Kit lists are also printed in the RGS Expedition Handbook which is issued to all Bronze students starting their DofE. Please ask if you don't have one.

Kit lists vary so please don't get in a panic about every item.  The list below is aimed at GOLD groups going into the mountains, a local trip on the Downs may not need all the specialist items. Nevertheless, some items are absolutely essential (see below "Don't forget").  Please don't forget these because you may not be allowed to start your expedition without them.

Tents, rucksacks, stoves and gas & mats can be borrowed from the DofE KIT STORE.  Please return kit dry and in good condition promptly after the trip, for use by others.  

For advice on buying kit please the Expedition Training page on this website and the section on KIT.  Ask Mr Collins at school for help.  Millets (Redhill) and Cotswold (Guildford, Kingston) and maybe Snow and Rock give dofe discounts.

DO NOT BRING LARGE KNIVES - it is illegal and dangerous to carry large knives.  A small penknife and / or eating knife is permitted.

Don't forget!

These items are essential.  You may not be allowed to start your expedition if ill-prepared or missing key items:

 

• Waterproof jacket
• Map(s): at least one set of maps (with routes marked on) between two.  Map cases are essential too.
• Watch (many forget theirs!)
• Silva compass with long base plate (by Gold: all participants must have one)
• Torch (Autumn and Spring hikes especially)
• First aid kit (small)
• Whistle
• pen/pencil & emergency card (issued by RGS)
• Spare jumper/sweater / fleece
• Full water bottle
• Mobile phone (charged & in a plastic bag) & Emergency staff contact numbers 
• Head gear and gloves
• Waterproof trousers (essential on ALL Gold trips; summer Bronze and Silver still recommended)
• Food
• Stove & gas & matches
• Tent: check it check it check it check it check it check it!
• Sleeping Bag: wrap it in bin bag/s: MUST be kept dry, always in rucksack
• Sleeping mat: wrap in bin liner
• Walking boots (buy decent waterproof boots - get proper advice in store)
• Rucksack

The aim is to pack as LIGHT as possible but not to forget anything essential!

Adjusting the rucksack straps properly can make a big difference to how comfortable the load feels.  

Common packing mistakes: 

• too many clothes (what you WEAR leaving the house is probably what you'll still be wearing on your return ... except underwear of course ... yugh!!)
• over or under-estimating food: go for CALORIES! Check on packets.
• having hard stuff sticking into your back: pad out the back with clothes etc
• wearing any-old socks with boots: buy GOOD quality walking socks to go with your excellent new boots: avoid blisters at all costs - see the videos on this site.