Hill Walking, Hiking and Mountaineering Kit List
RUCKSACK
45-55 litre capacity. Lightweight and comfortable.
Recommended: Mountain Equipment Tupilak 50+
Plus waterproof/dry-bag liner or nylon rain-cover; sadly, Scotland is famous for the odd wet and rainy day! A reliable rucksack is essential for any hill walking, hiking, or mountaineering adventure.
BOOTS
Choosing the right boots is really important. You need to make sure that your boots are nice and comfortable to wear all day. It’s best to go into the store and try them on. Try a few brands, as often one will fit you better. If you need any advice on boots, please get in touch, and I am happy to help!
Recommended:3 season/B1-rated Boots with semi-stiffened soles and ankle support (Scarpa Marmolada; La Sportiva Boulder Mid X, La Sportiva Stream GTX)(Boots must be walked in/worn in until comfortable - brand new boots will give you blisters and can ruin your fun!) Proper footwear is crucial for hiking and mountaineering.
SHELL GARMENTS
Lightweight wind and waterproof JacketRecommended: Mountain Equipment Garwhal.Waterproof OvertrousersRecommended: Mountain Equipment MakaluShell garments are important for protection against the elements during hill walking and hiking.
INNER CLOTHING
Lightweight Fleece or Softshell JacketRecommended: Mountain Equipment DiabloMid-layer Fleece shirtRecommended: Mountain Equipment Eclipse Zip T, Mountain Equipment ShroudLong-sleeved thermal Vest and LeggingsRecommended: Mountain Equipment EquinoxLightweight Stretch TrousersRecommended: Mountain Equipment Ibex pants or any Leggings or Tracksuit Bottoms2 pairs of good quality walking socksShortsChoosing the right inner clothing is vital for comfort during hill walking, hiking, and mountaineering.
GAITERS (not essential)
Lightweight Alpine gaiters (advised when weather is wet)Gaiters are particularly useful in wet conditions while hiking or hill walking.
GLOVES/MITTS
Warm waterproof gloves/mittensRecommended: Mountain Equipment SuperAlpine Glove and Mountain MittDurable 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)Gloves are essential for keeping your hands warm and protected while hiking or mountaineering.
WOOL HAT/BALACLAVA
It can get cold even in Spring & Summer; it is best to prepare for all weather conditions in Scotland!A wool hat or balaclava is a smart choice for hill walking.
HEADTORCH LED
It is important to prepare for every eventuality. In some cases, we will 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.
Recommended: Petzl Tikka, Petzl Swift RLAlways carry a headtorch when hiking or hill walking to ensure you’re prepared for low-light conditions.
DRINK FLASKS
Thermos flask for hot drinks and 1 litre water bottleStaying hydrated is crucial during any hill walking or hiking trip.
SUNGLASSES AND SUNSCREEN
We are optimistic for sunshine and blue skies!Sun protection is essential for all hiking and mountaineering activities.
SKI/TREKKING POLES (NOT ESSENTIAL)
Telescopic, not essential but very useful on descents, river crossings, and deep snow/uneven ground.Trekking poles can provide extra stability during hill walking and hiking.
MAPS (NOT ESSENTIAL, ONLY BRING THESE IF YOU HAVE THEM)
The OS Map App is recommended – £28 per year and enables download of any part of the UK map area. It integrates with Smartphone 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
Bringing maps, whether digital or paper, is important for navigating hill walking and hiking routes.
FIRST AID
For blisters and minor cuts, a full kit is carried by your GuideFirst aid is crucial for handling injuries during any mountaineering or hiking adventure.
COMPASS AND GPS DEVICE
Silva type (bring a GPS if you have one, not essential)A compass and GPS are valuable tools for navigation in hill walking and hiking.
MAP CASE
Waterproof plasticA waterproof map case is essential for keeping your navigation tools safe and dry during mountaineering and hiking.
CAMPMAT/THERMAREST AND SLEEPING BAG (2-3 SEASON) (OVERNIGHT EXPEDITION COURSES ONLY)
Camp Cutlery, Mug, Freeze Dried Meals
If your hill walking or hiking trip involves an overnight stay, ensure you have a good sleeping setup.
PERSONAL TENT FOR OVERNIGHT EXPEDITION - PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU DO NOT HAVE ONE.
If you have any queries about your kit - get in touch!
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