Wild Camping Kit

My Wild Camping Kit Explained.

I often get asked questions about my wild camping kit. What kit do I carry in my trusty OEX Vallo EXP 60:70 Rucksack? We will all agree that carrying the essential wild camping kit is of paramount importance, but different kit suits different people. One example being, I like to carry a 2ltr bottle of water, where others may prefer to carry a Life Straw . One size does not fit all when it comes to wild camping. My advice would be to carry only what you think you will need. This will also help you reduce the weight of your wild camping kit bag. As a guide, my kit bag usually weighs between 15kg to 22kg.

The Contents of my Kit Bag?

My kit bag is full of essential wild camping kit. As I mentioned before, I currently use the OEX Vallo EXP 60:70 Rucksack which has, and continues to serve me well. I carry very expensive camera equipment in my bag, so I need peace of mind, knowing it will be safe amongst my other kit. Here is a detailed explanation of the contents of my kit bag. I  have included links to specific wild camping products and other alternatives.

Detailed Kit List

Berghaus Peak 3.1 tent

I have continued using the Berghaus Peak 3.1 backpacking tent for wild camping for the past 4 years. I can confirm that this backpacking tent has performed very well in all weathers. A quality tent that I would highly recommend for wild camping. Although I posted a Berghaus Peak 3.1 Tent Review, I think this product is now discontinued. A fantastic tent for wild camping if you can get your hands on one!

View an alternative selection of one man backpacking tents

 

Vango Trek 3 Short Self Inflating Mat

I always carry a sleeping mat, and the Vango Trek 3 Short Self Inflating Mat suits me down to the ground (no pun intended). This lightweight, self-inflating trekking mat is designed to provide lightweight comfort, ideal for carrying in a rucksack. This product does exactly what it says on the tin. Although it does not come in a tin.

View an alternative selection of lightweight sleeping mats

 

Trangia 25 Cookset

I carry the Trangia 25 Cookset mainly because of its superior quality. This is not the most compact camping stove, but it performs very well in high winds, something which most wild campers will endure over time. The Trangia spirit burner runs on alcohol-based fuels such as methylated spirits which are low cost, safe and readily available. The Trangia stove can also be used with gas, multi-fuel or gel burner, which all can be found in the Trangia range of accessories. Reminder…. do not forget your lighter and a spare.

View an alternative selection of backpacking stoves

 

Vango Latitude Pro 200 Sleeping Bag

Warmth and comfort are key to getting a good nights sleep in a sleeping bag. The Vango Latitude Pro 200 Sleeping Bag is a small package that delivers big things. I have used this sleeping bag in all weathers, including a nippy -5 Celcius. Again, another product that I am more than happy with. I can recommend the Vango Latitude Pro 200 sleeping bag.

View an alternative selection of lightweight sleeping bags

 

OEX Lightweight Aluminium Ground Pegs

To ensure that my tent is securely pitched, I use OEX Lightweight Aluminium Ground Pegs with bright rope for easy visibility. As with most backpacking tents, I’ve found that the pegs supplied are usually poor quality and bend quite easily, depending on the condition of the ground. The OEX aluminium ground pegs are sturdy, plus the rope attached makes it easier to extract.

View an alternative selection of lightweight ground pegs

 

PETZL Actik Core Headlamp

PETZL are renowned for their quality head torches, and the PETZL Actik Core Headlamp is exactly that. This head torch produces great light, ideal for dark nights on the summit of dark peaks. The rechargeable ACTIK CORE headlamp offers 450 lumens of power, which, along with its multi-beam design, makes it ideal for dynamic outdoor activities like wild camping, hiking and backpacking. I also carry 2 small torches, a hanging light for inside my tent, and a spare Coleman head torch for backup.

View an alternative selection of head torches

Other Essentials in my Kit Bag

I obviously carry other essentials such as food and drink, but the list above details the items which I get asked about most. Here is a list of other items found in my kit bag for a typical wild camp on Kinder Scout.

I hope you found this post helpful, if so, please do leave a comment.

UPDATE: 23/09/2021

As you may have already seen, Chasing Views took part in a Charity Walk up Mount Snowdon. As the forecast wasn’t looking very promising, I decided to purchase a new waterproof jacket. After doing lots of research to see what would suit me best, I decided to go for the Rab Downpour ECO waterproof jacket. I am pleased to report that I made the right choice. So this is now also added to my kit bag.

Read my Rab Downpour ECO Waterproof Jacket Review