Whichever challenge you have chosen to participate in, you can never predict the weather with any certainty, so it is important to pack in preparation for the four seasons.

Trekking gear can be purchased prior to departure either online or on the high street. Decathlon and Go Outdoors has a good range of clothing. Please check with us if your destination has the option to rent gear on arrival

The kit requirements specific to your individual challenge will be detailed in your Briefing Pack, in which we highlight lists of both essential and advisory items. We also run through this in your pre-departure briefing and post reminders in your email journey. Some items can be rented in-country before your trek begins, though we suggest not over-relying on hired supplies as they will always be subject to availability and the quality can be variable.

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While our recommendations may differ slightly trip-by-trip, the following items are considered essential when undertaking any international trekking challenge:

  • Hiking boots (worn in, with good tread)
  • Secondary footwear (trainers or sandals)
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • 2 x Fleeces (one thick; one lightweight)
  • Short and long sleeved t-shirts
  • Trekking trousers (or leggings)
  • Winter accessories (woolly hat, scarf, buff, gloves)
  • Summer accessories (sunglasses, sunhat/cap, sun cream)
  • Hiking socks/underwear
  • Thermal vest/long-johns
  • Head torch (with spare batteries)
  • Water bottle or bladder (minimum 3L capacity)
  • Sleeping bag (either 4 season or 3 season with liner)
  • Travel towel
  • Non-plastic dry bag(s)
  • Personal first aid kit (plasters, painkillers, antiseptic cream, bandage, etc)
  • Wash bag (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, antibacterial wipes, etc)

You may opt to supplement the above gear with the following optional extras:

  • Adjustable walking poles
  • Ankle/knee supports
  • Sleeping mattress (or thermarest)
  • Waterproof rucksack cover
  • Water purification tablets
  • Lip & nose sun protection
  • Power bank/charger
  • Travel adaptor
  • Travel games (e.g. cards)

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If you are attending a Three Peaks event, the above lists remain largely unchanged. The only differences are that you do not require camping equipment, clothing quantities can be reduced (as it is a shorter trek), and your water capacity should be at least 2 litres. Otherwise, any items you don’t need to carry up each mountain can be left on the bus! Again, we provide you a comprehensive breakdown as part of your Briefing Pack, with regular reminders posted in your pre-departure communications journey.

 

As experts in adventure travel, Choose a Challenge staff are trained and experienced in multi-day, high altitude treks. It is our job to ensure you arrive prepared. Should you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us prior to departure, as we are always on hand to dispense professional advice and guidance.