
Extra Kit for Weekends and Camping
Camping
There are several different options when camping, from a single bivvy bag up to a multi room tent for a whole family and pets. It is worth considering how much weight you are comfortable to carry. You should carry no more than 10% of your body weight when hiking to avoid future damage and an increased risk of accidents.
Tent
Depending on your budget tents typically weight from under a kilo up to 3-4 kilos for a tent suitable for 3 persons. They will typically include a hydrostatic head value which relates to how waterproof it is and how long it will last. 3000-5000 is average on cheaper models. 15,000 for expensive models. 3000+ is adequate for Scotland.
Do practice putting up your tent before you first use it and clean it out after you last use it.
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bags are typically advertised for how many seasons they are suitable for. They have three temperature values.
Comfort - A temperature above this will be a good nights sleep in typical night clothing.
Limit - A temperature below this will not be comfortable overnight without additional layers of clothing.
Extreme - A temperature below this you will not survive without further protection. If no other option only and wear as much clothing as possible,
Camping Mat
There are range of self inflating mats that can be purchased to give a more comfortable night on rough terrain. On many occasions you would get by with a foam exercise or yoga mat, this will be more bulky but lighter.
Stove
There are many different options for a stove, most that use a separate gas tank. Be sure to take enough with you and change regularly if you camp often. You will also need suitable pans and cutlery.
Do not use in your tent to prevent the build up of hazardous air.
Food
You should carry as a minimum enough for the duration of your trip. This would ideally be a combination of snacks and a meal. A hot snack such a chemically heated ready meal can be useful in winter but weigh more.
Drink
You should plan to camp within a comfortable distance of a water source. If this is not possible you should aim to carry enough for the duration of your trip.
When the temperatures drop it is worth bringing a flask with a hot drink or using it to keep your cold drink from freezing.
Accesories
We would ask that all walkers carry their mobile phone with them and ensure that it is charged and switched on while walking. A power bank is essential on any multiple day excursion. A headtorch is essential to allow you to move around as needed after dark.
First Aid
If you know how to use it you should carry a first aid kit, map and compass with you at all times hiking. Blankets can be essential when camping if your kit is not sufficient to keep you warm.