Woodlife Trails

I’m now preparing and looking forward to the Foundation/Intermediate tracking course this weekend with Shadowhawk tracking school at Canonteigne Falls, Devon. The course is 4 days. I know broadly what it’s about (obviously) but not 100% sure what to expect but I understand it’s a great course.

I’ve adjusted my kit list slightly to incorporate the items required for the course marked with an (*) below. I’ll take most of these additional items in a day bag. The Raider bag should be ideal as I can use it as a shoulder bag (single strap) for tracking and a daysack (over both shoulders).

I’ll take the usual clothing for a 4 day trip (I expect to wear only half as usual, but there could be downpours in which case I’ll use the clothes as wet and dry kit). Plus I’ll take a lightweight waterproof jacket.

I’ll take only minimal tools. (I was actually surprised how many tools I take on a 4-5 day excursion). I’ll take just a SAK, the new puuko and folding saw. I doubt there will be time for whittling and making items.

I understand there will be a communal fire, but I’ve decided to take my trusty SA Trangia. I’ll take my usual pre-prepped meals and fresh fruit but I’ll keep food carriage to a minimum.

I’m trying out three new items. The first is the DD Camping hammock. This is the updated version of the old DD. This DD is longer and has a zip between the layers. This should allow the Thermarest to sit between the layers without it popping out everywhere.

The second is a pair of surf shoes similar to the pic. These are lightweight slip-on shoes with a rubber sole much like windsurfers’ use. These should be ideal for giving the ol’ feet a rest when wandering about the camp site. I’ve had them a few years but I’ve only just realised their potential for wild camping.

The third item is an Ikea Mini Fangst – This is a 3 tier netting tube with 3 separate holes for each tier and a velcro fastening hanger at the top. It should be ideal for hanging from the tarp utility line. It’s light, folds down flat and organises camp bits and bobs (as long as they’re not too heavy). Pretty good for airing those stinking socks!

So here’s the final list…

Carry: Karrimor Sabre 75, Raider Shoulder bag (tracking kit and waterproofs)

Shelter: DD Camping hammock; 3×3 Tatonka Tarp; Mossy net; Mossy repellent (in Raider bag)

Sleep/Rest: Thermarest Prolite 3; 2 Season lightweight Mountain Life Bag; Folding sit mat

Small Utility pack 1: Petzl Tikka XP Head Torch; Pocket sized Waterstone; Personal water filter; Spare batteries; candle lantern

Small Utility pack 2: 4 small bungees; Tent pegs; 10m twine; Black bin liners; Emergency Phone charger

First Aid kit

Clothes: Highlander Poncho (packed); Boots (HiTec); 2 x Long sleeve shirts; Light Rain Jacket; Lightweight waterproof trousers; 2 x summer cargo trousers (one to wear); Fleece hat (sleeping); Bush Hat; Spare socks; Underwear; Buff; Swim kit (optional*); Surf shoes.

Raider bag (Tracking bag): Thin String*; Track (lollipop) sticks*; Chemical light stick*; 6” Ruler*; Measuring tape*; Notepad & pencils; Compass; 1 litre Drinking water bottle; Magnifying glass*; Mossy repellent; Tracking stick*; Binos*; Mirror*; Folding saw; Camera; gloves (most included in the pic below).

Belt: Possible pouch with firesteel; tinder & Mini FAK; SAK

Neck Carry: Puuko; Mini Torch; Jet Scream Whistle

Cooking: SA Trangia; Crusader cup; Insulated Drinking cup; Spork; 500ml spare meths; 1 litre NATO water bottle; 5 litre water bag (empty)

Hygiene Pack: Collapsible bowl; Hand Flannel; Travel towel; Soap/Washing liquid; Toothbrush/toothpaste; Foot powder; Mossy repellent

Food (in ration bag): Instant porridge mix; Mixed nuts raisons; Instant soup; Tea & sugar; Mini bars chocolate; Cereal bars; Fresh fruit

Food Bag: Pre-prepped Stew; Pre-prepped Chilli; Pasta mix; Rice mix

Other: Pipe & tobacco; Mini Fangst; No alcohol (forbidden – what the hell am I going to do for my tipple!)

Weather expected to be raining; 20 degrees C day; 12 degrees C night. See you all when I get back next week.

Pablo.