Everything You Need for a Stargazing Adventure
Besides clear skies and shooting stars, here's what else you'll need for a perfect night under the Milky Way
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
This past weekend, the Perseid meteor shower lit up skies around the United States. During the shower’s peak, nearly 60 meteors were visible every hour. If you missed it, don’t fret—the Quadrantid meteor shower will be visible in early January. For optimum viewing, visit one of the best stargazing spots in North America and outfit yourself with this gear.
Stanley Shaker Happy Hour System ($35)
A cocktail will keep you warm and happy on a chilly night, and this kit will help you make some great ones. The stainless-steel kit won’t break if you knock it over and includes two rocks glasses, a shaker, and a citrus reamer, all nested together for easy transportation.
Eno Islander Blanket ($50)
Made from the same parachute nylon as Eno’s iconic hammock, this ground cover has four stake-out points to secure your spot in the dirt or sand. The blanket stuffs down to the size of an apple and includes a zippered stash pocket to store essentials like keys.
REI Co-op Kingdom Low Table ($65)
Give your charcuterie board a safe place to rest on this bamboo table. The low height makes it easy to reach while sitting. When not in use, the table easily folds up and stores in the included carrying case.
Rumpl Down Puffy Blanket ($160)
Warmth and compressibility make this down blanket one of the best on the market. It packs down to the size of two grapefruits in the included stuffsack, and the 600-fill down keeps you toasty while gazing at meteors.
REI Co-op Trail Chair ($35)
If you don’t want to lie on the ground, this chair is a great choice because it allows you to lean back and get a great look at the sky without straining your neck. The back mesh pocket is big enough to hold an extra layer.