What to Bring

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Weather in the West Highlands can be very changeable. It is important that you come prepared - both mentally and physically (!) - for a variety of conditions. This list is designed to help you.

General

• Rucksack/holdall to carry all your belongings; a 65 litre rucksack or equivalent bag should be sufficient (avoid hard shell suitcases wherever possible)
• Walking boots. It is absolutely essential that the boots you intend to walk in are your own (borrowed ones always cause trouble); if you plan to buy new boots, you must ensure that they are well broken in before the walk.

For walking

We recommend ‘layers’ of clothing for walking:

• Waterproofs. It is essential to have both jacket and trousers that are waterproof, not just ‘shower’ proof
• Gaiters. To protect your boots and feet from the wet
• Jumpers. Ideally wool or fleece for warmth
• Trousers. Ideally made from a fast-drying material but definitely no jeans.
• Shorts. You never know, it might be sunny!
• Mid-layer. T-shirts, shirts or polypro tops
• Socks. 2 pairs (one thin inner pair, one thick outer pair) to prevent blisters
• Hat (both a warm and sun hat), scarf and gloves.

Note: you will need spare walking clothes (except waterproofs) in case items get wet during the day and cannot be dried overnight.

• Day sac. Small rucksack to carry waterproofs, lunch, drinks etc. (about 20-25 litre should be sufficient)
• Water bottle at least 1 litre in size.
• Small flask (0.5 litre) for a hot drink
• Personal first aid kit. Plasters or blister treatments, headache pills etc.
• Snacks or chocolate to keep your energy levels up (and share with fellow pilgrims) along the route. Home baking is also welcome!
• Plastic bags/stuff sacs to keep things dry in your day sac or transport wet items in your main pack
• Whistle
• Wax or protective spray to waterproof your boots (not necessary if your boots have Gore-Tex lining)
• Sun cream

For evenings

• Sleeping bag. Heating is variable so you should bring a warm bag or else consider a blanket and/or hot water bottle as well
• Sleeping mat, a foam or inflatable ‘Therm-a-rest’ style mat
• Night clothes - they must be warm
• Pillow case to stuff with clothes as a pillow
• Torch

Note: You will also need a change of casual clothes for the evenings, including shoes (e.g.: trainers) and an outdoor jacket

Extras

You may also find the following useful to bring along:

• Walking poles for the hills
• Sandwich box
• Ear plugs light sleepers will find these helpful in shared accommodation
• Wet wipes
• Camera
• Pack of cards or travel games

Note: If there is anything on this list which you don't have, you may be able to borrow it. Contact us first to ask.