Category: Hiking

6 Steps to Help Plan Your First Multi-Day Hike in Ireland

I took my first steps as a backpacker on the Wicklow Way. It was quite the learning curve and rather painful but interesting enough that I wanted to take another hike.

But why was it painful and what did I learn?

I had all the wrong gear and did very little research before my first couple of trips. That’s why my shoulders were ruined and my backpack was the size of a small car!

It’s true, I didn’t really enjoy my first few trips. I spent most of these hikes lamenting the weight of my backpack. Also, I was dealing with far too much uncertainty. This was the result of failing to research and plan my trip properly. As for “what did I learn”? I’d like to share some tips with you in terms of planning a multi-day hike in Ireland.

Here’s a quick overview of the points I will discuss:

– Narrowing Down Your Choice of Trail

– What to Consider About Your Intended Route

– Planning for Your Safety and Emergency

– What to Consider about Food and Water on the Trail

– What Gear to Pack for a Multi-Day Hike

– A Final Word about Wild Camping on the Trail

How to Plan Your First Multi-Day Hike in Ireland

1. Narrowing Down Your Choice of Trail

It’s important to know and think about the key parameters of your trip. The following questions should help give you an idea of what I’m talking about:

How many days can you afford?

Do you want to stay off the beaten path and camp all the way?

Are you wanting to hike between towns and stay at a bed & breakfast each night?

What’s your comfort level when it comes to wilderness or hiking in remote areas?

As you can imagine, no two trails are the same in Ireland. Some are rather remote, while others consist of some rather big climbs. Take the Bangor Trail in Mayo, for example, this trail passes through a large wilderness area.

If you live in Dublin, the Wicklow Way is an obvious choice and a great one too. For those in Cork, I’d take a look at Sheeps Head Way for a camping-only trip. The Kerry Way is another beautiful trail with lots of accommodation in between.

📷 @hiiker_

2. What to Consider About Your Intended Route

The Distance

You should know the precise distance between the starting point and endpoints of your hike. Ideally, you will also know the distance with which you are comfortable hiking every day and the amount of time/days you can afford to spend on the trail.

For instance, the Wicklow Way is 127km and many hikers take between five and seven days to complete this trail. This means you might need to hike 19km on average over seven days or 25km over five days, so good hiking boots are important. The length of each section is slightly different so you should never assume or only use averages as a guideline.

One of my great mistakes was to underestimate how much longer it takes to cover distances with a heavy backpack. Similarly, if you hike in the mountain or through boggy areas, you can expect to cover a lot less distance than a path-like trail. My general advice is to take as much time for your hike as possible. Otherwise, you might end up needing to rush in order to reach certain destinations or finish on time.

The Route

It’s worth taking a look at your maps every evening and knowing how many kilometres until the next camp/stop. But also take note of any water sources along the way and any significant climbs that lie ahead of you. While I try not to plan every last detail of my trips, it’s better to know this kind of information before setting out every morning. It saves you hours of guesswork and wasted time thinking about where you might stop or what time you’ll arrive.

3. Planning for Your Safety and Emergency

Tell Someone About Your Trip

Unfortunately, in the case of many fatal accidents and serious injuries, the hikers have failed to notify a friend or family member about their trip. It only takes a few seconds so make sure to drop someone a message. Ask them to check that you’ve “checked in” or returned safely from your hike.

First Aid Kit & Emergency Blanket

If you don’t want to buy a first aid kit, it’s easy to make one of your own. I also recommend packing an emergency/space blanket. Knowing that I have one of these in my backpack is something that brings me great peace of mind. You can use these blankets for extra insulation in very cold weather but also in times of emergency. I was grateful for my own emergency blanket one day when my sleeping bag slipped into a river. Without that blanket, I’m not sure what I would have done to keep warm that evening.

Paper Maps and Downloads for the Trail

There’s a number of apps that you can download to help with navigation on the trail. I recommend picking one but it’s also crucial to carry a paper map and compass. Just so you know, I recently wrote this post about how to use a map and compass.

Mark Down Exit Points on Your Map

Many of the waymarked trails in Ireland will take you to remote places in which you need to be careful. This means paying close attention to navigation, taking care with your footing, and keeping an eye on the weather. There’s always a possibility that you will need to get off the trail. This can happen due to injury, extreme weather or maybe even running out of food or water. Either way, it’s important to know at all times exactly where and when you can exit the trail.

Charging and Re-Charging Your Gear

I always make sure to charge my camera and phone in each town. However, you might not reach a town every day. Regardless, I believe the powerbank to be a necessity for hikers in case of emergency. My personal favourites are the 20,000amp powerbanks by either TP Link or Anker.

LifeVenture Thermal Blanket

4. What to Consider about Food and Water on the Trail

Planning for Water on the Trail

Dehydration is a common cause of illness and exhaustion on the trail. I always urge others not to use their water “sparingly” – unless necessary. In other words, you should try to carry sufficient water so that you can drink whenever you want. It’s also a risk to assume that you will find a water source on any given day or rely upon rivers, lakes, etc which might not be suitable for drinking. With this in mind, try to fill up your water bottles in towns Then make sure that you carry a water filter for stocking up on the trail. I’ve had giardiasis twice over the years – once on the Pacific Crest Trail and once on my walk around Ireland. It’s a sure way to end your trip but easily avoided if you invest in a decent water filter.

About Food Preparations on the Trail

I used to take far too much food on my backpacking trips. Although, it’s better to have too much as opposed to not enough. Needless to say, you’ll need breakfast, lunch, and dinner for each day and snacks for in between. If you are new to multi-day hiking, you’ll discover that snacks are not a luxury but rather a necessity. After all, these snacks account for the fuel your body will need to keep hiking every day!

While many hikers focus on the easiest meals to cook such as instant noodles, my own school of thought is that you should bring whatever food you enjoy the most. Now, that’s not to say you should bring frozen chips and onion rings. I’m just saying there’s no reason to suck the enjoyment out of your trip by sticking to instant noodles only. Instead, I recommend you get creative. Think about things like porridge with fresh fruit, bagels with cheese or tortillas with chili in the evening.

Here are some foods which I find work really good for long-distance hiking:

Bagels

Porridge

Biscuits

M&M’s

Fruit slice/cake or similar

Peanut butter

Denny veggie sausages

Cliff bars

Knorr pasta sides

It’s also worth remembering that you might want to eat in town or grab a takeaway some evenings. I love nothing more than grabbing a takeaway and heading for the hills to set up camp with my bag of chips, battered onion rings and curry sauce!

5. What Gear to Pack for a Multi-Day Hike

You need to think carefully about what gear to carry on a multi-day hike in Ireland. Weather conditions change very quickly and you should always have both warm gear and rain gear at the ready and a good pair of hiking boots. I wrote this article recently in which I outline my own packing list. 

Here’s a quick word on some of the most important items:

Backpack – Only consider a hiking-specific backpack. These backpacks are specially designed to carry heavy loads and offer a lot more comfort in terms of fit.

Tent – Strike a balance between size and weight. For a multi-day trip, I usually take my Vango Banshee Pro 200 because it’s reasonably light but also highly durable.

Jacket – Make sure to have a jacket with sufficient warmth and one that can withstand the harsh environment here in Ireland. A good rain jacket such as a Helly Hansen Jacket is ideal for wet conditions.

For more information on what to pack – click here.

Vango Banshee Pro 200

6. About Wild Camping on the Trail

You won’t have to think about this one if you plan on staying at hotels or B&B’s every night. I wrote a post recently about wild camping in Ireland which should help if you are new to camping. I don’t wish to create any fear here (I love wild camping). However, if you lack camping experience or you’re not yet comfortable with the prospect of wild camping, you might not enjoy your first multi-day hike. For this reason, I just wanted to encourage you to learn more about camping before you get out there. Maybe experiment by taking a quick overnight camping trip somewhere familiar before you start a multi-day trail.

And here’s a few encouraging things to keep in mind about wild camping:

– Wild camping is generally safe if you do research and take the right precautions.

– There are no real dangerous animals in Ireland.

– Axe murderers do not live in the mountains or forested areas.

– The absence of other campers creates solitude and this is a wonderful thing!

– Wild camping is free and will help you save money.

  • There’s nothing like falling asleep in the wild and waking up with nature.

Anyway, that’s all for now – See you on the trail!

10 Pieces of Budget Hiking Gear that You Will Actually Use

I spend a lot of time thinking about the most useful hiking gear that doesn’t weigh a tonne. It helps when this gear is affordable. But more importantly, I try to focus on buying gear that I will actually use. What’s worse than carrying a heavy backpack, knowing that you don’t even use half of the items in it?

I’d like to share some budget hiking gear ideas that I’ve picked up from other hikers and first-hand experience.

10 Pieces of Budget Hiking Gear that You Will Actually Use

1. Affordable Pair of Hiking Poles for Better Balance

I’d never tried using walking poles until my hike on the Pacific Crest Trail a few years ago. In short, I stopped incurring injuries when I began using poles and found them incredibly helpful going up and down. I believe most of my fellow hikers felt this same way. Once you use hiking poles, it’s likely that you’ll take them on future hikes. Now, I’m not referring to a short 5km day hike but rather a longer multi-day hike. It’s true, they provide balance and stability on uneven terrain but hiking poles also take so much weight off your body – especially the knees.

Many sets of hiking poles can fold up and pack away easily and the weight is reasonable. I know that a lot of hikers like to splash out on expensive poles, usually made of carbon. I’ve stuck with the more affordable options and they’ve always served me well.

Which ones? Rock + River has this nice folding walking pole.

Rock N River Folding Walking Pole

2. Lightweight Sit Mat for Comfortable Breaks

If you hike often, you’ll be familiar with this small but persistent dilemma that happens regularly – where to sit. It’s often wet or muddy in Ireland but mostly, outdoor terrain doesn’t really provide the kind of comfort you might hope for your rear end. I’ve tried sitting on my bag, folding my jacket and laying down a tarp – but it was always a hassle. I began using my foam sleeping mattress as a seat and this worked really well – until I stopped carrying one. A lightweight foam sit mat is a nice luxury without taking up space or getting in the way.

Rock N River Sit Mat

3. Soap Leaves for Hygiene on the Trail

Soap leaves are disposable and perfectly safe to use. This packaging is watertight and consists of fifty individual leaves. Each leaf has a fragrance and soap leaves are useful for international travel as they meet airport requirements. The ingredients are also more environmentally friendly than shower gels or shampoo, and the item is much lighter to carry. Either way, this is a nice small item that you can carry on a day hike. You can use it to wash your hands, feet or face in a freshwater river.

LifeVenture Soap Leaves

4. Mosquito Head-Net to Warn Off the Midges

My first wild camping adventure in Wicklow was almost my last due to the obscene number of midges. At that time, the only way to avoid these pests was to out-walk them or hide behind the mesh of my tent in the evening. It’s an awful thing to try cooking around midges or even just sitting down for a break. Some hikers swear by insect repellent but my mosquito head-net is the only item I find useful in this regard. You simply pull this netting down over your head/hat and midges are unable to land on every inch of your face which is the most frustrating thing about it. As for why else you should carry one? They weigh nothing and you won’t even notice this item in your backpack. In other words, there’s no reason not to carry one!

LifeSystems Mosquito Head Net

5. Backpack Cover to Rainproof Your Gear

I’m always amazed when I see people hiking in the rain without a backpack cover. Once again, this item packs down really small and doesn’t weigh very much. I keep mentioning weight in this article but as you know, weight is everything on the trail! More importantly, even if your backpack is water-resistant, a rain cover will provide a lot more protection during periods of heavy rain. An example of great backpacks are Trespass backpacks. You can also place this cover over your bag at camp or when stopped for a break. But make sure to choose the right size cover for your backpack. Sizing is very specific to ensure a decent fit for the bag.

Trespass Rucksack Raincover

6. Bum Bag instead of a Backpack

I carry a lot less gear on my trips nowadays which is why I recently downsized to a smaller backpack (Osprey Farpoint). However, even this backpack is a bit much for a day hike. A nice in-between option is to wear a bum bag. This can offer as much as 5 litres in terms of space which is quite a lot. Believe it or not, bum bags are all the rage in America. In recent years, hikers find these tiny bags a lot more practical than carrying a small backpack. After all, you can quickly access items without having to stop and take off a backpack. These bags are ultralight and Trespass’ Vasp 5 Bum bag is just 0.18kg and comes with a bottle, too!

Trespass Vasp 5 Bum Bag

7. Affordable Hydration Bladder for Hot Days and Convenience

I use my hydration bladder on every hike but it’s always in my backpack. Carrying these bladders also beats using disposable water bottles on every trip. A hydration bladder is made from very durable material and the wide opening makes it easy to fill. They roll up really small when they’re not being used and you can attach a tube for easy access while hiking. This last bit can be so useful when hiking on a hot day. It saves you from having to take out your water bottle every few minutes in order to stay hydrated. Finally, if you intend on filtering your water outdoors, a hydration bladder is a lot more practical to use.

Which one? Check out the Flexible Water Bottle by Platypus or this affordable 2L hydration bladder.

Platypus Flexible Water Bottle

8. Mac in a Sack Overtrousers for Rainy Days

I first bought Mac in a Sac when I lost my usual pair of waterproof trousers. I was sure the originals would show up and didn’t want to spend much on a temporary replacement. However, I’ve actually continued to carry these lightweight rainpants by choice. I like how they strike a balance between size and utility.

These trousers are compact and have an elasticated waistband that makes them easy to put on quickly. The seams are taped which maintains the waterproofing and my favourite thing about them? They feel light and breathable at all times. While the Mac in a Sac Overtrousers is not ideal for extreme weather, they are handy for a rainy day!

Target Dry Mac in a Sac Overtrousers

9. Safety and Emergency Items That are Too Light not to Carry

Thankfully, many emergency-type items are rather small. A first aid kit is a necessity that you should always carry on a multi-day hike. There is a different size for each occasion including this compact first aid kit. While a poncho might not be considered an emergency item, this ultralight piece of gear is a backup for a rain jacket. Also, I sometimes use a poncho to cover my backpack in extreme weather. It’s really just another case of the item being too small, lightweight and useful not to carry.

One more item that always finds a place in my backpack is an emergency blanket. This “space blanket” actually saved me one night when all of my gear got wet in a storm. I used one of these blankets to heat myself up and stay warm.

Rock N River Emergency Blanket

10. 1000 Mile Socks for Socks that Will Actually Last

I used up four pairs of 1000 Mile socks on my 3,000km walk around Ireland a couple of years ago. They would have lasted a bit longer, I’m sure. I was happy to replace them at the halfway point in order to have a “fresh pair of socks”. The point is, 1000 Mile socks are both durable and comfortable. They lived up to their lofty claims on the above-mentioned trip. With this in mind, these hiking socks offer amazing value to anyone that goes for regular hikes/walks – whether that be on a trail or not. You can also get two pairs as part of this Trail Sock Twin Pack by 1000 Mile.

1000 Mile Trail Sock Twin Pack

Beginners Guide to Navigation with a Map and Compass

Most people like to stick to familiar trails and areas. However, some basic navigational knowledge is necessary for longer hikes or trips off the beaten path. This navigation refers to both skills and tools but these are nothing overly complex or expensive.

Whether you want to prepare for a multi-day hike or gather some potentially life-saving knowledge for the outdoors. I’d like to take you through some basic skills and tools that should get you started with navigation in the great outdoors.

What is Orienteering Exactly?

Navigation is all about being able to read specially designed maps that illustrate the trails, vegetation and features of a landscape. This might include rivers, bogs, forests and even fences or buildings. Most OS maps (Ordinance Survey) can feel somewhat intimidating at first. A basic understanding of how to read a map will fix this issue right away. It’s also a surprisingly fun skill to learn in the right circumstances!

Just so you know, OS maps are also drawn with difference scales and these scales are illustrated to give you a sense of size on the map. In other words, everything on the map is obviously smaller than what it represents in real life and so these scales help quantify the size and distance between features. But more on that in a moment.

📷 @trcklinefieldstudies

Who Learns to Navigate?

It should go without saying that all kinds of people learn these skills. Navigation is something that can bring an added sense of confidence for hikers. While I have yet to feel lost on my hikes around Ireland, that’s not to say it cannot happen. Having a basic knowledge of navigation enables me to feel more confident.

Aside from knowing the basics in this article, courses for navigation are available for all levels of experience. Beginner courses will usually take place on marked trails and where you find notable features. Intermediate or advanced courses can take place in remote areas. Hikers need to be more precise with their skills and tools in these areas.

But Why Else Might You Want to Learn to Navigate?

Learning to navigate is fun and something that you can practice in a safe environment. There is generally no danger or pressure during this learning process. You can learn to navigate on a day hike or brief trip into the mountains. Navigation is also quite an interesting skill to learn. It involves a map and compass…and getting outdoors!!

As you may know, many people treat navigation as a sport. It’s true, orienteering is another reason why some people take their navigational skills and tools more seriously. This is an activity that combines navigational skills with the excitement of a race and forbids the use of GPS devices. But you just want to know the basics, right?

📷 @thebeardedburton

The Basics of Reading and Understanding a Map

OS maps are topographic maps that include the natural features mentioned above. They also include various landmarks such as fences, power lines etc. These maps will outline vegetation boundaries in yellow and other man-made objects in black. As for counter lines, these lines illustrate whether a section of land is either flat or steep.

Relatively flat – Counter lines are far apart

Steeper Terrain – Counter lines are close together.

There are also many symbols and hieroglyphics on OS maps. You should always take a few minutes to understand what they represent. This might sound obvious but many hikers never take time to learn these symbols and hence, cannot read a map.

So take time to familiarize yourself with the map before going out into the wild. Here’s two quick examples to help you understand the scale on OS maps:

1:10,000 – 1cm is 100m on ground

1:7,500 – 1cm on map is 75m on the ground

A Basic understanding of the Compass

Your compass should be used to determine the direction of a particular object. This bearing can help determine either your intended direction or specific location. This is important because you need to know what direction to go at all times.

On a way-marked trail, it’s easy to turn left or right at signposts. Without these way-markers, there is often indecision. This is especially the case in a forest, bog and after dark or during conditions with low visibility. Either way, a compass should be inside your backpack at all times.

Most compasses have a magnetic needle. You should notice the red tip of this needle is pointing “magnetic north” which is also shown on the lines of a map.

Here’s the definition of “magnetic north” according to Wikipedia:

“Magnetic north is the direction in which the north end of a compass needle or other freely suspended magnet will point in response to the earth’s magnetic field. It deviates from true north over time and from place to place because the earth’s magnetic poles are not fixed in relation to its axis.” – Wikipedia

But you should also remember the sun can be useful for navigation and knowing which direction you might be facing. In fact, navigation is really about using a combination of your skills and tools to read and understand the environment.

📷 @kirstyhamilton_explores

Using the Map and Compass Together

For most beginners, the tricky aspect of using a map and compass comes when trying to hold the map in such a way that it matches the view. This means you need to keep rotating the map so that whatever lies in front of you is also how it appears on the map. It’s a form of “mirroring” that ensures what you see on the map can be seen on the landscape. Now, you might not get that fully so let’s consider the following:

A compass will always point north and you should do the very same with your map. For instance, if standing in the forest facing north, hold the map so that it also faces north. If you turn to face south, rotate your map so that north on your map continues to point north. Make sense? It’s much easier when you put this into action.

One way that I keep track of my location on a map is to hold my thumb on this location. As I hike further in a particular direction, I move my thumb on the map in that same direction. Although this technique is widely used, it takes practice.

With the above in mind, proper navigation requires that you learn how to use a map and compass together. After-all, a map and compass is far more reliable and helps ”triangulate” this location. This means you can consult three different systems during the process.

Here’s a reminder of the main objectives of navigation:

1. To determine your precise location on the map.

2. To identify your next target/destination on the map.

3. To calculate the time and distance to reach this target/destination.

The first of these steps can be assisted through “mental mapping” and this is a simple process that involves observing your surroundings in order to know your location. You then use a compass to take a bearing from that location to your intended waypoint and then get moving in that direction.

And before moving onto the next section, are you familiar with “Attack points”?

Attack points are features/locations to which you can hike quickly without the use of a compass. This can be a distinctive rock, maybe a bend in a river or something that stands out on a particular landscape. Instead of walking with hope, it’s worth using these attack points as a reference point and then measuring the distance between them.

📷 @teamwalking_hillskills

Judging Time and Distance in the Outdoors

Judging the distance between two points is extremely useful in the outdoors. Most people hike at an even pace. If you know how long it takes to hike 100 metres, it’s easy to calculate how long it may take to hike multiple kilometres. However, it can take much longer to hike through marsh or unmarked areas so keep this in mind.

It takes practice to develop this skill and get better at calculating time and distance. As mentioned, you can learn these skills in a safe environment without having to worry about not getting out alive!

But what does this look like in the field?

I use my “pace count” when hiking in the mountains.

About Using Your “Pace Count” in the Field

One natural step is equal to a pace. You just need to know how many paces it might take you to walk 100 metres. You can do this by walking a measured 100-metre and count the number of steps you take and then turn around and walk back to your starting point while recounting this number of steps. The “pace count” is the average of these numbers but you should try to recreate the scenario (carry a backpack etc) and conditions (the terrain) in order to be accurate with this calculation.

You can then use this pace count to gauge time and distance in the wild. That being said, time and distance is often deceiving on the trail. It can feel as though you are hiking long distances due to challenging terrain or a heavy backpack. In reality, you might have hiked half that amount of time or distance. I think you get my point…

Have an Exit Strategy Before You Hit the Trail

There’s a lot to be said about common sense on the trail. Honestly, this is often your best way to ensure you don’t get lost. Likewise, preparation and precaution are key to staying safe. This is why you should always have a backup plan.

To be more specific, before hiking the trail, you should know exit points in the case that you might need to get off the trail. This can be a road, carpark or a trailhead that leads to a settlement of some kind. It’s quite easy to identify these exit points in Ireland because most trails or National Parks are reasonably close to towns.

📷 @thehigherhiker

3 Last Minute Tips for Navigation-Related Safety

1. Tell Someone About Your Plans

I’ve come across a lot of sad stories in my time hiking trails around the world. Many of these relate to missing hiker but there are just as many rescue stories. Many of these rescues happen because the hiker made sure to tell someone about their plans. This can mean a quick text or call can potentially save your life.

2. Slow Everything Down in a “Situation”

If you do get lost, remember that panic can cause common sense to jump out the window. Try to avoid this at all costs. Slow everything down so that you can take accurate readings with your map and compass. It’s important to check this more than once so you can make the right choices in getting back to safety.

3. Wear the Right Outdoor Gear

You really shouldn’t be hiking in the mountains without proper hiking shoes and adequate outdoor clothing. This also means you should always have your map and compass on hand along with a first aid kit and water at the very least.

I genuinely believe that common sense is the best way to stay safe outdoors. However, proper navigational skills are necessary for longer hikes or trips off-the-beaten path. A map and compass should be the first two items placed in every backpack. A basic understanding of how to use them is something fun to explore and not to ignore!

Everything You Should Know About Hiking the Wicklow Way

The Wicklow Way is my favourite long distance trail in Ireland. It was first written about in the mid-1960s by J.B Malone who set out to develop a long distance walk in Ireland. It took many years for this idea to gain much interest. The Wicklow Way is now the best known hiking trail in the country and easily accessible from Dublin.

Stretching from Marley Park in Dublin to Clonegal in Carlow, the Wicklow Way is approx 125km and split into seven “stages”. Each stage is intersected by a small town. Most hikers take up to one week to complete the trail without having to rush. In between these towns, the trail can feel surprisingly remote. It snakes its way through a series of foothills and mountains that climb more than 3,500 metres in total.

Hiking the Wicklow Way: What Should You Expect?

Most of the trail travels through Wicklow which mostly consists of mountains and hills. You will also hike stretches of paved road from time to time. These are usually quiet country roads and lanes with little-to-no traffic. It’s relatively easy to find a water source on most days (but not guaranteed). The accommodation at the end of each stage is reasonably affordable and cheerful. If you wish to wild camp, this is also possible – but more on this in a moment.

Overall, I’m always surprised with how remote it can feel on the Wicklow Way because you are always within walking distance of civilization. While the hill climbs come and go by the hour, they are rarely too steep and are accompanied by stunning views. The Wicklow Way is also well-marked and with a paper map and GPS, I believe most hikers will feel comfortable in terms of navigation. With these stunning views and favourable logistics, I think it’s an ideal long distance trail for a first-timer.

But maybe you don’t want to (or cannot) hike the full Wicklow Way?

📷 @sher_yogi

Hiking the Wicklow Way in Stages

It’s also possible to hike the Wicklow Way in stages. This makes the trail suitable for every fitness level. Some stages are much shorter than others so hikers can also pick out a specific stage, with which they feel comfortable. I’ve done this myself when short on time and if you live in Dublin, County Wicklow never feels like “a long way to go” for a hike.

What’s the Best Time of Year to Hike the Wicklow Way?

May to September is the most reliable time to hike the Wicklow Way. I would advise the less experienced not to attempt this trail close to the Winter months. Most of the accommodation (and many restaurants) are also not open outside of the Summer months. The weather is very unpredictable which is the main reason to avoid these months. In fact, I prefer to hike this trail in the shoulder months of May or September. There are less people on the trail and various attractions in between are less busy.

In case you might be asking yourself, I refer to places like Powerscourt Waterfall and Glendalough which are both highlights of hiking the Wicklow Way.

Where to Start and Finish the Wicklow Way

I should also say that you can choose to hike north to south or south to north. The main difference between each starting point is the ease of transport. That is to say, it’s easy to get to/from Marlay Park in Dublin but slightly more tricky to reach Clonegal.

There’s also the fact that starting in Clonegal will help ease you into the hike. Less climbs near the beginning when you hike south to north. While the last day presents stunning views of Dublin and the coastline.

Note: The number 16 bus travels from Dublin city centre to Marlay Park. Meanwhile, Bus Eireann stops in Kildavin which is less than 3km from Clonegal.

📷 @sallyham55

Wild Camping Vs. B&B – Where to Stay in the Wicklow Way

As for where to stay, there are B&B’s at the end of each stage on the Wicklow Way and a handful more in between. There is a nice little hostel in Knockree and another at Glendalough and three Adirondack Shelters on the trail. These shelters are small huts that were built so that hikers could take shelter from the elements. I’ve come across people wild camping beside these shelters and sleeping inside with a bivvy bag. With one or two exceptions I’ve found multiple spots to wild camp on the Wicklow Way.

You should know that wild camping is not permitted in Glendalough Valley. Hikers should always expect to either camp earlier than planned or to hike further when searching for a suitable spot. I say this because sometimes you happen across a suitable spot for a wild camp but it might be earlier than you expected to stop hiking. Likewise, it’s often necessary to keep hiking until you find a nice place to wild camp.

📷 @andreasrothphotography

Food and Water on the Wicklow Way

It’s important to carry enough food for each stage of the Wicklow Way because towns are few and far apart. There is no alternative to these towns in terms of buying food. As for water, there are many sources along the trail. There are also times when you might not come across one when needed. You should have at least two or three litres of water at all times. Remember that due to wildlife, farming and forestry, the water en-route is not always potable. With this in mind, it’s really important to pick up a water filter like the Trailshot Microilter by MSR.

For my own hikes, I always had at least one backup meal in dried food for each time of day – breakfast, lunch and dinner. I also pack many cereal bars and snacks in the case of an emergency (running out of food).

Following the Trail Signs and Navigation on the Wicklow Way

The Wicklow Way is sign-posted really well with a variety of markers that feature a “yellow man”. You will most often find them at junctions and then every half-kilometre for the long straight sections on the trail. There are also information boards from time to time but it’s best to have your own GPS, maps and apps to consult for navigation.

As a rule, if you don’t see a trail marker for more than one kilometre, it’s possible that you will need to turn around and at least check your map. I’ve mostly used offline maps (an app downloaded before hitting the trail) but in the case of my battery running out, I also have a powerbank and OS paper map of the Wicklow Way area.

📷 @courtneyshawactor

What Gear to Pack for the Wicklow Way

I’ve put together this packing list for a long distance hike which you might want to check out. It’s crucial that you also do your own due-diligence. The gear you pack will always impact how comfortable and safe you feel on the Wicklow Way. Footwear with good outsoles and support is recommended. I always use trekking poles – the importance of which many hikers seem to ignore. I won’t go into the specifics in this post but I would like to mention a few things to remember about clothing:

Layering Up – The weather on the Wicklow Way can change in a second and you need to be prepared for cold or wet weather on a hike. While it may seem like a sensible idea to take the warmest, waterproof jacket with you – the better option is to layer up. If you have both lightweight gear and several layers for underneath, this will enable you to regulate your temperature and provide you with the best of both worlds.

Avoid Cotton – When the weather is hot, cotton can cause chaffing. When the weather is wet, cotton is difficult to dry. When you are cold, wet, and wearing cotton, you are a walking recipe for hypothermia. Choose a material like merino wool, polyester or nylon which dries quickly and keeps the moisture off your skin.

Keeping Clothing Dry – It always brings me confidence to know that there is something warm and dry to wear later that night. Also, if you wake up to the sound of rain in the morning and your hiking gear is wet, resist the temptation to hike in your dry clothes. Instead, pack them up, put on the wet gear and suck it up. You’ll likely need this warm and dry gear to sleep in again that same night.

📷 @muno.explore

Day by Day Itinerary for Hiking the Wicklow Way

Let’s take a quick look at the seven stages from north to south on the Wicklow Way:

Marley Park to Knockree – 21km – Approx 8 hours walking.

Knockree to Roundwood – 18km – Approx 7 hours walking.

Roundwood to Glendalough – 12km – Approx 4 hours walking.

Glendalough to Aughavannagh – 14km – Approx 5 hours walking.

Glendalough to Glenmalure – 14km – Approx 5 hours walking.

Glenmalure to Moyne – 21km – Approx 7 hours walking.

Moyne to Shillelagh – 21km – Approx 7 hours walking.

Shillelagh to Clonegal – 19km – Approx 6 hours walking.

Some Final Points for Hiking the Wicklow Way

Carrying Your Own Backpack – Believe it or not, you don’t even need to carry all your belongings in the summer months. It’s possible to ask most B&B’s or even a local transport company to take your backpack to the next town – for a fee of course.

Consult the Weather Forecast – The Wicklow mountains are very exposed in places and rather scary in extreme weather. The weather can also change very quickly so it’s important to have an idea of what to expect and plan and pack accordingly.

Bring a Powerbank – Try to make sure that both your phone and powerbank is full charged by the time you depart each morning. Charging these items is the first thing I try to do as soon as I stop hiking for the day.

Be Careful on the Roads – Although there is little traffic on the road sections, cars can drive fast on these sections for this same reason which poses an obvious danger.

Remember to Leave no Trace – Know the principles of “Leave No Trace” and always pack out everything that you take with you on the trail. It’s also really important to respect the wildlife and local landowners and avoid starting any campfires.

📷 @philyob

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to have a high level of fitness to hike the Wicklow Way but decent preparation will always keep you safe. Early starts will also help take the pressure off in terms of covering any distances in between. I also encourage friends or family to hike the Wicklow Way alone. Yes, you can share the cost of accommodation with friends but hiking alone is a very different experience and the Wicklow Way is the perfect opportunity to experience a stunning wilderness in the “Garden of Ireland”.

My Top 6 Must-Have Hiking Accessories

If you’re like me, you think that getting outdoors is more interesting than going to the pub and you have zero regret for any money you spent on hiking gear over the years. I suppose it’s okay to enjoy both but I’m just saying – hiking gear is a much better investment. However, there are certain items in my backpack that I recommend more than others and many of these come without a hefty price tag. That’s not to say “cheaper is better” but I appreciate a bargain and don’t believe a price tag is always a reliable indication of quality or practicality. And let’s assume that you already have the shoes and backpack and focus on the hiking accessories that not everyone carries on the trail.

My Top 6 Must-Have Hiking Accessories

1. A Portable Stove for Coffee and Food on the Trail

If you’ve followed any of my social media accounts over the years, you will know that I rarely go hiking or camping without coffee and a hot meal. It just makes sense to do this and the weight is no longer an excuse with the arrival of portable stoves and lightweight pots!

I even use this portable setup on brief forays into the outdoors. For example, I often take a walk to a nearby hill and spend thirty minutes making coffee. When it rains, I have a lightweight tarp at the ready in my backpack and a warm jacket for when it gets cold. I just cannot express how much I enjoy making, eating and drinking something warm on my trips and this really does add some excitement or interest to spending time outdoors.

I bought this nifty little teapot recently but the MSR mini cook set is amazing value and I also have my eyes on this really cool toasted sandwich maker. If you just wanted a small portable stove, take a look at the MSR Pocket Rocket or something similar (and cheaper) like this tiny Rapid stove by GoSystems.

Mini Trail Solo Cook Set

2. A Tick Remover to Be on the Safe Side

Ticks are something we all hate to think about but they inhabit the wild places in Ireland. You will find these pests in moist, shady areas around Ireland. They cling to bushes and tall grass and almost always inhabit the ground level. You might have also noticed these ticks on your family

pet and this is because they enjoy spending time in gardens and next to forests or stone walls. Anyway, you get my point, you will encounter them at some point.

I was plagued by ticks while camping on the Kerry Way (Sorry, Kerry) and many more parts of the country. They are also such an unpleasant thing to find and trust me, you will be thankful to have invested in a tick remover when they come. A tick remover is a very small and simple device that can help remove these ticks quickly and safely. The stainless steel tick remover is effective but this tick remover card works just as well.

Tick Remover

3. A Portable Water Filter to Help Avoid Illness

I’ve been relatively fortunate to avoid injury on most of my hiking trips. However, I did fall ill with giardia in both America and Ireland after drinking contaminated water. I was unable to hike for several days afterward and truly regretted not having filtered my water.

In case you might not know, a lot of fresh water sources in Ireland are relatively safe but there is always a risk involved. There is also no way of knowing when or if a water source is contaminated and drinking this unfiltered water is never worth the risk.

A water filter is also something that you will keep for many years. While some of my past water filters were small, lightweight and cheap, they were often slow or somewhat unreliable. This is why I like the TrailShot filter by MSR which is so small it can fit inside a jacket pocket and can be used to drink directly from a river or bottle of unfiltered water.

Trailshot Filter

4. The 2-Litre Platypus Water Bottle for Sheer Convenience

I don’t like to preach about the environment or the principles of ‘Leave No Trace’ but, that’s not to say I don’t follow or appreciate such guidelines. In fact, I carried the same 2 litre plastic water bottle for much of my walk around Ireland and always bring my re-usable coffee cup to the shop. It’s a way for me to “do my bit for the environment” but the plastic water bottle caused problems on my walk around Ireland and other long distance trips.

It’s a health issue. Plastic water bottles have a tendency to fill up with grime/bacteria and they are simply not designed to be washed and re-used. A platypus water bottle is far more durable and easier to clean on a regular basis. And you need to pay attention to this on a multi-day trip in particular or risk falling ill – as has happened with me in the past.

But that’s just part of the story…

The Platypus water bottle holds 2-litres of water and packs down to a really small size. This means you can easily fit two of these into your backpack and you will certainly need more than two litres of water if you plan to hike or cook in the mountains/wilderness. A platypus is also very useful in hot weather, for they can attach a straw system which will save you reaching for a water bottle every few minutes and hence, keep you hydrated.

Platypus Water Bottle

5. A Head Net for Mosquitos/Midges

I’m not sure whether you know this but midges have the potential to destroy what should be a straightforward hiking trip. It’s true that both mosquitos and midges are unable to keep up while hiking but in midge-country they’re a huge nuisance anytime you stop. They’ve literally ruined more than a few of my wild camping trips and remain the biggest frustration that I can recall from any of my hiking trips in Ireland.

The worst part about it? A mosquito head net is one of the lightest and smallest items you can carry. They are also super cheap and no fancy design or style is necessary for this little life saver. In fact, I now keep one of these nets in the side pocket of each backpack to ensure I can at least stand a chance with these relentless pests in the future.

Mosquito Head Net

And the one I always tell my friends about…

6. A Pair of Adjustable Hiking Poles to Protect from Injury

I wrote an article 3 years ago in which I talked about my experiences with and without trekking poles. I used to think they were unnecessary and looked rather silly. But long story short, I came to the conclusion that trekking poles are 100% necessary for mid-long distance hiking. In fact, I would go as far as to say that the vast majority of my hiking injuries in the past were as a result of not using hiking poles. Whether you want to climb a peak or tackle a section of the Wicklow Way, hiking poles help with your posture, while reducing the amount of wear and tear in terms of your body.

By the way, I also use my hiking poles for putting up a tarp when it rains and for crossing rivers and bogs or any other time I might need some extra balance. But which poles?

I suggest the Leki Journey hiking poles or iff you are looking for a more affordable option the Rock n River twin pack. Either way, these hiking poles are adjustable which also means you can fold them up and pack them away when you’re not using them.

Leki Journey Pole

Some Other Hiking Accessories on My Wishlist

A Sit Mat – I know this seems rather silly to some hikers but I’m getting a little tired of sitting on the ground. It also makes sense that a rest-break should be comfortable and this is not always possible hiking in the mountains and certainly not when it’s raining!

High-Tech Watch – It’s certainly not essential but it would be fantastic to have a watch on which I could check the altitude or temperature.

Vibrant-Colour Rain Cover – A super bright rucksack rain cover is ideal for hiking at night and on stretches of roads in particular.

Waist Bag – You’ll appreciate this one if you carry a camera. The pockets on a backpack are rarely useful for carrying a camera and I’m eager to try this waist bag by Osprey.

Osprey Waist Bag

Aside from the wishlist, I never go hiking or camping without the above items in my backpack. While it’s true that some of these are not essential such as the platypus or portable stove, they certainly make life easier and a hiking trip – more enjoyable.

Merrell Moab 2 GTX and 1000 Mile Socks Review

I first wore Merrell back in 2013 on a year long bicycle ride through Africa. It made sense to pick a light pair of hiking shoes rather than trainers or cycling shoes. It was also the right decision, and they lasted for more than 12,000km across the continent.

Now, that’s not to say cycling is a good way to test a hiking shoe but rather to explain why I went back to this brand for my current footwear – the Merrell Moab 2 GTX.

In this article, I’d like to take you through what I think you should know about this hiking shoe before taking a look at my experience with 1000 Mile Socks…

A Quick Look at the Merrell Moab 2 GTX

The Merrell Moab 2 GTX is reasonably light and one of the most comfortable and durable hiking shoes on the market. It provides excellent traction and stability, while keeping the feet dry and comfy at all times. I’ve tried some really nice hiking boots and trail shoes over the years but none that offer the same quality features in this price range. In fact, I’m still waiting for a notable downside that might change my mind or question the near perfect experience I have found with the Merrell Moab 2 GTX.

Protection

The thickness of the Merrell Moab 2 GTX exterior does a great job of absorbing blows from rocks and sharp edges. A solid sole protects the bottom of the foot, while a sizeable bumper protects the toes. While you will find sections of ripstop mesh and fabric overlays, these both increase the durability of the shoe exterior.

Durability

I’ve been testing the Moab 2 GTX on some very rocky ground in recent months and they continue to hold up incredibly well. That is to say, aside from some superficial scrapes on the exterior, they still look and feel new, while providing the same experience as when I first got them. I’d imagine the mesh areas are susceptible to tearing at some point but I’ve yet to see this on my hikes through some very rugged terrain.

Grip and Traction

I’ve been really impressed with the traction of the Vibram rubber on the outersoles of the Moab 2 GTX. This is something which Merrell haven’t changed and you will find the same tread pattern on previous versions of the Moab. Upon closer inspection, you should also notice the range of circles, dents and patterns which add to the overall traction. I also remember this being the case with my very first pair of Moab and how the shape and condition of the sole remained for quite a long time.

Stability

I think most people that use the Moab 2 GTX will appreciate the extent of support and stability they offer. It’s more rigid and stable than any trail running shoe which makes them especially suitable for hiking on rocky or uneven terrain. That being said, even though the shoe feels planted, the flexibility of the Moab 2 GTX is also rather useful. In other words, the Moab 2 will bend etc without it feeling as though the shoe is slipping away from your feet.

Comfort

I know many hikers who agree that the Merrell Moab 2 GTX is one of the most comfortable hiking shoes out there. They often slip onto the foot and feel solid the moment you do so. With a cushioned collar and tongue and a refined insole, they feel soft around the ankles but then rigid and reliable in every other area. You’ve got nice padding on the heel and decent arch support, which is more than I could say for my three previous pairs of trail shoes.

Value

I believe this is a major reason as to why the Merrell Moab 2 GTX is such a popular hiking shoe in Ireland. They are priced the same as previous versions of the Moab and yet offer an even better product and overall performance. I also think they’re suitable for any hiking distance and just about any type of weather conditions, while the sheer strength of the material means they should potentially last for a number of years.

Weight

The Merrell Moab 2 GTX is certainly not the lightest option for hiking and weigh approximately two pounds. But this is nothing new for a hiking shoe which offers so much protection from the elements. With this in mind, I believe they strike the ideal balance between weight, flexibility, and protection, not to mention comfort and the price.

Breathability

The Moab 2 GTX are surprisingly breathable which is largely due to mesh along the top and sides. I say “surprising” as this is something you might not expect with such a durable and waterproof hiking shoe. This makes the Moab 2 ideal for hiking in warm temperatures, while ensuring an equally comfortable time in wet or muddy conditions.

And in case you might be asking yourself, it’s the Gore-Tex that makes these shoes waterproof and reasonably light at the same time.

Conclusion

The Merrell Moab 2 GTX have a really nice fit and offer lots of space for the toe box, while still fitting snug to the feet. Merrell have continued to focus on what made previous versions so good and then added some slight tweaks to improve upon the overall experience. They are ideal for warm weather hikes but also waterproof which is certainly useful while hiking in Ireland. If you wanted extra ankle support, you might choose the boot but either way, the Merrell Moab 2 is my hiking shoe for 2021.

Shop the range from Merrell

1000 Mile Trail Sock – My Choice for Long/Mid Distance Hiking

1000 Mile is a sock brand from the UK that gives a blister-free guarantee with every pair of socks which means they should last for at least 1000 miles. It’s not the reason to invest in a pair of 1000 Mile socks but testament to their strength and performance.

Trail Sock or All Terrain? Most of the socks by 1000 Mile are double layered which is great for the winter months but often too warm for the summer. For this reason, I use the Trail sock on my long distance hikes and the All Terrain option for local day hikes. While the all terrain version provides extra padding and protection for the heel etc, I just find the lightweight version to strike a better balance for longer hikes/adventures.

What I Really Like About 1000 Mile Socks

1000 Mile also use merino wool for all of their products. Merino wool dries out really quickly and can also wick away moisture with ease. The 1000 Mile socks also have a

band-like toe and midsection which helps keep them in place, and they are light and super comfortable and never itchy in my own experience.

But what else makes them so suitable for hiking in particular?

1000 Mile socks are slightly thicker than most other blister-free socks. They hold their shape nicely and fit snug to the foot. After many cycles, I can say they perform just as well after multiple washes and often live up to the blister-free guarantee. That is, I can say that not everyone I know has had such luck but they’ve certainly helped keep my own feet in pristine condition.

I personally own four pairs of 1000 Mile sock and carry at least three of these on long distance hikes. After all, socks are compact and lightweight and a priceless piece of kit when you end up with wet feet for whatever reason. They also dry quickly which means you can usually wash 1000 Mile socks on the trail and I often hang them up to dry on my backpack while I’m out hiking.

Conclusion

1000 Mile socks are my current first choice for hiking. I wore them on my 3,000km walk around Ireland and another 700km on the Camino de Santiago. They are just the best hiking socks that I have tested in Ireland and this includes socks from many of the biggest names in the outdoor industry. The truth is, when you hike long distances on a regular basis, it’s often the socks that can have a greater impact than the shoes. What’s more, the low cost of 1000 Mile socks has made these socks one of the first pieces of gear to find a home in my backpack.

Final Thoughts on My Hiking Shoes and Socks

I’ve gone through many types of hiking shoes in recent years and often stuck to trail runners in the past. Trail runners are often a hybrid between a hiking shoe and a running shoe which makes them especially light and comfortable. However, this also means they are often without the protection that comes with the Merrell Moab 2 GTX. I also find trail runners can be rather uncomfortable in wet conditions and without the traction you get with a purpose-built hiking shoe like the Merrell Moab 2 GTX. After combining 1000 Mile socks with the Moab 2, I also believe most hikers will find a light and reliable system that will not only feel good but also help keep away the blisters.

What Goes in my Pack in Winter?

I’ve taken quite a few long distance hikes in recent years, from walking around Ireland and walking the Camino to hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in America. These trips were very different in terms of climate and logistics but I still managed to use much of the same equipment on each one. That being said, the winter weather is not to be underestimated in Ireland and especially warm gear is essential for this time of year.

But what exactly should you carry in the Winter months?

Here’s a list of what goes into my pack in Winter…

The Big Four – My Shelter, Mattress, Sleeping Bag & Backpack

Tent – Vango Banshee Pro 200

If I had a few extra bob, I might invest in the ultralight MSR Hubba Hubba NX. However, there’s no getting away from the fact that my Vango Banshee Pro 200 continues to find its way onto my packing list for every trip here in Ireland. It’s green which helps this tent blend in with the environment but more importantly, it performs surprisingly well in most weather conditions and has just enough space inside for both myself and the backpack – I recommend keeping your backpack inside at this time of year.

Mattress – Trek 3 Compact Mat

I have a foam mattress and a Thermarest and use both for camping in Winter. But a proper Thermarest is needed at the very least to keep you off the cold ground underneath. Weight is usually the reason for a difference in price between these mattresses. The lighter the mattress, the higher the price and I find the Vango Trek 3 Compact Mat is quite affordable, while the Neo Air would be my dream mattress!

PS. It might seem as though I’m biased toward Vango in some way but that’s not the case. I’ve tried so many options and Vango continues to outperform in many cases.

Sleeping Bag – North Face Blue Kazoo

I used a North Face Blue Kazoo for many years and it served me well. But it wasn’t always warm enough and a sleeping bag liner is now required to get a decent night of sleep in the winter months. For this reason, I am looking at a few sleeping bag options such as the Thermarest Questar. Although some sleeping bags might seem a little too warm, it’s important to remember that you can often regulate this temperature. Opening the sleeping bag is one way to do this and it’s certainly better than shivering the night away in the cheapest bag you could find. Just so you know, a cold weather sleeping bag will have more synthetic or goose down insulation and will often have zippers above the shoulders and a hood to keep in the heat.

My Backpack – Osprey Exos 58

If you’re going for quick overnight camp in Winter, it’s still necessary to carry more gear than you might in the summer months. That’s why I often use my biggest backpack for the winter months. It should be remembered that carrying a slightly bigger backpack doesn’t add a lot to your base weight if you pay close attention to the contents. The Osprey Atmos AG 65 is a nice alternative to the Exos.

My Winter Clothing

My Shoes – Merrell Moab

I wore Altra Lone Peak shoes for my hike on the Pacific Crest Trail and these trail shoes are incredibly comfortable. However, I also wore the same type of shoes for my walk around Ireland and it just wasn’t the same. It’s obvious now but the wet and muddy conditions in Ireland were much different to the mostly dry landscapes in America. I have been really impressed by the Moab which keep my feet dry, while providing great support and protection for hiking in Ireland. If you prefer boots, there is also a boot version of the Merrell Moab that you should check out.

My Socks – 1000 Mile Socks

When I came back from America, I had fully realized the importance of hiking socks. There was an American brand called Darn Tough that really impressed and so my mission was to find a similar type of brand/sock on my return to Ireland. I wore several brands on my walk around Ireland last year but 1000 mile were the only socks that lived up to the job. They are warm, durable and comfortable – enough said!

Underwear – Ex-Officio

Have you heard of these before? Ex Officio Underwear is comfortable, light and quick to dry. Since I began wearing this type of underwear, I always wear and carry them in my pack.

Gloves – One Light/One Waterproof

It’s important to have more than one pair of gloves and I almost always need to rotate these gloves in the winter months. This is often because the first pair gets wet. But I also like to have a rather light pair of woolly gloves for milder days or for wearing inside the tent at night.

Base Layer and Middle Layer

Aside from the long johns I mentioned already, I usually wear and carry a polyester or wool top that can wick away perspiration. This fabric will help keep the skin dry and warm. I will also have a sweater as a middle layer but some hikers/campers will prefer something heavier like a fleece. If the middle layer is not that heavy, just make sure your outer layer (jackets) are sufficiently warm for the environment/conditions.

Jacket – Regatta Down Jacket

Believe it or not, I wore a down jacket from Penney’s on my walk around Ireland and also using a Regatta puffy jacket at this time. But that also meant carrying a bulky jacket that was rather difficult to squeeze into my backpack. I’m personally thinking about buying either the Arete Hooded jacket or the Lightline jacket – both by Mountain equipment. Either way, this type of jacket is essential and a great item for wearing inside the tent on cold nights.

Rain Jacket – North Face Soft Shell

My North Face soft shell has lasted through multiple trips over the last five years. I’ve been looking at this jacket and also this jacket by mountain equipment.

Headwear – Beanie Hat, Baseball Cap & Buff

I wear a baseball cap when it rains because I like how it shields my face and eyes from the elements. But the beanie hat is essential and something I wear at every opportunity – even when I jump into my sleeping bag. A buff/snood/morf is also a lifesaver in windy conditions and will save your face and lips unnecessary discomfort.

Trousers & Rainproof Pants – Sprayway Rask

Rain pants are not only small and lightweight but also an absolute necessity for hiking or camping in winter. It’s just so important to have waterproof layers to keep everything underneath as dry as possible. Even in light rain, I will often stop to put on my waterproof pants to ensure a comfortable day of hiking and a dry night in the tent. The Sprayway Rask are comfortable and breathable, while also light and compact for packing away.

Cooking Gear in My Backpack

I have a small MSR pocket stove which is fantastic. However, I sometimes long for the ease and convenience of a Jetboil. Cooking can seem like a chore in winter, especially when it gets cold after a long day hiking and a simple cooking system is worth the money. I also have a titanium pot, mug, spork and tiny kettle for morning coffee.

PS. Don’t forget matches and a lighter as backup.

Food and Water for Cooking in Winter

I always make drinking water a priority and use a water filter to purify anything taken from rivers. It’s a nightmare to run low on water whilst cooking in the evening so the best way to avoid this from happening is to carry more than you think you will need. For food, I take meals which are quick and easy to cook which makes ready made meals such as this pasta and meatballs meal by Wayfarer for camping in winter. Otherwise, oats, cereal bars, chocolate, biscuits and a bagel with cream cheese will often find a way into my backpack!

Other Accessories in My Backpack

Headlamp – Petzl Actik Core

I know LED Lenser is getting some proper traction and rave reviews in the outdoor industry. I’d love to have one but honestly, I find no reason to do so until my Petzl Actik Core gives out or gets lost. It’s a powerful headlamp with 350 Lumens and several modes between which you can alternate while hiking, cooking, pitching the tent or even reading at night.

Map, GPS & App

You really need to have a map at the very least and while paper maps are good, I personally find a GPS app such as Maps.me or Google maps extremely useful in the outdoors. Needless to say, you should have your phone and take a power bank to ensure this can be charged or recharged whenever needed. I also hike with my phone on airplane mode which will help conserve your battery throughout the trip.

Toiletries & Luxuries

I carry very little toiletries and aside from soap and toothpaste/brush, I can only think of lip balm as a recommendation to carry. As for other items, toilet paper and a small spade will sometimes come in handy and anything else that is small and important to you.

Final Thoughts

I carry more weight in the winter months and always err on the side of caution. It’s best to carry “too much” and focus on what gear can keep you dry and warm. As for the process itself, it’s just so important to keep clothing and gear as dry as possible and not to wait until you are wet or cold before adding layers to protect against the elements.

Anyway, that’s all for now so thanks for reading and please do enjoy camping this winter!

8 Best Winter Walks in Dublin

Looking for the best winter walks in Dublin? I personally believe that walking is the best and easiest way to keep active in the winter months. It’s also a way to make everyday life a bit more interesting and explore some of the places in which you have yet to set foot… until now!

But where are some of these trails?

I’m slowly learning that Dublin has far more parks, trails and walks than I have the time to explore. For this reason, I’ve been trying to mix things up as much as possible and visit new places and different trails rather than revisiting the same ones.

Let’s take a look at some of my favourite trails and the best winter walks in Dublin.

1. The Great South Wall and Poolbeg Lighthouse

In spite of growing up in Dublin, the Great South Wall escaped my attention until just a matter of months ago. Since then, I’ve walked out to Poolbeg Lighthouse at least five or six times and it’s now one of my favourite winter walks in Dublin. The lighthouse is here since 1768 and the wall stretches for more than 4 kilometres which made it the longest sea wall in the world at the time.

I like to think of this dander as being the perfect walk in Dublin to blow off the Christmas cobwebs. On a windy day, you’ll get blown sideways and the exposed nature of the wall means you’ll be out there in the elements from the moment you arrive. Aside from the impressive lighthouse, you will also find some of the best views of Dublin Bay. I also love watching the ships come in and out, while there are few better places in Dublin to enjoy the sunrise or sunset. In case you might be asking yourself, there’s plenty of parking at Pigeon House Road and it’s easy to reach the starting point of the walk. The walk is also buggy friendly and dog friendly and should take no more than one hour to complete.

2. The Bog of Frogs Loop in Howth

Most visitors to Howth seem to hug the waters edge as soon as they arrive in the village. There’s nothing wrong with this and the cliff walk is stunning. However, I believe there’s a much more interesting and varied adventure to be had on the Bog of Frogs Loop that joins up with this same cliff walk later on.

Starting at the train station, a series of purple arrows will take you through a series of hills, trails and rocky steps. There are beautiful views in this direction and the path leads through plenty of open fields and forests before joining the cliff walk at Red Rock. I often think the top of Red Rock offers the best views of Dublin and the lead up to this point uncovers a very different side of Howth to what you find in the village. From this point onward, the cliff walk will take you all the way back to “The Summit Carpark” where an old tramline walk runs back down to the village.

It’s quite a lengthy walk (12/13km) that takes approximately 3 hours but the variety on this hike is well worth the effort. Also, it’s a nice walk in terms of logistics because the Bog of Frogs loop will ensure you finish back at the starting point and all without having to go back the same way.

3. The West Pier in Dun Laoghaire

I’ve often wondered why the vast majority of people walk the East pier instead of the opposite side. That said, I didn’t even know about the other side myself until recently so maybe that’s why it’s so much quieter. You can reach the starting point from the very same parking areas and the walk itself is little more than 3 kilometres in total.

Featuring a gravel trail, I believe this is also a very different experience to the other side and feels somewhat remote with there being so few people. You can also see for more than 10km along the coastline on a clear day and it’s possible to find different viewpoints from the many boardwalks inside the harbour itself. It’s surprisingly muddy in parts so decent walking shoes are recommended and the walk is also rather exposed which can make it quite cold. Either way, as long as you wrap up warm, this is a surprisingly quiet walk that offers stunning views and an opportunity to leave the busy city behind, if only for a little while.

4. The River Dodder Walk

I grew up next to this river in Firhouse but kids in my day were always encouraged to stay away from the River Dodder. It’s changed immensely since then and the Dodder is now a popular landmark for recreation. And it’s not just the section at Firhouse which has transfigured but rather the entire length of the River Dodder. In fact, local authorities have been working hard to join up the various marked trails along the river to create a long-distance walking trail in Dublin.

There are many starting/finishing points for the walk such as Bushy Park to Terenure or Ballsbridge to Rathfarnham. Each one is rather different and the further you go, the more change you are likely to notice along the way. From herons and ducks to foxes and beavers, there is so much life in and around the River Dodder, while the foliage is some of the most luscious in all of Dublin. This means you can expect to encounter tall trees and leafy canopies at every turn and the odd waterfall in between. It’s such a beautiful stretch through a busy area and one that can feel far from Dublin when you’re sat watching a beautiful heron standing his ground quietly.

Tip – Ballsbridge to Rathfarnham is a nice stretch. However, even a looped walk in Bushy Park can take you down and around the banks of the River Dodder.

5. Cruagh Wood in the Dublin Mountains

I don’t often talk about Cruagh Wood because this is my own personal favourite winter walk in Dublin. Why? Because I want it all to myself. I’m not even joking when I say this because it’s so much quieter than Massey Woods or the Hellfire carpark nearby. It’s true that Cruagh Wood is without the majestic views in these areas or on top of Tibradden Wood nearby but there’s just something special about Cruagh Wood that makes it feel especially private and mystical.

https://www.dublinsoutdoors.ie/visit/dublin-mountains/walking-hiking/cruagh-wood/

Cruagh Wood is situated in the Dublin Mountains and not far from Killakee. It’s a granite mountain but the trails are accompanied by immense pine trees the entire way. These trails are also well marked and travel in different directions which can make for an exciting walk. If you have kids, there are some fairy signs on some of the trees near the beginning but they are not easy to find and half the fun is seeking them out.

Just so you know, it’s also possible to access both Tibradden and Massy Woods from these trails but there’s more than enough mileage in Cruagh Wood for a morning or afternoon.

6. Bohernabreena Reservoir Trail

Bohernabreena is home to another hidden gem for winter walks in Dublin. Located in Glenmasole Valley near Tallaght, this glistening reservoir is surrounded by a marked hiking trail. You will find Douglas fir and larch next to Scots Pine trees and a host of bird life including dippers, herons and kingfishers. Many nearby peaks are also within sight from the trail including the summit of Kippure. These summits are important because they are also home to remnants and archaeological sites which date back more than 5,000 years.

https://www.dublinsoutdoors.ie/do/sight-seeing/bohernabreena-reservoir/

You can reach the Bohernabreena Reservoir by travelling to Tallaght and then along the R114 until you go past Dodder Valley Park and Kiltipper.

7. Massey Woods in the Dublin Mountains

Massey Woods is located just a short distance from Cruagh Wood and opposite the Hellfire Club car park in the Dublin Mountains. Believe it or not, this trail continues all the way across the mountains as far as Marlay Park. However, there is also a beautiful loop trail within Massey Woods that is one of my favourite winter walks in Dublin.

https://www.dublinsoutdoors.ie/visit/dublin-mountains/masseys-estate/

The river that runs through Massey Woods is really beautiful and such a tranquil place to spend time. You will also find the ruins of an old house/lodge at the centre of the woods and many opportunities to step off the trail and into the trees. I’ve often used a large swing in these woods, while taking care to stay out of sight and save myself from potential embarrassment.

Anyway, Massey Woods is extremely lush and overflowing with various species of trees. The trails are quite muddy in places but decent hiking shoes will set you straight. Otherwise, it’s a short (2km) walk and a suitable trail for any kind of weather.

8. Barnaslingan Wood on the East Side of the Scalp

Barnaslingan Wood is situated on the outskirts of Dublin and close to the Enniskerry Road. As with much of Wicklow next door, “the Scalp” is a huge chasm that was formed by a glacial lake overflow during the Ice Age. You might notice remnants from this time in the form of boulders and outcrops but this walk is mostly enjoyable for the beautiful forest through which it runs.

https://www.coillte.ie/site/barnaslingan-wood/

In fact, there are two different trails in the woods as the Dublin Mountains Way passes through Barnaslingan Woods. For a short walk, you can take the Pine Loop Trail which should take approximately 25 minutes and this joins up with the Scalp Lookout Trail which has some of the most incredible views. I’m not sure why Barnaslingan is not more popular but this will work in the favour of those who might want a quieter and more immersive winter walk in Dublin.

While I have many more favourite hiking trails near the city, these are some of the best winter walks in Dublin which are easy to access and thoroughly enjoyable to explore!

What You Should Know About Wild Camping in Winter

I had some extremely cold nights on the Pacific Crest Trail a few years ago during which myself and three hikers found it difficult to sleep. We had decent equipment at the time but not enough to feel comfortable in the snow-capped peaks of Washington.

But how might this cold and sleepless night have been avoided?

If I had a warm sleeping bag liner, there would have been no issue and I ended up relying on wearing several layers of clothing in my sleeping bag. And while this kept me safe, it just wasn’t quite warm enough and certainly not comfortable.

Wild Camping in Winter: From Stressed Out to Searching for Solitude

I go wild camping to have a good time and add a little excitement to my week. But I also want a stress-free time and a good night of sleep is also near the top of my list.

With this in mind, there were times early on when I really didn’t enjoy wild camping and felt stressed, worried or uncomfortable. Here’s a few reasons why:

– Taking a tent or sleeping bag that was unsuitable for wild camping in winter.

– Wearing insufficient rain gear.

– Having no weather-proof system to keep my gear safe and dry.

– Leaving my stove behind and missing out on the pleasure of a hot meal!

I will talk about some of these in a moment but for now, I wanted to make it clear that having the right gear and preparation is most important for wild camping in winter. In fact, once I figured this part out, I fell in love with wild camping at a time of year when the trails were so quiet and when the frost made me fully appreciate my morning coffee or the warmth of my sleeping bag as I sat up in the tent doorway.

You see, I should also add that I absolutely love wild camping in Winter!

Some Things to Keep in Mind for Wild Camping in Winter

Pick Somewhere that’s Easy to Reach and Return

I went wild camping in Wicklow some years ago and decided to trek up over Tonelagee and down to Glenmacnass River. It felt like a nice workout upon reaching the river but after a night of heavy rain, the way back took twice as long. In fact, it took so long that I was miserably wet and cold and near ended up hiking in the dark.

Moral of the story? Remember daylight is short through Winter and the unpredictable weather can turn what seems like an easy trek into a proper slog.

I suggest you pick a local marked trail with which you are familiar and then plan to wild camp just off that particular trail. If the trail is maintained (which is should be), you can rest assured that getting home should require the same effort as getting in there.

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Invest in a Sleeping Bag Liner

It wasn’t just the Pacific Crest Trail when I was left yearning for a sleeping bag liner. This has also happened on my wild camping trips through Africa and even here in Ireland. It’s true that my choice of sleeping bag wasn’t always right but most times in which I was cold, the weather had taken me by surprise. A sleeping bag liner is not only a lightweight item to carry but also surprisingly effective and just as useful for trips during the warmer months or when sleeping in hostels on the Camino de Santiago.

Use Separate Dry Bags for Your Spare Clothes and Belongings

If you plan to hike in especially wet weather, it’s not enough to expect a waterproof cover to protect your backpack. You will need one, of course, but a backpack cover is only useful for reducing the exposure of your bag’s contents to the elements. In reality, rainwater will always find a way into your backpack during a heavy downpour and this will certainly happen any time you need to open up the bag. You can protect these contents by using a separate dry bag for clothing, electronics etc.

Make Sure You Take Warm Gear and Proper Rain Jacket/Pants

It’s essential to have dry gear at the end of every day in the wild. This includes your jacket, clothing and sleep system. It should go without saying that you can’t keep warm and dry in wet conditions without a proper rain-jacket and I always discourage relying on a poncho of any kind to do the job.

You also can’t sleep in wet socks and I recommend taking long-johns and a having a warm fleece on hand for the evenings. Believe it or not, I will often pack my down-jacket away somewhere dry so that I have an especially warm layer to wear in the evening. Waterproof trousers are another item that some hikers forget and you absolutely need these for wild camping in Ireland or anywhere for that matter.

Either way, safety is the main priority for wild camping in winter and nothing is more important than going to bed in a safe, dry and warm environment.

Try to Develop a System for Staying Dry

Even if rain is not forecast, you should still have a strategy for keeping your gear dry. The weather is just so unpredictable in Ireland and I can’t count the number of times I got caught in an unexpected downpour. Also, there is always the risk of stumbling head-first into a creek in Donegal which is something I may have done in the past. Afterwards, I had to return to a B&B in town because my sleeping bag was so wet.

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Anyway, I recommend having a system in which bags are kept inside other bags and then also protected by a backpack cover. Never leave your backpack open or sitting in the rain and put snacks in your pocket before leaving shelter so you don’t need to open your backpack again. Finally, don’t wait for conditions to deteriorate before putting on your rain jacket or waterproof pants and get ready at the first sign of rain.

Here’s a few more tips for wild camping in winter:

– Keep your backpack inside the tent at night (not in the porch area)

– Keep your shoes inside the tent (not in the porch area)

– Keep your tent inside the backpack (Not strapped to the outside)

– Put your sleeping bag inside a plastic bag/bin liner at the very least.

– Avoid having your sleeping bag or clothes touching off the sides of the backpack.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Warm Meals and Drinks

If the wind, rain or cold feels like too much, I might not be in the mood for taking out the stove. However, I always do because nothing compares to a warm drink or meal in these conditions. If you worry about keeping the stove lit at such times, think about buying the MSR Windburner but either way – please do take the stove with you!

I also say this because I firmly believe that cooking, eating and drinking are central to the enjoyment that comes with wild camping. I don’t particularly enjoy cooking but will humour myself for the sake of the pleasure that comes from a warm meal/drink.

And Some of these Last Minute Tips for Wild Camping in Winter

– Buy a reliable headlamp so you can put your hands in your pockets.

– Wear a beanie hat to sleep so you don’t wake up with a cold head!

– Take a flask of hot water if you don’t want to use a stove.

– Cooking in cold weather isn’t the most pleasant – Buy ready-made meals.

– Get up and moving early to keep warm and have cereal bars for breakfast.

– Put your phone in a ziploc bag in your pocket.

– Put your pride away and wear long-johns the entire time!

– Bring a book for entertainment and leave streaming for when you’re back home.

Final Thoughts

Wild camping in winter is all about preparation. While I don’t think it’s wise to feel overly stressed, I do think it’s important to be especially careful at this time of year. If I was to re-iterate one thing in this piece it would be to stay as local as possible – especially if you don’t have much wild camping experience. This might mean camping on a nearby hill instead of the mountains and sticking to well-marked trails at the very least. Otherwise, if you pay close attention to what you pack and make every effort to stay dry and warm at all times, wild camping in Winter should be a safe, comfortable and enjoyable experience.

10 Wild Camping Tips for Beginners that You Should Know 

I remember walking into a campsite in Kerry last year and feeling sorry for some of my neighbours. There were some fantastic setups but there were also a lot of people looking incredibly stressed and frustrated. In fact, one family was already arguing over the remote because yes, they had taken a television on their camping trip.

And each to their own, right? Of course.

But this also reminded me of why many people don’t enjoy their first spot of wild camping. Wild camping is far from being a science but it’s easy to spoil this experience by taking the wrong gear or failing to understand what makes it so enjoyable.

In this article, I talk about some wild camping tips for beginners and simple ideas that would have saved me a lot of hassles and discomfort when I started out.

10 Wild Camping Tips for Beginners that You Should Know

+ FREE Printable Wild Camping Checklist

1. Pack Light and Only Take What You Need

Carrying too much gear was my first mistake when it comes to wild camping. I think that because I was so afraid, I compensated for this fear by carrying more gear than necessary. This not only meant carrying too much clothing but also too much food and accessories. For instance, I had three different torches and spare batteries for each one! Because I took this approach to multiple items, I ended up carrying more weight than during my hike on the Pacific Crest Trail a few years ago. I believe experience teaches everyone the same lessons about wild camping but it’s sometimes better to learn from others’ mistakes, rather than your own!

I’ll be outlining a basic packing list at the end of this post.

2. Make Sure You Have a Warm Sleep System/Gear

You just won’t enjoy a night of wild camping if you have an insufficient sleeping bag, which is why I have a different sleeping bag for the warm and cold weather months. But here’s a few ways in which I suggest you can keep warm and comfortable each and every night:

Bring thermal leggings and socks that you can wear if needed.

– Invest in a lightweight sleeping bag liner – they can add an insane amount of warmth.

– Wear a down jacket/puffy jacket in your sleeping bag on especially cold nights.

– Place a rain jacket over the foot area of your sleeping bag.

– Wear a beanie hat to sleep so that you won’t wake up with a cold head.

– Take an emergency foil blanket as a backup.

In short, it’s better to be too warm or a cold night of wild camping is just not enjoyable!

3. Choose a Suitable Tent for Wild Camping

I sometimes use a bivvy bag for wild camping and really enjoy the immersive experience they offer. But a bivvy bag is not always suitable and this is especially true during wet and windy conditions. For this reason, I most often use a one or two-man tent for wild camping in Ireland.

But what else should you consider when choosing a tent?

If you want the best chance of remaining unseen and to avoid the risk of being asked to move, a green or brown tent is the most discreet for obvious reasons.

Pick a tent that performs well in especially wet and windy conditions. I find a low profile works best because they are much less likely to shake like crazy or make noise in general.

4. Pitch Your Tent Before You Go Wild Camping in Ireland

I went wild camping on Dunree beach some years ago with a Vango Banshee 200. It’s my favourite tent for wild camping in Ireland and incredibly easy to pitch. However, I made the mistake of assuming this would be really quick and easy to set up for the first time.

It was getting dark and raining hard at the time. Due to these conditions and the onset of frustration, I spent a good hour trying to figure out how to pitch the tent properly and the rest of the night trying to get dry and warm myself up again.

It’s true, the tent is extremely easy to pitch. However, every tent design is different and the Vango Banshee 200 required a different approach than my other tents. Moral of the story? I could have avoided this disaster by pitching the tent in my backyard beforehand.

5. Consider Taking Cold or Pre Made Meals Instead of Cooking

After a long hike, I do enjoy a hot meal but I’m often too tired to cook. That’s why I always carry the option to have a cold meal in the mornings or evenings. Cooking is one of the most enjoyable things about wild camping but it’s also messy at times and not always ideal in especially bad weather. What’s more, I’ve often found a cold chicken tikka wrap to be just as enjoyable as a hot meal of any kind- especially if someone made the wrap for me!

6. Aim for a Wild Camping Spot Away from Built Up Areas

I find that picking a forest area can be especially reliable for wild camping. A forest is most often a sheltered and calm place to camp but also one in which you’ll be out of sight. In terms of choosing a spot, it’s also quite easy to pick out forested areas on any GPS or physical map.

You should also notice it’s harder to find a wild camping spot near a town or built up area. This means if you are hiking a long distance trail such as the Kerry Way or the Wicklow Way, it’s best to pick out some potential wild camping areas either long before or after such places.

7. Choose a Safe and Comfortable Spot (Near a Water Source)

Camping on a bed of pine needles is a beautiful thing and much better than a bed of stones or especially hard ground. That being said, none of this matters if it rains and you’re pitched in a ditch or depressed area that’s likely to flood or become waterlogged. It’s also important to stay clear of any dead trees or branches and avoid exposed areas when the weather is particularly wild. The last thing I would mention is the convenience of having a nearby water source. This will not only mean that you can use as much water as you like but a water source also makes washing dishes (and yourself) much easier. On the other hand, maybe it’s a spot known for midges? In which case, midges like water and this might be something to avoid.

8. Wait Until Nightfall to Pitch Your Tent

If you want to avoid getting moved on, it’s best to wait until nightfall to pitch your tent. I actually do this so that I won’t be thinking or worrying about having to relocate. It obviously won’t matter as much deep inside Wicklow National Park but it’s a decent rule of thumb.

For the sake of the wild camping community, I also suggest you pack up and leave at first light. It’s not about getting caught but rather about making every effort not to disturb locals and to help the wild camping community avoid any unwanted attention.

9. Don’t Underestimate the Importance of a Headlamp

I used to lead camping safaris in Africa. Before these trips, I would often pick up a few headlamps as my guests would often show up without one. You see, many of these guests had never gone camping before or tried to pitch a tent in the dark – without a headlamp. It might seem like a rather obvious or minor matter but you need both hands to pitch a tent which will inevitably make the process a little more than frustrating. The same goes for cooking in the dark, reading in the dark and going to the toilet in the dark – you get the idea!

10. Use Reusable Dry Bags (And not Plastic Bags)

I try not to use plastic bags wherever possible and dry bags are the ideal replacement. It’s important to use these bags to ensure your gear is fully protected from the elements. The truth is, backpacks can leak and a dry bag will ensure your backup gear is properly stored.

Just so you know, I use reusable Ziploc bags for food. However, I not only use a dry bag for my spare clothing but I also have a separate dry bag for my cooking equipment, sleeping bag and electronics. You can never be too careful but you should also find these precautions will serve you well on future trips.

Now, here’s a quick look at a basic packing list for wild camping. Please remember this is a basic outline and you will need more or less gear depending on various factors/conditions.

Basic Packing List for Wild Camping

  • Tent
  • Sleeping Bag (& Sleeping Bag Liner)
  • Sleeping Mattress
  • Down Jacket
  • Gloves
  • Rain Jacket
  • Rain Pants
  • Beanie Hat
  • Backpack Rain Cover
  • Dry Bags
  • Spare T-Shirt
  • Spare Socks
  • Warm Sweater
  • Thermal Top / Bottoms / Socks
  • Headlamp
  • Map / GPS
  • Water Filter
  • Stove / Gas
  • Pot
  • Spork
  • Lighter & Matches
  • Camping Knife
  • Phone
  • Powerbank
  • Charging Cable
  • Toothbrush & Toothpaste
  • Toilet Paper
  • Credit Card / Cash
  • Plastic Bag for packing Trash / Waste
Download Printable Checklist

Final Thoughts

I think that most people often worry and think about the same things before they go wild camping for the first time. These “things” include getting lost, being attacked or not having the right gear. But most of these thoughts are either unlikely or irrational and having the right gear is a simple matter of careful research and packing.

End.

Either way, stay safe and whatever you do – enjoy your time in the wild!