I'm very new to the outdoor industry. Having been a secondary school teacher for 21 years, I only recently took the jump to move into this line of work. That's not to say I'm new to the outdoors.
As a child, I was always outside. My parents weren't the type that wrapped me in cotton wool. This allowed me to have small 'adventures' close to home and my love for this drove my desire to be outside, enjoying what nature has to offer. A feeling that has never dwindled.
Throughout my teaching career, I was involved in supporting and leading the DofE awards in schools. This allowed me to share my enjoyment with others and, when the opportunity came to move into the industry full time, I grabbed it and here I am.
This is always a tricky one to answer. However, the one experience that springs to mind every time I think on this question is a time a few years ago on Suilven in Assynt, Scotland.
On an early evening climb in the summer, I reached the narrow col between the 2 summits and poked my head over (yes, it's that narrow!). What I saw in front of me actually made me audibly gasp. The start of sunset and the watery landscape below, stretching to the horizon.
A sight I cannot forget.
That's easy. A gilet.
I always get really hot when walking and a jacket is usually too much. A decent gilet fits the bill perfectly!
Plus, it can be a pillow if needed.
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Camping doesn't have to be an ordeal. It can be an incredible experience that gives you the chance to strip back to basics, appreciate the outdoors by getting closer to nature and get a healthy dose of fresh air. The trick is to know how to make it comfortable! Here are a handful of our favourite ways to make camping comfortable ready for your next expedition...
The camping element to the DofE journey attracts a great deal of discussion, often some nerves, and always involves significant planning. It can mean the difference between 'surviving or thriving' when it comes to your camping experience. Keeping your camp admin tight and having plan A and B in your back pocket places you in a strong position to be able to react quickly when circumstances change. Pre-emptive thoughts and planning are never wasted and researching during the lead up to your DofE expedition is a great way to enhance your experience. Check out this blog to get some tips on how to approach your camp admin ahead of your expedition.