Initial Expedition Training

Chapter 3 - Kit

Uncontrolled copy not subject to amendment

Revision 1.00

Each member should have:-

Rucksack and polythene bag

Compass

Whistle

Emergency rations

First Aid kit

Map

Equipment

Chapter 3 – Tents and shelters

Group shelterGood for lunch in the rain

Two-man dome-style VaudeGood for wild country work.

Four-man tentComfortable, but not so good for carrying

Three-man ridge tentGood for cadet expeditions

Chapter 3b - Kit adjustments

There are a small number of adjustments that will need to be made to any kit before it’s ready to use. Most kit is good to go when you buy it. We will look at the small number of exceptions:

● Rucksacks● Walking poles● Gaiters

By the end of this section you will know how to adjust your kit to make it comfortable and safe for use.

Chapter 3 – Rucksacks

• Make sure any Back System is best for you, and that the sack fits!

• Size is in Litres – 35-45l is Daysack sized– 65-75l is good for

overnight expeditions– 75l> is probably too big,

but used by military

• Rucksacks are generally NOT waterproof!

Load Carrying

• Use a rucksack liner or big plastic sack to keep everything dry

• Make sure fuel is sealed, bagged, and kept away from food

• Don’t dangle stuff on the outside!

Chapter 3 – Rucksacks

These need careful adjustment to prevent discomfort.

Chapter 3 – Walking poles

Good for taking some of the weight off your knees

Chapter 3 – Gaiters

Warm and waterproof – useful in wild country and when walking through wet vegetation.