The Essential Backcountry Art Kit

Don't let your concern for adding extra weight to your pack deter you from making art in the outdoors. Build a lightweight kit with these tools.

Taking time to soak up the scene around you and capture it in paint, pen or pencil can connect you to a place in a deeper way than quickly snapping a photo. It's also the perfect way to past time while you're waiting for a storm to pass or cozied up in your tent.  

The essential outdoor art kit: 

Waterproof bag - Keep your kit protected from the elements with a slim waterproof bag. I prefer the aLOKSAK bags, you can buy a variety pack from REI for around $15.

Refillable paintbrush - Keep natural water sources clean from watercolor pigments by using a refillable paintbrush. Use one of the small aLOKSOK bags to hold just your paintbrush in case it leaks. I like the Pentel Arts Aquash brushes. 

Travel-size watercolor palette - Keep it simple and carry a paired down watercolor palette. Winsor and Newton make one that comes in a sturdy plastic case containing 12 high quality watercolor cakes. It's refillable too while many other options in this price point aren't. 

Watercolor pencils - If you want to go even more lightweight, bring a selection of watercolor pencils instead of a palette. While it doesn't look exactly like watercolor after applying a water of water to it, it's certainly good enough. I like Prismacolor options the best.

Pocket watercolor notebook - Get the 3.5 inch x 5.5 inch leather bound watercolor sketchbook with an elastic band by Moleskin. It's the most compact, high quality option out there.

Pigma Micron pen - these pens are waterproof and fade proof and come in a variety of sizes and colors. I prefer using the sienna ink pens for landscapes as it is softer and complements watercolors well.