A trip outside in nice weather with great views and great company offers the best opportunity to take in all the breathtaking views and indulgent hospitality in the UK. However, a delightful walk in the woods may quickly turn into a survival situation if one forgets something necessary.
You may reduce your chances of falling into such a circumstance by arming yourself with suitable clothing, equipment and food. You can also improve your chances of survival and recovery under adverse conditions. To help you get started, here’s an essential packing list for when you are walking in the UK.
1. Clothing
A thorough layering system should be carried out while heading for a walk in the wilderness. Be sure to you have:
Top and bottom of the base layer– These trap pockets of insulating air on the surface of the skin, providing thermal efficiency as well as an initial layer to drain sweat away from the skin. Good quality base layers help you stay warm or cool depending on the temperature.
Mid Layer – Depending on the weather, mid-layer apparel can be a fleece, a synthetic insulated jacket, a down jacket or a combination of all three. This is the layer that is primarily responsible for insulation, therefore, materials must be both warm for their weight and moisture-transporting efficient.
Outer Layer (Waterproof) – Waterproof products are usually recommended in the UK. This should contain a hooded waterproof jacket that is both waterproof and breathable, as well as waterproof and breathable overtrousers. With map pockets that keep your maps and compass dry and accessible, and a peaked, fully adjustable hood that keeps driving rain off your face, a walking jacket is an absolute essential.
Walking Trousers – These lightweight but tough trousers are composed of quick-drying fabric. In the spring and autumn, having zip-off trousers might be handy for adaptability.
Walking Socks – Often underestimated in terms of necessity, walking socks are almost as crucial as your footwear in preventing blisters and rubs that can ruin your walk. Wearing quality walking socks will provide you with the wicking capabilities, support, and padding in crucial areas that you’ll need. For different situations and seasons, several weights of walking socks are available, as are thin liner socks for those who prefer the two-sock technique.
Walking Boots – A decent pair of walking boots is essential for both fun and safety while walking. They should feature a torsionally supportive sole and adequate ankle support, as well as a waterproof membrane in the UK. A pair of walking shoes may suffice if you’re mostly strolling on good-quality paths, but this is partly a matter of personal opinion.
2. Equipment And Supplies
Daypack – Depending on the season and the weight of your gear, you’ll need a daypack with a capacity of 20 to 35 litres. It should include a sturdy, cushioned waist belt to withstand the brunt of the weight.
Whistle – Whistling is certainly the simplest method of calling attention if you become immobile when isolated from your group. It’s both louder and less exhausting than shouting.
Toilet Paper – This might seem odd, but you never know when nature will call. You can bet your bottom dollar that it will happen when you don’t have any.
Water Bottles Or A Bladder-Type Hydration System – With a drinking tube for hydration. Always drink more than you require.
Food – Last but not least, you must eat nutrient-rich foods to keep you going on the journey. Make sure you have a balance of slow-release carbs and fast-release meals for all-day energy. Keep a food reserve or emergency ration pack at the ready in case you become stranded.
3. Seasonal Extras
Sun Protection – Generally, dermatologists recommend using an SPF of at least 25 for complete protection during summer walks. In the British summer, a wide-brimmed sun hat is recommended to avoid sunstroke.
Insect Repellent – Insect repellent is another seasonal necessity in most UK National Parks. If being a smorgasbord for billions of midges isn’t your idea of a good time, this is essential if you’re heading to Snowdonia, the Lake District, or the Highlands in the summer.
Sunglasses – These are ideal for summer strolling since they not only preserve your vision but also keep headaches at bay for long periods.
Be careful to tell someone about your planned route and give them an estimate of how long it will take before heading out to the hills. In this way, in case of difficulty, someone can contact the emergency services to find you. At the very least, if you have everything on this list, you’ll be as ready as you possibly can be for anything that comes your way.