The big hike

[Pieman68]

I've signed up to climb Ben Nevis as part of a charity team on October first and was wondering if anybody has any advice on training and equipment (we will be splitting into smaller teams with a guide)

So far I have boots, walking trousers, softshell jacket and a waterproof, rucksack, compass, survival bag, head torch, swiss army knife

I have gaiters, spare laces, first aid kit and socks on the way

Can I put a bladder in a standard rucksack or do they have to be a hydration pack? I'm looking at getting some walking poles as well

Blister plasters, water purification tabs are other ideas

Anything else I should consider?

The idea for training is just to walk. Bit of core stuff in the gym but other than that over the summer plan on doing Snowdon, Three peaks, Helvellyn and a few others as well

Anybody done it have any advice?

[Harpoon]

If the rucksack doesn't have a hole / route for a hydration bladder hose, you could just figure out how to route the hose out the lid. Still better than having to keep fishing a water bottle out of a pocket for a drink.

Sounds like you're reasonably well equipped already. I've only been up Ben Nevis once. That was in June and the weather was average - you could just follow the constant stream of other people going up / down. You can get warm going up the Zig Zags, but quickly cool on the summit - dig out your jacket whilst you take the obligatory photos and have some food.

{Edit to add}

Is it just Ben Nevis you are doing as a straight up/down? If so, I don't think you'll need water purification tabs - it's only 15km. A two to three litre bladder, some snacks, maybe a sandwich and a flask for a hot drink at the top.

When I did it was with people from work as the start of the full Three Peaks. We had some slow walkers with us and it took 7:20 total (5 hours 20 minutes moving)

Edited by Harpoon on Thursday 27th January 15:42

[Pieman68]

Harpoon said:

If the rucksack doesn't have a hole / route for a hydration bladder hose, you could just figure out how to route the hose out the lid. Still better than having to keep fishing a water bottle out of a pocket for a drink.

Sounds like you're reasonably well equipped already. I've only been up Ben Nevis once. That was in June and the weather was average - you could just follow the constant stream of other people going up / down. You can get warm going up the Zig Zags, but quickly cool on the summit - dig out your jacket whilst you take the obligatory photos and have some food.

Thanks for that. I'm trying to make sure I don't up a burden on any of the amazing MR guys. I did quite lot of hiking when younger but not for a while

I have the Premier Inn booked for the Friday and Saturday night so I get plenty of rest either side. Just toying with getting the train rather than a 6.5 hour drive each way as cost would probably end up similar

[Gargamel]

Its a well marked road these days. First section coming down can be tricky for the inexperienced walker. Other than that - sounds like you have most things.

Best training is going walking. Time on your feet/legs and wearing in your socks/boots/feet is the way.

Robust trainers are fine for the Ben these days

[R1gtr]

You won't need to cart lots of stuff, the Ben is a path all the way so you won't need gaiters for it but they are great to have for other walks.
As mentioned 2-3 litres of water will be fine, I tend to go 2 litres of water and a bottle of Coke or flask of Hot Chocolate as a treat. Even on a nice day the winds can be cold on top of a hill so a hot drink will be welcome as you hopefully take in the views.

Walking poles are handy, especially coming down they help the knees and can make things faster.

Best advice is make sure you are happy with your boots and socks combo, merino socks have never let me down. I always carry compeed though and if you do get a blister or feel a pressure point get one slapped on.
Extra layer for the torso at the top and a hat and gloves plus a nice packed lunch.

An energy gel or a mars bar for a quick pick me up if you are flagging is a good idea.

Hope the weather is kind to you and you get a clear day.

[FunkyNige]

What rucksack do you have? Even some cheap ones have a pouch at the back you can slide a bladder into.

[Pieman68]

FunkyNige said:

What rucksack do you have? Even some cheap ones have a pouch at the back you can slide a bladder into.

45L Trespass one

https://www.trespass.com/inverary-45-litre-rucksac...

I suppose I could always route it through the headphones hole. There is an elasticated pouch that sits against my back on the interior of the bag so could probably sit it in there

[oddman]

When I was ten I went up with my mum, dad, 8 year old brother and grandma, (70+)

Weather was a bit bad for July and didn't see much.

grandma made meat paste and egg sandwiches.

You'll be fine