Kit List UK Summer Scrambling and Mountaineering
Hardware
(CAN BE BORROWED FROM US)
Helmet: Lightweight climbing helmet fitted to properly protect the back of your head, forehead and sides.
Climbing Harness: (CAN BE BORROWED FROM US) Full sit harness with leg loops, belay loop and gear loops.
Hardware: (CAN BE BORROWED FROM US) You can get this hardware online or in store, make sure that you buy it from a reputable supplier.
1 x long sewn or cord Sling (120cm circumference)
3 x screwgate Karabiners
3m length of 5mm cord to make prusik loops
ATC style belay plate
Rucksack
35 - 45 litre capacity. Lightweight and comfortable. Plus waterproof/dry-bag liner – Scotland does get the odd wet and rainy day!
Footwear/Poles
Footwear: You need to make sure that your boots are nice and comfortable to wear all day. You will be best to go into the store and try them on.
3 season/B1-rated Boots with semi-stiffened soles and ankle support.
Climbers’ Approach shoes with stiffened edges are excellent for scrambling and walk-ins in good weather but don’t offer ankle support and can get wet/cold quickly.
Please bring both Boots and Approach Shoes if you can.
Ski/Trekking Poles: (NOT ESSENTIAL) Telescopic/foldable, not essential but very useful on descents, river crossings and uneven ground.
Shell Garments
Lightweight wind and waterproof jacket. Lightweight waterproof overtrousers.
Inner Clothing
Lightweight Fleece or Softshell Jacket.
Mid-layer fleece.
Thin down/synthetic insulation layer.
Long-sleeved thermal top and leggings.
Lightweight mountain trousers, leggings or tracksuit bottoms.
Good quality mountain socks.
Shorts and t-shirt.
N.B. Please do not wear jeans or cotton trousers or tops as they stay cold and wet on the hill, which creates a safety risk.
Gloves
Warm waterproof gloves - Not thick winter gloves but a thinner summer pair Durable grip gloves for climbing/abseiling (tight-fitting, leather-palmed gloves or plastic-coated hardware gloves are effective for scrambling and are cheap in hardware stores).
Warm Hat/Balaclava
It can get cold even in Spring & Summer, it is best to prepare for all weather conditions in Scotland!
Headtorch LED
It is important to prepare for every eventuality. In some cases, we may be descending at night and therefore it is important to have the right torch to allow you to navigate off the mountain. I now take two head torches, both fully charged, as this means if one runs out or malfunctions, you are not fiddling around with batteries and cold hands in the dark.
Drink Flasks
At least a 1 litre water bottle and hot drink flask if you like to bring one. Soft flasks are often a great choice as they take up less space in your bag.
Sunglasses, Sun Hat and Sunscreen
We are optimistic for sunshine and blue skies!
Maps
(CAN BE BORROWED FROM US) The OS Map App is recommended – this enables download of any part of the UK map area. It integrates with Smart Phone GPS and has route-planning functions.
Sheet maps that may be used are: -
1:25000 OS Sheet nos OL57 - 1:50000
Harveys Superwalker: Cairn Gorm and Loch Avon, Cuillins
Personal Items/ First Aid
Midge Spray: I would recommend “Smidge’ or ‘Jungle Formula” for the spray and a midge hood incase they are out in force.
Toilet Paper: Your guide will explain the most responsible options for going to the toilet in the mountains, ensuring that we minimise our impact on the environment and leave the area as we found it.
Sleep Mask and Earplugs: Sleep is so important for recovery and enjoyment of the course, you should prioritise this. With a new sleep environment for you, it is advisable to take these to aid sleep.
Personal First Aid Kit: For blisters and minor cuts and any personal medication and painkillers, a full kit is carried by your Guide.
This kit list is not exhaustive. You may have personal items that you use regularly and would like to bring along to make your time in the mountains more comfortable. You are responsible for ensuring you have adequate equipment and clothing at the start of the course. Depending on your own needs and preferences, you may require items beyond those listed — for example, extra layers or thicker gloves if you tend to feel the cold or walking poles if you suffer from bad knees or need extra support on rough ground. This kit list covers only the equipment and clothing needed for the mountain activities on the course, and does not include personal items or general clothing you may need for your trip. Only purchase technical equipment that is CE or UIAA accredited. If you are bringing your own technical equipment, your guide will check it before heading out. If any items are deemed unsafe, unsuitable, or out of date, you may be asked not to use them. In such cases, you may need to replace the item locally or, where possible, borrow a suitable alternative from us. Every gram counts when carrying equipment in the mountains, so please think carefully about how to keep your packed bag as light as possible without compromising safety or essential comfort. If you have any questions about your kit, or would like advice on specific brands or models, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.