The second episode in this series focuses on planning and preparing for a walk. Let’s take a look at the following topics:

1 – The weather forecast

2 – Online mapping and route plotting

3 – What to pack

4 – Tips for the trail

For the weather forecast, I use the Met Office which gives a good standard overview of the essential details. For route planning, these are temperature, wind speed and direction, rain or sunshine (or both!) and any chance of hazards such as thunderstorms. I can then plan a route with these in mind. E.g. if it’s blowing a strong wind from the south west, then maybe think of a sheltered walk where you’ll only feel a breeze from the north east instead. ”Bad” weather does not mean not heading outside in most cases, but rather strategically planning ahead. Obviously if a thunderstorm or a hurricane force wind is predicted my advice is to stay inside and let it all blow over.

For online mapping, I use Ordnance Survey online data. This software is great because it covers the entire UK for a small annual subscription and via an app you can access it on your smartphone too. This provides you with a GPS location. You can plot a route using the software and this will auto calculate your estimated mileage and time it will take. I have found this overall to be fairly accurate. I then copy this route using a pen onto my paper maps. The advantage of doing this is that if your mobile battery fails or there is a tech problem, the paper map can be used. Make sure you include things in your route that you think you’ll enjoy – want a fantastic view? Head to a blue triangle on the map, a trig point. Are you interested in history? There’s loads of archaeological sites on OS maps written in an old style font. Find green dotted lines on the map that link up to form a route and see if you can follow them. If you are looking for safe, well prepared routes in West Yorkshire stay tuned for my upcoming guidebook to the area!

I actually prefer to use a paper map for navigation and then check the digital tools if I am unsure or if I simply need a confirmation of position. I think it is silly not to use digital navigation because it reduces any errors made in the process of going on your journey. It is equally silly not to become familiar with how to use a paper map and compass – it’s not that difficult and within a few sessions outside you will begin to get the hang of it. Why not sign up to one of my navigation classes and see for yourself just how far you can go?

The video gives a good intro of what to pack, and as I said I have a list written on a waterproof notepad made by a company called Write in the Rain. The advantage of this is that if I realise I have left something off the list while I’m out I can add it in any conditions, but also I can take this on expeditions and help others to pack or find the right kit even if the weather is horrible. I also use it to take notes for the day and to remind myself of my objectives if I’m doing a ‘Quality Mountain Day’. When you return from your trip, ask yourself what you did not use and why. Next time you might not need to take it – as a result your rucksack will get lighter the more trips you make, and particularly if you invest in well-made lightweight equipment. This is often more expensive but often equally more eco friendly and more efficient and durable.

Tips for the trail include regularly orienting the map so you are confident in what the map looks like in relation to the ground and vice versa. This takes time to learn but is very liberating when you can confidently walk off paths if needed or simply know where you are and give reasons for that. Another top tip is to head out in as many kinds of weather condition as possible. This will help you work out your own kit system (everybody is different in this), how much food to take, the kind of walks you enjoy and also will result in you gaining huge confidence to take care of yourself in any weather. No more sitting at home because of the rain! Lastly, take pictures of your time out and tell someone where you are going. It could make all the difference to your day.