Kit list – for day or night hiking – where camping is not required

Kit list for hiking

COMPULSORY ITEMS TO WEAR ON THE DAY (unless specific instructions from the event leader advise otherwise)

In addition to the obvious comfortable underwear requirement, clothing should include:

  • Top half uniform, shirt and scarf;
  • Uniform trousers and belt or other loose fitting cotton trousers (No Jeans or heavy denim as these are very uncomfortable and heavy if they get wet or damp and only use shorts if you are hiking in very hot conditions);
  • Hat* – season will dictate type (wear or carry);
  • Scarf – season will dictate (wear or carry);
  • Gloves* – season will dictate (wear or carry);
  • Cotton T-shirt/polo shirt – numerous, layered as you wish for extra warmth;
  • Sweat Shirt;
  • Thick comfortable socks with thinner pair beneath;
  • Walking/Hiking Boots – leather or specialist waterproof compound* or Stout Leather Shoes – Wellingtons, trainers and footwear made from non-specialist synthetic materials and boots with metal shanks are unsuitable for hiking;
  • Cotton jacket or coat with lots of pockets;
  • Small pocket knife* – approved users only APL’s, PL’s and SPL who have been suitably trained in the holding, use & maintenance of a pocket knife;
  • Watch;
  • Pea-less safety whistle*.

In cold conditions, multiple layers of ‘normal’ clothes are often more comfortable for hiking and provide better insulation and warmth than thick, heavy ‘winter woolies’.

* See Present Ideas for Scouts and Explorers for greater detail and purchase suggestions to consider.

COMPULSORY ITEMS TO CARRY WITH YOU

  • Water bottle*/water &/or still drinks – optional – small insulated shatter-proof flask with hot drink
  • Small personal First Aid Kit*
  • Food (according to meal requirements) plus energy rations such as Mars Bar, Chocolate, Mint Cake etc
  • Pencil(s) and note pad
  • Small torch* with spare batteries – or wind-up
  • Reflective tabard – our Scout Group will normally supply this
  • Extra pair of socks – stored in a plastic bag
  • Cash – small amount for emergency use
  • Tissues in waterproof wrapper
  • Light-weight rainproof jacket*& trousers*

Pack these in a light comfortable, waterproofed back-pack without a frame and with broad shoulder straps. Avoid cord or rope straps as they become very uncomfortable over a distance.

* See Present Ideas for Scouts and Explorers for greater detail and purchase suggestions to consider

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

  • Gaiters* – wear or carry

* See Present Ideas for Scouts and Explorers for greater detail and purchase suggestions to consider

OPTIONAL

  • Extra sweat shirt
  • Corded map case with map, compass and romer – optional as personal kit – will be supplied by our Scout Group;
  • Small camera – optional;
  • Small pair of binoculars – optional;
  • Mobile phone – only if express permission to carry one has been given by the expedition organiser;

Portable game consoles and audio equipment of any type are not appropriate for Scout activities.

HOW TO PACK YOUR BACKPACK (Link to UK Ordnance Survey Website)