nadia
New Member
Posts: 1
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Post by nadia on Mar 5, 2017 12:08:05 GMT -8
Hey guys! So all I've done by way of hiking is climbing Lions Head in Cape Town and Snowden in Wales. However I really enjoyed the experiences and want to do something a bit more serious. I'm looking to spend a few days in the mountains around the UK building up to the point where I can just pack up and leave for a week climbing and walking, pitching up a tent along the way. The problem is I have no idea where to start! What equipment do I actually need? There's the obvious boots, pack and light weight tent (I'm a keen cyclist and am just starting to get into touring so need lightweight for the bike). But other than that I have no idea what to get or even where to get it from? The only places I know that sell hiking kit are Cotswold and Blacks, are they any good? I was hoping someone could help a newbie out before I go to the shops and get conned for everything!
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zeke
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Peekaboo slot 2023
Posts: 9,893
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Post by zeke on Mar 5, 2017 13:37:26 GMT -8
Welcome! Glad you found us. Most of us are based in the USA, but I'll try to answer some generic questions. I did walk part of Scotland's West Highland Way last Spring, and there were plenty of backpackers along the trail there.
Boots are not required. A good trail runner is adequate for most hiking, even with a pack. Keep the load under 35 pounds (16 Kilos), and you'll feel better at the end of the day. To do that, you need to keep a sharp eye on what things weigh. Down filled sleeping bags will weigh significantly less, and pack smaller, allowing you to use a smaller pack. If you are young, a closed cell pad may be enough. I've seen them in blue and green colors. Not sure which you are familiar with. As you get older, say approaching 40, you'll want something a bit more padded to soften the ground. A lightweight shelter, 2 person for a single person, 3 person for 2, is a must. If you spend long hours in the tent because of rain, or long nights in the dark, you'll appreciate the extra room.
A stove that burns fuel that is readily available. Here in the states, that can mean Methylated spirits, or a mixed fuel like Iso-pro. I believe most of your camping stoves will use the Gaz canisters. Keep the stove small. Any small metal tea pot will do for boiling up your water. Try to find one with at least a 6 inch bottom.
We seem to eat freeze dried or dehydrated food, which only takes adding boiling water to eat. Doing this will lighten up the food you need to carry.
So, the main gear I carry: my tent, sleeping bag, pad, kitchen gear, first aid kit, toiletries, & a few well chosen articles of clothing. I never carry much in the way of spare clothing. Socks: 2 pr in the pack, one on the feet. Same with pants, or knickers. Insulating base layers in case it gets cold. I carry 1 clean set of clothes dedicated to sleeping in. Makes for a cleaner bag, and a better night's sleep. IMO. Shorts and a T will do for that. If you suffer from cold feet, add a pair of fluffy socks. Rain gear, of course.
That's about it for now. Fire away any questions you may have. Oh, and Lions Head isn't even as tall as a Munroe, so you have some challenges you can climb up in Scotland.
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Westy
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Diagnosed w/Post-Trail Transition Syndrome
Posts: 1,960
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Post by Westy on Mar 5, 2017 13:45:33 GMT -8
Subscribe to Trek and Mountain. You can also browse their website and review the Directory Tab, clothing & equipment. It includes many UK brick and mortar stores. Also you might want to consider browsing Cicerone for guide and technique books.
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rebeccad
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Writing like a maniac
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Post by rebeccad on Mar 5, 2017 21:01:28 GMT -8
Welcome! Let me also offer encouragement, and suggest that if you haven't already, you read the pinned post on gear. There's a ton of info there that will probably help you formulate the questions you need to ask.
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amaruq
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Call me Little Spoon
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Post by amaruq on Mar 6, 2017 4:44:53 GMT -8
You'll find plenty of information given by others, so I'm just going to chime in with my envy over having ready access to the Highlands and the UK's forward-thinking legacy legislation with regards to land access for all. :-)
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ErnieW
Trail Wise!
I want to backpack
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Post by ErnieW on Mar 6, 2017 6:02:28 GMT -8
Here in the USA REI offers clinics for just your need (and many others). They also sponsor trips with guides to help you get though the trip successfully.
An experienced hiker actually showing you how is a great resource.
Maybe there is a similar store or group that can help you with this.
It would be better to hike with someone else until you are very confident to hike solo.
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Post by catonsvillebill on Mar 6, 2017 8:48:51 GMT -8
Hello Nadia, thanks for stopping by. Here is the results page from a Google search for hiking & camping classes in the UK. They seem to Meetup type of groups. Maybe you can get in contact with them and arrange for advice/ mentoring. www.google.com/#q=camping%2F+hiking+classes+in+the+uk&*I agree with erniew: An experienced hiker actually showing you how is a great resource Good luck, and let us know how you did, ,or if you need any other help.
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Post by Lamebeaver on Mar 6, 2017 13:00:01 GMT -8
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