Alpine Kit List

This list is not exhaustive – please ask if you have any questions. Makes and models are for example.

The aim is to keep your rucksack as light as possible. Light is Right!

- Waterproof Jacket and trousers. Lightweight materials – Paclite – are ideal. Trousers should have full length zips so they can go on without removing boots/crampons

- Boots. Leather, crampon compatible and comfortable!  Don’t bring brand new boots! You can hire boots and hope they're comfortable...

- Rucksack. 30-45l is plenty

- Axes, crampons. A mountaineering axe – DMM Cirque – is ideal for most routes. More technical clims may meed 2 axes. Crampons must fit your boots! General mountaineering crampons are better then technical ice crampons. Take your boots with you to check fit if you buy crampons. You must have anti-balling plates.

- Gaiters. Keep the snow out and laces in! Short gaiters are fine.

- Helmet. For rocky routes, crevasse rescue practice, etc

- Headtorch. Petzl Tikka type is fine, and very lightweight. A set of new batteries should last a week.

- Hats. Warm hats must fit under your helmet. A sun hat is a good idea for walk-ins.

- Sunglasses. Must be minimum Category 3, but 4 is better. Julbo make good not too expensive models.

- Gloves. Scottish winter gloves are fine, lighter “work” gloves are good for technical routes - cheap and last well. 

- Water bottles. Bottles are best. Camelbaks are fine but you must also have a bottle! Nalgene type (wide neck) bottles are good, and easy for huts to fill with hot tea.

- Suncream, blister kit, personal first aid/medication, contact lenses, glasses, etc

- Clothing. Layering systems work best. Lightweight, long sleeve and light colour base layers, mid layers plus fleece jacket. Soft shell/mountain trousers, thin base layer for cold days. “gilet” style jackets work well.

- Harness. This can be very lightweight – Black Diamond “Bod”. You must be able to put it on over boots.

- Hardware. 2xlocking carabiners, 1x120cm sling, 2xPrusiks (or 3m of 6mm cord) This is a minimum and you may need more depending on the course.

- Sheet sleeping bag, ear plugs. Many huts insist on sheet bags – you can buy them there at a price. Ear plugs help…

- Walking poles. Not essential, but good for walk-ins or easy glaciers. They should pack inside your rucksack to avoid rope snagging when climbing.

- Duvet Jacket. Not essential, but nice for chilly evenings. Lightweight, either down or synthetic.

- Camera. A small and light digital is ideal.