How To Pack For A Hiking Holiday.

The Lake District - Day 2

The weather today has been simply stupendous - the bright sun almost making up for the bitter cold winds and temperatures that barely soared above freezing. But this lighting makes for some seriously stunning views that I just couldn't wait to photograph.

There's something so magical about the way the sun lights up the water, bringing out the blues and greens, and of course, the gorgeous orange hues on the snow topped mountains. Now I've been on walking holidays for as long as I can remember but if you're inspired to make a retreat to the British countryside this year, I wanted to share a few of my tips and ideas for packing for a hiking trip.

- Outerwear -

Staying warm is definitely a priority especially if you're visiting around the early months of the year. Today the temperature barely topped 0 degrees and yesterday we had snow so obviously layering up is key to ensure that you have an enjoyable time. Because let's be honest: nothing is worse than being freezing cold and / or soaking wet!

I would recommend firstly getting a good waterproof coat - preferably with a built in (removable) fleece lining. Whilst they don't tend to be the most flattering items of clothing, they do the job! The same goes for waterproof trousers; not only do they keep you dry, but they act as a wind shield helping to keep you warm as well.

Obviously shopping for outdoor clothes is best done in specialist shops and can get expensive. However it doesn't have to be. Places like Blacks and Trespass stock some very reasonably priced outerwear so it's definitely worth shopping around.

Of course a major thing to consider is the hiking boots themselves. I've seen people walking up mountains wearing cheap trainers (today I saw a girl in Chelsea boots...) which are not only non waterproof (cue freezing, soaking feet) but they're not designed to be used walking long distances. Your everyday, run-of-the-mill trainers will not have any ankle support (important for walking across rocky terrain) and the soles will be considerably thinner than proper hiking boots.

Again, these don't have to be ridiculously expensive and can be purchased from pretty much all outdoors shops.

- Layering Up -

As I mentioned above it has been absolutely freezing these past few days. Seriously taking my outerwear off to shoot these photos was actually painful, though thankfully it was over fairly quickly! When it comes to layering I usually have a set routine: I'll go with a strappy top, sweater, fleece and then waterproofs. In the photos above I'm wearing a Hollister cami top with my favourite Sweaty Betty, lime green sweater. I usually wear this for dance classes however it's also perfect for this sort of thing. On my legs I'm wearing some Forever 21 leggings, walking socks, and of course, my hiking boots.

Again, something I always find when I'm walking is that my ears get really, really cold. And because I like to pile my hair into a messy bun, I'm not really a fan of hats. However I'm literally in love with my cable knit, fleece lined headband - it's perfect for stopping the icy winds getting into your ears!

Of course we have to finish with a lovely pair of sunglasses. Mine are just a cheap pair that I got free as a GWP however, surprisingly, they fitted my face really well. I don't like to take nice sunglasses with me incase they get dropped or damaged but some like these are great for the job required.