Walking Advice and Essentials
Walking in the UK is usually a pleasant experience but please be prepared !
We can have very changeable weather, especially in the hills and mountains. Always check a local weather forecast before setting out and have spare clothing / additional layers for the unexpected downpour.
Obviously walks of different lengths, difficulties and the time of year require very different equipment.
You’ll want a good pair of walking boots to keep your feet in good condition. If you get a blister you won’t be able to enjoy yourself.
The following equipment is recommended to always be carried for a day walk:
- Plenty of Water & Food.
- Waterproofs.
- A compass.
- OS Map(s) of the area you are covering.
- Mobile phone – but don’t rely on coverage everywhere.
- First Aid kit.
- Whistle.
As the walks get longer and more difficult I would also make sure you have:
- Emergency Survival blanket
- A lightweight micro towel
- Spare socks and laces for your boots.
Both the blanket and towel are lightweight and take up very little room. I tend to leave them in my bag all the time anyway as they take up so little space.
The towel and spare socks come in very handy when a puddle or stream is deeper than you think. It’s a horrible feeling knowing you have miles left and your feet are soaking wet and cold.
This list is by no means a full checklist, but is what I carry on most walks. (Oh, and of course, there’s my camera and tripod but I guess they’re not everyone’s essentials).
For mountain and hill walking I would also recommend you let someone know your intended route as well. If you’re stuck and cannot raise an alarm at least someone knows where you where heading if you don’t make it back.