Unless you're heading to a yoga retreat or planning a trek into the backcountry, adventure gear may not be the first thing that comes to mind when it's time to start packing. But being prepared is the key to getting the most out of your travels, and you don't want to miss out on something incredible — say, an impromptu sunrise hike in Maui — because you only packed your flip-flops.
For dilettantes who won't be spending most of their travels bushwhacking in the wilderness, multitasking pieces are ideal for getting maximum bang for your buck. The adventure gear ahead can perform well in tough conditions, but they're not so rugged you'd feel silly packing them for a city trip.
And if you plan to keep up your fitness routine while on the go, the compact tools here are all you need for a challenging workout, whether you're at a vacation rental sans gym or just don't feel like leaving your hotel room.
From the gear to get you to the summit to an action camera to capture the view once you're there, we've got your adventure essentials covered.
Check out the full line-up of 2017’s Ultimate Travel Essentials.
Hyperlite Summit Pack
This minimalist pack is hardy, waterproof, and weighs in at less than a pound. And it's the rare product that both urbanites and outdoorsy types love: The translucent white material looks good for jaunts around the city, but it's durable and spacious enough to stand up to multi-day backpacking excursions.
To buy: backcountry.com, $175
Apple Watch Series 2
Apple's newest wrist-wrapping tech is packed with features to keep you connected and motivated to stay active. Use it to track your heart rate, measure your swim pace, or just find your way back to the hotel (or better yet, the nearest cocktail bar) when you’re lost in a new city.
To buy: apple.com, from $369
Women's OutDry Ex Light Shell
Every single seam of this nylon jacket is fully sealed, and performance fabric keeps it breathable. We tested it in many a summer shower and emerged safe and dry. Umbrella? What umbrella?
To buy: columbia.com, $200
TheraBand CLX Resistance Band With Loops
There's no fitness tool more portable than a resistance band. This version has multiple loops for even more versatility, and the website and companion app offer a library of exercises so you can switch up your routine.
To buy: amazon.com, $13
Tiger Tail Foam Roller
Whether your muscle tightness is from marathon training or a lengthy stint in economy, this 11-inch gizmo can loosen up your kinks fast. The no-frills roller is skinny enough to work areas similar products can’t, and easily fits into your carry-on.
To buy: amazon.com, $30
Monkii Bars II
When a lackluster hotel gym makes exercise feel like a chore, this compact kit lets you perform a total body routine no matter where you are. The bands can attach to a branch, basketball hoop, or railing, and the case doubles as a door mount.
To buy: amazon.com, $149
Inov-8 Parkclaw 275 GTX
These all-terrain kicks won't scream ""tourist"" when you're sightseeing in town, and they'll hold up on a muddy trail run in the mountains, too. The Gore-tex-lined upper keeps your feet dry and comfortable no matter the conditions.
To buy: amazon.com, $150
Manduka eKO Superlite Travel Yoga Mat
This two-pound mat is thinner than a quarter, with just the right amount of stickiness — the orange-peel texture gives enough grip to keep you from sliding around during a sweaty routine. And it folds into a tiny square that's perfect for packing.
To buy: amazon.com, from $35
Nomader
Collapsible bottles tend to start collapsing right when you’re mid-sip. This one has a sturdy grip sleeve, so it keeps its shape. The cap is leak proof and the silicone is easy to roll up and store. Stick it in your backpack and fill it up once you’re past security.
To buy: amazon.com, $25
GoPro Hero5 Black
If you need solid sound and don’t want to futz with waterproof housing, this is a step up from our budget pick. It makes smooth, professional-quality video simple to capture and easy to edit on the go.
To buy: amazon.com, $399
YI 4K Action Camera
As far as action cameras go, this one's a steal. If the clean, unfussy interface, high-resolution video and stills, and long-lasting battery (up to 120 minutes of recording per charge) aren't impressive enough, you can also sync it with your phone via wifi to edit and share right away.
To buy: amazon.com, $249
