Off wild camping? I’m jealous! Walking on hills, around woods, and by rivers or lakes, feeling in touch with nature, setting up camp in the wild, having a cup of hot chocolate while peeking out of your tent door… it’s a magical experience.
If you’re struggling to decide on what to pack, check out my wild camping packing list:
Sleeping bag – Make sure to check its temperature rating to avoid freezing at night. Putting it into a compression bag might be a good idea to save room in your backpack. Also, if you’re purchasing a new one, keep an eye on its weight – you’ll want one that weighs around 1,5kilos.
Sleeping mat – A cheap one will do the trick if you’re just going for a couple of days. If you’re doing a long-distance hike, you may want to consider an inflatable mat.
Lightweight tent – If you’ve picked a tent rather than a bivy bag, go for a lightweight one. Also, if you share the tent, you can share the weight too to save room in your backpack.
Map and compass – These are compulsory! You cannot and do not want to get completely lost in the wild, especially if you have limited food and water supplies.
First aid kit – Fingers crossed all will go well, but you do want to take with you some first aid essentials such as plasters, disinfectant wipes, paracetamol, gauzes, …
Merino t-shirt – If you don’t have a chance to wash at all while you’re away, a merino t-shirt will save your life (or your nose). Merino wool naturally prevents the bacteria that make sweat smell from growing.
Woolly hat and gloves – Even if temperatures are mild during the day, the wind and night maybe chilly. You’ll want to keep your head and hands warm.
Waterproof clothes – If you’re camping in the UK, you will likely have to deal with a little bit of rain at some point. Pack a waterproof jacket and a pair of trousers. Of course, you’ll want to be wearing waterproof hiking boots at all times.
Waterproof backpack liners – Keep your clothes, valuables, and sleeping bag dry – get yourself a couple of waterproof liners. You really don’t want to wear wet clothes once you stop to rest in your tent.
Head torch – Essential for any after-dark activity, including going to the toilet in the middle of the night.
Toothbrush – Yep, go ahead and pack your toothbrush and toothpaste. Having clean teeth and a nice breath are among the few luxuries you’ll have in the wild.
Wet wipes – Great for when you’re cooking, you get covered in mud, or you really fancy a wash.
Food – Plan ahead to avoid taking too much or too little. Quick cook pasta is a good option for dinner, while sandwiches and cereal bars are great for lunch and snacks.
Mini stove – Get yourself a lightweight one that can be easily stored in your backpack.
Lighter – Yep, you can’t start off the stove without one. Don’t leave it home.
Mug, bowl, and spork – If you’re planning to cook, you’ll need at least a mug and a spork. You can consider eating from your stove if you’re not sharing your food.
Waterbottle – Pick one with a wide neck, so it will be easier to fill it up with water from streams. It is also useful to buy one with an ml graduated on the outside so that you can easily ration your water.
Water purifying tablets – Chances are that you won’t have access to many water sources, so you will want to make sure the water you collect is safe to drink.
Rubbish bag – Keep the wild clean and take your rubbish with you. It won’t weigh much, and you can always hang it on the outside of your backpack.
The key is to keep your backpack as light as you can and maximize space. Pack all the heavy stuff at the bottom of the backpack and the lighter items at the top.
And there you go, you’re all packed and ready to go. Have fun!
If you’re into your gear, have a look at my camping wish list.
Image credit: www.peakroutes.com
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