What do I need to bring on a Wellbeing Walks Event? Kit List
It does depend on the time of year and the planned event activities; however we would certainly recommend the following kit list for our overnight walking events. It’s better to have a bit too much stuff, than too little in our opinion. The British weather is certainly very changeable too and we can see all seasons in one day. We’ve split the kit list into two sections, essential and optional items.
The Essentials are as follows:
Walking Boots/Trail Shoes with grips – A good pair of walking boots/shoes which you’ve tested out in advance – ensure they fit you well and are comfortable. Brand new are not recommended as more likely to get blisters on a longer walk.
Walking Socks – They have more padding and waterproof socks are an excellent choice if you own a pair of them.
Waterproof Jacket & Trousers – These can range from very cheap to very expensive but when shopping, make sure you buy items that are ‘waterproof’ rather than ‘water-resistant’. Even in the summer, when no rain is forecast, we will still ask you to bring these in your bag.
Walking Trousers – Make sure the trousers you are walking in are light-weight and flexible. Please don’t wear in jeans. (or you can opt for shorts in summer, with a warmer trouser or over trouser in bag)
Rucksack / Backpack – To carry your spare clothing, food, water and other items. 30 litres capacity is a good bet for most people but smaller is also fine, depending on what event you are on.
Dry Bags – we recommend a waterproof backpack cover, or use of dry bags or plastic bags to keep your kit dry inside your bag.
Warm Clothes & Layers – A T-shirt or technical baselayer to wear next to your skin, under your other layers. We advise against cotton as it soaks up water and doesn’t dry easily. A synthetic option is a good idea. A Fleece or Jumper and you may want both thick and thin options if it’s a cold day, or you’re doing a high-level walk.
Hat & Gloves – You need to keep your head, hands and neck warm. These items are still essential in the summer months and waterproof gloves and hats are recommended if you have them. A cap is ideal for keeping rain and sun off your face, if its not cold.
Food & Water – Don’t forget to pack your lunch and whatever snacks you may need. In terms of water, most participants find 1.5 litres of water is suitable for a normal day walk. A camel pack/hydration pouch can be a light weight option and easy to drink on the move.
Personal First Aid Kit – Whatever personal medication you need, as well as some blister plasters/lip salve/painkillers etc.
Mobile Phone – It’s always good practice to have your mobile phone with you when exploring the outdoors, in case of emergency. Also to use to take photos along the way if you use it as a camera.
Money (mix of card and cash advised) – If for any reason you need to leave the group (e.g. in case of injury or emergency) Or, you’ll be grateful to have some pennies with you if we pass a tempting pub, tearoom, or souvenir stop.
Towel – Most hostel style accommodation and some cottages don’t provide towels. ( this item won’t be required in a Hotel package)
The optional kit list items are as follows:
Pillow/Blanket/sleeping bag – Sheets are duvet are often provided, however its nice to have your own and a blanket or pillow can be great if you are attending a sound bath so you can get really comfortable.
Walking Poles – Many people find these useful for spreading the effort required to go uphill and reduce joint impact going downhill. It’s a good idea to test these out before you come on the event.
Snood/Buff – Great to keep your neck warm and can use on face if really windy.
Sports Drink/Electrolytes/Gels – if it’s really hot weather or you are going on a longer walk.
Power Bank for mobile charging – again just in case. Not much weight or space taken up.
Head Torch – Useful, if staying in dormitory rooms for moving about without waking others.
Emergency Shelter/Bivvy bag – If you own one, then bring it, don’t buy one just for this walk though as the leaders all carry them, however they can be really useful in the event of a storm or in an emergency situation.
Wash Bag / Toiletries – The majority of accommodation we stay at does not provide toiletries, so ensure you pack what you need. Don’t forget your toothbrush!
Baby Wipes/Tissues – Biodegradable wipes ideally. We practice ‘leave no trace’ principles so anything you take on the trail needs to come back with you.
Ear Plugs – These might be useful if you’re sharing a room and/or you’re a light sleeper.
Evening Clothes – Something to change in to after returning from your walk, to relax in the evening (comfy/casual attire is absolutely fine).
Sun Cream – The Great British weather can be changeable and sunburn can occur even on cloudy days – especially at higher altitudes and near the sea.
Midge Spray – In the summer months is useful
Sit Mat – A lightweight, foldable, and waterproof mat that helps you stay dry and comfortable if you need to sit on wet ground for lunch or a break. If you pack your lunch in a plastic bag you can use that
Yoga Mat – If we are building yoga into the event, we will provide mats but always nice to have your own.
Swim suit/ Wet suit – If we are doing wild swimming event
Kit recommendations will be talked about at the morning briefing, so you can always unpack what you don’t need on the day, when we know the weather forecast and the walk route. Please don’t go out and buy all this, if you don’t have something and are worried then get in touch as we have spares and can talk to you about it.
We also have a video you can watch here
I look forward to welcoming you on an event soon.
