iPod
With access to countless songs, applications, games and podcasts, iPods can both entertain and inform. Enjoy music during a long workout, or download a podcast on the subject of hiking the Grand Tetons. The options are seemingly endless. In 2009, the basic iPod Shuffle is retailing from $59, while the 64 GB iPod Touch will sell for $399. Features will vary depending on the model, but for the weekend warrior looking to sample nearly everything the iPod has to offer, the iPod Nano is an excellent place to start. The 8 GB entry model, retailing for $149, can hold up to 2,000 songs and 8 hours of video. Better still, the model is compact and travels well.
Handheld GPS
There aren't too many situations a good GPS can't help get a weekend warrior out of. Whether that weekend warrior is a cyclist, kayaker, hiker or anyone who does a little exploring, a GPS is a smart and helpful tool to help her navigate her way around. There are larger, more expensive models available, but handhelds are less bulky and satisfy the fundamental purpose of a GPS. A good Garmin handheld can currently be picked up for anywhere from $100 to $250.
Hoodie
A good hoodie is a weekend warrior's best friend. It's light, relatively cheap and useful in all types of weather. Wear it, roll it up and put it in your pack, or tie it around your waist. Depending on the manufacturer, prices for hoodies vary wildly, but there's no need to pay a bundle for a perfectly good one. Look for a model with a zipper in the front. These are easier to put on and remove, making them more ideal for travel.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are indispensable to anyone who spends any amount of time outdoors. With the weekend warrior in mind, look for a pair that is virtually indestructible. These don't have to be terribly expensive. Tifosi Optics makes excellent sport sunglasses that satisfy both needs. Certain models even feature replaceable lenses in various shades. The 2010 collection retails from $40 to $92.
Powerbars
Cheap? Check. Nutritious? Check. Satisfying? You bet. When the weekend warrior runs out of inner fuel, he'll be grateful for this quick pick-me-up. According to powerbar.com, Powerbars are low in fat and formulated with a carb ratio proven to increase endurance performance by an average of 8 percent. Powerbars come in various flavors and can be found at any grocery store. A couple of them fit nicely into the pocket of a hoodie.
