Essential Tips For Your DofE Expedition

Going into the outdoors unprepared can sometimes lead to trouble. So, making sure that you have the right kit and (more importantly!) knowing how to use it is vital when you’re on the trail. Here’s some tips on how to best prepare.

The most important equipment that you should take into the outdoors is also the most obvious one… your clothes! Being dressed appropriately for the outdoors is essential, no matter the conditions.

So, let’s start from the bottom with your feet. Wearing the correct footwear is key and can make or break your outdoor experience. You should always make sure that your footwear offers enough support (especially for your ankles), that the soles are in good shape and offer good grip and that they fit you nicely too!

Next is layering. Layering is key! How many layers you choose to wear will depend on the type of outdoor activity that you are doing. You wouldn’t want to tackle a mountain in some shorts or embark on a coastal trek on a summer’s day with three jumpers on either. Making sure that you consider the conditions that you will be exploring is key to avoiding things like hypothermia or heat exhaustion. Always plan and prepare by bringing enough stuff and saving some room to carry extra layers if you need them.

Finally, you should make sure that you are wearing weather-appropriate clothing. Make sure to check the weather before your expedition and dress suitably. If you know it is going to rain, make sure to wear some waterproof clothing. For sunny days sun protective clothing and sunscreen is recommended!

Having a way to call for help is vital when you’re outdoors. We carry our phones every day and this is always a great way to be able to call for help. Be sure that you have enough battery or have some way to charge. You may not always be guaranteed signal outdoors, so it is important to know how to get help from people in the area that you’re exploring.

Plenty of water and snacks are must-haves when you are exploring the outdoors. They will keep you hydrated and energised! Make sure that you have stored your water and snacks somewhere that can be easily reached and that they are not likely to be damaged or spill. Consider a water bladder with a straw and for snacks, something compact that could fit in your pockets.

Having a way to navigate through the outdoors is essential. Whether you use a map or compass or knowing where the nearest signage is to direct you to the right path. Knowing where you are and where you’re going is key for a successful trip into the outdoors. The less you know, the more likely you are to get lost and miss your destination or stray onto more dangerous paths.

So, the type of kit that goes into your rucksack can fill a long and varied list depending on where you’re going. From extra layers or a change of dry clothes, to your water or a flask of tea/coffee, lunch, walking poles and gloves for the colder climates. All in all, it can make you much more prepared for any challenges that the outdoors may throw at you.

Some of those challenges can be dangerous! So, having a first-aid kit packed with all the essentials that you may need is important.

Packing your rucksack is a skill in itself. You may be tempted to shove everything you need into it but don’t! Make sure to pack everything neatly with the less important stuff at the bottom and important items like water, food, extra clothing and your first aid easier to access.

So, this is what you should consider when packing and preparing your equipment for the outdoors! The last (and most important part) is to have fun and learn from your experiences.