Tips for Planning a Weekend in the Outdoors

Carefully consider when you venture out, as the season greatly impacts weekend adventures. A summer hike in Scotland may transform into a challenging winter climb come January.

Also remember that winter days shorten dramatically the further north you go. Frigid conditions demand packing more kit and planning meticulously to stay safe.

However, the stunning beauty of the colder months make the effort worthwhile. Do your research to pick trips suited to the season. Kit up appropriately, build in contingencies, and the rewards of a winter wonderland escape will be well worth it.

Here in the UK we're lucky to have such a variety of stunning scenery and wild areas. It can be difficult to decide where to go!

Scotland is home to the majestic Highlands, rugged islands, and scenic lochs. It’s a paradise for hikers, kayakers, and wildlife lovers. Whereas Wales is known for its mountainous national parks and its dramatic coastline. 

You can hike the Snowdon Horseshoe, one of the most exciting routes to the summit of Eryri, the highest mountain in Wales. England has a diverse range of landscapes from the rolling hills and quaint villages of the south to the rugged moors and the scenic lakes of the north. 

From surfing in Cornwall to rock climbing in the Peak District, there are so many places to find adventure!

Our maritime climate demands checking weather reports when planning UK weekend missions. Find a reliable forecasting app and learn to interpret key data like temperature, precipitation probability and wind speed. Regularly monitor your destination's outlook leading up to the trip, adjusting your kit list accordingly. 

Fair weather adventurers can pack walking shoes, lightweight trousers and base layers. But add weatherproof jackets, gloves and a fleece in case conditions turn stormy or cold snaps drop in. 

What will you do with your weekend? It’s going to depend on your experience, appetite for adventure, whether you enjoy group adventures or prefer to mission solo. There are many options for outdoor activities, such as hiking, trail running, biking, kayaking, surfing, wild swimming, camping, or climbing. There are some great guidebooks and resources online to check out and get you excited about your weekend. 

Carefully consider your level of fitness and experience and choose activities that match your skills and interests. You can also join guided tours or courses that provide equipment and instruction and you’ll get to meet other like-minded adventurers like those offered by Run the Wild especially if you want to learn something new or access more support. 

The last step is to prepare everything you need for the weekend. This weekend will be your opportunity to find freedom and have an adventure, but you need to ensure that you have the right kit to deal with the weather and enough for days spent in the wild.

You should include clothing that is appropriate for the weather and activity, such as a waterproof jacket, breathable layers and comfortable shoes or boots. You should also include equipment that's necessary and functional for the activity, such as a backpack, a lightweight tent, sleeping bag, stove, water bottle, navigation equipment, a headtorch, and a first aid kit. Test everything to make sure it all fuctions properly as you don’t want any kit surprises! Finally ensure you have enough food and drink to keep your energy levels up.

Shop Walking Kit 

Shop Camping Kit 

While sharing social media posts are fun, more important is leaving your weekend plan with someone - your routes, timings and backup contacts. The unpredictable outdoors demands flexibility, so outline alternate options if conditions become too challenging.

Whether it's worsening weather or trickier terrain than expected, be ready to adapt your plan. Respect the wild environment by being prepared for the unexpected.

Follow these tips to plan a revitalising yet responsible outdoor weekend. Kit up properly, choose suitable adventures that match your skills and be ready to adjust to the unexpected. Most of all, relax and recharge while having fun and staying safe. Wherever your footsteps lead this weekend, we wish you enjoyable trails, wonderful views and lasting memories!

Thanks to our ambassador, Simon from Run The Wild for providing these top tips for having the most enjoyble weekend in the wild. 

If you want some extra support finding the right kit for you next adventure, drop into your nearest Cotswold Outdoor or book an adventure kit list appointment here.