The Festive Guide to Gearing Up for Your Expedition!

It is important to start thinking about your kit list early, and Christmas can be a great time to get help with finding things from friends and family. I’d advise you make a list of the items you don’t currently have before the festive period so you can split it into sections; what to borrow, what to specifically ask for, and what to get vouchers/gift cards for!

Remember you can always find the kit list for your expedition by heading to our resources page and selecting your country from the list: https://www.opwall.com/expedition-resources/ 

What to borrow?

Christmas is a time when many of us catch up with friends and family, making it the perfect opportunity to share news about your expedition. People often love to support however they can, so don’t forget to mention any kit you’re missing – you might find someone willing to lend it to you!

Of course, there are some items you won’t want to borrow, such as walking boots, as these need to fit you perfectly. However, many things on your kit list – like sleeping bags or roll mats – may only be used once unless you’re planning more big trips or regular camping weekends. Take a moment to think about which items you’re likely to use again in the future. If it’s something you won’t need often, it might be worth seeing if a friend or family member has one you can borrow.

Some pieces of kit are more of a long-term investment, so consider whether you’d prefer to have your own or are happy to borrow. A rucksack is a great example. While these items can be more expensive, choosing a reliable brand and good quality make means they’ll last for years. For instance, I bought my hiking backpack before my first big school trip abroad and I’m still using the same one 10 years later!

What to ask for?

For some items on your kit list, you might already know exactly what you want! Maybe there’s a bright blue sleeping bag made from eco-friendly recycled materials that you’ve had your eye on, or perhaps there’s a new camera you’ve been wanting for ages. These are perfect things to ask for directly, or to request money towards if they’re on the pricier side.

A camera can be a wonderful piece of kit to take on an expedition, especially if you’re hoping to brush up on your wildlife photography skills!  If you know the model you want, don’t be shy about mentioning it to friends or family who may be looking for gift ideas. Cameras can vary hugely in price, so even asking for contributions from multiple people can help you get exactly what you need without putting pressure on anyone.

Binoculars are another popular item that can really enhance your experience. A good pair of binoculars can make a big difference. They can also be expensive, so borrowing a pair from someone who doesn’t use them often can be a great option. However, if you’d prefer your own pair for future travels, they also make a brilliant gift to ask for.

Photo by Callum Evans

A head torch is one of those essential items that you may not think much about until you’re relying on it! If you don’t already have one, Christmas is an ideal time to ask for one as a gift, especially as there are many affordable options. A reliable head torch is something you’ll use on your expedition and likely again on future camping trips, evening hikes, or even during power cuts at home, so having your own can be a worthwhile investment.

Guidebooks are another fantastic thing to ask for, particularly if you love learning about where you’re going or enjoy planning ahead. They’re usually inexpensive, lightweight, and easy for someone to gift. Plus, they can help build your excitement before the expedition and serve as a great keepsake after you return.

And finally, a good-quality water bottle or hydration flask is something you’ll use far beyond your expedition. While it might seem like a small item, a durable, insulated, or eco-friendly bottle can be a really thoughtful gift. It’s also the kind of thing friends or family might be happy to buy if they’re looking for something practical and not too expensive!

Photo by Ethelbert Duca

What to get vouchers/gift cards for?

There will be some items on your kit list that you know you’ll need, but you might not be sure, yet which brand or size is best for you. This is where vouchers or gift cards are absolutely perfect. Stores like Go Outdoors, Decathlon, or Mountain Warehouse stock a wide range of brands and sizes, so asking for a voucher gives you the freedom to shop in-store in the New Year and try out different options for yourself.

This is an especially good idea for items like walking boots, which, if you don’t already own a pair, are likely to be essential on most expeditions. It’s always recommended to buy walking boots in person so you can try a variety of fits and take them for a test walk around the shop. On many of our expeditions you’ll be wearing your boots for long periods of time, so making sure they fit comfortably is crucial. Remember to buy your boots sooner rather than later so you have plenty of time to break them in before your trip.

If your expedition includes a visit to a marine site, you may also want to think about purchasing some entry-level snorkelling or diving gear. Although all core equipment is provided on-site (with the exception of wetsuits and dive booties at most locations, please check your kit list for details), there are certain items you might prefer to have your own version of, such as a mask. A mask is often the first piece of personal dive gear people choose to buy, and investing in one that fits your face comfortably is a great idea. It’s well worth visiting your local dive shop to try on a variety of styles and find the best fit. In this case, asking for a voucher or gift card for your nearest dive centre can be the perfect way to get started. Remember to check out our blog about buying dive equipment if you have any questions: https://www.opwall.com/article/all-the-gear-but-no-ideayet/.

Photo by Shearer Shez Viljoan

As you head into the festive season, remember that gearing up for your expedition doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With a bit of planning, and by making the most of the generosity, support, and gift-giving spirit of Christmas, you can gradually gather everything you need without the stress. Whether you’re borrowing kit, unwrapping something special on Christmas morning, or using vouchers to choose the perfect item in the New Year, each step brings you closer to the adventure ahead. So enjoy the process, get excited, and start looking forward to your amazing expedition!