Summertime activities—hiking, biking and the beach—present organizational challenges more than any other time of year.

Why it matters

Since we do not use these items year-round, a temporary permanent home must be found for them as well as the best way to store those items in that space.

By Category:

Hiking:

First, designate a spot for your year. Preferably a spot where you can install hooks or hang pegboards. Then:

Hang backpacks, trekking poles, and hats on hooks or pegboards for easy access.

• Hang backpacks, trekking poles, and hats on hooks or pegboards for easy access.
• Organize by frequency of use (e.g. make your water bottles easily accessible).
• Label containers (e.g. label a bin used for headlamps, bug spray, etc. as “equipment”)

Biking:

For your bikes, a ceiling- or wall-mounted rack will save tons of space. You can also follow the hook/pegboard approach. Additionally:

• Dedicate a shelf or bin in your garage or other storage space just for bike stuff (e.g. helmets, water bottles, gloves, repair kits, etc.)
• Use labeled containers or drawers for smaller items like gloves, headlamps, and snacks.
•  Safety gear – Designate a spot for safety gear (e.g. reflective vests, lights, and locks) and make it part of your checklist before heading out on a ride.

Beach:

A little trickier than the other two as equipment and apparel will need their own spaces.

• Stackable shelving – Large ones to stash beach chairs, umbrellas and coolers.
• Mesh bags – Perfect for beach toys as you can shake out the sand.
• Organize by activity – Again, this makes storage easier and less likely that you will forget something.
• Hooks and drying racks – Install hooks and/or racks for wet items like swimsuits and towels.

Conclusion:

These approaches can be used for other outdoor activities (e.g. camping, kayaking, golf, etc.) By taking these small steps, you optimize the time you’ll spend less time getting ready or storing things and more time outside.

If you need help with your outdoor gear, drop us a line.