Getting Ready for a plein air trip?

  Getting ready for a trip is exciting, but it's normal to also feel a little nervous.  I often have the thought: "I don't want to forget anything!"  Here are some tips for travelers who want to bring along supplies to have some en plein air fun.

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make a list

  I've been keeping lists for years and it's an invaluable tool when preparing to travel.  I have a "to-do" list in a small moleskine notebook and I also have a day planner that helps to keep me organized.  I like to make a list of supplies to bring and then check them off as I pack.  Now, let's see what supplies to bring.

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"What Art supplies should I bring?"

  This can be a subjective question, but here is a breakdown of what I bring on a basic watercolor trip.

Essentials:
1. Paint - Tubes of paint fit nicely into a large ziplock bag and I don't have to worry about any leaking.

2. Palette - For watercolor, I use a folding metal travel palette.

3. Brushes - I like to bring a full set of brushes to make sure that I have enough.  Along with brushes, I use a brush cleaner so I bring that also.

4. Paper - I use watercolor "blocks", which contain about 20 sheets.  These come in a variety of sizes and are very compact.  Note that you'll need a letter opener or other tool to take the sheets off of the block as you paint; a palette knife works well for this.

5. Travel Easel - Watercolor easels are pretty easy to transport so if you have the room then bring one along.  Some painters work with an easel in their

Extras:
  I'm putting these materials into the "extras" category because you can bring them with you, or you can find a lot of them when you reach your destination.

1. Water Container - preferably two containers for watercolor.  These can be simple cups or jars.

2. Paper Towels - I like to use paper towels for watercolor and then I let them dry out so I can reuse them.  Some painters use a hand towel which would work also.

3. Umbrella - I like to have a plein air umbrella when I paint, but it's not a necessity so I'm putting it in the "extras" category.  If you have an umbrella and can bring it then I recommend it.

4. Pencils & Eraser - I like drawing on my paper before painting so a drawing pencil and eraser are useful for me.

5. Hat, Sunscreen, Bug Spray, Water Bottle, Snacks - These extras are to make your painting experience more enjoyable.  Staying hydrated when you're en plein air is important so bring a water bottle with you.  And of course, a snack or two never hurts!

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Airplane Travel

  If you're traveling by plane, then you will have a different set of considerations when you're packing.  Oil painting can be especially difficult when traveling by plane so please make sure you do not bring any solvents (OMS, Gamsol, turpentine, etc.) aboard.  Put your tubes of paint in checked luggage with a note that explains what they are; please refer to this link from Michael Harding Paints for more information: https://www.michaelharding.co.uk/project/traveling-with-paints-2/

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Bon Voyage!

   With a little experience and guidance, you'll realize that it's really easy to travel with your art supplies for a plein air trip.  Remember, that you can also keep it really simple by just bringing a sketchbook.  Making art on location is a wonderful experience and I hope you'll bring along your materials on your next trip!

Having Fun in Bermuda | Plein Air Trip 2024