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Despite its population of more than sixty million, the UK benefits from some of the most spectacular wilderness areas in Western Europe. Dartmoor and Exmoor in the west of the country, Snowdonia National Park in Wales, the Highlands of Scotland, just a few of the many natural highlights the UK has to offer.

The country`s climate and terrain mean it is also a challenging place for outdoor pursuits. A waterproof backpack, good quality tent and 3-4 season bag, waterproofs, breathable cold weather gear and a comprehensive first-aid kit are all essential.

As ever a good place to start is with your backpack, with perhaps the most fundamental choice being the size of pack to take. All but the shortest excursions will benefit from a 55+ litre backpack. This allows space for a thicker sleeping bag and warm clothes, but also for food and cooking supplies. For longer trips – or family camping trips – many find 75/85 litre packs to be desirable, and Gelert is a popular choice in this instance. It`s important to ensure your pack is water tight! Don`t forget to budget for a backpack liner, as this will prove priceless in the gloriously unpredictable British climate.

The variety of tents available can be bewildering, from family tents such as the new Royal 2008, to the opposite end of the spectrum, the Superlite Voyager, a trekking tent for those on a tight weight limit. On a relaxing holiday it may be worth the few extra grams to ensure you are as comfortable as possible in your new bedroom. In the UK – particularly outside the summer months – a warm sleeping bag is the key to a positive camping experience. A 3/4 season bag will be required, except in summer when a 2/3 season may suffice.

Your choice of clothing and footwear will be very important in the UK climate. Layered, breathable fabrics offer the best of both worlds, and ensure heat loss is kept to a minimum. Waterproof boots are important and, where possible, these should be a reasonably lightweight option. Consideration should also be given to maps well in advance of any excursion. Whilst they may be available locally, you should not depend on it. Equally important, even in these times of satellite-aided navigation, is a compass.

Finally, but crucially for any expedition, you will need a good quality camping knife. Whether for whittling twigs, chopping vegetables, or foraging for wild food, a good knife can become your friend and companion for years to come.

The most important survival tools at your disposal are warmth and shelter. It`s essential to take the time to find out which tents and equipment would best fulfil your needs. Keep warm and dry with layered clothing and waterproofs, light fires for heat, and shield yourself from the elements, then relax and enjoy the view!