National Three Peaks Kit List – Your Complete Guide
Planning the National Three Peaks Challenge? Getting your kit right matters when you're taking on Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Yr Wyddfa.
This practical National Three Peaks kit list covers what to carry on the mountains, what to keep in your support vehicle and a few useful extras we've learnt from years of guiding walking trips across the UK.
Large Outdoors no longer runs National Three Peaks Challenge events, but we've kept this guide online to help anyone planning their own challenge.
About the National Three Peaks Challenge
The National Three Peaks Challenge involves climbing the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales: Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon).
The traditional challenge is to complete all three mountains within 24 hours, including the travel between them. Others choose to complete the three peaks over a longer period, allowing more time for rest and recovery between each mountain.
About This Kit List
Conditions on all three mountains can change quickly, even in summer. Your kit needs to keep you warm, dry and prepared if your day doesn't go according to plan.
The list below separates the equipment you'll need to carry on the mountain from items you can leave in your support vehicle.
Packing for the National Three Peaks in Three Days
We recommend organising two bags:
Walking Kit Bag – for all items needed on the mountains
Holdall/Other Bag – for items used between walks
Space in the vehicle is limited, so pack efficiently and avoid overpacking.
Top Tips Before You Go
Test your kit on training walks. Make sure your boots are worn in and your bag is comfortable to carry.
Check the forecast, but pack for all weathers.
Organise your bags so you can quickly grab what you need.
Avoid cotton next to the skin – it holds moisture and rubs.
Compulsory Kit – Walking Bag
These items must be with you on every peak:
Rucksack (30–35 litres recommended): Big enough for your layers, food, water, and essentials.
Dry Bags: To keep kit dry inside.
Waterproof Jacket and Trousers: Properly waterproof, not just resistant.
Walking Trousers or Leggings: Comfortable, lightweight, quick-drying.
Walking Boots: Well-fitting, worn-in boots suitable for rocky paths. Spare laces recommended.
Walking Socks: Designed to wick moisture, with padding in key areas.
Base Layer (non-cotton): Synthetic or wool to wick sweat and stay warm.
Warm Layers: Fleece or jumper, ideally with options for thicker and thinner warmth.
Hat and Gloves: Even in summer. Waterproof gloves are recommended.
Buff or Neck Gaiter: Versatile for wind, sun or cold.
Survival Bag: Not a space blanket—this is an essential for emergencies. Learn why here:
https://www.largeoutdoors.com/walking-news-blogs-galleries/what-is-a-survival-bag
Personal First Aid Kit: Include any personal meds, blister plasters, painkillers.
Head Torch: With spare batteries. Essential even for daytime walks in case of delays.
Mobile Phone: Fully charged for emergencies.
Money: Both cash and card for snacks, pubs, or in case you need to arrange transport.
Food: Bring enough for long days out.
Fluids: 2–3 litres per day. Bladder systems are convenient but bottles work too.
Compulsory Kit – Other Bag/Holdall
These are for use between walks:
Wash Bag & Toiletries: Many hotels don’t supply them.
Towel: Quick-dry travel towels are ideal.
Spare Walking Clothes: Enough changes for three days without washing facilities.
Nightwear and Other Clothes: Something comfy for evenings.
Recommended Extras
These aren’t essential but many people find them helpful:
Entertainment: Book, music or podcasts for long vehicle journeys.
Ear Plugs: Useful in shared rooms or to nap in the vehicle.
Walking Poles: Reduce strain on joints. Practice before you go.
Sun Cream: Even on cloudy days.
Midge Repellent: Especially if you’re sensitive.
Gaiters: Help keep feet dry and dirt out of boots. Learn how to use them here:
https://www.largeoutdoors.com/walking-news-blogs-galleries/how-to-use-gaiters
Sit Mat: For lunch stops on wet ground.
Travel/Neck Pillow: Makes minibus snoozes comfier.
Looking for Your Next Walking Trip?
Large Outdoors no longer runs the National Three Peaks Challenge, but we do run sociable guided walking holidays, weekends and short breaks across the UK