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.
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:
Hiking backpacks to consider
Berghaus 24/7 20L Hiking Rucksack
Trespass Waterproof Albus Unisex Outdoor Backpack
- Adjustable Backpack: The Trespass Backpack offers an adjustable design, allowing users to customise the fit according to their comfort and needs. This feature ensures that the backpack can be easily adapted to different body types and preferences, providing a snug and secure fit for both men and women. The adjustable straps are designed to distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on the shoulders and back, making it ideal for long journeys or daily commutes.
- Multi-Function: This backpack is designed with versatility in mind, making it suitable for a wide range of activities. Whether you're using it as a travel bag, a skiing bag, or a daily commuter bag, the Trespass Backpack can handle it all. Its multi-functionality is enhanced by its durable materials and thoughtful design, ensuring it can withstand various weather conditions and environments, making it a reliable companion for any adventure.
- 3 Zip Pockets: The Trespass Backpack features three zip pockets, providing ample storage space for all your essentials. These pockets are strategically placed for easy access, allowing you to organise your belongings efficiently. Whether you need to store your phone, wallet, or travel documents, these zip pockets ensure that your items are secure and within reach, making your travels more convenient and stress-free.
MOUNTAINTOP Hiking Backpack 80L Waterproof Mountaineering Backpack
- 【Large Capacity】The dimension of this hiking backpack is 27.5 x 13 x 9.4 inches (80 x 33 x 24 cm), and the capacity is 80 liters. This large-capacity camping backpack is made of nylon fabric with YKK zippers, and it comes with a rain cover.
- 【Carrying System】The ergonomic hip belt, shoulder straps and back are comfortably padded. Carrying system is adjustable for back length (S,M,L). The padded back panel fits snugly on the back, which results in better control of the hiking backpack thanks to the shifted center of gravity.
- 【Special Design】The 80L travel backpack has zippered openings on the side that provide access to the interior middle of the bag. It has a large internal capacity and a special compartment for shoes or sleeping bags at the bottom to meet your outing needs and is very durable.
Mountain Warehouse Carrion 80L Rucksack – Soft Travel Backpack, Breathable Daypack
- Padded Airmesh Back - Soft & breathable, the padded airmesh is raised and contoured to provide comfort
- Ladder Lock - Easily adjust where the straps sit to fit your height for maximum support
- Chest & hip straps - Provide comfort and help to distribute the weight of the bag
Osprey Hikelite 32L Hiking Rucksack – Raven Black
- 32-litre day-walking rucksack with room for waterproofs, warm layers, food and water.
- AirSpeed tensioned mesh back panel and adjustable torso fit.
- Padded hip belt with pockets, plus side pockets and trekking-pole attachments.
- Rain cover included, stored in the base of the pack.
Discovery Rucksack by Highlander – Lightweight Hiking Backpack with Waterproof Cover – Ideal for Walking, Travelling, Trekking, Camping
- 🦾【Hardwearing, Lightweight & Water Resistant】- : 210D Hex Ripstop Fabric offers very effective durability and versatility whether you are Trekking through Europe or on the Hills for your Duke of Edinburgh DOE
- ☁️【Your Comfort In Mind】- A padded Air-mesh back system, adjustable chest and padded hip belt all help offer great levels of comfort and support for the size and value of bag
- ✨【All The Space You Need】- A generous main compartment and twin bellow side pockets give all the space you need to have a great festival, camping trip, hike or holiday! Plus with lid mounted straps you have that extra loading space for those last minute little things you need to take.
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
- Budget hiking compass with essential features: sturdy base plate, magnifier, and easy-rotate bezel with full instructions for first-time compass users
- Enhanced safety features for all terrain navigation: lanyard with break-off safety mechanism and luminous markings for night-time navigation or low-visibility weather conditions
- Durable construction for extreme conditions: operates in temperatures ranging from -40C to +60C, designed for easy use by men and women in challenging environments
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.
Torches to consider
REHKITTZ LED Rechargeable Torch
- [HIGH BRIGHTNESS]The S2600 torch is equipped with P50,led torch's brightness is extremely high, the LED lighting distance is about 500 meters and the brightness is 2000 Lumens.The ultra-wide beam of the flashlight illuminates the entire room or backyard effortlessly.The brightness of the rechargeable torch beam is 20 times brighter than the traditional light bulbs, has a robust structure and a dazzling brightness.
- [HIGH DURABILITY] The rechargeable torch uses an advanced energy-saving constant current circuit, so the torch uses less power, and the LED can be used for 50,000 hours. On Ultra Low Mode, the small torch can run for up to 24 hours. By using a super strong aluminum alloy, the housing is robust and has excellent shock resistance. The mini torch is suitable for everyday use and can meet demanding tasks.
- [MULTIFUNCTION]The torch is equipped with a retractable focusing lens, you can adjust the lighting area. This LED flashlight has 4 modes (High / Low / Strobe / COB sidelight modes).Each mode allows you to turn off the power by pressing and holding the button for 1 second. Torch light has a COB (on-board chip) with high heat output is installed to illuminate the area with a uniform surface emission (daylight color).Magnet can connect the flash light to most metal surfaces.
OLIGHT Baton 4 Premium rechargeable torch with charging case, black
Lepro LE LED handheld battery torch, black
Lepro USB-C rechargeable head torch, black, two-pack
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.
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.
Do I need boots, or can I wear trail shoes?
Wasdale Mountain Rescue recommends good quality mountain boots for Scafell Pike. That is our recommendation too, particularly if you are new to walking on rough mountain ground. Sunny weather does not change the rocky terrain.
Low walking shoes and trail-running shoes are different options. Low walking shoes have a lower ankle cuff; trail-running shoes favour low weight and can offer less warmth when wet and less sole stiffness. The BMC explains these footwear choices and their limits. This does not mean every trail shoe is suitable for every Scafell Pike walker.
Choose for your whole return route, including rocky sections and the descent, the expected wet or cold conditions, and your experience using that footwear on similar ground. If you are unsure, describe your route and experience to a specialist outdoor shop or a qualified walking guide. This advice concerns snow-free walking; snow and ice require winter equipment and skills.
Whatever you choose, check:
- Fit and comfort - try footwear with your walking socks. It should not rub or pinch, and your toes need room on descents. Test new footwear on shorter walks before a long mountain day.
- Grip and sole - choose soles suited to rock, grass and mud, with enough stiffness and underfoot protection for the ground you will cross.
- Ankle fit - a boot cuff should fit comfortably. Do not rely on ankle height alone: fit, grip and careful footing matter.
Footwear sources checked on . This is an editorial source check, not an individual footwear assessment or a qualified mountain guide review.
Walking boots and shoes to consider
XPETI Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boots
- Shaft measures approximately 8" from arch.
- WATERPROOF: The boots are made from waterproof mesh upper and Membrane waterproof.Moisture-wicking mesh lining. Keeps your feet dry and warm during walks through mud and snow.
- TRACTION: Super aggressive grip rubber outsole with 7mm multi-directional lugs provides higher-traction grip while hiking.You will find it very aggressive,perfectly grab the rocks and give good traction. Integrated inserted EVA Midsole, Light weight and Sturdy enough even when carrying weight.
Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Merrell Men’s Moab 3 GTX Waterproof Hiking Shoes
Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
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.