The Day Walker's Kit List for British Hills

Pack too little and a change in the weather can be miserable or even dangerous. Pack too much and you end up with a heavy rucksack that makes every hill harder. The goal is a thoughtful middle: enough to stay comfortable and safe, nothing you do not need. Here is a sensible kit list for a day walk in British hills.

Navigation

• A paper map of the area, such as an Ordnance Survey Explorer sheet, which is 1:25,000 scale and shows field boundaries and footpaths.
• A compass, plus the knowledge of how to use it.
• A phone with a downloaded map and a power bank, as a backup rather than your only plan.

Phone signal on hills can be poor, so do not assume you will always be able to call or load a map.

Clothing

British weather can change several times in a day, so think in layers.

• Waterproof jacket with a hood that fits properly
• Waterproof trousers, which can also work as a windproof layer
• A warm mid layer, such as fleece or light insulated jacket
• Base layers that dry quickly, in synthetic fabric or merino wool
• Hat and gloves, even in summer on higher ground
• Spare socks, which can feel like a luxury on a wet day

Cotton holds moisture and cools you down, so avoid it for outer layers if you can.

Footwear

Comfortable, well-fitting boots or sturdy walking shoes with a good grip make a huge difference. Wear them in before a long walk, since new boots can cause blisters. On easy, dry paths, trail shoes may be enough, but on wet or rough ground boots give support and keep feet drier.

Food and drink

• More water than you think you need, since the amount depends on weather and length
• Lunch, plus snacks such as nuts, fruit, flapjack or chocolate
• A hot drink in a flask on cold days

Eating little and often keeps energy steady, and a treat at the summit never goes amiss.

Safety and emergency items

• Head torch with spare batteries
• Whistle, as six blasts followed by a minute of silence is a recognised distress signal
• Small first aid kit with plasters, blister protection, bandage and any personal medication
• Emergency shelter, such as a lightweight bivvy bag or a group shelter, especially on remote routes

Small extras

• Sun cream and sunglasses, as sun can burn even on cloudy days
• A rubbish bag to carry everything out, including fruit peel
• Cash or a card for a village shop or pub
• Insect repellent, since ticks and midges can be a nuisance in some areas and seasons

The right rucksack

For most day walks, a pack of around 20 to 30 litres is enough. Look for padded shoulder straps, a hip belt and a back that sits comfortably. Pack heavy items close to your back and put the things you need often, such as snacks and a waterproof, near the top. A pack liner or cover helps keep contents dry.

Check before you go

A short list pinned near the door can save forgotten items. Think about what you would need if you were delayed by two or three hours and the weather turned colder, and whether your pack covers it. Then take out anything you did not use for the last three walks and ask whether it really needs to come.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need walking poles? They are optional, but many people find them helpful on steep descents and for easing strain on knees. Try a pair on a short walk before deciding.

Is a compass necessary if I have a phone? A compass is cheap, light and does not rely on batteries. It is a worthwhile backup, as long as you know how to use it.

What should I wear on a warm summer day? Carry a light waterproof anyway, along with a sun hat and sun cream. Conditions on higher ground can feel very different from the valley.