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The 3 Peaks Challenge is soon upon us, and we’re looking forward to it. From the challenge of scaling the 3560ft Snowdon to admiring the idyllic views around Cadair Idris and Pen Y Fan all in 24 hours, we’re more than ready and raring to go!

That being said, whether you’re an old hand or brand new to the challenge itself, when your pack’s feeling too heavy even the most epic journey can fall by the wayside when it comes to discomfort and pain. In order to help combat this we’ve assembled a list of tips to help when it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. (And your back.)

Multiple functions in gear is good —  A swiss army knife is the most well-known of all utility gear, though things such as sleeping bags can be repurposed as emergency stretchers or litters. Duct tape can be repurposed as moleskin substitute, a bandage wrap, a splint wrap, or even emergency sunglasses.  Backpack metal stays can be reused as splints, socks for hand-warmers, freezer baggies for items…  All-in all, the innovative trekker is the trekker that carries less.

Eat Heavy Foods First –It’s pretty obvious, although you’d likely be surprised by the amount of people that go out there without considering this one. Canned foods, mealpack bars, and fresh fruits and veg add the most weight to your pack. Eat them first, to lighten your load.

Replace Alkaline Batteries with Lithium  — If you swap out alkaline batteries in your flashlights with AA lithium, you’ll see an improvement. Did you know that Lithium AA batteries weigh 50% less than alkaline, and also last 3 times longer?

Pump Water Filters after use – After use, pump it. Water’s heavy, and even a small amount is weight you really don’t need to carry.

Swap out your Camp Shoes – While Camp Shoes are considered most people’s non-negotiable (and generally speaking, having a different pair of shoes for weary feet is worth the extra weight)  we recommend that you look for lightweight shoes, rather than lugging around your heavier trainers or running shoes.

Pillows aren’t worth it – Instead of lugging one around (and having it take up far too much room in your pack) consider stuffing your clothes into one of your stuff sacs. It’s completely fine to use as a pillow, and who knows? Perhaps your body heat’ll leave your clothes warm in the morning.

Appropriate portions on non-essentials – While we’ll never recommend taking less food than you normally would, we’ve found that meting out appropriate portions of other things is often a major weight-saver due to the fact you’re not carrying too much product, as well as it’s packaging. Sunscreen, insect-repellent, toothpowder or paste, toilet paper, and condiments can be estimated conservatively, so that you’ll have a bit more in the case of abnormal conditions such as worse bugs, or a heat wave.  Little plastic vials can be purchased from most bargain shops, to carry your rations without any hassle or spills.