Latest News, Tips & Advice

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT DAYPACK

July 9, 2026

Your daypack is one of the most important pieces of kit you’ll take on a trek. You’ll be wearing it every single day, often for hours at a time, carrying everything you need to get through the day – from water and snacks to layers and essentials. If it doesn’t fit properly, you’ll feel it quickly.

And the reality is, there’s no such thing as one size fits all. So, how to choose the right daypack? Keep reading to find out…

A group of people trekking up a steep slope, using walking poles and wearing daypacks.

Why Your Daypack Matters

An uncomfortable or poorly fitted daypack can turn an otherwise enjoyable trek into a daily struggle.

Pressure on your shoulders, poor weight distribution, or constant rubbing can all wear you down over time. On the flip side, a well-fitted pack almost disappears – it becomes part of how you move, rather than something you’re constantly adjusting. The good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune. A bit of research and the right fit will make far more difference than the price tag alone

Three people wearing full daypacks, looking out at a view during their trek.

What Size Daypack Do You Need?

For most trekking challenges – whether in the UK or overseas – a 25 to 35 litre daypack is ideal. It’s enough space to carry your daily essentials without encouraging overpacking.

It’s surprisingly easy to fall into the trap of buying a larger bag just in case. The problem is, if the space is there, you’ll fill it and that extra weight adds up quickly over long days.

On the other hand, a half-empty larger pack can feel bulky and unbalanced. A smaller, well-packed bag will almost always be more comfortable.

Two people sitting to rest during their trek, over looking green hills below.

Try Before You Buy

If you don’t already have a daypack that works for you, it’s worth visiting a specialist outdoor retailer like our partners Cotswold Outdoor and trying a few on.

Fit varies significantly between brands and styles, and what works for one person won’t necessarily work for another.

Ask the staff to add some weight to the pack while you try it on. This gives you a much more realistic feel for how it will sit during a trek.

Look for a pack with an adjustable back length, so you can fine-tune the fit to your body. Some brands also offer women-specific designs, which can be worth considering depending on your build.

*Cotswold Outdoor offer support to Charity Challenge participants through their Explore More scheme. By creating an Explore More account, you gain immediate access to members-only benefits from exclusive offers to extended warranty, and it’s completely free. Sign up here: Explore More | Cotswold Outdoor

Two people trekking in the UK, wearing daypacks.

Getting the Fit Right

A properly fitted daypack should sit comfortably against your back, with most of the weight carried through your hips rather than your shoulders.

A good hip belt is key here – when adjusted correctly, it takes the strain off your upper body and makes a huge difference over a full day of walking. Shoulder straps should be well-padded but not digging in, and a chest (sternum) strap helps keep everything stable, especially on uneven ground – something you’ll encounter regularly on UK trails

A person trekking, wearing a rain coat and a daypack.

Hydration and Practical Features

If you plan to use a hydration bladder, make sure your pack is labelled as hydration compatible. This simply means it has a dedicated sleeve and an opening for the drinking tube, making it easier to stay hydrated on the move.

Pockets are another small detail that make a big difference. Easy-access side pockets for water bottles, compartments for snacks, and attachment points for walking poles all help keep things organised and accessible.

Some packs come with built-in rain covers, which can be useful – particularly in the UK where wet weather is never far away. That said, keeping your pack comfortable and well-fitted should always be the priority. There are plenty of other ways to keep your kit dry.

A person walking in the rain with a daypack covered by it's rain cover.

Think About Travel Too

If you’re heading on an overseas challenge, your daypack will usually double up as your hand luggage.

Most packs in the 25–35 litre range are accepted by airlines, but it’s worth keeping this in mind when choosing your bag. A well-designed pack will work just as well in an airport as it does on the trail.

Two people smiling with their thumbs up for the camera, wearing a large bag on their back and a daypack on their front.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right daypack isn’t about finding the most expensive option or the one with the most features.

It’s about finding something that fits you properly, carries weight comfortably, and suits the kind of trekking you’re doing – whether that’s a muddy UK hill walk or a multi-day challenge abroad.

Take the time to get it right, and it’s one piece of kit you won’t have to think about again once you’re on the trail.

By Ian Morton, Challenge Leader  

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Challenges, Latest News, Tips & Advice

DOG SLEDDING CHALLENGE: AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE

July 1, 2026

The Dog Sledding Challenge is a unique Arctic adventure through the snow-covered forests and mountains of Swedish Lapland. Drive your own team of huskies across almost 200km of frozen wilderness while embracing Sami culture and, if you’re lucky, witnessing the spectacular Northern Lights.

Keep reading this essential guide for tips and first-hand insights to help you prepare for an incredible dog sledding adventure.

A team of huskies pulling a sled along a deep snowy path, surrounded by snowy trees against a warm morning sky.

What is the Dog Sledding Challenge?

Swap everyday life for an other-worldly expedition through the Arctic wilderness, where you’ll learn to mush your own team of huskies across nearly 200km of snowy trails. Along the way, you’ll embrace life in the wild, experience Sami traditions and discover the beauty of Swedish Lapland from a truly unique perspective.

Highlights include:

  • Drive your own team of huskies across almost 200km of frozen wilderness.
  • Learn how to manage and care for your dog team.
  • A chance to witness the spectacular Northern Lights (subject to them appearing!).
  • Stay near traditional Sami villages and discover their culture.
  • Set up camp, muck in with cooking and embrace life in the Arctic wilderness.

You can also read Charity Challenge Director Simon’s first-hand account of this challenge here.

A group of Dog Sledding Challenge charity challenge participants smiling for a group photo, dressed in their snow suits and goggles, with some huskies in the background.

What will I achieve?

This 7-day trip includes five days of dog sledding, covering almost 200km through the frozen wilderness of Swedish Lapland. Here’s what you’ll accomplish (and can proudly share with your sponsors):

  • Driving your own team of 3-4 huskies for around 5-7 hours each day, covering almost 200km over five days.
  • Challenging your balance, core strength and concentration while navigating snowy trails, hills and forest terrain.
  • Embracing life beyond your comfort zone, with overnight stays in basic wilderness cabins with no running water and a traditional Sami tepee.
  • Experiencing temperatures that can drop as low as -40°C, while learning to care for your dogs before yourself.
A person leading a sled of 4 huskies through the snow in Lapland, Sweden.

I’m thinking of booking, what do I need to know?

For a quick overview of what to consider, we’ve pulled together some advice below – including top tips from our past challengers. For full details, please visit our Dog Sledding Challenge webpage.

1. How to Train for a Dog Sledding Challenge

While no previous dog sledding experience is needed, a good level of fitness is essential. You’ll spend long days on your feet, using your core strength, balance and coordination to control the sled, while occasionally running alongside it on uphill sections. Activities such as hiking, skiing, strength training and balance exercises can all help you prepare for the physical demands of mushing!

Top tips:

  • “The sled sits on two skis, so the best training you can probably do for this is to get skiing lessons (even on a dry slope), so you can understand how the balancing and steering works.” – Sarah Bartram, Challenge Participant

  • “It’s true that the dogs do most of the physical exercise on this challenge, pulling you along on your sled, through the snowy Lapland terrain, but don’t underestimate the nature of the challenge for participants.”

  • “The distances aren’t huge but the physicality for short bursts can be very demanding.” – Simon Albert, Charity Challenge Director
A line of people leading huskies on sleds, across a vast snowy trail with a forest in the background.

2. What is Dog Sledding Really Like?

Driving your own team of huskies is unlike any other challenge. After a full safety briefing, you’ll quickly learn the basics of mushing before building your confidence over five days on the trail. As the days progress, you’ll take on more varied terrain while also learning how to care for your dogs, creating a unique bond with your four-legged teammates!

Top tips:

  • “Don’t read too much about it… a lot of the experience was because we didn’t know what was coming (in detail)…that makes the adventure!” – Simon Jesson, Challenge Participant
  • “The dogs are lean running machines with open hearts and a willingness to please that brought a tear to the eye when it was time to part.” – Kirsty Strachan, Challenge Participant
  • “The dogs are incredibly powerful and when they pull off from a starting position, you need to use your strength to hold on. There’s no first gear, second gear, they go from nothing to full power instantly! You can’t switch off your focus for even a second and that’s particularly challenging.” – Simon Albert, Charity Challenge Director
A dog sledding challenge participant stroking a husky dog outside their kennel, in swedish lapland.

3. How to Prepare for the Arctic Cold

Preparing for the cold is just as important as preparing for the sledding itself. Although specialist snowsuits, boots, mittens and hats are provided while you’re mushing, you’ll still need to pack high-quality thermal layers and warm clothing for time spent around camp. Temperatures vary depending on month, so it’s best to refer to our webpage information and check the forecast prior to leaving. Be sure to check out our full recommended kit list before you travel.

Top tips:

  • “Don’t over pack – there were things we didn’t need due to the weather (keep an eye on the forecast before you finally pack your bags).” – Simon Jesson, Challenge Participant

  • “Power banks are useful to have to recharge camera batteries. Also, hand warmers in your pocket along with your phone help prolong it’s battery life for pictures!” – Pandora, Challenge Participant

  • “With each intake of breath through my nose, I could feel the hairs in my nostrils freezing!” – Simon Albert, Charity Challenge Director
A group of people wearing snowsuits, sitting outside in the snow, surrounding a fire with large pot on top of it.

Embrace Life in the Arctic Wilderness

Life on the trail is about far more than dog sledding. From feeding and caring for your huskies each morning to sharing meals in remote wilderness cabins, every day brings new experiences and lasting memories. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot wildlife, immerse yourself in Sami culture and, if conditions are right, witness the unforgettable spectacle of the Northern Lights!

What our challengers loved most about the Dog Sledding Challenge:

  • “Without doubt, the best experience I have had the pleasure of completing. The cold, the Dogs, the camaraderie, the silence, the excitement… Raising money for worthy charities all goes towards making lifelong friendships through shared hardships. I would recommend to any other adventurous souls.” – Andrew Foster, Challenge Participant

  • “…the pure joy of being led through a magical landscape by our majestic dogs… we’d all say the trip was a moment in our lives that was unparalleled – we’re missing it already!” – Simon Jesson, Challenge Participant

  • “The in-country guides were absolutely fantastic… it was great to be able to sled along such remote and varied trails, and to care for your own team of dogs for the week, and have that opportunity to bond with them. I just wish it could have lasted a bit longer!” – Sarah Bartram, Challenge Participant

  • “This is a fantastic experience and you get the ride of your life, but be prepared to muck in. You will have fun.” – Nigel Hearnden, Challenge Participant
The purple and green hues of the Northern Lights in Lapland, Sweden, silhouetted against snow-clad trees.

Why book the Dog Sledding Challenge with Charity Challenge?

Our Dog Sledding Challenge has been carefully designed to deliver an authentic Arctic adventure, combining expert local knowledge with exceptional safety standards for both participants and the huskies. Here’s what makes this challenge so special:

  • Expert Arctic guide –  Your challenge will be led by an experienced English-speaking Challenge Leader who lives and works in Swedish Lapland. Their expertise ensures you can safely enjoy this unforgettable wilderness adventure
  • Exceptional care for the huskies – The welfare of the dogs always comes first. Our trusted local partners, Kent and Jordana, have dedicated their lives to raising and caring for around 70 working huskies, ensuring every dog is healthy, happy and never overworked.
  • A truly immersive Arctic experience – From learning to mush your own dog team and caring for the huskies, to staying in wilderness cabins, discovering Sami culture and searching for the Northern Lights, every day offers a genuine taste of life beyond the Arctic Circle.
  • A challenge unlike any other – Combining adventure, teamwork and life in the wilderness, this is an experience that stays with participants long after they return home. “I’ve been privileged to have taken on many of our challenges over the years, and this really has to rank as one of the best!” – Simon Albert, Charity Challenge Director

Fundraising – Since 1999, we have specialised in operating challenges for charity fundraisers. We partner with 1000’s of UK and Irish charities already – and our team is happy to reach out to a charity of your choice to make your dream fundraising challenge happen. (Or, if you don’t fancy fundraising, the good news is you can simply self-fund and join us anyway!).

A person smiling for a selfie with two husky sledding dogs on the dog sledding challenge.

To conclude… start prepping!

If you are now seriously considering taking on the Dog Sledding Challenge, we recommend heading over to our website to read through our full Itinerary, Costs, Kit List and extensive Essential Information tabs. You’ll find everything you need to know here in detail, from timings, locations, accommodation, difficulty level breakdowns, training advice, group safety and much, much more (including answers to those all-important ‘what if?’ questions).

Our blog also hosts a wealth of resources to help prepare you for your fundraising challenge.

A line of people leading dog sleds through a snowy trail and forest in sweden, lapland.

Remember, the Dog Sledding Challenge is graded as ‘Challenging’. From mastering your own team of huskies and navigating snowy Arctic trails to embracing sub-zero temperatures and life in the wilderness, this adventure will push you beyond your comfort zone while rewarding you with spectacular scenery.

As one of our short-haul adventures, it’s also an excellent choice for exclusive charity or corporate groups looking to strengthen teamwork through a shared expedition.

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Tips & Advice

‘WHAT HAPPENS IF I CAN’T REACH MY 80% FUNDRAISING TARGET?’

June 24, 2026

‘I haven’t raised the required 80% fundraising target. What do I do?’

Fundraising is no small feat. Alongside training, preparing for a challenge can feel like a full-time job! We understand that life can get in the way and plans can change, making fundraising a real challenge in itself.

When you made your booking, we stressed the importance of your commitment and the timeline you agreed to. We strongly encourage you to note these dates and pan ahead to avoid any difficulties further down the line.

Contact us as soon as possible

The first thing to do is get in touch with us at Charity Challenge, or with your nominated charity, so we can help. Don’t bury your head in the sand or leave it to the last minute – keep us updated on your progress so we can offer support and find solutions tailored to your circumstances.

What happens if I don’t reach 80% in time?

If reaching the 80% target is looking unlikely, it doesn’t necessarily mean your booking will be cancelled. It does mean you may be unable to proceed under the minimum sponsorship payment option, as the charity could face financial detriment if they cover your challenge costs without sufficient fundraising in place.

What are my options?*

  • Personally contribute to your fundraising to reach the required target

The easiest and most efficient route, though we appreciate it may not be realistic for all our participants.

  • Change your payment option

Provided there’s enough time before your challenge departure date, we can switch your booking’s payment option to self funder. You’ll be invoiced for the challenge costs, with no fundraising target required. This will incur an administration fee.

  • Transfer your booking to a later date

If you’d like to continue your fundraising journey, it may be that we can postpone your challenge participation to an alternate departure – again, provided there’s enough time before your original challenge departure. We’ll first need to confirm with your nominated charity that they’re happy for your existing fundraising to be rolled over to the new date. An administration fee will apply, and you may be subject to any difference in costs.

  • Cancel your booking

This is very much a last resort, and only if none of the above options feel right for you and your situation. Please be aware that cancellations result in the loss of your non-refundable registration fee.

We’re here to support your journey!

Whatever your situation, the most important thing is that you reach out to us as early as possible. The sooner we know, the more options we have available for you and your booking – and the better placed we are to find a solution that works for you and your charity.

We know that falling short of your fundraising target can feel disheartening, especially when you’ve put so much effort into preparing for your challenge. Please don’t let it discourage you. Our team and your nominated charity are on hand to help you navigate your options with as little stress as possible.

*Disclaimer: As always, any changes to your booking are subject to our T&Cs. The options outlined above are intended as general guidance only. Administration fees may apply, and all requests are subject to availability. Each situation is different, and we’ll review each request independently.

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Case Studies, Inspiration, Latest News

OUR CLIENTS: BOWELBABE FUND

June 18, 2026

Over the last 27 years, we have helped raise over £95,000,000 for thousands of incredible causes. Our charity clients include: The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, CoppaFeel!, the British Heart Foundation, Mind, Cancer Research UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, Sands, Alzheimer’s Research UK, Prostate Cancer Research, the NSPCC, Comic Relief, UNICEF, Save the Children and hundreds of smaller organisations. We are hugely experienced at operating challenges to the highest standards of quality and safety and will do all we can to help your organisation recruit and engage participants and supporters.

We caught up with Bowelbabe Fund for Cancer Research UK on how their recent Himalayan Trek went…

Bowelbabe Fund Himalayan Trek fundraising posing together in front of a snow-capped himalayan mountain range, holding a bowelbabe flag up.

Please introduce yourself…

I’m Jayme Shepherd, National Relationship Manager for Bowelbabe Fund. In March 2026, 34 wonderful trekkers took on the Himalayan Trek organised by Charity Challenge and raised an incredible £236,000 for bowel cancer research. 

The bowelbabe fund himlayan trek challengers wearing rain jackets and smiling in front of a Himalayan mountain range.

Why did you choose Charity Challenge to run this challenge?

We chose Charity Challenge because they offered the strongest overall package and level of support compared to other providers. We’ve worked with them before and have consistently had very positive experiences, particularly in how responsive and reliable they are. Their expertise in delivering these kinds of events gave us confidence that our participants would be well looked after from start to finish.

Challenge trekkers celebrating at their finish line, wearing Charity Challenge medals

What were you hoping to achieve with the Himalayan Trek?

Our key objectives were to deliver an excellent supporter experience, raise significant funds and increase awareness of Bowelbabe Fund and its mission. We wanted to create an inspiring and well-organised challenge that would appeal to a motivated and engaged group of participants, bringing together individuals who were passionate about the cause. Ultimately, the aim was to combine a rewarding personal experience for trekkers with meaningful fundraising and impact. 

A group of trekkers walking on a pathed path through the India Himalaya.

How did it go?

The challenge exceeded our expectations in several ways. We had 34 trekkers take part, all of whom successfully completed the challenge and contributed to a fantastic overall experience. Most notably, we surpassed our fundraising target, generating over £235,000 for the charity. The challenge ran smoothly and any problems were dealt with quickly, effectively, and professionally, participants were highly engaged and the atmosphere throughout was extremely positive. 

A person wearing a Bowelbabe Fund t-shirt and cap, facing out towards a green mountain range.

What were your highlights?

One of the biggest highlights was the overall participant experience. Feedback showed that everyone thoroughly enjoyed the trek – not just the physical challenge, but also the sense of community it created. Participants formed strong friendships and connections that will last a lifetime. The incredible scenery and shared achievements added to the experience, making it both memorable and meaningful for everyone involved. 

our clients: the bowelbabe himalayan trek

What did Charity Challenge do well?

Charity Challenge delivered excellent support at every stage of the journey. 

  • Pre-challenge: Communication was clear, consistent and timely, ensuring participants felt prepared and confident. Their willingness to host and support webinars was particularly valuable in helping participants get ready. 
  • During the challenge: On-the-ground support was outstanding, with a highly professional and supportive team ensuring safety and a positive experience for all. 
  • Post-challenge: Follow-up communication remained strong, helping us close out the event effectively and maintain engagement with participants. 
A group of trekkers, wearing rain jackets walking along a path, surrounded by mountains.

Testimonial

We would highly recommend Charity Challenge to other charities or corporates looking to deliver a successful fundraising challenge. They provide excellent end-to-end support, create memorable and well-managed experiences and truly understand how to engage participants. Our trekkers not only raised significant funds but also built lasting friendships, enjoyed unforgettable views and came away with a deeply rewarding experience. 

– Jayme Shepherd, National Relationship Manager for Bowelbabe Fund for Cancer Research UK

Read more about our customers have to say on the Google Reviews link below:

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is image.png

Learn more about our charity partnerships here or download our charity brochure.

If you’re interested in engaging your supporters with a challenge event – book your free initial consultation now! 

During our consultation, we will discuss your business needs, goals and values, provide you with options aligned to your objectives, and then of course, answer any questions that you might have. We’ll also discuss what support we offer and how we will work together throughout your challenge journey. 

You can expect this call to last about 30 minutes. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

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Inspiration, Latest News

WIN A PLACE ON OUR EXCLUSIVE VIP (INVITE ONLY) SAHARA DESERT TREK

June 5, 2026

For nearly three decades, tens of thousands of incredible challengers have walked, biked, climbed and trekked throughout the world to raise life-changing funds for charities close to their hearts.

Together, we’re about to reach an extraordinary milestone: £100 million raised for good causes!

As we celebrate our 27th birthday, we’re launching a very special campaign to recognise the people behind every mile, every blister, every fundraising page and every unforgettable finish line.

Every fundraising challenge has a story. We want to know “what’s yours?”

Charity Challenge £100 million fundraising milestone graphic with participant photos forming the words '100 Million'

Competion Details

We’re inviting you to share the story behind your fundraising journey for the chance to win a place on an exclusive VIP Celebration trek in the Sahara Desert next April.

Whether you climbed your first mountain, honoured someone special, conquered your fears or raised an impressive amount of life-changing funds, your story could become one of the 100 Faces of £100 Million.

We will also be offering additional prizes for bronze, silver and gold in the following categories:

  • 🏆 Most Inspiring Story  
  • 🏆 Outstanding Fundraising Achievement  
  • 🏆 Legacy Award (Long term supporter)

The competition is open to anyone aged 18 or over who has taken part in a fundraising challenge event for a charitable cause. Participants do not need to have previously travelled with Charity Challenge to enter.

Full competition terms and conditions can be found here.

How To Enter The Competition

To enter, contestants must:

  • Share the story behind your fundraising journey (example above)
  • Submit one portrait video of no more than 90 seconds in length

The competition opens on 10 June 2026 (our birthday) and closes at midnight on Friday 28th August 2026. Entries received after the closing date may not be considered.

Full competition terms and conditions can be found here.

ENTER NOW

Selection Process

Entries will be judged by a panel of Charity Challenge legends, including Founder / Director Simon Albert, Head of Sales & Marketing Jenn Payne, and long-standing challenge leaders Lizzy Codd and Ian Morton.

Participants will be selected based on:
🏆Inspiration and storytelling;
🏆Creativity and originality;
🏆Passion for fundraising and challenge events;
🏆Connection to the Charity Challenge community 

Selected participants and prize winners will be contacted on Friday 4th September 2026 using the details provided during entry.

Challenge Details

Join this exclusive, invite only adventure in the awe-inspiring Sahara Desert to help Simon and the Charity Challenge team to celebrate reaching £100,000,000 in funds raised through our challenges, across more than 50 countries over 27 years!

In April 2027, 100 incredible people who have played a key role in the journey to reach £100million will come together to trek 100km across the Sahara Desert and you could be one of them!

This five day trek passes through Morocco’s forbidding Sahara landscape punctuated by peaks, gorges, dunes and oases. At night, you will sleep under Africa’s star strewn skies and enjoy traditional Berber hospitality. 

Although challenging, and through an unforgiving landscape, this trek promises to be life changing. 

8 days | Morocco | Challenging

ENTER NOW
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Latest News, Tips & Advice

TAKING CARE OF YOUR FEET

June 3, 2026

If I could explain exactly why some people get blisters or foot pain and others don’t, this would be a very short article. The reality is far less predictable!

Even experienced walkers can train for months without issue, then wake up on day three of a trek with a blister the size of Mt Vesuvius or sharp foot pain the moment they step out of their tent. You can’t eliminate the risk entirely – but you can stack the odds firmly in your favour…

A person wearing a rain jacket and backpack, walking along a coastal path next to the sea.

Train Like You Mean It

There’s no shortcut here. The single most effective thing you can do is spend time on your feet!

The more miles you walk in your boots, the more your feet adapt to pressure, friction, and long days on mixed terrain. This is especially important if you’re preparing for UK conditions, where routes often include hilts, mud, uneven ground and long descents. Well-conditioned feet are far less likely to react badly when the challenge begins.

A person's foot being fitted with walking boots by a professional.

Get Properly Fitted Boots

A good boot fit is one of the biggest factors in preventing foot problems. It’s always worth going to a specialist outdoor retailer, such as our partner Cotswold Outdoor and getting fitted property. Most people will go up about a size, which allows room for foot swelling and helps prevent your toes from hitting the front of the boot on descents – one of the main causes of painful toenail blisters.

It’s also worth trimming your toenails about a week before your trek. It’s a small detail, but it can make a noticeable difference.

Cotswold Outdoor offer support to Charity Challenge participants through their Explore More scheme. By creating an Explore More account, you gain immediate access to members-only benefits from exclusive offers to extended warranty, and it’s completely free. Sign up here: Explore More | Cotswold Outdoor.

a close up of walking boots walking along a gravel road.

Choosing The Right Waterproofing

Not all boots are equal when it comes to waterproofing, and what you choose should reflect where you’re going. Many experienced leaders still favour full leather boots because they’re durable and can be reproofed repeatedly using products like Nikwax or Grangers Wax. They tend to last longer, especially in consistently wet environments like the UK.

Fabric or membrane-lined boots are tighter and more breathable, which can be more comfortable in warmer climates. The trade-off is that they require more maintenance and generally don’t last as long.

If you’re expecting boggy ground or heavy rain – very possible on UK treks – gaiters are welt worth considering. Just remember they should sit under waterproof trousers, not over them.

a person's hand holding a shoe insole against the sole of their foot.

Don’t Overlook Insoles

Insoles are often underestimated, but they play a big role in comfort. If a fitter recommends a different footbed, it’s usually for a reason. And when those insoles wear out, replacing them with the same type helps maintain the fit of your boots. Changing them can subtly alter how your foot sits, which may create new pressure points.

Taking them out each evening to dry is also a simple habit that helps keep your boots in better condition. Orthotics can be helpful for specific issues, but they should only be used under guidance from a podiatrist. Changing your foot alignment affects your entire movement pattern, and even a short walk with poor alignment can lead to knee, hip, or back discomfort.

a pair of bridgedale trekking socks

Socks Matter More Than You Think

Socks are one of the easiest things to get right – and one of the most overlooked. A good pair can significantly reduce friction and help manage moisture. Brands like Bridgedale are popular for a reason, but what matters most is finding what works for your feet.

Some people prefer merino blends, others wool or cotton. In hotter climates, toe socks can be surprisingly effective because they reduce friction between the toes.

It’s also worth experimenting with liner socks and carrying a spare pair each day. Changing your socks halfway through a walk and letting your feet air out while you stop for lunch can feet like a complete reset!

a close up of a walking boot in grass, highlighting the laces.

Small Adjustments: Lacing and Fit

Sometimes it’s not your boots – it’s how you’re wearing them. If you’re experiencing heel lift or pressure points, adjusting your lacing technique can make an immediate difference. A simple heel lock can stop your foot sliding, while other methods can relieve pressure across the top of your foot.

It’s worth experimenting before your trek so you know what works.

a pair of black and yellow trail shoes balanced on a rock

Boots or Trail Shoes?

Boots are often recommended for treks, but they’re not always essential. For example, a summertime long-distance walk in the UK – such as along the South Downs – might suit a lighter trail shoe, depending on your experience and the terrain.

Boots provide more ankle support, but that support can also mean your ankles do less work. If you have time to train, walking
on uneven ground in trail shoes can help build strength and stability in your ankles.

a circle of bare feet stood in the grass, each taped up with plasters or kinesiology tape.

Watch for Early Signs of Foot Pain

If you increase your mileage too quickly, your feet will usually let you know. Pain in the heel or arch can be a sign of planter fasciitis – irritation of the tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. It’s common among walkers who ramp up training too fast.

Simple measures like rolling your foot over a massage ball (or even a cold bottle) or applying SportsTape Kinesiology Tape (KT) can help ease symptoms. Elevating your feet at the end of the day also makes a noticeable difference.

Over-the-counter pain relief can help in the short term, but if pain continues, it’s worth getting proper advice before it becomes a longer-term issue.

As a Charity Challenge participant you get a 10% discount from our partners at SportTape. To redeem this offer, use the discount code that can be found in your participant account area under clothing & equipment, at time of purchase.

Recovery Matters Too

Looking after your feet doesn’t stop when you finish walking for the day. One of the simplest and most effective things you can do is take your socks off, lie back, and elevate your feet for a while. Half an hour with your feet raised helps to reduce swelling, improves circulation and gives your skin a chance to recover.

And when you get home? A bit of proper TLC won’t go amiss. You’ve earned it!

a pair of bare feet, with a pair of open walking boots next to them, perched on a rock, with a mountain view in the background.

Final Thoughts

Foot issues are one of the most common problems on any outdoor challenge, whether you’re walking in the UK or heading overseas for a Charity Challenge. But most problems don’t come out of nowhere. They build slowly and that means you have opportunities to prevent them.

Put the training in, get your kit right, and pay attention to the small signals early on. It won’t guarantee a problem-free trek, but it will put you in a much stronger position to deal with whatever comes your way!

By Lizzy Codd, Challenger Leader

Believe Achieve Inspire