Equipment for Outdoors

Hoff, "Upstream, Druid Hill Creek," oil on panel, 12x16

Outdoor painting has become important to me, and although I knew what painting equipment would be needed, it took a few sessions to learn about (and remember) accessory equipment. It's clear that there are definitely non-painting items that are needed. I don't use all of them, but here are a few things every outdoor artist ought to at least consider.

Sunscreen
When painting outdoors it's a very good idea to wear sunscreen, particularly when in full sunshine. But don't be fooled by a cloudy day because the burning rays of sun penetrate through clouds. You can get a truly awful burn on an overcast day. And don't think you're completely safe under a shade tree or umbrella because reflected sunlight (from a body of water for example) can also burn.

Insect Repellent
While not everyone is lunch for mosquitoes and other biting pests, some of us definitely are. These days insect bites are potentially health issues as well as comfort problems. Besides preparing with the right kind of clothing--long sleeves and trousers for example--using repellent is a sensible step.

Hoff, "World's Largest Ag Tires," watercolor, 4x5

Water bottle
Nothing is worse nor potentially as dangerous as being a long way from a source of water, so I always make sure to carry my own, and double the amount if the terrain is arid. My basic kit contains a reusable, insulated one quart water bottle with a removable top. In summer it holds ice water. In other seasons, maybe coffee.

Umbrella
Many plein air painters use some kind of shading, either a small shade that attaches to their easel or a free-standing umbrella. Part of the reason is to shade the painting and avoid difficulties with colors but the other is to keep the blazing sun away. While not utterly essential (you can often find a shade tree or building to shelter you), a sun shade makes it possible to set up in many more places. And if you don't need it that day you can always leave it in your vehicle.

Hoff, "801 Grand," watercolor, 3.5x5.5

Miscellaneous
There are all sorts of miscellaneous items that can be very handy.

• Appropriate clothing is critical, depends on weather expected, and works best as layers. Don't forget a hat. Some artists use fingerless gloves in winter to facilitate brush handling.
• Rags or paper towels. It may be silly to mention these, but I forgot them once. Clearly towels and rags are needed to wipe brushes and palette, but may also be needed to wipe away paint or solvents on clothes, etc. Bring more than you think you need. You can leave some in the car.
• Trash bags are essential for whatever might be discarded so bring your own. Not every painting location has trash cans.
• Rain gear or a big plastic bag for storm emergencies can help keep you or equipment at least partially dry.
• Cell phones seem ubiquitous nowadays, but quite a few forget them. Your cell phone camera is also useful to make reference photos and progress pics of your work.
• Folding stool or chair. Although I prefer to stand when painting, a place to sit during breaks helps avoid fatigue. Some people prefer to paint sitting down. 

A final word about equipment. It's easy to burden oneself with non-essentials. If packing one's gear into remote or even difficult spots, lighter is better. Traveling light means a pochade box and tripod not a folding paint box, a few brushes not twenty, few or no paint tubes, rags, solvent container and/or medium, a cap and water bottle. Sunscreen and insect repellent can be applied in the car and an umbrella left behind if not needed. If you're painting with oils, you'll have to haul considerably more gear than with watercolors.