Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Preparing for Outdoor Adventures at La Garenne
Outdoor activities and overnight expeditions take place every term across all year groups at La Garenne. Bringing the correct kit is an important part of staying safe and comfortable, while ensuring students are properly prepared for the experience ahead.
Choosing the Right Kit for the Season
The equipment required will vary depending on the expedition and the season. The clothing and gear needed for autumn and spring activities can be very different from those required in winter. Items marked with an asterisk (*) below are specifically required for winter expeditions.
Headgear
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Helmet*
- Goggles*
- Neck warmer*
- Warm hat*
Clothing
Choose quick-drying materials such as synthetic fabrics or merino wool and avoid cotton.
- T-shirt
- Fleece
- Shorts
- Hiking trousers
- Waterproof trousers
- Change of clothes for the evening (jogging bottoms, sweatshirts and spare socks)
- Pyjamas
- Underwear
- Swimming costume
- Down jacket (provided by the school)
- Waterproof jacket (provided by the school)
- Thermal top*
- Thermal bottoms*
- Gloves*
- Back protection*
Footwear
- Hiking boots with high ankle support
- Hiking socks
- Sandals / flip-flops / crocs for the campsite or mountain hut.
- Ski socks*
- Snowboots*
Gear
- Water bottle
- Expedition backpack (provided by school)
- Technical equipment (provided by school)
Personal items
- Basic toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Towel
- Sunscreen
- Hand sanitiser
Top Tips for a Successful Expedition
- Pack light. Take only the required items and avoid bringing unnecessary kit — remember, you will have to carry your backpack!
- Break in new hiking boots before wearing them on an expedition or hiking trip.
- Use the layering system to regulate your temperature and stay dry as the weather and your activity levels change. Rather than relying on one thick jacket, wear several thinner layers, each with a specific purpose:
- Base layer = next to the skin
- Mid layer = insulation
- Outer layer = protective shell
- Act when you need to. Take a moment to do what is necessary, even when it feels inconvenient. This might mean stopping during a hike to take your warm hat and fleece out of your backpack, or leaving the tent at night to use the toilet even when it is raining.
Being Prepared Matters More Than Having the Latest Gear
Expedition kit is not about having the most expensive or fashionable equipment. It is about being well organised, choosing the right gear for the conditions and approaching each experience with a positive and adaptable mindset.
Key Takeaways
- Outdoor activities at La Garenne require proper and season-specific kit to ensure safety and comfort.
- Students need headgear, clothing, footwear, gear, and personal items tailored for seasonal expeditions.
- Top tips include packing light, breaking in new hiking boots, using a layering system, and being proactive in adjusting gear as needed.
- Being prepared is more important than having the latest gear; organization and the right mindset matter most.
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