5 essential products you need to enjoy the outdoors this autumn

After the warmest summer on record and a warmer-than-average start to autumn, more typical UK weather is finally returning. 

Rest assured, it won't be long before you're bent over against a howling wind and battling the rain. When the weather really turns, it's best to be prepared.

With seasonal norms expected, if you're heading outdoors there are plenty of handy items that can protect you against the elements.

Here, we've collated five must-have products to help you enjoy the beautiful autumn scenery while staying dry, comfortable and safe.

1. Wellies

Summer's rock-hard ground will soon be a distant memory. It's only a matter of time until it starts chucking it down, rivers swell and you're faced with crossing a puddle the size of a lake. When that happens, you'll need your wellies at the ready.

Finding the perfect pair of wellingtons is no easy task, though. Do you size up or down? If you go too small, they'll pinch and rub against your calves. If you opt for a larger size, you'll lift your foot and end up shoeless. 

We asked almost 1,400 people for their views on wellies, using their feedback to highlight the best brands on the market. On our page you'll also find ratings on fit, water resistance, shock absorption and more, as well as sizing guidance.

Check out our wellington boots page to see which brands we recommend for splashing in muddy puddles.

2. Travel mugs

Chillier autumn weather makes the urge to huddle around a hot drink all the more compelling. A high-quality travel mug can warm your insides and thaw your frozen fingers whenever and wherever you need it. 

We've tested 12 travel mugs including those from popular brands such as Stanley, Nespresso, Thermos and Contigo. 

Our evaluation involves an eight-hour insulation test, where we measure which flask keeps its contents hottest for the longest. By the end of the test, one of the top flasks was still keeping its drink at a toasty 43°C.

Knowing that every drop of tea is precious at this time of year, we also test each mug for durability and whether it leaks when shaken. 

Compare our travel mug reviews to see which one you should be taking on your next hike, camping trip or dog walk.

3. Hiking socks

A pair of well-fitting and comfortable hiking socks is essential if you are to enjoy the auburn of autumn. It doesn't matter whether you're trekking up a Wainwright or strolling around your local park – a decent pair is a must.

The perfect pair of autumn hiking socks will be cosy, breathable and moisture-wicking (able to keep your feet dry and fresh). They'll also provide critical arch and heel support to stabilise and cushion your feet. 

In our recent test, we put bestselling brands through their paces – most notably Darn Tough, Bridgedale and Smartwool. We tried socks made from many different materials, too, including Merino wool, synthetics and bamboo.

Ensure your next walk doesn't end with blisters by picking up a Best Buy or Great Value pair of hiking socks.

4. Walking boots 

Walking boots are handy year-round for those who like the wilder parts of the UK.

Compared to milder months, though, autumn and winter tend to bring more booby traps. If you're not careful, muddy conditions, slippery leaves and hidden roots can leave you looking up at the sky. This makes proper footwear all the more important. 

The top walking boots strike a fine balance between comfort and durability. They offer firm footing, water resistance and shock absorption, while remaining flexible enough for your feet to feel at home. 

Walking shoes are a good shout, too. While generally less sturdy and durable than boots, they are more comfortable and lightweight.

We've researched both walking boots and walking shoes – have a look at both our pages to see which brands we'd recommend.

5. Waterproof jackets

Some may argue that a waterproof jacket is essential all year round in the UK – and they're probably right – but as autumn sets in, rain protection becomes paramount.

I'm sure many of us can attest, at least from personal experience, that some 'waterproof' jackets aren't nearly as waterproof as you'd expect.

The issue is that manufacturers can label a jacket as waterproof if it has a rating of at least 1,500mm. This is an indication of how much water pressure the fabric can handle before letting in water. In reality, you should look for a rating of at least 5,000mm, while seriously high-performing jackets sit at 10,000mm or higher. 

Think about investing in some waterproof trousers, too – if only to keep dry when a driver ploughs through a puddle next to the pavement. 

Across both categories, we've found that you can get decent-quality jackets and trousers at a range of price points. 

Both our waterproof jackets and waterproof trousers pages can help protect you from autumn deluges.