BIG20: Shell Island Summer Camp

If you haven’t been camping since you were in the Scouts here is what you need. If it’s your first trip you are likely to want to get away with the bare minimum.

• Tents start off relatively cheap but as they say you get what you pay for. These tend to start from £10 upwards (‘festival tents’) that are light and do the job – but only just. You may find that they leak, break or blow away.
• A thin foam ‘carry mat’ is good to sleep on (under £10) and you can use your clothes to make a pillow. Or if you have the room places like Tesco often sell air beds that cost as little as a fiver.
• Don’t forget you will need something to sleep in. You can buy a sleeping bag from as little as a tenner. This will tend to be thin but will do the job at most summer camps. At camps later in the year you will want something warmer though.
• Some places such as Argos/ASDA sell camping sets where you can buy a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat and a lamp for approx. £50-£60.
• If you have friends that camp you may find it beneficial to talk to them first and they may even lend you some kit.
• You can easily beg a cup of tea from more seasoned campers – but it helps if you have a cup, and don’t forget a plastic glass if you like your wine! If you are coming by car, a folding chair (£10) is great. As you may be sitting outside late into the evening. Some proper warm clothing always comes in handy – even in the summer. Don’t forget a torch, or you may never make it back to your tent. Finally, ear plugs are always a great idea.

We will probably organise a local day walk either from the site or start within a short drive of the camp. Please come prepared for the conditions with appropriate equipment.  As a guide:

Boots:  Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere.  Walker’s should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support.  Boots should also be in good condition.

Socks: Walking socks are often overshadowed by those new to hiking, with many novices failing to invest in proper socks.  Good walking socks are essential in regards to keeping the feet dry, and in turn stopping the development of blisters.  Sports socks and other socks not designed for walking will often become waterlogged, or damaged which will in turn blister feet.

Walking Trousers:  Walking trousers should be of a windproof design and made of a rip stop material, that will stand up to walking through ferns and undergrowth.  They should also ideally be water resistant, or at least not gain weight, and lose their insulation properties when wet.  Jeans are therefore to be avoided, as they are heavy when wet and provide no protection from the elements.  Shorts may be handy if we are lucky enough to see the sun.

Waterproof Trousers:  Waterproof trousers are essential in keeping the legs dry, as water resistant trousers will not keep out any significant rainfall.  Walker’s should look for waterproof trousers that are breathable, in order to avoid being soaked with sweat.

Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body.  This should ideally consist of a breathable synthetic, specially designed fabric, though a cotton T-Shirt is sufficient.

Mid Layer: A Mid Layer goes on top of the base layer and should consist of a 100 weight micro fleece, or a rugby typed thick shirt.  The layering system is important as it allows walkers to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature.

Waterproof Jacket:  A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking.  Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat.  Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices.

Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential.  The best hats are those of a fleece design, with wool also being acceptable.  In sunny conditions a wide-brimmed hat will help keep the sun off.

Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry both food and equipment.  Day sacks should have a capacity of around 25 litres with equipment being placed in water proof bags inside.

Food & Water:  At least two litres of water should be brought for a day walk.  Enough food for the duration of a walk should also be taken.  Food should be of the high energy variety.