The Essential walking kit

What should be in your 'Essential Walking Kit'

If you are heading out into the hills or even on a low-level walk, what kit should you be taking with you? what essential walking kit should you have? I know these days many people are wanting to walk light, but there are a number of essentials you should be taking with you.

If you think of anything that we have missed, please do let us know.

Clothing

The correct clothing at the very least will make your walk more comfortable, but it could also prevent much worse. Things like waterproofs will help you tackle the elements, but avoiding materials like denim and cotton where possible will help you dry quicker and maintain your body temperature. Lots of thin layers are the key so you can take off and put on as need be.

– Breathable base layer
– Insulating mid-layer
– Walking trousers, not jeans
– Waterproof jacket
– Waterproof over-trousers
– Hats & gloves
– Sun hat
– Rucksack/daypack

Footwear

Arguably the difference between a pleasant walk and an unpleasant walk, getting the right footwear and thus caring for your feet is of the utmost importance.

– Walking boots/shoes. Need to be comfortable and well-fitting
– Walking socks, these must be breathable – Mohair, Marino or other specialist socks

Rucksack essentials

The art of being prepared isn’t just in what you wear, it’s what you take with you to be ready for every eventuality. These can literally make or break a day in the hills for you.

– Fully charged mobile phone in a dry bag, something like an Aquapac
– Map & compass - even if you have a GPS unit
– Torch or head torch
– Bottled water
– Flask of hot drink
– High energy snacks
– Spare warm clothing
– Spare socks
– Survival bag (just in case)
– Emergency contact details
– First aid kit
– Suncream
– Sunglasses

Before you go

Plan ahead. Make sure you are ready for all weather conditions, no matter how short, low level or difficult the walk you are doing, make sure you have left a copy of your route with someone with an approximate return time. This means if there are any issues at all, your route will be aware to those trying to locate you.

Anything else?

If you think we have missed anything or wish to let us know what is in your walking kit, then please add a comment and let us know.