Stories & Guides

You’ve picked out the perfect hiking gear, planned your route, and are ready to go. But first, all your stuff needs to go into your backpack. Which typically brings up a number of questions: What’s the best way to go about it? How can I make sure my backpack doesn’t get too heavy or bulky? We’ve got all the info you need right here!

Hiking undoubtedly is one of the best ways to enjoy nature and get away from the day-to-day hustle. So you’ve been looking forward to your outdoor adventure, but rain is on the cards? No need to worry – with the right attitude and equipment, even bad weather can make for an unforgettable and enjoyable hiking experience.

Sleeping bags are the secret superheroes of your outdoor adventures: Exit portable blanket with a zipper, enter high-tech piece of equipment to support a good night’s sleep. Whether you’re looking to snuggle up in your sleeping bag during cold winter nights or just want to watch the stars for a little longer on a warm summer’s eve: With our in-depth guide, you’re sure to find the perfect sleeping bag for your next tour.

You’ve just invested in a new pair of hiking boots and can’t wait to take them for a spin? We totally get it. But before you head out to explore the great outdoors, you should take the time to break in your shoes first. Because nothing sucks the joy out of a grand tour faster than blisters, rubbing and pinching. With our handy tips, breaking in your shoes couldn’t be easier!

Every type of outdoor activity requires different equipment. However, there’s one key aspect that’s central to all of them: a good supply of water. Because whatever you get up to when you’re out and about, staying hydrated is key. With a hydration bladder, your next refreshing sip is only one tiny move of the head away. In this guide, we’ll tell you exactly how to pick out the right hydration bladder for your needs, how to correctly use it, and how to properly care for it.

If you want to make the most of your climbing experience, you won’t get around buying yourself a pair of approach shoes. After all, getting to the starting point of your route is not exactly a casual walk in the park. We’ve got all the tips you need to find your perfect pair of approach shoes, and be perfectly prepared for your next via ferrata. Let’s go!

The matter of how much weight your hiking backpack should ideally have is not to be taken lightly. After all, once your back starts aching and your legs are slowly starting to give way, even the most enjoyable hike becomes a pain – literally. So whether you’re exploring the outdoors just for the day or embarking on a trekking tour spanning several days: we’ve got all the info you need to determine the right backpack weight for you, including handy tips on how to reduce it even further.

Whether you’re heading out for a day trip or embarking on a tour spanning several days, whether you happen to get stuck in a thunderstorm or missed a turn, your backpack’s got your back – assuming you’ve packed all the right things. If you have your essential gear with you, you’ll make it through every adventure, however planned or unplanned. As the saying goes: Take as little as possible, and as much as you need. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 10 hiking essentials you should always take with you.

For the last 50 years the Kinder Mountain Rescue Team has been helping climbers, hikers and fair-weather walkers enjoy the spectacular splendour of Kinder Scout in the Peak District, assisting with everything from rolled ankles to full-on late-night rescue missions.

A recently uncovered ancient pilgrimage route offers the opportunity to rediscover what it means to walk with intention. Writer Oliver Smith headed out with The British Pilgrimage Trust’s Dawn Champion to find out more about the organization’s work, its ‘bring your own belief’ philosophy, and the nature and history along The Old Way route from England’s South Downs National Park to Canterbury cathedral.