarborough Bluffs and Ashbridges Bay.

Ontario's Surf the Greats: winter wave forecasting | MEC Blog

Surf the Greats: catching winter waves

No matter what winter activities you’ve got planned, you’ll need to think of ways to keep warm while you’re crunching on trails in snowshoes or building snowforts all afternoon. The right combo of [clothing layers](/en/explore/clothing-layers) is key, but there’s another factor that we often overlook: hot beverages.

The 7 sweet and savoury ideas below are best enjoyed in a [vacuum bottle](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-hydration/vacuum-bottles-travel-mugs-and-tumblers) when you’re surrounded by a dusting of snow or hanging out fireside after a long day on the hill. Stay toasty with one of these piping hot options:

#### Hot apple drink
Go beyond tea, coffee or hot chocolate with this vitamin C-enriched hot apple drink with a trace of spice. The best part about this drink is how simple it is to make: add a pouch and hot water to your mug, stir and enjoy. It’ll help you get cozy and it doesn’t have caffeine, which makes it great for late-night sipping after a long day of snowboarding.

*Mug suggestion: Something lightweight to pack along to the ski hill, like the [Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Bottle](/en/product/5054-399/hydro-flask-standard-mouth-bottle-621ml).*

#### Chili and spice hot chocolate
While hot chocolate is the classic winter drink, you can kick things up a notch by adding some spice. A mix of cocoa powder and cinnamon with a hit of ginger and chili, this [hot, spicy drink](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen/food-and-drink/drinks/coffee-tea-and-hot-chocolate) – along with some ginger cookies – will help you perk up after an hour at the sledding hill.

*Mug suggestion: [Yeti Rambler Bottle with Chug Cap](/en/product/6034-721/yeti-rambler-769ml-bottle-with-chug-cap) has a large handle that’s easy to twist off with gloves on.*

#### Chili
Don’t limit your mug to sweet stuff. A hearty option, this [vegan chili](/en/product/6012-189/happy-yak-vegetarian-chili) includes red kidney beans, rice, various herbs and vegetables. You can enjoy in the pouch it comes in, which means all you have to do is fill up your insulated mug with hot water and pour it in. No dishes required, which means less stuff in your backpack when you glide along cross-country ski routes.

*Mug suggestion: [Hydro Flask Bottle](/en/products/travel-gear/travel-accessories/vacuum-bottles-and-flasks?brand=Hydro%20Flask) to keep your water hot for up to 12 hours.*

#### Potato cheddar soup


If you want a creamy option that doubles as an outdoor lunch for your snowshoe walk on quiet trails, try this [potato soup with cheddar and chives](/en/product/6029-053/alpineaire-country-potato-soup-with-cheddar-and-chives). Made of potatoes, cheddar cheese, red bell peppers and green onions, this soup will satisfy both your taste buds and your desire for something warm and filling. Like the lentil soup, you can mix in the pouch. 

*Mug suggestion: [Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Bottle](/en/product/5054-399/hydro-flask-standard-mouth-bottle-621ml), which can hold enough hot water for the potato soup pouch.*

#### Butter tea
Called “po cha” in Tibet, this tea is a traditional drink made with yak butter, milk, salt and tea leaves (since yak butter’s likely tough to find, you can use regular butter). Start by boiling water with 2 tea bags in a large pan until the water is dark brown in colour. Then add milk and continue boiling. Blend with some butter and salt, and transfer it all into your mug. Need more guidance? Here’s a [recipe](https://www.seriouseats.com/yakkety-yak-tibetan-salty-butter-tea).

*Mug suggestion: A wide-mouth option, like the [Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Insulated Bottle](/en/product/6012-554/hydro-flask-wide-mouth-flex-sip-lid-bottle-473ml), for easy sipping and cleaning.*

#### Yerba mate


A caffeinated South American drink, [yerba mate](https://www.seriouseats.com/what-is-yerba-mate-how-to-brew-mate) (pronounced *yer-bah mah-tay*) is traditionally prepared by steeping dry yerba mate leaves in hot – but not boiling – water inside a hollow calabash gourd, and then is sipped through a metal straw. Since not everyone has access to a mate gourd, you can make it at home and pour the finished product inside an insulated mug to enjoy on a break when your thighs are burning mid-ski day.

*Mug suggestion: [Yeti Rambler Tumbler with Magslider Lid](/en/product/6034-720/yeti-rambler-591ml-tumbler-with-magslider-lid).*

#### Hot toddy
A classic drink, the [hot toddy](https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/classic-hot-toddy) features a nip of rum, whiskey or brandy mixed together with hot water and honey. You can also add some lemon or ginger ale for an extra twist. It’s a nice option to warm up quickly after an afternoon of cross-country skiing, or a way to cap off a winter full moon walk.

*Mug suggestion: The [Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Bottle](/en/product/6012-501/hydro-flask-standard-mouth-bottle-710ml), along with a [flask](/en/product/6005-622/gsi-boulder-flask-296ml) for any special additions.*

After you’ve been outside working up a sweat on the trails or just building snowmen in the park, a piping hot beverage is a great way to unwind. Forget the usual hot chocolate and try any one of these tasty drinks for something a little bit different.



*Photo credits: SyhinStas / Getty Images, RyersonClark / Getty Images, Aneta_Gu / Shutterstock.com*



Looking for hot drink ideas? Go beyond coffee and cocoa with these sweet and savoury suggestions – they pair great with skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or just hitting up the sledding hill.

7 delicious ways to stay warm outside this winter | MEC Blog

7 delicious ways to stay warm outside this winter

Let’s start with the hard part: it’s pronounced *hue-gah*. Now that that’s out of the way, what the heck is it? Hygge is the Danish word for good times and nice feelings when you’re enjoying food, drink and warmth with good company. So even if this is the first time you’ve heard of hygge, chances are you know precisely what it’s all about.

Enter our own little tribute to hygge. Whether you’re looking to share a hygge-filled afternoon with friends, or to want just get outside more this winter, we’ve put together a handful of activity based ideas for gettin’ hygge with your favourite activities this season (sorry, we had to).

#### First, a few hygge essentials:
**Lights:** The image of friends and family huddled around a fire or candles while lost in conversation is quintessential hygge. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, consider lighting a few extra candles – [lanterns](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/headlamps-and-lighting/lanterns) do the trick too – to create extra ambience.

**Cozy things:** This one’s a given. Nothing says hygge like sweats fresh out of the drier on a cold afternoon, or your favourite pullover fleece in a packed coffee shop before heading to the hill.

**Warm drinks:** [Cocoa](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen/food-and-drink/drinks/coffee-tea-and-hot-chocolate), apple cider, hot toddies, mulled wine, tea, you name it. Hot drinks = hygge, so plan your mug situation accordingly.

**Say hygge all the time:** Seriously. Just saying the word feels cozy. Do it, and bask in the warming power of language.

#### Skiing and snowshoeing
Few activities match the hygge-potential of skiing or snowshoeing. Picture this: you and your pals return from cross-country skiing to an A-frame cabin amidst snow-sprinkled pine trees, where a woodstove burns bright and hot drinks are steaming. You clomp inside to warm your chilly feet and bask in it all. Perfection!

But most of us don’t have regular access to picturesque cabins; instead, the only thing we’ll be cozying up to after skiing is our friend’s butt as we’re packed into the backseat of someone’s car.

Luckily, you can still create hygge on the trail and the ride home. First, step up your trail-snack game by packing a picnic: crackers and fancy cheese, some baked goods and hot beverages (enjoy these [delicious suggestions](/en/article/7-delicious-ways-to-stay-warm-outside-this-winter)). Then, pick a quiet spot near the trail and make a bit of a fuss: lay out a blanket, hang some lights up like a crazy person, or – provided no one’s around – bust out some hygge-friendly jams. Sure, these items will make your pack *significantly heavier* than normal. But whatever, hygge is all about creating a special, memorable atmosphere with good people.

For post-ski hygge luxury on the drive home, pack your favourite pair of cozy sweats or flannel, and bring a blanket for the backseat crew. Between that and a blazing car heater (or a fireplace if you’re lucky), you’re in for good hygge times.

##### Ski or snowshoe hygge checklist:
- [Vacuum bottles](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-hydration/vacuum-bottles-travel-mugs-and-tumblers) (and maybe a [flask](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen/camp-dinnerware/flasks-growlers-and-wine-storage/flasks-and-shot-glasses)) with tasty beverages
- Packable speakers (just make sure other folks aren’t around)
- Comfy clothes for afterwards

#### Running


When the holiday season kicks in, weekly workouts often get disrupted and you might not see your go-to run buddy or run crew as much.

Ready to buck that trend? Hold a run-hygge party! Bamboozle your running pals to bundle up for a brisk jaunt. Pick a route that end at your place. Make sure simmering mulled wine and treats are waiting. Simple, sure, but it’s amazing how satisfying classics like good food and drink can be after a workout. Combine that with a solid-gold group dynamic, and you’ve got a recipe for hygge success.

Or organize a solstice night-run with headlamps, lanterns and hot drinks in your running pack to kick-start the hygge vibes. Because when it’s dark and cold, friends and a gaggle of bobbing headlamps provide a world of warmth.

##### Run hygge checklist
- Warm [winter running layers](/en/explore/how-to-choose-base-layers) and cozy [toques](/en/products/clothing/clothing-accessories/hats-and-toques/toques-and-beanies)
- [Headlamps](/en/products/running/headlamps) for dark nights
- A [running pack](/en/products/running/running-packs) to bring hot apple cider as a surprise at the turnaround point

#### Yoga


With parties and vacations, there’s a chance you’ll get behind on your practice at this time of year. To keep your yoga hot streak going, create a makeshift home yoga studio – hygge style. Choose a room or corner, set up some moody lights or candles, and turn up the heat for a bit (if you’ve got a fireplace, all the better).

To keep the spirit of hygge strong, invite a friend of yours who’s been hesitant to join you at yoga. Sure, a session in front of the fireplace while talking your pal through a few poses won’t present the most challenging class ever. But the feeling of sharing something meaningful with good people will stoke some hygge vibes.

##### Yoga hygge checklist
- Soft lighting from candles or [lanterns](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/headlamps-and-lighting/lanterns)
- A gift in the form of a yoga mat for your friend
- Post-practice [Patagonia pullover](/en/products/clothing/fleece-hoodies-and-sweaters?brand=Patagonia)

#### Indoor climbing


Because climbing’s so social, simply heading to the gym around the holidays feels special. To boost the good vibes, say hello to someone new, bring goodies from your favourite recipe, or take a family member or friend climbing for the first time. Or, be the chalk fairy: sprinkle a bit of chalk in everyone’s chalkbag. (You can never have enough chalk.)

Got a hangboard at home? Invite your climbing friends over and bring climber-ly flare to the affair. For every steaming mug of mulled wine poured, make encourage your friends to hop on the hangboard and do a dead-hang, pull-up, L-hang or whatever. Oh, and tell your guests to bring candles. Because hygge.

##### Climbing hygge checklist
- [Chalk](/en/products/climbing/climbing-gear/chalk-and-chalk-bags/climbing-chalk) to spread chalk-magic
- [Climbing guidebooks](/en/products/climbing/climbing-books) to gather around and plan next year
- [Hangboard](/en/product/5060-581/metolius-wood-grips-deluxe-ii-hangboard), as a good reason to invite your climbing crew over

#### Just being outside
At a certain point, long days of relative inactivity and indulgence are going to happen in winter. Why not shake things up a bit and share the great hygge outdoors? Keep it simple – bundle up with friends and go skating, bring along a beverage or two to the sledding hill, go stargazing on crystal clear nights, convince your whole family to go for a walk as the snow falls – whatever! Part of hygge is creating meaningful experiences fueled by the warmth of good company. Somehow, getting outside together always seems to make that happen.



Things are about to get seriously cozy. Learn what the heck hygge is, and how to bring it to life with some of your favourite winter activities.

How to get hygge outdoors (and more) | MEC Blog

How to get hygge outdoors (and more)

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MEC Rewards Members: get an extra 5% off with promo code 5PACKSB on select MEC packs. Ends July 30.

August long savings event: Get up to 50% off gear for camping, biking, climbing and more. 