What To Pack For A Day Hike In The UK 

Thank you for the information. I"m prepping for the Hadrian's Wall hike this springtime; I'm going solo (I'm technically an 'old lady' at 67 so many family members think I"ve lost my senses). Your videos are encouraging and so helpful.

Really enjoyed the video, as always! I have a request 😅can you do a video on basics of map and compass? I think a lot of people would benefit from it... keep smiling Abbie!

I always carry a lightweight foldable sitpad (is this the right English word?) with me on my dayhikes. Prevents my trousers from getting wet or/and dirty when sitting on the forest soil or a trunk.

Off topic a bit from the video. But those popular routes like the West Highland way that are known to many that you travelled. Have you considered those forgotten ancient tracks/trails that scatter Britain where no one seems to bother with anymore they must run into the thousands? For example in medieval times monks used to travel on a pilgrimage from Edinburgh to a small coastal hamlet in the west of Scotland called Portencross where they would board a boat to the Western Isles. As the population in the UK is increasing, those green lands will not last forever, they will have to make way for housing developments. It is best to document these walkways now so future generations will have some idea of what it would have been like to walk a trail that the building or road foundations will inevitably sit on. I enjoy listening to the information you give on your journeys, the types of plants, edible or not, the previous history, the characters from times past who walked the same trail etc. 👍

I would just add matches or a lighter to start a fire if you needed to for an emergency only and more needed in the colder months.

You need to be on telly Abbie, great videos.

What Three Words on your phone, barrows your location down to a 3m square and emergency services use it. Can be used anywhere in the world I believe

Thank you for a really informative and good video. I agree with all you say. I myself also add a power bank so the phone always has enough battery. I totally agree about your no to cotton. Synthetic is very good. But I will also really recommend thin layers of wool. Also in the summer if the weather is wet or misty. It insulates really well and keeps you warm. Looking forward to more of your videos 😊

As usual, extremely informative, and delivered with your infectious enthusiasm and passion; great to see you looking healthy and happy. You seem to have the ability to connect with your audience in a way that inspires, and educates. Stay passionate and wild.

Have you considered doing a "Basics Budget Kit List" type video for those starting or wanting to Spend More Time In The Wild? Review some cheap stuff to get people started, stuff from Go outdoors, Sports direct etc etc.

Small tips for buying hiking boots (and shoes in general). Buy them in the evening, idealy after you've been walking/standing around a lot, so your feet are a bit swollen already. I even once bought hiking boots when I got off a plane (my luggage was lost and I had to start hiking the next morning) and my feet looked like little stumps (super swollen) but those boots where the most comfortable things I've ever hiked in and I killed them with hundreds of km over time (plus I was quite sad when I had to let them go, since the company didn't make those anymore by the time they where dead)

I carry a loud whistle too as a back up for a fall/injury.

You’re a bloody legend, thanks 👌😘

Very comprehensive and informative video Abbie. Got to wholeheartedly agree about cotton. Merino and bamboo based fabrics can also provide a useful wicking alternative to pure synthetics when layering up. Keep up the great work and stay wild!

Great and useful video, Abbie. I'm always interested to see what other outdoor practitioners/instructors carry in their packs, as occasionally you would say to yourself 'Oh yeah, never thought about that'. The only extra things over you I take is a waterproof notepad, pencil and sharpener. Yes, you could type details into your phone, but I'm sure you know how phone screens mis-behave when they're wet, plus like you, I'm quite old school ;) In the past I've used a water-proof pad to communicate with an entirely deaf family I was guiding up Snowdon or incidents I've come across I can take down details etc. of medical history that I can pass onto rescue teams/winch crew later. . I noticed, in this video at least, you don't have an internal, main dry bag to stuff everything in. I personally never use rucksack covers as I just don't want the faff and want to be able to access my pack very quickly. Only thing I've found with a main dry bag is finding one that fits the internal size of the pack when it's stuffed, otherwise you have unused space around it (unless it's something I don't need water-proofing, in which case, those items fill the gaps). I tend to use a bladder most walks and especially when guiding, but they do take up room in the pack. . I was also glad you mentioned tissue paper. This is one of my pet peeves when out in the hills; not sure why people think it's okay to leave this on the ground. When my wife and I did the GR20 in 2016, it was all over the trail from North to South! Some of it is deliberate but I appreciate some of it isn't. I advise people to carry dog poop bags to put their litter in. . As far as choice of pack goes; I use the excellent Montane Featherlite 30 for a day sack. It can swallow a lot of kit and is pretty light in the first place, however it's not bomb-proof. In winter I'll use my larger Deuter Guide 45 if carrying crampons and axe, but it is a heavier pack. . Look forward to your next video :)

One thing you did miss was Abbie was a whistle. which can aid help in hilly or woodland areas. I use a Ladies designed rucksack, as it is easier on my back (had 4, 1/2 years of work due damaging muscles around my spine) so don.t worry about (so called) gender designs, if it.s comfortable use it, uncomfortable try to avoid.

Great Video as always Abbie, very informative, I have been watching all your videos and think you are great. I suffer from depression and stumbled across your videos one day whilst going through my bad patch. And can say that I have decided to take up hiking, So thank you, to me you have saved me 😀

When you put on your `woolly hat` or your rain hood.......Where do you put your leather one? Always a good vid and I am being inspired too , already bot a small backpack & shoes and are planning small walks in my local area soon ( I'm so unfit and over 50 that a long walk would probably kill me lol ) . Keep it up Abbie . you are making people listen =-)

I always carried a whistle with my emergency pack and had one attached to the backpack straps also in my pack would be plasters, pen/pencil in case you had to right information down, plastic sheet to sit/lay on if needed while raining, my Victorinox Swiss knife came with tweezers, magnifying glass and other tools., spare socks......I would of taken the kitchen sink if I could! 😂

8:56 Where is that cave with a waterfall? It looks awesome.

Another great video Abbie, look forward to your next. Boots or approach shoes or trail trainers? I used to use shoes in summer months and boots in wet winter months until I badly sprained my ankles only walking over a field, I’d say at the time this happened my ankles were fit and strong but still went over, boots all year round for me now on, and a stick with me. Is it just me or has anyone else had an experience that changed you practices on footwear? Sorry Abbie didn’t mean to Hogg your post😬

Thank you, that was very helpful. Do you know of a fast wicking material that's non-synthetic? Any experience with wool? I try to stay away from synthetics because of the micro-plastics it leaks when laundering.

Good Video Abbie, very enthusiastic as well as good advice. My tips to add would be a bit of para cord and duct tape. Also I recently got a DD magic carpet mini tarp as a gift, gives a sit mat, sun shade, wind block or small awning all in one🙂

Bananners ! You can take the Girl out of the West Country, but you can't take the West Country out of the Girl :-D. We loves Bananners down yer !!!

Love your videos. I did my outdoor first aid course a few years ago. The guys running it were members of the Police mountain rescue team and one was an ex medic with the SBS so these guys were teaching a lot from experience unlike the course at work where the guys done a course and just passing on what he has learned from courses alone. I learned so much from them and my first aid kit got a drastic makeover once I earned my certificate. One thing I would suggest adding that is not in shop bought kits is a tick remover ( tick twister ) . In the blister kit I added needles and gauze , A face vent mask and Asprin to treat a suspected heart attack. I won't say here how to use these as you should learn from a certified outdoor instructor. I was introduced to storm shelters by these guys and promptly bought one . Mine is a 4 man one as I regularly walk in groups but a 2 man one is best for a solo walker. I've used the 4 man one with just two people and a dog to get out of a thunder storm and take a break and its even in my bag for walks to work in winter. My spare gloves, hat and socks are in a dry bag which also gets taken in my work bag ( I have a 5 mile walk to work each way ). I have an ICE app on my phone which has in case of emergency details of blood group, medication and next of kin contacts but in case I'm out cold and others that are trying to help me cant unlock my phone, that info is backed up on a card which I made on the computer and laminated. One copy is in my wallet and a second in the top lid pocket of my pack.

Inspirational as always

I am enjoying your videos. I may have missed it but I think a basic fire kit is an essential. Lighter, cotton balls w vasoline, flint/steel.... At least a mini lighter. Keep up the good work!

Spot on, Abbie. The only other comment I would make is that I agree with a previous commentator...consider taking an emergency bivvi.

The only other thing l carry is a rain poncho that can be an emergency shelter, and a groundsheet. So far the groundsheet has only been used for picnics, but hey picnics are important! To be a shelter the poncho needs at least one walking pole, usually two (or pick up sticks on the walk, l guess) and pegs. This is what sways me towards walking poles, that and the fact l can stash my poles on flat and easy sections. I love the idea of a personalised walking stick but worry about having to carry it on the easy sections when l am not using it, or leave my 'stick friend' behind . . .

Have you ever considered doing any of the camino de Santiago's? Thinking they might help you spiritually as well as being fun.

Great video. It's interesting the difference in gear selection in the UK vs here in the states, or more exactly the southern states. I live in the south and in the spring and summer I would never bring hats or gloves. Definitely keep some rain gear in my pack though, and my day pack is tiny (14 litres). Summer thundershowers are frequent in the southern afternoons. Also, I wear trail runners. I haven't worn boots in many years. They dry quickly and I just prefer them. I have been considering a headlamp though just incase. Love Abbie's videos! She's such a bright light for the world!

banging vid Abbie. Massive respect , looking after your mental health so pro actively. keep em coming. always a pleasure to see you,

Really enjoyed that Abbie, thanks for putting it together. A few things that I do is; 1) keep all the contents inside my bag in a dry-sac, that way I don't use an external rain cover and I know that everything inside is dry. 2) a tip Iearnt from Ray Mears, rather than take a flask, take a small kettle and cooker, that way while you're waiting for the water to boil, you can sit, look and watch nature, almost like a 10 min "time out" 3) don't carry too much water as it weighs a lot, carry a small water filter and re-fill when you can. A Sawyer Mini is ideal and weighs nothing.

Hi Abbie , we love your video’s , plan on visiting the lakes next year , we’re traveling from NC in the US , I’m 65 and do have it in the back of my mind if some sort of emergency may arise , I did here you mention that not all of the Lake District has great service. We wouldn’t be attempting anything remote but would you say that most of the more easy routes, let’s say like the Cat Bells , does that area have coverage as far as you know ? Sorry to be long winded lol

Lip balm, I always forget lip balm :(

Re. maps. You can by plasticised paper, which is water proof and tear proof. Then print out the area you want. No need for a map case.

Hi you have inspired me to get out and walk to help me be well again. Managed the Equivalent to 26 miles last week. So I've treated myself to a new bag using this guide, thank you.

have you thought about including a US army poncho liner ? its a high tech blanket that weighs around 22 oz and is really warm down to 10c and folds up to almost nothing. and means you always have the option of a warm nights sleep even if caught out at night or if you fancy a unexpected night out.

Good video, lots of info for beginners. Like your enthusiasm too. Only things I would add is carry some para cord, bit of duct tape and of course a whistle for emergencies. Thanks

Great video, Abbie. Glad I found your channel. ☺ I like sticks, too. 👍

Brilliant

Great video. Toileting is a very important subject to discuss on day hikes too!

This is such a great video! I’d also take sunglasses (because I’m hypersensitive to light) and a light sit-pad :)

hi Abbie - what is your orange top you are wearing? Great view thank you very much x

another great vid! i used to carry lots of just incase stuff... but ive changed to just carrying the essentials keeps the pack light!

Hi great video where was the water fall. Looks amazing.

Great information for this first-time hiker, thanks.

Good summary, good pace, learned something - thanks a lot!

Very informative , i enjoyed it very much x

Can you tell me what pants those are?

Tell me about the hat…. Please….

I always take a pistol with me just in case

Thank you very helpful

Personally 35-40L for a day hike is massively excessive. Anything not overnight shouldn’t need anything over 25-30L imo.

What camera do you use?

Wow great video! Excellent presenter! All great points. Highly recommended.

🤔 cotton - synthetics - downs all are missing the perfect performance of natural wool clothing to regulate body temperature insulating even when wet and I do prefer a poncho to cover my body incl rucksack and serving as a shelter or ground cover as well. 🤔 8-10 hrs outdoors below 20°C I would definitely need warm nutrition - especially in any case of emergency when being forced to overnight. That’s either bringing a mug and my trangia or firestarter kit (depending on the environment I’m passing through). Missing at least a knife, some cord and tape to fix anything.

Your walking stick is also for balance, up or especially down. Crossing a stream again balance or third leg. Sunscreen in winter because of reflection from the snow. Get a small real knife, you may not need a saw in your area BUT. Grab a bright bandana and glow sticks to tie to your stick if you go down and you have a whistle?

Nice one Abbie. 👊

Brilliant vid as always. What I always bring is headphones as I listen to podcasts. Not emergency stuff but when you have hours it is a fab tbing to do. Stay wild. Love u Abbie, you make such a huge difference to so many people. X

Re: head torch. Someone way smarter than me on RU-vid said that when packing a head torch, reverse the batteries when traveling to prevent accidentally turning it on.

Great video, thanks! What kind of trousers are you wearing? I’ve been looking for some reinforced ones like that, but am having trouble finding ones made for women. I prefer to wear long sleeves and long trousers for backcountry hikes. Thanks!

Hi Abbie, Excellent practical video. I always carry a survival bag, whistle and usually gaiters. A decent pair of shades is a must, oh and kendal mint cake. ☺ peace Andy H

Hello, Thank you so much. I’m a photographer and really enjoy a good long walk. So hiking was an obvious next step for me. After watching your video I feel really excited about getting out there, and buying all my new gear. “I love compasses too” All fired up now!! Stay Safe.. 👍🏼👍🏼

exactly the video I was looking for. thanks!

The Swedish Lk35 backpack is fantastic, easy to modify, strap upgrades and various molly packs can be added. The canvas version is the one to get.

Thanks for that, really helpful information. You are very generous.

You are so natural . I would say you should be on TV but I don't watch TV . Keep up the good work. I used to Munro bag, watching your content I think I will resort my kit and go a couple of 2 to 3-day hikes whilst on furlough

A lot of that is great advice for new hikers. I personally have a ‘spring/summer or autumn/winter’ gear in my day sack. Yea I agree, getting the right day sack is vitally important, we have the ‘Osprey Stratus 26’ and this is great for either season. I carry a storm shelter always, just in case, especially when hiking high peaks with our daughters. I agree, personalise to the individual. Great video

A long time ago when I did the ten tor’s we were told to pack a whistle. I’ve no idea if this is still a useful thing to pack but it’s so small and light I’ve had one in my daypack ever since.

Splendid video! And your concern for others is commendable.

If you order your map from the Ordinance Survey they will laminate it, obviously there’s an additional cost for this,.

Really appreciated your advice. Carried water proofs and needed them. Carried light and needed it. Thanks a lot.

Great vid very informative. the one thing i always carry is a whistle . its a great way of signalling and drawing attention. . i also think a number of ways to light a fire should have been mentioned. keep up the great work xx1xx

helpful video, i am beginner, and watched few ones, this was best ,that i watched so far.

Any time of year, I’ll pack a 5’ x 7’ tarp / rain coat with grommets and four 8’ paracords. In both winter or summer, it’s useful to create a little cover while taking a break, and in an emergency it can be essential.

Nice video, thanks. Agree with the cotton thing - particularly if, like me, you have a tendency to sweat.

Very informative and educational. Thank you very much

Good stuff! Even when I am not planning to camp, I like to carry a light shelter system: a thin foam mat plus a breathable bivi bag and/or a poncho. Quite nice if you want a little rest to enjoy the view with a cup of tea, or just to wait while weather passes. It's not all about racking up the miles! And of course in a storm or blizzard, super valuable.

Hi Abby. another great vid, I always carried more or less that gear but also carried plus some Kendal mint cake for emergencies but never used it after a while it would go to mush in the bottom of my sack and i would binge on it and then replace it.

Good video. Proper mix of simplicity and comprehensiveness. I look forward to seeing more of you.

Abbie, thank yo so much for your videos! I am older and getting back into backpacking and you have inspired me so much. Keep up the great work

Love your vlogs Abbie..no music covering poor film work, just you out on the trails with the sounds of nature,bringing us lovely views ,i enjoy it when you pass on your knowledge/research to us with your explanations of nature and local history. Keep it up..so enjoyable 👍

I would love to see a video of how you handle a hiking tour when confronted with unexpected storm/thunder/lightning. It happened to me yesterday during a day hike (with no tent or other shelter) and I had to abbort the mission because I was too frightened of lightning :-(

Loving your channel! What is the jacket you're wearing in this? The orangey/red one when you're first kneeling and throughout the video

Another thing I always take but haven’t had to use are spare boots laces.

Being outside is just great. I love being outdoor just to admire nature beauty. But there is one thing that worries me (being in late 50's )...the call of nature !! ....in the middle of nowhere !! Any advice, tips or idea on how to overcome this ambarrasing issue are most wellcome. So far, adult diapers are my resolution 😜 (Sorry for my English....😑) Thank you from S.E. Asia.

I would love to hear you give a talk at the Bushcraft Show. Maybe next year Abbie??

Wowww nice hiking !!!

I'm absolutely loving this ladies content new subscriber here she's a very cool lady and her videos are enjoyable to watch excellent content one of my favourite youtubers atm

Awesome video good food for thought. Thank you for your advice.

When will you be going to a mountain ness place? They are the best vids I would love to see you climb Ben nevis and the 2nd highest mountain in the cairngorms forgot its name

That was fantastic, Thankyou Abbie

I always find your videos informative and interesting even for a experienced mountain guide like myself, but I often wonder who is the one that always down votes your videos.

You have a natural gift for educating. I wish that I had seen this before I went trekking in Nepal wearing a pair of hired boots that left holes in my heels before I reached my first stop.

Very good ideas, Thank you very much

It would be great to see what your camera / sound gear is - how you carry it and protect it from the elements

I love your hat!!! Where’d you get it??

Really like your approach and videos. Keep it up

Wonderful video Abbie. Everyone should see this.