Planning a U-Pick activity this summer? Of course, you will get your fruit picker ready, but here are some additional farm-picking essentials that you shouldn’t miss out on during your U-Pick activity in New Jersey.
Farm picking in New Jersey offers a delightful way to connect with nature, support local agriculture, and enjoy the freshest produce right from the source. Whether you’re planning to visit the scenic blueberry fields in Hammonton or the sprawling apple orchards in the north, being well-prepared can significantly enhance your experience.
This blog provides a detailed guide on what to bring for an enjoyable farm-picking outing in the Garden State, with practical advice and product recommendations to ensure you have everything you need.
Also Read: 14 Best Pick-Your-Own Apple Farms in New Jersey
Comfortable and Protective Clothing
The right clothing can protect you from the sun, insects, and plants while also keeping you comfortable throughout the day. New Jersey’s weather can be unpredictable, and farms often have uneven terrain, so dressing appropriately is the key.
Here are a few options,
Lightweight, Long-Sleeved Shirts and Pants: Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials to keep cool and protect your skin from the sun and scratches.
Hat with a Wide Brim: Protect your face and neck from sunburn with a comfortable, wide-brimmed hat. The Columbia Unisex Bora Bora Booney Hat offers sun protection, making it an excellent choice. Also, there are 40 colors to pick from, so you can match your hat with your dress.
Comfortable Closed-Toe Shoes: A sturdy pair of shoes will protect your feet from sharp objects and keep them clean. The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe and the Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe provide comfort and durability for walking on uneven farm terrains. You can also get a waterproof variant, as farms are often watered, and the soil is muddy.
Also Read: Pick Your Own Berries in New Jersey: A Sweet Summer Adventure
Essential Gear for Farm Picking
Having the right tools and accessories can make your picking experience more efficient and enjoyable. From collecting produce to staying hydrated, these essentials are a must-have for any farm visit.
Here are a few options,
Durable Picking Bag or Basket: Choose a lightweight and sturdy container for collecting your fruits and vegetables. The Reusable Produce Bags by Earthwise are perfect for this task, offering both durability and convenience. You get a pack of 9 reusable and washable bags, which are helpful for picking berries, apples, peaches, and more. However, the color of berries and other fruits might last on the bag even after a few washes.
Gardening Gloves: Protect your hands from thorns, dirt, and rough surfaces. Gloves are great for your farm-picking and the most essential gear to have on your farm-picking trip. The Pine Tree Tools Bamboo Gardening Gloves provide breathability and protection and are one of the best options to look at.
Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially on hot days or farm-picking activities which require a lot of effort and work. The Hydro Flask Water Bottle keeps your water cold for hours and is a durable choice for outdoor activities. One of the major reasons to get this water bottle is the stainless steel body and multiple size options, which make it easier for you to pick for yourself, a family of two, or a family of a couple of people.
Sunscreen: A broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is essential to protect your skin.
Snacks and Refreshments
Farm picking can be physically demanding, and having snacks and refreshments on hand will help you maintain energy levels and hydration throughout the day.
You can bring snacks of your choice, something like nuts and bars, which are lightweight but also have enough protein and energy for your farm-picking activity. If farms allow, you can even pluck the fruits and add these fresh options to your snack basket.
These fresh fruits are a great source of energy for your Pick Your Own Fruits activity, as they are natural and will give you an instant boost.
Safety and First Aid
Despite the joy and excitement of farm picking, accidents can happen. Having a first aid kit and knowing basic safety protocols are crucial for addressing any minor injuries promptly.
Here are a few options,
First Aid Kit: A compact and portable first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and other basics. The Swiss Safe 2-in-1 First Aid Kit (120 Piece) + Bonus 32-Piece Mini First Aid Kit is comprehensive and compact, perfect for outdoor activities. However, you can also make your own First Aid Kit and carry it along. Most people already carry one for first aid safety, and if you don’t have one, yet. You should definitely have one, irrespective of whether you are doing the farm-picking activity.
Insect Repellent: From farm-picking to camping and other jungle adventures, insect bites can be a boomer to your adventure; the best thing to do is get a reliable insect repellent and protect your body from all those red bites. The Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent is effective against a wide range of insects and is easily available in the nearest home deport or quick buy on Amazon.
Also Read: Best Pick Your Own Cherries Farms in New Jersey: Top 10 Picks
Wrapping up: Don’t Miss Out on These on your Pick Your Own Farm Activity
Farm picking in New Jersey is not just an activity; it’s an experience that brings people closer to the origins of their food. By preparing the right clothing, gear, snacks, and safety items, you can ensure that your visit is enjoyable, comfortable, and safe. Remember, the key to a great farm-picking outing is not just in what you take home but in the memories you create along the way.
Other than these personal gear, it is also advisable to contact the farm and get information regarding fruit-picking tools and if they incur any added charges. If you are planning for frequent farm-picking adventures, you can buy these gears and carry them along on every other farm-picking activity; these are worth the investment.
Do not forget to let us know in the comment section which fruit or veggies you plan to pick and what recipe you made out of it. We are all ears to listen to your yummy recipes from farm to food.
