National Three Peaks Challenge Packing List

The National Three Peaks challenge is the attempt to climb the three highest peaks across the United Kingdom. These include Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scaffell Pyke in England and Snowdon in Wales. Three beautiful and at times tough climbs, not made any easier by the pressure of a time trial. Yes, to successfully complete this trial you have just 24 hours. That means you have to climb both up and down each peak, only to jump into a car and drive straight to the next one. It’s a tough challenge but one anybody can do, so to help I have made this National Three Peaks Challenge Packing List. If you want to learn more about the challenge check out my post linked below.

Obviously for safety reasons one item that’s essential but not included in the list below is a driver. Driving whilst exhausted is one of the most dangerous things you can do. And if you take part in the National Three Peaks Challenge you’ll certainly be doing a lot of it. At any given time you will either be walking or driving. Safest way is to either join an organised tour that will arrange a driver for you, or rope a friend along who has no intention of participating. That way they can sleep nearby whilst you climb, and you can sleep in the car between hikes. You can find tours using the link below on the Official Three Peaks Challenge website.

I would also never advise doing the challenge alone. Hiking alone (especially when inexperienced) can be dangerous. If you don’t have a friend willing to tag along then join an organised tour and you will no doubt make them. But tackling the challenge in groups isn’t just for safety. At times the hike can be long and arduous. Not to sound like a children’s TV show but friends can help keep you motivated and give you that final push you need. I’ve also found snacks help, a chocolate digestive at the peak or the odd Haribo here and there works wonders.

For those who are interested in taking on the National three peaks challenge themselves I have included a complete list of what I will be bringing below and I will update it as it gets closer to include the makes and models of the gear too. For those who need help remembering in the store (or staying focused on what they actually need instead of what they just want like I need to sometimes), I have made a downloaded PDF checklist you can take away with you without any makes or models on there. If you need any help preparing yourself feel free to reach out to me using the Contact Me page.

Rucksacks and Bag

• Daypack 30-40L – Osprey Stratos 34
• Waterproof Liner or Backpack raincover

Footwear

• Walking boots with ankle protection – Salomon Quest 3 4DX
• Hiking socks – Bridgedale

Clothing

• Waterproof Jacket (Gore-tex recommended) – Montane Atomic
• Waterproof Overtrousers (Gore-tex recommended)
• Lightweight Fleece
• Wicking T-Shirt (no cotton)
• Hat
• Gloves (preferably waterproof)
• Trekking trousers (no jeans or joggers)
• Hat
• Trekking Trousers – Craghoppers Kiwi Pro II Convertible Trousers

Trekking Equipment

• Water Bladder – Osprey
• High energy snacks
• Dry bag
• LED Torch
• First aid kit
• Sunglasses*
• Walking Poles* – Craghoppers Pro Lite
• Camera*