Fall Gear Essentials: What to Pack for Outdoor Adventures This Season

As summer fades and cooler temperatures roll in, fall becomes one of the best times of year to hit the outdoors. Whether you're planning weekend hikes, day trips, hunting excursions, or backwoods camping adventures, having the right gear can make all the difference.

At Gear Up Surplus, we’ve stocked our shelves with high-performance, military-grade, and tactical gear that’s trusted in the field. Here's your definitive checklist of fall outdoor essentials to help you stay warm, dry, prepared, and mobile all season long.

Layer Up: Clothing for Unpredictable Fall Weather

Fall is notorious for chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and sudden weather changes. The key to staying comfortable is layering.

• Field Jackets & Military Coats: Look for U.S. military surplus jackets like the M65 or ECWCS Gen III systems. Built for durability and insulation.
• Thermal Base Layers: Add a moisture-wicking base to regulate body temperature while moving.
• Ponchos & Rain Gear: U.S. GI ponchos double as rain protection and emergency shelter.
• Wool Blankets: A timeless solution for warmth at night, by the fire, or as an extra tent layer.

Pro Tip: Military surplus clothing is often more durable and better insulated than civilian alternatives at half the cost.

Tactical Tools to Keep in Reach

The fall wilderness can be unpredictable. Always pack tactical tools that help you adapt and respond to real-world situations.

• Multi-Tools & Knives: For prepping food, cutting rope, or emergency repairs.
• Fire Starters: Matches, ferro rods, or magnesium starters are a must for cold weather camping.
• Flashlights & Headlamps: Days are shorter, so high-lumen, tactical-grade lighting becomes critical.
• Paracord: Use for shelter-building, tying gear, or emergency sling repair.
• Compasses & Maps: GPS can fail. Always bring analog navigation backups.

Food, Water, and Survival Rations

Hunger and dehydration can creep in faster during cooler weather when you’re moving. Prepare with portable, high-calorie fuel and clean water solutions.

• Military MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat): Shelf-stable, calorie-dense, and designed for energy.
• Water Purification Tablets or LifeStraws: Make natural water sources safe to drink.
• Canteens & Hydration Packs: Stay mobile while hydrating on the go.

Choose the Right Carry System

You’ll need a reliable way to carry everything. For fall outings, prioritize comfort, organization, and capacity.

• MOLLE Backpacks: Modular and customizable with add-on pouches.
• ALICE Packs: Rugged, spacious, and tested in real-world field conditions.
• GI Duffel Bags: Great for vehicle-based overlanding and organized pack-outs.
• Chest Rigs & Load-Bearing Vests: For hunting trips or tactical movement.

Final Thoughts: Prepare Now Before the Cold Hits

Fall outdoor adventures require planning, but with the right gear, they’re incredibly rewarding. From early-morning hikes to overnight basecamps, the right mix of military surplus clothing, tactical tools, and survival gear ensures you’re ready for whatever nature throws your way.

At Gear Up Surplus, we stock authentic military and tactical gear that’s built for the elements. Shop in-store or online to gear up before the next cold front moves in.

Shop Essentials Now:

• Military Jackets & Outerwear
• Backpacks, Bags & Packs
• Camping & Survival Gear
• MREs & Rations