Large Outdoors General (Walking) Kit List
This Kit List applies to all Large Outdoors trips that involve walking.
At the top of this kit list, you’ll find the compulsory items — these are essential for your safety and need to be with you at the start of your trip.
These items are there to help keep both you and the group safe. Your guide will check everyone is properly prepared and may ask you not to take part if they feel it wouldn’t be safe on the day.
Below that, you’ll find a list of recommended kit. These aren’t essential, but they’ll help make your day more comfortable and enjoyable.
If you’re unsure about anything, whether it’s kit or fitness, just get in touch — we’re always happy to help.
Compulsory Kit
These items are essential and must be brought with you for your trip.
Not sure where to start? Focus on waterproofs, boots, warm layers, and food & water — the rest follows from there.
Waterproof Jacket & Trousers
Make sure these are waterproof, not just water-resistant — there’s a big difference in a downpour.
Quick-drying fabrics aren’t enough on their own — if it’s still raining, they won’t keep you dry.
Walking Trousers
Lightweight and flexible are best. Please avoid jeans, as they hold water and can be uncomfortable in both wet and warm conditions.
Walking Boots & Socks
A good pair of boots that you’ve worn in and know are comfortable. Proper walking socks help prevent blisters and keep your feet dry.
Rucksack / Backpack
To carry your layers, food, water, and other essentials. A waterproof cover or dry bags are recommended to keep everything dry.
Warm Clothing (Layers)
Bring a base layer, plus additional warm layers such as a fleece or jumper. Avoid cotton where possible — it doesn’t dry well if it gets wet.
Hat & Gloves
Important all year round, not just in winter. A hat, gloves, and a buff help keep you warm in changing conditions.
Food & Water
Bring lunch and snacks to keep you going. Most people carry around 1.5 litres of water, or more on longer or warmer days.
Some multi-day trips include packed lunches — check your trip page for details.
Survival Bag & Whistle
A simple but important piece of kit that provides emergency shelter if needed.
Find out more here:
https://www.largeoutdoors.com/walking-news-blogs-galleries/what-is-a-survival-bag
Personal First Aid Kit
Include any personal medication, plus basics like blister plasters and pain relief.
Head Torch (with spare batteries)
Essential all year round — not just for night walks. Please bring a proper head torch (not a phone light).
Mobile Phone
Useful for staying in touch with your guide if needed, and for emergencies.
Money (card and/or cash)
Helpful if you need to leave the group, or if we pass a café, pub, or shop along the way.
Recommended Kit
These items aren’t essential, but can make your day more comfortable.
Walking Poles
Helpful for reducing strain, especially on longer or hillier walks.
Sun Cream
Even on cloudy days, particularly at higher levels or near the coast.
Midge Spray
Useful in certain areas and seasons.
Gaiters
Help keep your feet dry and stop mud or stones getting into your boots.
Sit Mat
Lightweight and useful for breaks on wet ground.
If you’re unsure about anything on this list, just get in touch — we’re always happy to help.
Common Questions
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Yes — these are essential for safety.
We hope you’ll never need to use them, but they provide important protection if you have to stop for any reason, especially in colder, exposed, or remote areas where help may take longer to reach you.
They’re a required part of the kit list for many of our trips.
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It’s there as a backup.
Most walks finish in daylight, but delays can happen — for example, if the group slows down or someone needs assistance. A head torch helps you move safely in low light and can be used to signal in an emergency.
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Yes — always bring them.
Weather can change quickly, especially in the hills, and forecasts aren’t always reliable. Even on a dry day, waterproofs are important if you need to stop or wait in poor conditions.
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Yes.
Even in warmer months, conditions can change quickly. If you stop for any length of time, keeping warm makes a big difference to your comfort and safety.
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Not usually — but it’s worth being prepared.
Midges are more common in Scotland, particularly between May and September, but they’re rarely a major issue on our trips. Coastal areas and open ground are often breezy, which helps keep them away.
A small bottle of repellent or lightweight cover-up is usually enough if they do appear.