Trekking - Extreme Sports, Sol Steerin, Extreme Sports Reviews

Snowdon

Everest Base Camp

Trekking may not be on most peoples list of extreme sports but some treks and trails can take you to some of the remotest places in the UK. If you have an accident in these places there is a high chance that you won’t be trekking out again, so that is why it is on this site.

Trekking is also known as backpacking, hill walking, rambling and hiking. This is the most relaxing extreme sport that we know of so if you want to feel alive, be outdoors and explore this beautiful world then this is the sport for you.

The secret to a successful and enjoyable trek is the planning. Plan your route down to the last detail. There is no such thing as over planning in any extreme sport and this is no exception. O/S (ordinate survey) maps are available at any good outdoor activity shop. These will show you detailed routes of the trails and tracks in the UK. Research your trip on the net by finding places to stay, public transport times, prices and locations just in case, make sure you have the right equipment, prepare for the worst weather conditions, make sure you are fit enough to do the trip that you are planning, do a couple of short day walks to see how fast you walk so you can plan how long your trip will take and don’t go alone.

Where to go, Cost and Equipment

Where

Check out this link for some on the best treks in the UK www.bestwalks.com

Cost and Equipment

For treks that will last only a day try to keep you pack as light as possible.

Backpack – Small lightweight pack of one day treks. Between 10L to 15L (backpacks are measured in litres) is big enough. These can be picked up for as little as £15.

Coat – A breathable coat is a must and you will have to fork out the money for a good one. Some of the best coats can cost over £150 but you can get cheaper breathable coats for around £70.

Hat and Gloves – If they are warm they are good enough.

Trousers – Light weight fast drying trousers are the best. There are also anti-bacterial trousers out there. These trousers will stay smelling fresher for longer and also repel mosquitoes etc. Around £15+.

Walking Boots – These have to be the most comfortable shoes you have every tried on. Don’t buy them thinking that they will fit better when you walk them in. They must fit right straight away or blisters will be ruin the trek. Look for boots that have a vibram sole. Look out for sales on boots and you can pick them up for about £60.

First Aid Pack – This can be picked up at any outdoor activity shop of £10.

Touch/Head Lamp – These are really cheap for a good LED head lamp. No more than £25 for a named make. You can find cheaper un-named makes. Remember extra batteries.

For long Treks when you have to camp out take the same as above plus:

Tent – A small light tent. Good trekking tents only come in one, two or three man normally and range from around £150 to £550.

Sleeping Mat – These are made from foam and they not only make sleeping on the floor more comfortable but also help to keep you warm. You can also get self inflating mats that provide more comfort. Around £35.

Sleeping Bag – The range of prices for sleeping bags is vast. Before you spend a fortune ask yourself how many times you are going to use it. Look for a four season, light and small when packed bag.

Bigger Backpack – It has to take all this equipment plus more clothes. The prices for these all hover around £90.