(Download copy of the CUL trek Kit List)

The items listed below are purely recommendations. The list has been designed by the local Ground Handler however please take into account your personal preferences and common sense.  We are open to further recommendations upon your return. See what you can borrow, before you purchase any items, For UK residents remember that you can get a 10% discount on equipment from Nomad Travel Stores (call 020 8889 7014, or visit www.nomadtravel.co.uk & quote CC1002).  Nomad Travellers Stores will also put together a first aid kit specifically for your expeditions. If you would prefer to hire kit, please contact Trek Hire (01732 865858 or visit www.trekhireuk.com ).

Try to use your equipment before you go – particularly your rucksack, boots and sleeping bag – this will show up any manufacturing faults and whether they are comfortable enough. Good footwear and care of the feet is most important. Well broken-in walking boots should be worn. Trainers are too flimsy for wilderness treks. Sandals leave the feet exposed to sunburn, abrasions, thorns, insect and animal bites. Desert or Gortex boots are satisfactory.

Bring as little as possible but bring everything you need. Travelling light is much less of a hassle, so do not bring things you can do without. If you need to wear jewellery, keep it simple and inexpensive. The general rule is that if you don’t need it, don’t bring it.  Always keep your night clothes in a watertight bag to ensure they stay dry if there is a sudden downpour or if you are crossing water – you will have a much better night’s sleep in dry clothing. Bring clothes that wash and dry easily (jeans take forever to dry).

Your main bag should not weigh more than 15kg and you may be charged for excess luggage on internal flights or when entering National Parks also the porters have to carry and transport it. Your hand luggage should not exceed 5kg and maximum dimensions of 55x35x25cms. Please make sure you pack your rucksack/kit bag yourself, and do NOT under any circumstances take any items through customs that are not yours or that you have been asked to deliver for someone else. If possible, lock your bags before you check them through at the check-in desk. When packing, think carefully about what you are packing in your hold luggage as, once you have handed it over at check-in, you will not see it again until you arrive at the other end.

Don’t pack things you will need again before or during the flight – such as medicine - and make sure you have an adequate supply. Keep extra cash, passports and house keys in your hand luggage. Also, if taking a long flight, it is sometimes a good idea to take toiletries such as toothbrush to freshen up on the long journey. Don’t pack valuables, cash, fragile or perishable items in your hold luggage. Airlines and insurance companies will not accept liability for them.  When leaving home, we recommend that you wear your trekking boots and trekking gear, and take as much as possible in your hand luggage. This is to ensure that in the unlikely situation that your bags do not arrive at your final destination, you are still able to make a start on the expedition while we relocate any missing baggage.