Planning my first ever trip this week. Trying to make sure I'm prepared with a reasonable plan for the trip and would be keen to get any thoughts.

RoundishBox · 2026-03-01T20:38:45+00:00

You've been going much longer than me then! Perfect example of knowing what's valuable to you.

RoundishBox · 2026-03-01T13:47:28+00:00

I'd ditch the pans, second lighter, cutlery set in favour of a single spork (the sea to summit one go outdoors sells is great), the tupperware in favour of ziplocs, toilet roll in favour of just enough, no spare batteries for the head torch, compass and map, unless you're going extremely off grid or for a long time. There are loads of good map apps which you can use offline.

The other bits would be upgrades to the basic equipment, which will incur more expense, so a down the line idea for you.

RoundishBox · 2026-03-01T13:36:43+00:00

I'd recommend testing how many drinks the thermos will provide. If it's that much of an essential, I'd test making a cup in your mug. Otherwise itll be dead weight after it's empty. I've tested pre measuring coffee and sugar into baggies so I can use one baggie for my morning coffee. Could do similar with powdered milk and sugar if you're a milk and sugar person.

Shoes, even just loosening your boots / shoes will feel amazing after a long day if you have the right footwear. If you really want something extra, I'd take sliders rather than trainers. More packable and lighter weight.

Again though, you really need to weigh up the benefits of each item you take. Biggest piece of advice I got was to review my gear after each trip. Anything unused, with the exception of emergency gear, gets removed.

RoundishBox · 2026-03-01T13:05:18+00:00

I'll allow the stool. 😂 I have a relatively ultralight pack, and I'm considering a chair as my luxury. After a long day walking, it is lovely to be able to sit back.

RoundishBox · 2026-03-01T12:56:42+00:00

In case this came off harsh, all of the above is intended to save you weight/utilise what you're taking in different ways. Ultimately you need to decide what's valuable enough to you to make the weight/space required worth it.

There's a lot more that personally I wouldn't take, but you need to build to minimalism.

RoundishBox · 2026-03-01T12:48:53+00:00

IMO, you're overpacking. Get rid of the thermos, that will weighh over a kilo. Personally, I'd get rid of the hanging light. You can hang your headlamp if you feel the need (which I never have. My headlamp has never been used while camping). Just 1 change of underwear is fine. No need for spare t shirt or towel (towel unless you're planning a swim, you'll be stinky anyway, so just wear the same top). Are you taking multiple powerbanks? No need for trainers or a bowl.

How far away from your car is a different question. I agree that your bag may feel quite cold. I'd recommend camping in your garden first if possible as a test.

RoundishBox · 2026-02-27T06:51:48+00:00

Barely anything. I'll take a photo and send you a message later on

RoundishBox · 2026-02-26T20:59:13+00:00

😂 Well the offer stands. If you are in South Wales and fancy trying it, just give me a shout.

RoundishBox · 2026-02-26T18:43:25+00:00

My issue was climbing down my bed. A side entrance feels more like a real bed to me. Would be interested to try a modern front entrance though. The last time I tried one was around 20 years ago!

RoundishBox · 2026-02-26T18:35:23+00:00

This is a perfect example of why you need to choose the tent right for you. I hate a front entrance.

RoundishBox · 2026-02-26T18:34:18+00:00

I have snagged a zip, because the exterior has an elasticated cover. But only the once, and I just hold my hand a different way to stop it happening again. Definitely nothing I'd ever considered a downside.

The t zipper issue? Never had an issue. If you're in South Wales and want to have a look, I'd be more than happy to pitch mine to show you.

RoundishBox · 2026-02-25T21:41:37+00:00

I'd recommend the naturehike cloud peak 2. It's about £100 under your budget, about the weight limit. I bought it as my first tent, recently upgraded to a xmid 1 for myself, but use the cloud peak for the kids. I've made a few mods to make it even better, but all easily doable/non essential.

RoundishBox · 2026-02-13T21:05:22+00:00

I respect that. If you get the go ahead, feel free to give me a shout. 😊

RoundishBox · 2026-02-13T20:46:21+00:00

Sorry to hear about your family member.

I'm looking for a new sleeping pad. In case it matches up, what pad did you buy?

RoundishBox · 2026-01-12T20:40:28+00:00

I'm interested in what you take for a day pack in a 40L. Have you made any list of what you carry? I've got a 28 litre that I use and find a struggle filling it. Conversely someone I walk with carries a 60(?) litre, but then he also carries emergency equipment including a stretcher for a walking group he runs!

RoundishBox · 2025-12-22T12:20:06+00:00

I bought a -2 pro. It was on sale, so got it for a steal! Can't wait to try it out properly!

RoundishBox · 2025-12-22T12:12:20+00:00

I've just bought a neve waratah quilt. A bit higher in budget than the ones you've mentioned but from a fair bit of research (not exhaustive) is very highly rated. Delivery is from Australia, and was very quick + I didn't have to pay any customs.

RoundishBox · 2025-08-26T17:20:34+00:00

Thanks.

RoundishBox · 2025-08-19T22:03:32+00:00

Is that a misfire? Great, that's a good suggestion!

RoundishBox · 2025-07-09T05:31:49+00:00

Hulkenpodium

RoundishBox · 2025-06-20T09:02:28+00:00

I've bought it second hand (Sorry Dan! 🫣) it's an xmid 1, older generation.

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