WALKING

“Walking is literally as easy as putting one foot in front of the other. You don’t need to spend thousands on specialist equipment, there are no entrance or membership fees, and there are no winners or losers – just yourself or your friends and a wonderful sense of openness, possibility and adventure.”

— BMC New Hill Walkers

First steps to organising a great day out

Whether you’re planning a peaceful walk on your own or inviting friends or family, start well within the comfort zone of the least able member of the party. It’s important to build up experience gradually and vital that everyone enjoys themselves and wants to come back for more. This is especially true for small children who need to enjoy a challenge and a sense of adventure but don’t respond well to being too hungry, cold or tired!

Here is a basic checklist for a short, easy walk in normal weather conditions. If you are new to walking start here then when you have built up your experience you can use the following information from the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) to upskill ready for more challenging outings in our fabulous hills and mountains.

Your walking checklist

**Following this simple checklist will help you make the best of an enjoyable walk in the great outdoors.**

Have you checked the weather?
Do you have a map or guide?
Do you know the route and have you planned some rest stops and somewhere for lunch if you will be out all day?
Does everyone have practical, comfortable footwear?
Does everyone have warm layered clothing, including waterproofs if rain is forecast and sun protection, if it’s likely to be hot?
Does everyone have water to drink and a snack for emergencies?
Remember, mobile phones are really useful unless you are in an area without a signal! So either stay together at all times or make sure everyone knows the route not just you.
Do you have a basic first aid kit?

What to take

Here’s a list of gear to make sure your outdoor experience is comfortable and safe. But remember, every adventure is different so create your own bespoke checklist to make sure you have everything you need.

Supportive shoes or boots
Comfortable top (but not cotton)
Rain/wind proof jacket and trousers (for wet weather)
Hat and gloves
Sun protection (for hot weather)
Whistle
Water bottle/flaskMap/guide
Headtorch
Rucksack
Food
Drink
Plastic bivi bag

Here are three key skills to help you have a really enjoyable trip in the outdoors.

1. Finding your way

At first, it’s advisable to use a guidebook that will identify the route for you, and tell you how long it will take and the type of terrain you can expect. As you become more experienced, you can develop skills in both map reading and navigation, and experience the satisfaction of plotting your own route.

You will learn to:

Understand the basic symbols, icons and detail of a map.
Identify your starting point on the map and learn how to position it so that you can identify landmarks and direction.
Use a compass to take bearings and navigate in poor visibility.
The Silva 1-2-3® system is a great place to start - find it at www.silva.se.

2. Weather wise

Always check the weather before your trip. Local weather forecasts are taken at sea level so are fine for low level trips, but be aware that as soon as you head for the hills, the weather can be more extreme.

You can get mountain-specific information at:

Have a ‘good weather’ and ‘bad weather’ route planned in the area you’re going to and bear in mind the weather in the UK can change very quickly. Always carry appropriate layered clothing and rain/sun protection.

Of course, it’s still possible to go for a walk in poor weather. Indeed, walking is a great way to experience the full range and drama of our British seasons; we just need to remember to be appropriately prepared.

Wind speed at the top of hills can be two to three times faster than at sea level, so wind proof outer wear is important for all but the calmest days in the hills. If you are organising a trip with inexperienced friends, make sure they are prepared.

3. Health on the trail

Some simple planning in advance will help you keep healthy and hydrated on your outdoor adventure.

It’s a good idea to have something to eat and a drink before you set off.
Take a drinks bottle to keep you hydrated on the walk and light handy snacks keep you fuelled and happy!
In cold conditions have enough (spare) clothing to keep you warm and comfortable.
Packing sun cream, midge repellent and lip salve ensures you protect yourself from the elements and bugs!
If you’re going to be walking on steep or uneven ground make sure you have supportive boots or shoes.
On all but the shortest trips, take a small first aid kit with you and know how to use it.

UK activity providers

British Mountaineering Council

Scottish Mountaineering Partners, Mountaineering.Scot