Nature journaling in summer
I’ve written about the equipment you might consider for making notes and art in a nature journal here (you really don’t need much, a sketchbook and pencil is enough!) It’s just as important, though, to think about the environment you will be taking your journaling to and preparing accordingly. For this post, I am focusing on what you might need to go out in hot, sunny summer weather, but not too far from civilisation.
Beautiful weather can lure us all into a sense of well-being and ease in life, but even here in the UK it is important to treat the Sun with caution. Try to choose a place to journal where there is shade, and avoid being out for long in the hottest part of the day. The best shade for coolness is tree shade, and the areas around rivers also feel cooler. Be aware that you can still burn in shade, however, and if you go in the water, reflected sunlight makes burned skin even more likely.
So, high factor sunscreen is important, and a hat with a good brim. Baseball caps are popular, but I prefer something with a brim at the back as well. Remember, if your head is down whilst your draw or write, the back of your neck will be exposed to those rays. A large umbrella can create a shady spot big enough to sit in. Choose a huge camping or golfing umbrella that you can prop open on the ground and sit beneath.
Dehydration and sunstroke are dangers when out nature journaling in summer. Carry a large bottle of water with you, and keep sipping it throughout your journaling session. This is probably going to be the heaviest of your supplies, but don’t skimp on it! I also like to bring a snack of some kind, usually a protein bar that won’t crush easily or melt. Low blood sugar when you still need to walk home is excruciating…
Dress for the environment you are heading to. Choose light layers and natural fibres so you don’t overheat, but try to cover as much skin as possible. This is part of your sun protection, but also protection from ticks, mosquitoes and other bugs. (Many people like to use bug repellent for extra protection). I like to wear linen, and choose trousers with elasticated cuffs or tuck them into my boots. Avoid open toed shoes or sandals as well. The natural world is full of sticks and stones that injure unprotected toes! Choose trainers or walking boots that have sturdy soles, especially if you plan to walk for a while.
Don’t assume it won’t rain just because it is summer, especially if you are in the UK! A lightweight waterproof or pac-a-mac might turn out to be very much needed.
Finally, don’t forget to bring something to sit on. The ground may not be damp if it hasn’t rained in a while, but it can be prickly! I usually end up sitting on my waterproof jacket, but a plastic bag also works well, especially a ‘bag for life’. You might like to bring a light weight cushion or camping stool (some double as walking sticks), but be aware that you will need to carry this.
A small first aid kit is important to consider: just enough to deal with small injuries until you can get home. For me, this means a few plasters, a cotton handkerchief (for larger bleeds), and something to clean wounds. Usually this is my water, but a small pack of baby wipes can also be helpful. If you have any medical needs such as asthma, don’t forget to take the supplies required.
And of course, you need a bag to tuck everything into. I recommend a back pack that spreads the weight evenly, especially if you want to bring plenty of journaling supplies. If you want to get away with a smaller bag, the following would be my absolute essentials:
Sketchbook and mechanical pencil
Water bottle and protein bar
Hat, waterproof jacket, bug repellant bracelet (all worn!)
A plastic bag to sit on
Mobile phone (fully charged)
Plasters, cotton handkerchief
Have I forgotten anything? Let me know in the comments below!