UK hill days can feel like four seasons in a single walk. This kit list is designed to keep you comfortable, safe, and relaxed, whatever the weather decides to do. You don’t need expedition-level kit, just the right essentials, layered properly.

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ESSENTIALS (you must bring these)
 

Clothing (worn or carried)

• Waterproof jacket (proper hiking waterproof, not a fashion shell)

• Waterproof trousers

• Wicking baselayer (synthetic or merino, no cotton)

• Warm mid-layer (fleece or light insulated layer)

• Walking trousers or shorts (comfortable, quick-dry)

• Hat and gloves (even in summer)

• Walking socks

• Sturdy walking boots or trail shoes with good grip (broken in)

 

Backpack & protection

• Day rucksack (20–35L)

• Rain cover or pack liner (bin liners work brilliantly)

 

Food & hydration

• Water (1.5–2 litres minimum)

• Lunch

• High-energy snacks (bring more than you think you’ll need)

• Emergency snack (kept separate, not for nibbling early)

 

Personal safety & essentials

• Fully charged mobile phone

• Headtorch (essential outside long summer days)

• Personal medication (inhalers, EpiPens, Painkillers etc.)

• Small personal first-aid items (plasters, blister care)

• Sun protection (suncream + sunglasses)

• Personal Hygene (Wipes, Sanitry Items)

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OPTIONAL 

• Trekking poles (excellent for knees on descents)

• Buff / neck gaiter (warmth, wind, sun)

• Spare socks (luxury that feels amazing)

• Flask with a hot drink

• Sit mat (warmer, drier breaks)

• Gaiters (boggy or very wet ground)

• Insect repellent (season dependent)

• Map & compass (great if you’re building nav skills alongside us)

• Cash / bank card

• Small rubbish bag (leave no trace)

• Micro-Spikes (Winter Walks)

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WHAT WE CARRY (so you don’t need to)

We manage the group safety equipment, allowing you to keep your pack lighter:

• Group shelter / bothy bag

• Comprehensive group first-aid kit

• Navigation equipment & route planning

• Emergency procedures and decision-making

• Repair items and contingency kit
   

OUR RECOMMENDED KIT

To make things simple, we’ve curated a Sweet Adventures Amazon kit list featuring gear we genuinely recommend and regularly see working well on our adventures. These are reliable, good-value items that strike the right balance between performance, durability, and cost, not unnecessary “pro-level” kit, and not cheap gear that fails when conditions turn.

 

You don’t need to buy everything new or follow the list word for word, but it’s a great starting point if you’re unsure what to look for, want trusted options in one place, or are upgrading older kit. Where it makes sense, we’ll always flag items that are better borrowed, hired, or upgraded later, and we’re happy to sense-check anything you already own before you spend a penny.

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COMMON QUESTIONS

Do I really need waterproof trousers?

• Yes. Even on dry forecasts they protect against wind, cold and sudden changes.

Are trainers okay?

• For most hill days, proper walking footwear is strongly recommended.

How heavy should my pack be?

• Most people are comfortable around 5–7kg including food and water.

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STILL GOT QUESTIONS
Have more questions or need to discuss your trip in detail? We’re here to help! Feel free to give us a call at 0161 399 1018 or send us an email at sweetadventures@mail.co.uk. Our team is always happy to provide the information you need and answer any questions you may have!

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