How to Get Expedition Ready

With expedition season upon us, we share the low-down on the three key elements of kit: boots, rucksack and sleeping bag. Get those wrong and you’re in for a difficult time! Here’s what you need to know.

Carrying Your Kit

Expeditions often mean carrying all your kit for significant distances, which is why choosing the right size and weight – and knowing how to pack it – are essential for a successful expedition experience.

Sourcing a Rucksack

Modern rucksacks feature the latest tech, such as lightweight materials and multiple adjustment points, to make them fit well.

If you wish to buy a rucksack for an expedition, you’ll often come across shops with DofE Recommended Kit. Not only have these shops put thought into what’s best, but they usually have trained staff who can advise on the best rucksack for your venture – and for your body shape and size. Rucksacks are usually available in various shapes for different heights and genders.

Rucksacks can be provided from the stock of kit which your county will have.

Key things to look for when choosing a rucksack

• A strong and substantial waist belt
• Wide and padded shoulder straps with an adjustable sternum buckle
• A good number of pockets in accessible locations so you can separate kit
• An adjustable back system

Which size do you need?

Rucksacks are measured in how many litres they hold and typically range from small daypacks to large rucksacks which are big enough to hold your personal gear, food and water, plus sleeping kit for a number of days.

When deciding which size to choose, remember that you’ll probably need to carry your rucksack for several hours each day. It’s also worth noting that individuals shouldn’t carry more than 25 per cent of their body weight on expedition.

Typically it is recommended to have a 60L rucksack for one night expeditions, 65-70L for two to three nights and an 80L is useful if you need to carry large tents or more specialised equipment.

How to Pack Like a Pro

Knowing how to correctly pack your rucksack will ensure you can comfortably carry the load and have easy access to equipment.

Top tips for packing a rucksack

• Keep your first aid kit in the same place on every expedition and in easy reach.
• Pack small items you might need during the day in the top of the rucksack.
• Pack the heavier items close to your back with balanced weight on each side.
• Items of clothing such as mid layers and waterproofs should be kept at the top of your rucksack so you can access them quickly.
• Liquids such as stove fuel and sunblock should be stored near to the outside of the pack in sealable bags. You can also store them vertically in side pouches.
• Spare clothing should be carried near the bottom of the rucksack, filling any available space.
• Pack your sleeping bag in a separate waterproof bag inside your rucksack.
• Pack each meal separately to help you ration your food. Lunch should be near the top and snacks easily available when you need an energy boost.
• Use items such as survival bag, wash kit and towel to fill any gaps in the main body of the rucksack.
• Kit you are likely to need at night, such as head torch, batteries and chargers, should be packed together so they’re easy to find.
• Ensure the stove is thoroughly clean and dry, then pack it close to your back to maintain your centre of gravity.
• Ensure all your kit is packed in your rucksack in waterproof bags such as dry bags or heavy-duty bin bags.

Boots and Footcare

It’s very important to consider your footwear when preparing for an expedition. It must be comfortable and provide adequate support for the activity being undertaken.

People’s feet are not only different sizes but they’re also different shapes, which is why boots come in different shapes too. Find a pair that suits your foot shape and is designed for the particular activity, season and terrain you’ll be wearing them in. As boots are very personal, time and care should be taken when choosing them. Most importantly, make sure they’re worn-in and waterproofed before every expedition.

Buying Boots

Walking boots are an expensive investment, so it’s worth spending time considering what you need in order to make a good purchase.

Ask your detachment or contingent colleagues for recommendations and look out for second-hand pairs for sale from other cadets. When young people’s feet are still growing, boots can get very little wear before they become too small. You can pick up a great bargain this way.

There are two main types of material from which walking boots are made. Here’s what you need to consider when deciding on the right style for you.

Leather: Leather boots are soft, waterproof, easy to look after, durable and abrasion resistant. This can make them longer lasting but they’re often more expensive

Fabric: Fabric boots are lighter in weight and need more maintenance, including treating them with a waterproof coating. They are often cheaper, which makes them a good option for feet that are still growing.

Boot Essentials

• When buying boots, try them on with the socks you plan to wear on expedition.
• There are many different ways to lace boots. Try various lacing styles and walk around in them to find the best one for you.
• Boots must have ankle support to protect you while you’re carrying a heavy rucksack and walking on uneven terrain. They also need a deep tread for grip.
• When deciding how much to spend on new boots, consider how often you’ll use them, and if your feet are still growing.
• Clean your boots immediately after use to prevent damage. Remove insoles or footbeds to enable boots to dry completely.
• Looking after your boots before, during and after use will improve their waterproof capabilities and durability. This, in turn, will keep your feet as dry and comfortable as possible.

Walking Socks

Socks should ideally be chosen and bought before you buy your boots. They should have padding on the bridge, toes and heel to prevent rubbing. Liner socks can also be a good idea.

Many socks have moisture-wicking capabilities, especially those made from lambswool, merino wool, silver or nylon. This can help keep feet dry and prevent odour.

Guide to Foot Care

It’s essential to look after your feet before, during and after an expedition to enable you to complete the challenge without being in pain – or worse, having to pull out altogether. Here’s what you need to do.

BEFORE

• Cut your toenails.
• Make sure your feet are as comfortable as possible: spend time trying different boots and options with socks and lacing methods.
• Break in your boots early. Wear them as often as you can in different types of weather and terrain, and while carrying kit.

DURING

• Take flip-flops, sliders or lightweight sandals or trainers to wear around the campsite. This will allow your feet, socks and boots to air, dry and recover while you’re in camp.
• Take at least one pair of socks for each day, plus a spare.
• If it suits your feet, layer liner socks under a thick pair. This can prevent friction and improve moisture-wicking features.
• If your boots get muddy, try to clean them off in a puddle to ensure they continue to offer your feet the best protection possible.
• Carry blister plasters. Prevention is better than cure: use them in areas you think may suffer or at the first sign of rubbing.

AFTER

• Clean boots well and let them dry naturally – do this as soon as possible.
• Store your boots in a dry, well-aired space. Don’t store them wet as it can cause mould and rot.
• Wash your socks inside out. It will reinvigorate the cushioning.

Sleeping Kit

Using a decent sleeping mat and a sleeping bag that will keep you warm – but not too warm – is essential for a good night’s sleep. Sleep well and you’ll have the physical and mental energy to take on the challenges of the following day. Sleeping bags come in the following types:

1-2 season = summer

3 season = spring/autumn

4 season = winter

Choose a sleeping bag designed to be used at the lowest expected night-time temperature, as you can undo the zip if you’re too warm.

Also think about what you’ll use as a pillow. A pillowcase stuffed with clothes makes a decent headrest and doesn’t add much weight to carry, or you might invest in an inflatable pillow, which is also light and provides even more comfort.

Tip: Don’t store sleeping bags in their stuffsacks as it damages their filling. Store hanging up or in a bin bag.

Packing checklist

Image: DofE

Your expedition leader will provide you with a specific packing list for your expedition and advise you on the kit to be carried between the group – gear like tents, camping stoves and fuel – but our hiking essentials checklist is useful to ensure you don’t miss anything essential.