Packing for a Walking Holiday: What to Bring and What to Leave

A walking holiday is one of the best ways to see a new place. You notice the little things: the smell of a bakery, a view around the corner, a quiet bench in the shade. But walking all day, several days in a row, asks a lot of your feet and legs. Packing well makes a big difference.

Here's our list, built around one simple idea: carry less, and bring what keeps you comfortable.

Start with your feet

If you only get one thing right, make it this.

• Two pairs of walking shoes you've already worn in. Swapping pairs from day to day gives each pair time to dry out and changes where they press on your feet.
• Good socks, one pair per day if you can, or a few quick-dry pairs you can wash in the sink.
• Blister plasters and a small pair of scissors (in your checked bag).
• Light sandals or slippers for the evenings, so your feet can spread out.

Never pack brand-new shoes for a walking trip. Wear them for a few weeks at home first.

Clothes: layers, not lots

Weather changes, and so does how warm you feel walking compared with sitting at a café. Layers let you adjust as you go.

• A light, breathable top for walking, plus one or two spares
• A warm middle layer, like a fleece or a thin jumper
• A light rain jacket that folds up small
• Comfortable trousers or shorts that don't rub
• A sun hat, and a warm hat if it might turn cool

Choose clothes that dry quickly. You can rinse them in the evening and wear them again a day or two later.

The day bag

You'll carry this every day, so keep it light. A small backpack with two padded straps usually feels more comfortable than a shoulder bag.

• A refillable water bottle
• Snacks for the afternoon dip
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Your medicines for the day
• A small first-aid kit with plasters
• A phone charger or power bank
• A printed copy of where you're staying

Comfort extras worth the space

These are small, light and easy to forget, but you'll be glad of them after a long day.

• A folding walking pole if you like extra steadiness on hills or steps.
• Anything you normally wear for support, like a knee sleeve or an ankle support. Pack it in your hand luggage, so it doesn't go missing with a lost suitcase.
• A small massage ball to roll under your feet in the evening. It takes up almost no room.
• Earplugs and an eye mask, because a good night's sleep makes the next day so much easier.

What to leave at home

Most of us pack too much. A lighter case is easier to lift onto trains, carry up stairs and wheel along bumpy streets. Leave behind:

• "Just in case" outfits you probably won't wear
• More than one pair of smart shoes
• Heavy guidebooks (save the pages on your phone instead)
• Full-size toiletries. Small bottles are plenty, and you can buy more when you arrive.

A good rule: lay everything out on the bed, then put a third of it back.

Plan the walking, too

Packing is only half the job. When you plan your days, mix bigger walking days with lighter ones. After a long day, plan a slower morning, a boat trip or a scenic train ride. Your legs will thank you, and you'll enjoy the big days more.

It also helps to build up your walking a few weeks before you go. Longer walks at home, in the shoes you'll take, are the best preparation there is.

Our own packing tip

If your knees tend to feel achy after several busy days in a row, think about packing some support. The Easy Miles knee sleeve is slim enough to wear under trousers, and its silicone grip band helps it stay up all day. If you'd like to try one before a trip, order at least three weeks before you travel. That way it arrives in plenty of time, and you can wear it on a few walks at home first.

Happy travels, and enjoy every mile.