Here’s what we don’t want to happen…

You’re standing at the edge of the water.

You’re wearing brand-new, expensive trainers and a brilliant white designer hoodie that’s never been near a rock.

You’ve just realised your £500 phone is in your back pocket. Not good.

If you’ve never been gorge walking before, packing might be a bit of a mystery. Do you need to bring a wetsuit? How waterproof is waterproof enough? What do you do with your keys? What should you leave at home?

Well, don’t worry. Those questions come up every day of every week and Life Changing Activites is here to help you answer them. Here’s a practical guide about what you should pack in your it bag.

Your packing list for the day

Let’s start with the basics. Gorge walking means getting wet, climbing over rocks, wading through pools and moving as a group through beautiful but changing terrain. You definitely don’t need to pack for a week-long camping trip, but what you wear matters more than you think.

Here’s what you need to bring:

• Swimwear (to wear under a wetsuit) – a plain swimsuit or trunks is ideal. Avoid anything bulky or anything with ties that might get caught.
• T-shirt or thermal top (non-cotton) – a synthetic or merino wool layer under your wetsuit helps regulate your body temperature. Cotton holds water and will make you cold, so leave it at home.
• Old trainers or walking boots – basically, anything with grip that you don’t mind getting soaked. You’ll be walking in water and scrambling on rocks. So, no sandals, Crocs or flip-flops.
• Thick socks – we recommend bringing these for after.[NH1] 
• Towel – gorge walking gets wet. A towel is essential. You’ll need it after the session.
• Full change of clothes – and, at the risk of sounding like your mother, include spare underwear.
• Plastic bag (or bin bag) for wet kit – trust us, you’ll be glad to have somewhere to stash your soggy gear.
• Any personal medication – inhalers, EpiPens, pain meds, etc. Let your guide know where they are.

We supply the rest: wetsuits, helmets, buoyancy aids and any technical gear you’ll need. If you’re not sure whether you’re expected to bring something, just ask. We’re always happy to answer questions, and we’d rather you check than guess.

What to leave behind (if possible)

People want photos from their gorge walking experience. We get it.

So, you might be wondering whether it’s safe to bring your phone, smartwatch or even your glasses. The short answer: think twice. And don’t, if at all possible.

Here’s what to leave at home or lock away:

• Phones and cameras – if it’s not waterproof, don’t bring it. If it is waterproof, still don’t bring it unless it’s tough and rugged. Slippery rocks and deep pools don’t mix well with electronics. We often have someone taking photos on the day. Check with us.
• Valuables – expensive jewellery, tech or sentimental items are best left behind. We provide secure storage for keys and essentials, but we recommend keeping it to a minimum. Don’t bring them with you at all if possible. They’re safer at home.
• Glasses and contact lenses – contacts are fine. Bring spares if you can. Glasses should have a sports strap. If they’re essential, we’ll make it work. If not, consider leaving them in your bag.
• Fancy outdoor gear – gorge walking isn’t the time for high-end hiking trousers or your favourite designer jacket. You’ll be in a wetsuit, and everything you wear under it will get soaked.

Dress for the season, not the photo

In the UK, the weather can turn quickly. The forecast is quite often wrong, especially in the hills. So here’s how to adapt your kit depending on when you go:

·       Spring & Autumn – Bring a thermal base layer and a fleece for after the activity. Conditions can be chilly, even with a wetsuit.

·       Summer – Still bring a base layer, but you might need only a light towel and a quick-dry t-shirt for afterwards. Suncream is a good shout.

·       Winter (yes, we still go out!) – Extra thermals, a warm hat for after the session, and a hot drink in the car. We’ll advise you on the specific kit, but your comfort and safety become even more important in the colder months.

First-timer timeline

Here’s how to prepare in the days before your trip:

One week before

• Confirm your kit list
• Ask any questions about medication or accessibility
• Check the weather forecast and talk to us if you’re unsure what to expect

Two days before

• Lay out your kit
• Pack a dry bag if you have one
• Label anything you’re bringing that might get mixed up (especially towels)

On the day

• Double-check the weather forecast
• Eat something before you arrive
• Bring a water bottle
• Arrive ready to get stuck in.

Before you zip up your bag…

If you’re not sure whether to bring something, put it in the car anyway. You don’t need much, but you do need the right things. Gorge walking is an absolute blast, but if you’re not dressed for it, it’ll get cold and possibly uncomfortable.

And if you’ve got questions, just drop us a message. We’re always happy to help.

That gorge isn’t going to walk itself. See you out there.

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