This list is based on routes up to AD using only 1 axe and staying in huts overnight, i.e. classical alpinism. For some more technical routes, 2 ice tools may be required. Please ask me about this if you have any concerns.
I’m a big fan of check lists – check out The Check List Manifesto by Atul Gawande.
This page functions as an online checklist by checking off the tick button for each item.
Alternatively, access a print version by hitting the button to the right.
This will hide all the images and supplementary info and you can then print it off as a hard copy.
| Item | Detail | Tick | More info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Climbing Kit | Things to climb with. | ||
| Boots | For alpinism, you should use a B2 boot as a minimum | I use Scarpa Ribelles, which are B2 | |
| Crampons | A pair of flexible crampons compatible with your boots | I use Grivel G12 Nu-Matics | |
| Ice axe (and hammer?) | There's a wide range of great axes on the market | I use a Grivel Air Tech in a 55cm length. You won't need a leash for most terrain if we're using single axes. On steeper snow and ice where a hammer is required, then you'll also need a leash | |
| Leash(es) | Leashless is definitely the way forward, but… | some form of system is essential if we're on big snow and ice routes | |
| Trekking poles | The way forward to save your knees | I have some Gipron poles which have done me very well for many years | |
| Helmet | There's not many pieces of Camp kit I use, but a helmet is one | The Camp Armour has done me very well for years | |
| Harness | Adjustable legs and plenty of racking | I have an Arc'teryx model. Ice screw holders from Petzl or BD are useful too | |
| Sling | 120 cm sling | ||
| Screwgates | 2 should do it | I use Petzl 3D Attaches | |
| Prusik loops | Carried on a small snap link krab | ||
| Belay Device? | On many routes up to AD, a device won't be necessary but… | On more technical terrain a device will be useful, and I use a Petzl Reverso with a dedicated krab | |
| Day Pack | 30 liters is more than adequate for a day trek. 40+ for hut to hut | I use a Lowe Alpine Alpine Attack 35 | |
| Clothes | Staying warm is a very good idea | ||
| Shreddies | That's underpants in northern England | ||
| Socks | Good quality socks are essential. | I use Lenz heated socks. I must be getting soft | |
| Gaiters | Required if your boots don't have an integral gaiter | Scarpa Ribells, like many technical boots, have an integral gaiter. If you're more traditional then get gaitered. Ankle to calf length please.No requirement for UK bog hoppers | |
| Thermals? | Depending on temperatures, you may need 1or 2 leg layers | I'm testing out some kit from Natural Peak. So far so good... | |
| Soft Shell pants | Ideal for alpinism | I use Patagonia Crest View pants | |
| Shell pants | A good shell pant with side zips | I use Arc'teryx pants Alpha AR with full side zips for uphill effort or getting on and off over boots | |
| Shorts? | Not strictly required for alpinism but… | Many routes involve a walk up to a hut in the afternoon and your legs will appreciate the sunshine | |
| Thermal Top | A long sleeved crew necked or short zip top | ||
| Mid layer top | A long sleeved top with a full length zip | A model with a hood can be useful | |
| Insulation layer | A light weight synthetic or down jacket | I use the Arc'teryx Atom. Light and warm | |
| Shell top | A good quality waterproof, windproof and breathable shell jacket | I use the Arc'teryx FL | |
| Beanie | Woolly hat. Long enough to cover your ears as well | ||
| Sunhat | Baseball cap if you want to look continental, a cricket hat for Brits | Useful on walk ins | |
| Sunglasses | Category 3 lenses at least. Additional low light lenses useful | I use Cébé S'Tracks with interchangeable lenses | |
| Light Gloves | Gloves to climb with | I use leather gloves from Simond for 99% of the time | |
| Warm Gloves | For when it's chilly. Mittens if you must, but not recommended | ||
| Other Stuff | |||
| Suncream | SPF 30-50. Just enough to last the trip. Share with your mates? | ||
| Lip salve | Don't share this with anyone unless you're prepared to kiss them | ||
| Watch | So you can get up for breakfast at the right time. | I use a Suunto with an integrated GPS | |
| Sandwich bag | Unlikely we'll be doing long lunches on days in the hills | ||
| Lunch | Something to go in that bag | ||
| Snack bars | Chocolate, nuts, energy gels ? Keep some in your pockets | ||
| Water bottle/flask | "How much water do I need?". If I had a £ for every time... | I carry an insulated 1 liter Nalgene bottle. | |
| Wallet | For beers and snacks at the end of the day | Or huts if we're on a multi day trek | |
| Mobile Phone | Keep it switched off and somewhere warm. | Make sure you know the emergency number for the area. Ask me if you don't | |
| Rock boots | Always good to have the option | For valley rock days and/or technical rock high in the mountains. One of life's great joys along with powder days and lemon meringue pie | |
| Overnight Kit | |||
| Silk liner | Mandatory in nearly all mountain huts for hygiene reasons | ||
| Ear plugs | In case there are snorers in the dorm | ||
| Headtorch | For alpine starts or to get to the toilet at night. | I use a Petzl Tikka RXP as it has reactive lighting and a red bulb option as well. Fresh batteries or fully charged | |
| Headphones | If you like your music. But only at night please | ||
| Phone charger | Share with your mates? | ||
| Spare pants | It shouldn't be too frightening, but you never know 😉 | ||
| Spare top | Nice to change into for the evening | ||
| Spare socks | Give your feet an essential evening treat | ||
| Brew Kit | Builder's tea, coffee, left wing tea. Whatever you fancy | ||
| Pack towel (optional) | Some huts have showers these days. | ||
| Toothbrush | Cut the handle off to save a few grams | ||
| Toothpaste | A small sample tube is best | ||
