Gear & gadgets for your towpath wardrobe
The great thing about the canals is that if you want to follow fashion and don the latest fabric in the right colour and shape, you can. But a tatty old t-shirt with your comfiest joggies will do just as well!
For long distance walking it is worth remembering Britain's weather has a mind of its own and its sudden moodswings can catch you unawares. So carry extra layers for warmth - and waterproofs are essential.
Clothes
Micro-light fabrics can be helpful if you're backpacking as every ounce counts! Denim jeans are best avoided because they're heavy and take ages to dry out if they get wet. Warm hats in winter and sun hats in summer are a must. Our tip: pockets are a good thing. We cram toilet roll, money, pen and pads, camera, maps and anything else we can in pockets spread from leg to chest.
Footwear
Never underestimate canal walking - blisters can ruin your enjoyment so make sure whatever you wear is comfy and fits well. It's not the same as scrambling over crags, but high-heels and flip-flops clearly aren't as practical as a good pair of waterproof trainers or walking boots, and good socks are as important as shoes. Flat-seamed socks are great to avoid pressure rubbing.
Backpacks
We've learned from past mistakes, and now try never to carry unnecessary weight, even when we're camping. Our advice is that anything you can't get in a light mid-sized rucksack, you should leave behind.
Walking is meant to be fun.
Gadgets
It's all about personal choice and opinion. For us Micro sticks, PDAs, pedometers, ipods, etc are pointless clutter that ruin the spirit and real experience of walking (but that's just us!). We do however make a concession over mobile phones because we like the security of backup if needed. And of course eco-friendly wind-up torches and charger packs too.
Maps, guides & books
Some of the fun of walking is in the preparation.
Waterways' guides give details such as location of locks, interesting buildings, pubs, marinas, etc., so combined with the relevant OS map or local leaflet, you should have all you need...
Why not take one of our guidebooks? >>
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