Discover Your Essential DofE Kit List for Your Next Expedition
You’ve chosen the destination and planned your route – now all you have to do is pack. But what essentials do you need to secure your Duke of Edinburgh’s Award? When it comes to expedition preparation, staring at an almighty to-do list can seem a little overwhelming. That’s where our Essential DofE kit list comes in.
We’re going to run through some of the essentials that you should pack on your next expedition, ranging from clothing to outdoor equipment. You can also download our PDF DofE Kit List so you can when you’re packing you can tick it off the list!
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Comfortable Walking Boots & Hiking Socks
Let’s start at the bottom of the body, your feet! Whether it be your Bronze, Silver of Gold expedition, your feet are going to be bearing a lot of weight over a long distances, so it is a priority to pack a comfortable pair of walking boots AND high-quality thick hiking socks. There is no point having one without the other because thin ankle socks will still cause blisters and rubbing on your feet.
When you’re relaxing by the campsite you should also bring a pair of flip flops or sandals, that way you can let your feet breathe and recover from a long day of walking.
You should also pack some anti-blister plasters, just in case your feet start to hurt. (These plasters may be your best friend).
If you are in need of high quality walking boots or hiking socks, you can shop our selection of Men's Walking Boots here
Waterproof Trousers & Overtrousers
Waterproof trousers are an absolute must-have for any Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) expedition, especially if you’re trekking in rainy or wet conditions. These trousers will save your skin from getting drenched and keep you toasty warm and comfy even in the toughest weather.
When you’re looking for waterproof trousers for your DofE expedition, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. You want trousers that are made from quality materials that are breathable, lightweight, and, of course, waterproof. That way, you’ll be able to stay dry and still move around with ease.
Fit is important too, so you want trousers that aren’t too loose or too tight, that will allow you to move freely and comfortably. It’s also a good idea to find trousers that have adjustable waists or ankle cuffs so you can tweak them to fit you perfectly.
Waterproof Jackets and Fleece
Waterproof jackets and fleece are essential pieces of your DofE kit list. When you’re looking for a waterproof jacket, it’s important to find one that’s made from high-quality materials that are both breathable and waterproof. This will make sure that you’re comfortable and dry, even if it’s pouring down rain. And you don’t want to get too hot and sweaty under there, so make sure you choose one that lets your skin breathe.
As for fit, you’ll want a jacket that’s roomy enough for you to move around in, but not so loose that it flaps in the wind. You also want to make sure it covers you up enough to keep you dry, without being too bulky.
When it comes to fleeces, you want something warm and cozy, but also lightweight and easy to pack. You don’t want to be lugging around anything too heavy, but you definitely want to be snug and comfortable.
Rucksacks
When you’re heading out on your Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) expedition, you’ll definitely need a trusty rucksack to carry all your stuff! Here are a few things to keep in mind when picking one out.
Size is important – you don’t want a rucksack that’s too small and can’t fit all your gear, but you also don’t want one that’s so big it feels like you’re carrying a fridge. Pick a size that works for your needs and pack your gear accordingly.
Also, you want a rucksack that’s comfortable to wear. Look for features like padded shoulder straps and a supportive back panel to keep you feeling good on the journey.
Tents & Sleeping Bags
Tents and sleeping bags are two of the most important items you’ll need for a Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) expedition. When selecting these items, there are a few key factors to consider.
Firstly, you should choose a tent that is lightweight and easy to set up, while also being durable enough to withstand the elements. Consider the size of the tent – it should be big enough for you to sleep comfortably, but not so big that it’s difficult to carry around.
Secondly, you’ll need a sleeping bag that is suitable for the weather conditions you’ll be facing. Make sure it’s warm enough for the lowest expected temperatures, and also lightweight and easy to pack.
When selecting a sleeping bag, it’s important to consider the insulation type – down or synthetic – and the temperature rating. Down is great for cold weather and compresses easily, but loses insulation when wet. Synthetic is a better option for wet conditions, but is bulkier and heavier.
Overall, choosing the right tent and sleeping bag is crucial for a successful DofE expedition. By considering factors such as weight, durability, and insulation type, you can select items that will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable throughout your journey.
