Below is a checklist that will help prepare for any winter walking trip:
Before you leave home:
- Check weather forecast
- Check avalanche forecast
- Check road conditions
- Check guide book
- Fold map to correct section
- Plan route
- Make packed lunch
- Fill flask
- Personal equipment
To be worn
- Thermal top (not cotton!)
- Thermal long johns (not cotton) for very cold conditions
- Fleece or warm trousers (not cotton)
- Fleece jacket
- Good quality mountain socks
- Four season leather, or plastic, boots
- Gaiters
To be carried
- Rucksack 45-50 Litres with waterproof liner
- Ice axe
- Crampons
- Spare crampon strap
- Waterproof trousers
- Waterproof jacket
- Spare fleece
- Wool or fleece hat
- Wool or fleece balaclava
- Neck gaiter
- Gloves (at least two pairs)
- Thick mitts (for use in emergency)
- Ski goggles (double lens versions are best)
- Map in waterproof case, with a spare in the party
- Compass, with a spare in the party
- Head torch with spare bulb and battery
- Sun cream, protects against the wind as well as the sun.
- Lunch
- Spare food
- Flask of hot drink
- Bivi bag
- First aid kit, keep it simple
- Mobile phone (should not be relied on and only used in serious emergencies).
To leave in the car ready for your return
- Change of clothes
- Towel
- Flask of tea
Group Safety Equipment
- Group shelter, large enough to accommodate the party
- Spare fleece or lightweight duvet jacket
- Rope, 30m x 9mm
- First Aid kit, it is worth considering carrying one kit in the group, and individuals can carry any personal medication and a blister kit.