Winter is the perfect time to step away from the hustle and bustle of city life and embrace the calm beauty of nature. There’s something magical about crisp, frosty air, quiet trails, and the cozy feeling of being prepared for the outdoors. Nomadik’s City to Serenity Box offers the perfect way to make that idea a reality. This thoughtfully curated collection of gear is designed to support everything from everyday outdoor adventures to weekend getaways in remote, peaceful settings. Continue reading for a deeper look into what you’ll find inside.
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The Right On Trek Backcountry Chili ($7.99) feels like comfort in a bag, especially on cold nights. The blend of rice, beans, corn, and spices is both hearty and flavorful. Following the instructions was easy—just boil water, stir, and let it simmer. I added the cheese at the end, which made it feel indulgent. It’s packed with protein and fills you up without feeling too heavy. You can pair it with tortillas or add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. It’s a thoughtful inclusion for anyone who loves hearty meals with minimal effort while camping or hiking.
At first glance, the LoopRope ($21.99) seems like just another bungee cord, but after a bit of use, I can see why it’s more than that. The multiple anchor points give it versatility, allowing me to secure a range of items, from camping gear to extra luggage in the car. Lightweight and adjustable, it works particularly well for tying down gear during road trips or setting up a quick camp. I appreciate the way it improves the efficiency of my outdoor setups.
If you’ve ever fumbled with a lighter in the rain or dropped one in a puddle, the Exotac FireSleeve Ruggedized Lighter ($25) might be your new best friend. The FireSLEEVE protects your BIC lighter with a waterproof, high-grip casing that keeps it functional in wet conditions. I also loved the gas-lock strap, which keeps the flame on without holding down the button—a small but handy feature when you’re trying to light a fire in tight spots or windy weather. While it’s not flashy, it’s practical and well-thought-out, making it a great backup for any outdoor kit.
The Gerber Swagger ($39.99) strikes a good balance between functionality and portability. The partially serrated drop-point blade handled everything from opening packages to cutting paracord with ease. I appreciated the assisted opening mechanism, which feels smooth and secure. Its lightweight frame and framelock design made it easy to stash in my pack without worrying about accidental openings. While it’s not flashy, its subtle machine styling gives it a modern edge. For anyone into camping or everyday carry tools, this is a solid addition.
Staying hydrated is a no-brainer for outdoor adventures, and the Mazama Aquablend Soft Bottle ($20) checks all the boxes. It’s lightweight, fits neatly in hydration vests, and folds down flat when empty, which is perfect for packing light. I also appreciated the bite valve—it’s easy to use while walking and didn’t leak when tossed in my bag. The fact that it’s BPA- and PVC-free and doesn’t leave a plastic taste is a huge plus. It’s not just for hiking—you can easily bring it along for a quick gym session, too.
The Laek Seafield Dry Backpack ($135) is a must for unpredictable winter weather, and this one delivers on versatility. The rolltop design is straightforward to use—four rolls for an air-tight, water-tight seal—and the structured back panel with soft padding makes carrying it comfortable even when fully packed. I appreciated the mesh water bottle pocket, as I often lose track of my water bottles in the chaos of packing. While I’m not often in a situation where I need a submersible bag, it gives me peace of mind knowing that this backpack will keep my stuff safe even in heavier rain. The padded back panel adds a bit of comfort, though it’s not as cushioned as some other backpacks I’ve used. But the fact that it’s made of recycled materials earns bonus points in my book.
The City to Serenity Box leans into the practical side of outdoor adventuring, and while some items felt more functional than exciting, they all had a purpose. The backpack and chili stood out as highlights, offering both comfort and utility. The knife, fireSLEEVE, and Looprope may not grab your attention immediately, but they’re the kind of gear you’ll be grateful for when you need them.Overall, this box feels like a nudge to slow down, pack light, and embrace nature—even if it’s just a day trip to the nearest trail. It’s not about over-the-top gear but about tools that help you make the most of simple, intentional escapes. If you’re someone who enjoys practical gear without the frills, this box hits the mark.
Nomadik is a subscription box for outdoor enthusiasts. Each quarterly box includes functional gear designed to increase your fun in the outdoors. All products have been trail tested by an outdoor adventurer and often incorporate new technologies. Every box has three to six pieces of unique, newly-released, or just plain ultra-handy gear from premium brands.
Nomadik’s outdoor gear subscription box topped the list in our readers’ choice list of the best subscription boxes for the outdoors!
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