What you take with you on your Scafell Pike walk should be the hiking equipment and clothing that will prevent you from getting into trouble – or help you to get out of it. Regular walkers will probably already have most, if not all, of the necessary equipment, but for those with less experience, the recommendations below will provide a helpful guide.
Equipment
Taking the appropriate safety equipment with you will help avoid difficulties in the first place and make it easier to get out of trouble if misfortune strikes.ss
Packing for emergencies
The BMC has published a brief video on how to prepare for emergencies while in the hills that's worth a watch:
Backpack/rucksack
When choosing a rucksack, it must be big enough to carry all your essentials, so we recommend a minimum capacity of 25 litres. The other important thing is that it’s comfortable to wear! So if at all possible, try it before buying it, and fill it with around the same weight and volume you’ll be carrying up Scafell Pike.
Here are some top picks:
Bestselling backpacks for hiking on Amazon
Correct as of 2024-04-04 at 01:13 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. We might receive a small commission for any purchases through links on this page, with no extra cost to you.
Correct as of 2024-04-04 at 01:13 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. We might receive a small commission for any purchases through links on this page, with no extra cost to you.
Correct as of 2024-04-04 at 01:13 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. We might receive a small commission for any purchases through links on this page, with no extra cost to you.
Correct as of 2024-04-04 at 01:13 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. We might receive a small commission for any purchases through links on this page, with no extra cost to you.
Navigation
Maps
You’ll at least need an Ordnance Survey ‘Explorer’ Map of the Scafell Pike area. These maps are at a scale of 1:25000, which offers far more detail than the ‘Landranger’ maps with their 1:50000 scale - though it can be helpful to have a Landranger too. We have a dedicated page for Scafell Pike maps that you can refer to ensure you've got the correct map, as well as see other resources that you might find helpful.
Compass
A compass is an essential piece of hiking equipment, as it can help you navigate and orient yourself while on the trail. It is especially useful when hiking in areas without clearly marked trails or in low visibility conditions.
Below is a popular starter compass that you can buy from Amazon:
Trekrite Explorer Compass for Map Reading and Navigation
- Stay on track wherever you are: budget hiking compass, with sturdy base plate, magnifier, and easy-rotate bezel. Comes with full instructions, ideal for first-time compass users.
- Ultra-safe navigation on all terrain: with lanyard break-off safety feature, and luminous markings for night-time navigation or low-visibility weather conditions.
- Practical in every situation operates in temperatures -40C to +60C, durable and easy to use for men and women.
Health & Safety
Sun Protection
Sunscreen is a must-have when hiking Scafell Pike, as the sun can be intense. Bring enough sunscreen to reapply as necessary throughout the day, and apply it to all exposed skin.
Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance on the mountain, so pack some repellent to keep them at bay.
Water and Food
Staying hydrated and nourished is essential when hiking Scafell Pike. Pack enough water to sustain you throughout the hike, and bring non-perishable snacks that won't go soggy or need to be heated up. It's also a good idea to bring some electrolyte tablets to help keep you hydrated.
Whistle
Keep it easily accessible in a pocket or on a lanyard around your neck.
Torch
A torch is an essential piece of equipment for seeing in the dark and as a signalling device in an emergency. You might consider a head-torch for hands-free illumination - particularly if you're using walking poles.
Using your whistle/torch if you need help
As per the Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association's "Stay Safe in the Fells" PDF:
Both your whistle and torch can be used to signal for help, as follows: Six short blasts (or flashes) in quick succession, repeated at one minute intervals.
Continue until someone reaches you and don’t stop because you hear a response. The rescue team may be using your whistle blasts as a direction finder.
Bestselling torches on Amazon
Correct as of 2024-04-04 at 15:17 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. We might receive a small commission for any purchases through links on this page, with no extra cost to you.
Correct as of 2024-04-05 at 04:31 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. We might receive a small commission for any purchases through links on this page, with no extra cost to you.
Mobile phone
It's a good idea to bring a mobile phone, but be aware that the signal can be weak or non-existent in certain areas on the hills, so you cannot rely on it solely as a navigation device or make calls.
Consider bringing a waterproof carrying case for your phone and a portable charger for extra battery life to ensure it stays safe and dry.
Is it an emergency?
The Lake District Search & Mountain Rescue Association clearly states that you should not call emergency services at the first sign of trouble. They encourage you to be as self-reliant as possible and outline the considerations you should make before calling emergency services on their website.
First aid kit
A must-have in any hiker's backpack for any cuts, grazes and bumps you might sustain on your hike. Make sure you pack some paracetamol (or similar) too. First aid kits, like the one below, are generally compact and don't require too much space.
LEWIS-PLAST Premium First Aid Kit
- Comprehensive 90-Piece Set: This first aid kit is equipped with 90 essential items, ensuring readiness for various accident scenarios, whether minor or more severe
- Versatile Content Range: The diverse contents include bandages, plasters, antiseptics, and tools, making it suitable for treating a wide array of injuries and emergencies
- Organized and Durable Bag: Comes in a compact, durable bag with multiple compartments, allowing for organized storage and quick access to all items
Storm tent
Weather conditions on Scafell Pike can change rapidly and unexpectedly, and a storm tent can provide shelter from high winds and heavy rain.
Bestselling storm tents on Amazon
Correct as of 2024-04-05 at 04:31 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. We might receive a small commission for any purchases through links on this page, with no extra cost to you.
Outerwear
Good quality, comfortable clothing and footwear will significantly increase your enjoyment of climbing Scafell Pike and contribute a great deal to making the challenge easier. Here's a list of hiking equipment that you should consider:
- Comfort – don’t wear anything which can rub or chafe. Avoid wearing jeans which are 1) terrible for chafing and 2) become heavy and cling to skin if they get wet, which can quickly lead to hypothermia).
- Temperature Regulation – even if you set off in t-shirt weather, there could easily be a bitter wind-chill at the summit. Several thin layers are, therefore, always the best option, wearing one or two layers initially (depending on weather and time of year) and with a spare layer in your rucksack.
- Weather Protection – two of your biggest enemies are wind-chill and rain. So good quality, breathable waterproof jacket and trousers are a must. In fine weather with a good forecast, take lightweight waterproofs which can be packed in your rucksack without taking up too much space.
Hiking outerwear checklist
- Waterproof, breathable jacket
Protecting you from the elements while allowing sweat to escape helps keep you comfortable. - Waterproof, breathable walking trousers
Similar to the jacket, these trousers will keep you dry while still allowing sweat to escape. For extra comfort, buy trousers with some stretch. - Fleece or down jacket
These layers will help keep you warm when temperatures drop, especially if you are stopping for a break or if the weather changes. - Wicking base layer
This type of clothing is made from moisture-wicking fabric, which helps keep sweat away from your skin and dries quickly. This helps prevent chafing and keeps you comfortable. - Sun hat or baseball cap
This will protect your face and head from the sun and prevent sunburn. - Sunglasses or ski goggles
These will protect your eyes from the sun, wind, and glare, which can cause eye strain and headaches. - Warm hat or beanie
This will keep your head and ears warm when temperatures drop. - Gloves or mittens
These will keep your hands warm when temperatures drop and also protect your hands from blisters caused by gripping hiking poles. - Hiking socks
These should be comfortable and breathable to keep your feet dry and avoid blisters. Good quality socks are essential and are worth paying a little extra for. - Hiking Boots
The summit of Scafell Pike is very rough terrain, a mass of boulders and crevices where, with the wrong footwear, a twisted ankle is a real threat, so good quality walking boots are essential, even in perfect sunny weather. When choosing walking boots, the key points to consider are:- General comfort – when trying new walking boots, walk around in them enough to be sure no part of the boot rubs or pinches. Even the slightest discomfort on flat ground will be magnified many times after ten miles in the hills!
- Ankle Support – the boot needs to be high enough to cover most, if not all, of the ankle joint. This will provide the protection needed to avoid a painful twist if you accidentally misplace your footing.
- Sturdy Sole – the sole of the boot needs to be thick enough that you can’t feel small rocks and so on as you walk over them, and it’s also vital that the sole has an excellent rugged grip.
For these reasons, although you can certainly buy walking boots online, it is strongly recommended that you visit a specialist shop with trained staff who can assist and advise you.
Bestselling hiking boots on Amazon
Correct as of 2024-04-05 at 04:31 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. We might receive a small commission for any purchases through links on this page, with no extra cost to you.
Correct as of 2024-04-05 at 04:31 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. We might receive a small commission for any purchases through links on this page, with no extra cost to you.
Correct as of 2024-04-04 at 01:13 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. We might receive a small commission for any purchases through links on this page, with no extra cost to you.
Correct as of 2024-04-05 at 07:52 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. We might receive a small commission for any purchases through links on this page, with no extra cost to you.
Recommended hiking/outdoor retailers
Here is a short list of reputable outdoor and hiking retailers here in the UK. Please note that as an affiliate, we may earn a commission for purchases made through the links in this section.
Craghoppers is a brand that understands the importance of quality, durability and reliability in outdoor clothing. They are dedicated to creating products that not only perform well but also have a positive impact on the environment. Craghoppers is an excellent choice for anyone planning to hike Scafell Pike and looking for reliable and sustainable gear.
Cotswold Outdoor is a premier outdoor clothing retailer that prides itself on offering expert customer support from a team with an authentic outdoor experience. They also have a great range of top outdoor clothing brands, ensuring you can find the perfect gear for your next outdoor adventure. From performance apparel to technical footwear, they have everything you need to tackle Scafell Pike confidently.