You don’t need to spend a fortune to take on the National 3 Peaks, but you do need the right gear. The wrong kit will ruin your challenge faster than steep steps or Scottish weather. This list is based on what genuinely works on the hill, not what shops try to sell you.
Everything below is essential, and if something says “waterproof”, it means properly waterproof, not “keeps you dry for six minutes on a sunny dog walk”.
Footwear
Walking boots (broken in)
- Waterproof, with ankle support
- Ideally not trail shoes or trainers
- Make sure you can walk 6–8 hours in them comfortably before the challenge
Walking socks (at least three pairs)
- Wool or technical fabric
- Avoid cotton — it holds water and causes blisters
Optional but useful
- Gaiters if it’s very wet or snowy
- Blister plasters — even good boots can rub after hours on your feet
Waterproofs
Waterproof jacket
- Hood, sealed seams, breathable (e.g., Gore-Tex or similar)
- A soft-shell won’t cut it if the weather turns bad
Waterproof trousers
- Easy to get on over boots
- No “showerproof” walking trousers — they won’t hold up in real conditions
If you wouldn’t comfortably stand outside in a heavy downpour for 30 minutes wearing it, don’t bring it.
Clothing
Layering works best. You’ll get warm on the climbs and cold when resting.
- Base layer (synthetic or merino wool, not cotton)
- Mid-layer fleece or soft-shell
- Spare warm layer for stops or poor weather
- Walking trousers (not jeans, not leggings that soak up rain)
- Hat and gloves (yes, even in summer — it can be cold on the summits)
- Spare gloves if it’s forecast to be wet
Avoid big bulky coats — you’ll overheat on the ascent and freeze when you stop because you’re damp underneath.
Backpack
30–35 litre rucksack
- Big enough for spare clothes, food, and water
- Comfortable hip belt
- Waterproof cover or dry bags inside
Test it on a long training walk. If it digs into your shoulders after two hours, it’ll be unbearable after six.
Food & Hydration
- Water (minimum 1 litre, ideally 1.5–2 litres depending on your needs)
- High-energy snacks you actually enjoy eating when tired: flapjacks, trail mix, sandwiches, bananas, cold pizza if that’s your thing
- Avoid only bringing protein bars — nobody wants one at 3 a.m. on Scafell Pike
Bring food you’ve trained with. Don’t experiment during the challenge.
Headtorch
You’ll likely need it for Scafell Pike or Snowdon.
- Minimum 150 lumens
- Fresh batteries or fully charged
- A torch on your phone is not enough — you need both hands free on rocky terrain
Other Essentials
- Map and compass (your guides will have them, but it’s good practice)
- Personal medication
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Small first-aid items: blister pads, tape, pain relief if you use it
- Dry bags or zip-lock bags to keep spare clothes dry
What NOT to Bring
- Jeans
- Heavy cotton hoodies
- Umbrellas
- Brand new boots
- Tiny running rucksacks
- Massive expedition packs
Anything that takes hours to dry or soaks up water will make your day harder than it needs to be.
Printable Kit List Download
Download: National 3 Peaks Kit List (PDF)
We’ll format it to match the wording above for consistency.
Ready for the challenge?
If you want a properly guided 3 Peaks experience with support, sensible pacing, and good decision-making on the hill, you can learn more here:
National 3 Peaks Challenge with Advocate Events
