Summer Camping and Beach (Branscombe, Devon)

If it’s your first OutdoorLads event or you are trying something for the first time and you’re unsure what kit you’ll need - don’t worry – the following should help.

This is only a guide - you will need to consider the weather forecast and the activity as described. An event in April for example can be like a summer event or something more like a winter one.

If you have any questions just message the event leader.

   Day walks (easy, low level, summer)

For lots of low level day walks in the summer you need very little gear. (This excludes any walks at height – like in North Wales, the Lakes or Scotland.)

·         Good walking shoes or boots are always a good idea – as even in the height of summer we can end up wading through soggy mud.

·         A waterproof jacket is pretty essential in all but the most drought like conditions. If there is the slightest chance of rain (and when isn’t there?) a pair of waterproof trousers is also useful.

·         For summer walks we would also recommend bringing a hat and sun screen, you are likely to be in the sun for up to 8 hours and we often see people quite pink at the end of a good walk.

  Camping

If you haven’t been camping since you were in the Scouts here is what you need.

If it’s your first trip you are likely to want to get away with the bare minimum.

·         Tents start off relatively cheap but as they say you get what you pay for. These tend to start from £10 upwards (‘festival tents’) that are light and do the job – but only just. You may find that they leak, break or blow away.

·         A thin foam ‘carry mat’ is good to sleep on (under £10) and you can use your clothes to make a pillow. Or if you have the room places like Tesco often sell air beds that cost as little as a fiver.

·         Don’t forget you will need something to sleep in. You can buy a sleeping bag from as little as a tenner. This will tend to be thin but will do the job at most summer camps. At camps later in the year you will want something warmer though.

·         Some places such as Argos/ASDA sell camping sets where you can buy a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat and a lamp for approx. £50-£60.

·         If you have friends that camp you may find it beneficial to talk to them first and they may even lend you some kit.

·         Check if the event has a pub nearby for dinner, and buy cereal pots or porridge pots from places like M&S for breakfast. You can easily beg a cup of tea from more seasoned campers – but it helps if you have a cup, and don’t forget a plastic glass if you like your wine! If you are coming by car, a folding chair (£10) is great. As you may be sitting outside late into the evening. Some proper warm clothing always comes in handy – even in the summer. Don’t forget a torch, or you may never make it back to your tent. Finally, ear plugs are always a great idea and  a sleeping mask for early sun rises.

Once you have been once or twice you will know what kit you need to be able to cook a full English breakfast and host a party for 8 in your tent. Until then the above basics will see you right.

You will obviously need what ever kit you need for the daytime activities.

If you still have any questions, please don't hesitate to connect to either support@outdoorlads.com or the event leader.

Items sometimes forgotten 

Food , Drink , Camp chair , Torch, Ear plugs, Money.