There’s no telling where the hunt for land might take you—tramping through muddy meadows on a rainy morning, climbing rocky, Colorado mountain trails—or what challenges you might encounter. These rough and ready essentials will help you stay on course, and on task, as you track down the ideal acreage.

Sized to fit comfortably over everyday clothes, Barbour’s all-‘round, all-season Beaufort Jacket will easily take you from the Virginia backwoods to Madison Avenue. A Sylkoil oil treatment makes the cotton wind and waterproof while preserving softness and flexibility. And you’ll get more than one lifetime out of the piece as the fabric can be reproofed if it wears out. ($365.00 / www.orvis.com)

Survey every acre with waterproof, fog-proof, all-terrain binoculars that, thanks to an ergonomic grip, won’t slip through your fingers. Crisp, flare-free, wide-angle views let you see the big picture, while a customizable, click-stop eyecup delivers long eye relief—making this Nikon model a bird-watcher’s best friend. ( $197.19 / as of 07/20/2007 10:51 PST - more) www.amazon.com)

If you don’t know an old-hand at rural land buying to show you the ropes, this nuts and bolts guide covers all the basics from finding the right plot and negotiating price, to the final contract of sale. Finding & Buying Your Place in the Country's simple checklists and insider tips might be the country wisdom that steers you clear of financial pitfalls and legal landmines. ($18.45 / as of 07/20/2007 10:51 PST - more) www.amazon.com)