Exploring The Outdoor Adventure Show: A Day of Discovery & Delight
On Friday, my husband and I embarked on a mini-adventure of our own, driving from Kingston to Toronto for the day to attend The Outdoor Adventure Show. And wow, was it ever worth the trip! We expected a fun outing, but we were blown away by just how much there was to see, learn, and taste. From top-notch gear to mouthwatering food, the show was a treasure trove for anyone looking to level up their camping game.
Vendors Galore
Walking into the show, we were immediately struck by the sheer number of vendors offering exactly what we didn’t know we needed. Whether it was innovative camping gadgets, ingenious solutions for glampers like us, or treats for our canine camping companions, it felt like the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts like us. Most vendors were Canadian, making sticking to my New Year’s Resolution of shopping and buying Canadian a breeze. We picked up so many tips, including details about trails near where we’ll be camping this summer — Manitoulin Island and Tobermory, Ontario. There’s nothing better than having insider knowledge to enhance our adventures!
Gear Dreams Come True
The gear displays were absolutely drool-worthy. Inflatable tents caught our eye for their easy setup (because let’s be real, no one wants to wrestle with poles after a long drive). Tear-drop campers, kitted out with everything you’d need for epic adventures, were another highlight. We even explored camper van rentals and kits for converting our own van, sparking some serious dreams for future trips. Let’s not forget my latest obsession — an epic lightweight portable camping kitchen. It’s officially on my wish list!
Educational Stages and Live Demonstrations
One of the most exciting aspects of the show were the four stages where educational and informational sessions were being provided. Topics ranged from international travel and paddling adventures to the best of Canada and Scuba & Caribbean escapades. Adding to the excitement was an actual pool where Canadian adventure groups and paddle sport retailers showcased kayaking and rafting demonstrations. Seeing these experts in action was both inspiring and informative, giving us plenty of ideas for upping our water-based activities in our future adventures.
Culinary Delights
Now, let’s talk food. Oh, the food! We indulged in samples of everything from spicy dill hot sauce and smoky BBQ sauce to cookies made with whisky (yes, they’re as amazing as they sound). There were roasted onion cheeses and crocodile salami sticks that had my husband raising his eyebrows and going back for seconds. And for those planning long treks, the flash-frozen and dehydrated meal kits were perfect for outdoor adventures. We’re now officially hooked on a few new snack staples for our trips this year.
Hands-On Experiences
An unexpected highlight of the show was learning about Axcadmy, small Canadian business in Toronto that offers one-day, hands-on axe-making sessions. Naturally, my husband jumped at the opportunity and bought the experience for himself and his buddy as birthday gifts. I can’t wait to see what they craft and, knowing him, how he’ll find ways to use it on our next camping trip.
Supporting Local Entrepreneurs
Perhaps the most heartwarming aspect of the show was meeting so many passionate, eco-conscious Canadian entrepreneurs. It was inspiring to see their dedication to creating innovative products for campers and cottagers. I’m already looking forward to featuring some of these amazing finds in the upcoming Glamping Box subscription box series. From bug deterrents to quick-dry sand-free towels, refreshing beverages, and gourmet snacks, there’s no shortage of items to share with fellow glamping enthusiasts.
A Day to Remember
All in all, The Outdoor Adventure Show was an unforgettable experience that left us energized and excited for the camping season ahead. If you’ve never been, we highly recommend making the trip — it’s the perfect mix of learning, shopping, and indulging. Plus, there’s nothing quite like connecting with the incredible community of outdoor lovers and small businesses that make adventures in Canada so special.
So, here’s to discovering new trails, savouring delicious bites, and gearing up for unforgettable outdoor experiences. See you around the campsite this summer!
~ Anja