Essential kit & useful items

Maps – A map of the West Highland Way is a must, either a separate one or part of the many excellent guide books available. A number of the maps available display the route in multiple images on a single sheet.

Waste bags – Many of the stopping points along the way have toilets and bins, but you must be prepared to bag up any rubbish and carry it with you until you find an appropriate bin or recycling point to dispose of it, so bags for your litter are a must – preferably biodegradable! Please do NOT use residents’ bins to dispose of waste – restrictions may apply on collection and recycling which causes additional issues for the household.

Trowel – Similarly, when it comes to your own waste, if you’re not near a toilet you’re going to have to bury your poo. Therefore a small trowel is essential. For more information on doing the necessary in the countryside, check out the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Refillable Water Bottle – A water bottle with enough water to take you to your next stop. There are also free refill points along the Way.

Provisions – Always carry:

• a whistle to summon assistance in case of accidents
• a torch (preferably a head-torch) with spare bulb and batteries
• emergency food (high energy snacks such as chocolate, dried fruit, energy bars etc.)
• a pen-knife or multi-tool
• a watch with an alarm

Other useful items:

A pair of hiking poles can do a lot to ease the strain on your knees as well as helping keep your balance. You may also want sunglasses in summer or snowy conditions and binoculars for spotting wildlife along the Way.

A roll of gaffa tape can be a useful addition for emergency repairs on boots, sleeping bags, tents, ruck sacks etc.

First Aid Kit – Hopefully you’ll never need it, but it is better to be prepared and a well-stocked but small First Aid Kit will help keep you safe on your journey (if you are using a bag carrying service, make sure your first aid kit is in your day pack). Important items for your kit are listed below, please always check with  your doctor before taking any medication:

• aspirin/paracetamol
• antihistamines for stings and bites
• blister pads
• good quality plasters or band aids
• a bandage
• elastic knee/ankle support
• sterile dressings for cuts and wounds
• antiseptic cream and wipes
• adhesive tape
• safety pins
• scissors
• tweezers / tick removal tool

Scotland is famous for its midges during the summer months and they can be extremely irritating. Carrying midge repellent/midge net is advisable.

Lastly don’t forget to bring sun cream for those days under blue skies.

Rucksacks 

• Depending on how you decide to walk the Way, will depend on how you carry your kit and how big a rucksack you’ll need. Whatever size of bag, ensure it has a waterproof cover or liner bag to prevent your kit getting wet. The following guide should give you an indication of what you’ll need.
• Camping – You will need a rucksack large enough to accommodate your tent, sleeping bag, cooking utensils and food as well as your changes of clothing. The recommended capacity of rucksack is 65 – 75 litres.
• Bunkhouses or Hostels – You may wish to carry a sleeping bag and cooking stove, although these facilities are normally available at most premises. A rucksack of around 40 – 60 litres should suffice.
• Serviced Accommodation – If you make use of the many serviced accommodation providers along the route you will only need to carry key items such as, clothing, toiletries, first aid kit, maps, compass etc. For this, a rucksack of around 30 – 40 litres should accommodate your needs.
• If you’re not carrying a tent or sleeping bag, consider carrying an emergency bivi-bag or survival blanket.