Spring is here, which means warmer weather, long-awaited backyard get-togethers and any excuse to get outdoors. To help you get prepared, our editors and trusted publishers have selected the best gear to cook, entertain, exercise and travel safely this season. 

Build Out Your Backyard

Make your backyard feel like a little oasis by adding shade, seating, speakers and more to unwind on longer days. Get your garden in tip-top shape by adding must-have gardening tools to your shed and purchasing the best flowers and seeds to plant in your garden from Reader’s Digest. Once your outdoor space is all set up, let Taste of Home help you make the most of patio season by gathering ingredients for refreshing cocktails and getting gear for an outdoor shindig. Explore the tools and cookers you’ll need to host a one-of-a-kind backyard cookout. After a hearty meal, bust out the corn hole, bocce ball or other lawn games to play together. 

Collect Your Camping Gear

Whether you like camping, hiking or backpacking, we’ve rounded up the best gear and supplies from the online store Backcountry so you can enjoy the great outdoors in comfort. Thrillist has rounded up spring sales on outdoor brands like Ray-Ban, North Face and more. Pair your new active gear with a breathable face mask for a run or walk outside.

Pack Your Travel Essentials

As you plan your next travel adventure while we’re still in the pandemic, make sure you have essential items to keep yourself healthy and safe. In case you are not ready to get on a plane yet, you may want to consider stocking up on gear for an epic road trip. Lastly, if you can do your job on the go, make sure to pack the ergonomic supplies, electronic accessories and travel necessities to work comfortably and enjoy work-life-balance.

However you spend the coming months, we hope these product picks motivate and encourage you to get outside. For more daily gear recommendations, be sure to follow the Shopping Topic.

— Brad Read, commerce editor, is learning about Climate Change