From hiking in the Lake District and wild camping in Snowdonia to coastal walks in Cornwall and trail running in the Scottish Highlands, the UK offers some of the most stunning outdoor adventures in the world. But as beautiful as the British countryside is, outdoor exploration comes with real risks, especially if you’re unprepared. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or planning your first nature escape, here are essential outdoor safety tips to help you stay safe and make the most of your time in the great outdoors.
Plan your outdoor adventure carefully
Before heading out, always plan your route using trusted tools like Ordnance Survey maps or outdoor navigation apps, such as OS Maps, AllTrails or Komoot. Make sure to research the trail's difficulty, estimated duration and terrain type. Avoid relying solely on your smartphone; GPS signals can drop in remote locations and battery life can fail. Always pack a physical map and compass, ensuring you know how to use them before venturing off-grid.
Check the weather before you go
The UK’s weather is famously unpredictable, especially in mountainous and coastal regions. Always check the Met Office weather forecast before setting off and plan for all conditions, even in summer. Sudden rain, fog or high winds can appear without warning, so pack waterproof layers, an insulated jacket and consider windproof clothing for exposed routes.
Wear the right hiking and outdoor gear
Your outdoor experience heavily depends on what you wear. Invest in quality hiking boots or waterproof walking shoes with a good grip to handle wet or uneven terrain. Dress in moisture-wicking baselayers and bring a waterproof shell. In colder conditions, thermal gloves, a beanie and merino wool socks are essentials. The right outdoor clothing and gear can prevent discomfort and injury.
Maintain your gear
It’s all very well and good wearing the appropriate kit for the weather or activity but if you haven’t used the proper aftercare beforehand, your adventure isn’t going to last very long. The last thing you want when you’re exploring the great outdoors is to be soaked to the skin, shivering from wind chill or suffocating in your own body heat. No matter what kind of technical outdoor gear you wear, Grangers has got the aftercare for you. From waterproofs and down/insulated gear to activewear and outdoor footwear, we offer cleaning, refreshing and reproofing options that’ll spruce up your gear and keep it performing as it should.
Pack the outdoor essentials
Every outdoor adventure, no matter how short, should include a well-packed daypack. Key outdoor gear for safety includes:
● Water and energy-boosting snacks
● A fully charged phone and portable charger
● A physical map and compass
● A headtorch and spare batteries
● Sun protection and insect repellent
● First-aid kit and blister plasters
● Emergency blanket and whistle
For longer hikes or wild camping in the UK, consider a personal locator beacon (PLB) or GPS device.
Tell someone your plans
Before setting off, share your itinerary with someone: where you’re going and when you expect to return. If your plans change, update them. This is especially important when hiking in remote areas where phone signal is unreliable.
Know your limits and stay within them
Excitement can tempt you to push beyond your capabilities. Whether you’re new to outdoor adventure or a seasoned trail runner, know your limits. If the weather worsens or the terrain becomes unsafe, turn back. Making smart decisions helps avoid unnecessary risks.
Be aware of natural hazards
The countryside hides more dangers than many realise. From tidal causeways and unstable cliffs to boggy moorland and fast rivers, always stay alert. Stick to marked paths and consult tide times if walking along the coast. Avoid shortcuts – they can be more dangerous than they seem.
Support from lifesaving outdoor services
If things go wrong, organisations like Mountain Rescue and the RNLI are ready to help. These volunteer-led services provide essential emergency response support across the UK’s mountains and coastlines. Operating 24/7, they save countless lives every year and rely entirely on public donations and the support of volunteers. Their work is a lifeline for anyone enjoying the great outdoors. Grangers is proud to be the official aftercare partner for both the RNLI and Mountain Rescue England and Wales, helping to keep their brave and selfless volunteers warm and dry for longer, enhancing the performance and extending the life of their kits. The RNLI’s current life-saving campaign is Float To Live, an initiative to educate people on the importance of floating when ending up in wild, deep water. It’s always handy to give their website a read before heading out to coastal areas, brushing up on vital safety tips that could save your life if you end up in the sea. Similarly, we’d recommend familiarising yourself with the local MREW team assigned to the area you're exploring. To check out the Mountain Rescue’s downloadable outdoor safety leaflet, click here.
The UK is rich in outdoor adventure opportunities, from national parks and wild trails to dramatic coastlines. But with adventure comes responsibility. By preparing properly, wearing the right outdoor gear and respecting the environment, you can explore safely and confidently. And if you do find yourself in difficulty, support is out there thanks to dedicated teams like Mountain Rescue and the RNLI. Stay safe, tread responsibly and enjoy everything the great outdoors has to offer.
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