Staveley Nature Reserve Walk

Water: bring at least two litres

Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.

Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely

Boots:  waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking, trainers are OK if the ground is dry and there’s little chance of rain

Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions

Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters

Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)

Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK

Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry

Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain

Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer

Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter

Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days

Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of

Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated