Challenges, Tips & Advice

SAHARA DESERT TREK: TIPS FROM PAST TREKKERS

August 25, 2026

Heading into the Sahara? Our past trekkers have shared their tried-and-tested tips to help you prepare, pack smart and make the most of your Sahara Desert Trek challenge.

Two people looking towards a glowing sunset in the sahara desert, morocco

Footcare is Everything

You simply can’t search ‘Sahara Desert Trek tips’ without being advised about proper footcare. It’s one of the most vital areas to get right! Over the years, our past trekkers have shared plenty of advice about taking care of your feet in the desert.

  • “You can never train too much and if you think your boots are broken in, they’re not. Break them in some more.” – Wendy Ebbrell 
  • “Learn how to tape your feet before you go – it will save them!” – Lucie Green
  • “Prevent blisters before they form! Tape your feet from day one using kinesiology tape, such as SportTape, to reduce friction between your skin, socks and shoes. Practise during training walks to identify and protect your blister hotspots”. –Team Charity Challenge
  • “Make sure you practice plenty in your boots and size up, as the heat made our feet swell“. – Roxane Caplan
Trekking boots and sand gaiters on sand during a Sahara Desert trek.
  • “When sand gets in your boots or socks, it acts like sandpaper against your skin and can worsen blisters. Try to keep it out the best you can, by emptying your boots/socks regularly, wearing walking boots that cover your ankle and tucking your trousers into your socks.” – Richard Simpkin, Challenge Leader 
  • “Consider trying toe socks, which separate your toes and can help reduce rubbing between them – a common spot for blisters to develop.” – Team Charity Challenge
  • “Sand gaiters are designed to stop sand getting into your boots/socks, they’re particularly useful when wearing shorts or walking through soft sand and dunes. Some trekkers simply tuck their trousers into their socks, but gaiters provide an extra layer of protection.” – Team Charity Challenge
  • “I highly recommend carrying a spare pair of dry socks in your daypack, so you can change into fresh socks during your lunch break – giving your feet a chance to dry out and recover.” – Jenn Payne, Challenge Leader
contents of a trekking daypack laid out before packing up

The Art of Keeping Organised

A little organisation goes a long way when you’re living out of a rucksack for five days.

  • “Pack your belongings in dry bags. Such as t-shirts in one bag, trousers and medicines in another – because living out of a ruck sack can be difficult. But if you are organised in this way, not only will keep items dry but it will save time and effort searching.” – Rebecca Rigil
  • “Try packing each day’s clothes into a separate packing cube or drybag and keeping your next day’s set at the bottom of your sleeping bag overnight. This makes early-morning packing much easier!” – Team Charity Challenge
  • “Make sure you follow the checklist to the ‘T’. Literally almost everything I needed was mentioned in the list (and I brought everything suggested). Even some of the things I brought that I personally didn’t need, I shared with others who did. Also as suggested, bring lots and lots of blister plasters. You can never have enough blister plasters“. – Ugonna Okoro 
a group of trekkers walking in the sahara desert near sunset
  • “Try not to overpack your duffle or daypack. Leaving a little room between items makes it much easier to quickly grab what you need when you’re on the move.” – Laura O’Connor
  • “A handy tip is to use a daypack with a hip-belt pocket, or carry a small bum bag, so you can keep essentials within easy reach while walking, Perfect for items like SPF lip balm, tissues, your phone and high-energy sweets!” – Team Charity Challenge
people trekking up a steep sand dune in the sahara

Kit Tips from Past Trekkers

From desert essentials to keeping comfortable at night, here’s the kit our past trekkers recommend. If you’re booked onto a Sahara Desert Trek, you should of course always refer to the full Kit List, found here.

  • “Remember to take the baby wipes!” – Salwa Karoji 
  • “Dry wash and wet wipes can be a real help on the Sahara Desert Trek, particularly when shower facilities are limited. They’re an easy way to freshen up at the end of a long day between proper showers.” – Team Charity Challenge
  • “Don’t dismiss trekking poles! Whilst the terrain is more flat than you may first think, the trekking days are very long, so any knee support is a bonus.” – Hayley Gilling
a group of people smiling for a mobile phone selfie during their sahara desert trek challenge
  • “There are no charging facilities in the desert but plenty of photographic opportunities with magical sunsets and stunning sand dunes, so make sure you take a portable battery charger. Even better, if you can get a solar one, you can make sure it charges your phone, headtorch and any other essential kit, and stays charged itself!” – Simon Albert, Charity Challenge Director 
  • “It is much colder at night than you think, so take plenty of warm clothes!” – Emma Thami 
  • “Temperatures can fluctuate enormously between day and night in the desert, so lots of light layers are key. Consider that lightweight long sleeve tops and long bottoms provide an extra layer of protection from the harsh sun in the day, as well as from insect bites at night!” – Team Charity Challenge
a trekker in the sahara using their water bladder to sip water

Fuel and Hydration Advice

Staying hydrated and well-fuelled is essential when trekking long days in the desert heat.

  • “Rehydration sachets were essential – two bottles, or a bladder and a bottle, one with Rehydration salts and one without was a great shout!” – Bea Footitt
  • “You should carry at least 3 litres of water while trekking to stay hydrated, particularly in hot conditions. If you sweat a lot, rehydration salts and electrolytes can also help replace what you lose – pack both!” – Team Charity Challenge
  • “Practise using your water bladder before the trek, and avoid overfilling it to reduce the risk of bursting. It’s also important to keep the mouthpiece clean and protected from dirt and germs.” – Richard Simpkin, Challenge Leader
charity challenge trekkers on the sahara desert trek, wearing sun hats, sunglasses and neck buffs to protect themselves from the elements

Keeping Cool

With hot days and strong sun, these simple tips can help you stay cool and protected.

  • “Wet your Charity Challenge neck buff, and place it around the neck to help you cool down.” – Simon, Charity Challenge Director
  • “For daytime sun protection, bring sun cream and an SPF lip balm/stick for lips, scalp, backs of hands (minimum factor 30 with UV and UVB protection), a wide brim hat and lightweight, moisture-wicking long-sleeved shirts/t-shirts to protect yourself from the harsh midday rays.“ – Laura O’Connor
  • “I recommend taking a small microfibre flannel to clip on to your day pack, so you can wet it and keep cool as you walk.”– Rosie Graham
  • “Don’t underestimate the use of a small foldable trekking umbrella for some instant shade.” – Ian Morton, Challenge Leader
a person applying SPF suncream during their sahara desert trek challenge

Prepare Well and Enjoy the Journey!

Following the full information, advice and recourses found within your Participant Account Area will best prepare you for your desert adventure – leaving you free to fully enjoy each moment.

  • “Read all the documentation and information provided thoroughly, as it tells you everything you need to know!” – Sarah Taylor
  • “Follow the training plan! I did – in fact I did it and a little more and suffered no aches, no pains, no blisters and felt fresh on a daily basis.” – Sioux Bingham
  • “You are in for an adventure. Put your phone away. Look at the stars. Pack ear plugs. Lean on others if you need to. Enjoy all the chats. Wear SPF. Be prepared to pack and unpack your bag a bazillion times a day. Bring an extra lip balm. Hand sanitizer is your friend. It’s a beautiful world out there, go explore it!” – Fiona Hatton 
a landscape shot of sahara desert sand dunes against a blue sky, with trekkers walking along in a line
BOOK YOUR SAHARA DESERT TREK
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Challenges, Latest News

WHY YOU SHOULD TAKE ON A HALF MARATHON CHALLENGE

August 20, 2026

Did you know we now offer the Manchester Canals Half Marathon and Thames Footpath Half Marathon – two 21km urban trekking challenges packed with iconic sights, scenic routes and a real sense of achievement?

For exclusive groups, a selection of our one-day marathon challenges are also available in half marathon distances, offering a more accessible option for your team. These include the Peak District Challenge, South Downs Challenge, Chilterns Challenge and the Bristol Gorge, Bridge and Castle Trek

But what makes a half marathon challenge worth taking on? Keep reading to discover the benefits and why you should take on a half marathon challenge…

A group of trekkers walking along a sunny path in a section of woodland in the UK,

A Challenge That Fits Around You

With a distance of around 13.1 miles (21km), our half marathon challenges offer a significant personal achievement while being more manageable than a full marathon or multi-day trek. They’re also designed as one-day challenges, meaning there’s no need to take several days out of your schedule, while giving you more flexibility to choose how you travel to and from the event.

a large group of challengers all wearing medals and smiling for a group photo at the end of their thames footpath challenge

Convenient UK Locations

Our half marathon challenges (Manchester Canals Half Marathon and Thames Footpath Half Marathon) take place in accessible locations in major UK cities, making them easier to reach by car or public transport.

Each route offers a different way to experience the city on foot, from Manchester’s historic canals, waterways and industrial landmarks to London’s iconic riverside sights – and lot’s of greenery along the way. You’ll get to explore familiar places from a completely different perspective!

a challenger leader trekking with challenge participants through a woodland section of the manchester canals trek

Perfect For Your First Challenge

Never taken on a Charity Challenge before? A half marathon is a great introduction!

You’ll have the motivation of a group around you, support from our experienced Challenge Leaders and a clear goal to work towards. You don’t have to be an experienced trekker or long-distance walker – just a willingness to train and take on the challenge.

a person walking along a section of the Manchester canals, on a sunny day

Push Yourself For A Good Cause

Taking on 21km is no small achievement! Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself, raise funds for a cause close to your heart, or both, a half marathon trek offers a clear, meaningful mission.

As a leader-led challenge, you’ll trek with a group of like-minded individuals and follow the planned route, with experienced Charity Challenge leaders there to guide you throughout the day. Plus, your Participant Account Area will be full of useful information on kit, training and more – to help you fully prepare beforehand.

And remember, a Charity Challenge isn’t just about the distance. Every step can help raise vital funds for a cause you care about. When booking, you can choose to fundraise for any UK or Irish registered charity you wish, or you can simply self-fund your place – the choice is yours!

a group of people wearing challenge medals and smiling for a photo at the end of their uk fundraising challenge

The Journey To Something Bigger

For some people, 21km might be the ultimate goal – and that itself is a worthy achievement. For others, it could be the beginning of something bigger.

Completing a half marathon challenge can give you the confidence to take on a marathon distance challenge, a multi-day trek, a triple challenge – or even an overseas adventure next time! More often than not, our participants get the ‘challenge bug’ – and can’t wait to book their next one!

a group of people wearing smiling for a photo during their manchester canals trek with Charity Challenge

Ready To Take On A Half Marathon Trek?

If you’re looking for a one-day UK challenge that’s achievable, rewarding and easy to fit around your life, our half marathon treks could be perfect for you. Top Tip: Book early and maximise your training and fundraising time!

CHOOSE YOUR CHALLENGE
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Latest News, Tips & Advice

CULTURAL TIPS FOR TREKKING IN CHINA

August 3, 2026

If you’re heading to China for a multi-day trek like our Great Wall Discovery challenge, you’re in for an unforgettable experience – not just because of the landscapes, but because of the culture. There’s a phrase many travellers come back to again and again: only in China. And it really does sum things up.

China is vast, diverse, and deeply rooted in traditions that can feel very different from what many Western travellers are used to. The key to enjoying it? Go in with an open mind, a sense of humour, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. Keep reading for our top cultural tips for trekking in China.

A challenge leader trekking with a participant along a section of the Great Wall of China

Expect Curiosity (And Embrace It)

One of the first things many challengers notice is just how curious people can be, especially in more rural areas.

You might find locals:  

  • Wanting to practise their English 
  • Asking questions about where you’re from 
  • Showing interest in your appearance (yes, even touching your hair or face!) 

It can feel unusual at first, but it almost always comes from a place of friendliness and genuine interest. If you lean into it, smile, and engage, these moments often become some of the most memorable parts of your trip.

A charity challenge leader taking selfie with a young local in China.

Understanding Mealtime Etiquette 

Food is a big part of Chinese culture, and meals are often a shared, social experience. Typically, you’ll be eating around a large round table, with multiple shared dishes using a rotating centre platform (a ‘lazy Susan’).

One thing that can catch people out is the order food arrives. Dishes come when they’re ready not in courses, so it’s perfectly normal to start eating straight away. 

A few cultural nuances to be aware of: 

  • Rice or noodles often come towards the end of the meal.  
  • Asking for them earlier can suggest your host hasn’t provided enough food.  
  • Leaving food is fine but avoid placing chopsticks upright in rice, as it symbolises funerals and is considered bad luck. 
  • If you completely clean your plate, some hosts may think you’re still hungry and they didn’t provide enough food – leave a small bite or two. 

It’s these small details that show respect and help you feel more comfortable in the setting. 

Plates of chinese food presented on table.

A Few Habits That Might Surprise You

Travel always brings moments of culture shock, and China is no exception. 

For example, in some areas, particularly rural regions or among older generations, spitting is still relatively common. While this is becoming less frequent, it can still catch visitors off guard. 

It helps to remember that cultural norms go both ways. Something that feels unusual to you may be completely normal locally and vice versa.

A sign in china that says No Spitting

Food, Temperature, and Traditional Beliefs

In China, food isn’t just about taste, it’s closely tied to health and balance. 

Traditional Chinese medicine places importance on maintaining harmony within the body, particularly around temperature and digestion. As a result: 

  • Food and drinks are rarely served very hot or very cold.  
  • A balanced internal temperature is seen as important for wellbeing.  

If something isn’t quite what you expect temperature-wise, it’s best to accept it as part of the experience rather than sending it back. 

A close up of a woman preparing some traditional chinese tea leaves.

Mind Your Gestures

Small gestures can carry different meanings across cultures, and in China, subtlety is valued. 

For example: 

  • Pointing directly at people or things can be seen as rude  
  • Prolonged direct eye contact may feel uncomfortable in some situations  

You might notice guides or locals using more indirect ways of communicating like nodding or gesturing gently. 

It’s all rooted in a cultural emphasis on respect and harmony, influenced by traditions such as those of Confucius. 

A group of trekkers and their local guide holding up a charity challenge sign on their great wall discovery challenge.

Asking for Directions? Be Aware

If you find yourself needing directions, there’s a small cultural nuance worth knowing. 

In China, people often avoid saying “I don’t know” outright, as it can be seen as losing face. This means you might sometimes be given an answer – even if it’s not entirely accurate. 

To make things easier: 

  • Use maps on your phone where possible. 
  • Keep your hotel’s address written in Chinese.  
  • Don’t rely on just one set of directions.  

It’s a small adjustment that can save a lot of confusion.

A direction sign saying upgoing on a section of the great wall of china

Staying Connected: Apps and the Internet 

China’s internet landscape is quite different from what many travellers are used to. Some familiar apps and platforms like Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp are restricted. If staying connected is important, you might consider setting up a VPN before you travel (though reliability can vary).  

Tip – Ensure you choose a VPN that is known to work in China and you set it up before you arrive as they may be blocked in country. 

Alternatively, many visitors choose to embrace local apps such as: 

  • WeChat (for messaging, payments, and more)  
  • Weibo (a social media platform)  

You may even find yourself wishing these apps existed back home as they’re incredibly versatile.

a person holding their phone which has a VPN screen on

Tipping Culture 

Tipping in China is very different from places like the UK or the US. 

In most everyday situations: 

  • Tipping is not expected. 
  • It’s not part of the culture in restaurants, taxis, or hotels.  

However, there is one key exception. On organised treks such as those run by Charity Challenge it’s customary to tip local guides and support teams, as this forms an important part of their income. We suggest around 700 Yuan (approx. £75). This should be given to the challenge leader who will distribute it among the support team, including guides, assistant guides, cooks and drivers.

a local chinese guide standing with a microphone at the front of a tour bus.

Final Thoughts 

Trekking in China is about so much more than the physical journey. It’s an opportunity to step into a culture that’s rich in history, tradition, and unique ways of seeing the world. Some things may feel unfamiliar at first but that’s part of the experience. 

Approach it with curiosity, respect, and an open mind, and you’ll not only complete an incredible trek, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for a country that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

By Lizzy Codd, Challenge Leader 

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Case Studies, Latest News

OUR CLIENTS: THE ROYAL MARSDEN CANCER CHARITY

July 30, 2026

Over the last 27 years, Charity Challenge 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 The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity on how their recent South Downs Challenge went…

Two trekkers on The royal marsden cancer charity south downs challenge, walking up a steep section of the Seven Sisters Cliffs.

Please introduce yourself…

I’m Sarah Green, Challenge Event Executive at The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. In May 2026, we had over 130 supporters taking on the 26-mile South Downs Challenge, raising over £94,000. 

The royal marsden cancer charity supporters wearing royal marsden cancer charity t-shirts, stood in front of a winding river that heads out to sea.

Why did you choose Charity Challenge to run this challenge?

I chose Charity Challenge to run this challenge for us, not only from previous experience working with them, but also for their strong reputation for organising well-planned, safe, and impactful challenge events. 

A trekker posing for a photo with a branded frame, after completing their charity challenge for the royal marsden cancer charity.

What were you hoping to achieve with the South Downs Challenge

We wanted to create an event that was challenging but achievable for our supporters. We aimed to bring our supporters together while raising vital funds and awareness for The Royal Marsden. We hoped to inspire new supporters, strengthen relationships with existing fundraisers and generate meaningful income to help us continue to be there for everyone who needs us. 

The royal marsden cancer charity supporters posing for a photo next to South Downs Way sign, during their South Downs Challenge.

How did it go?

The South Downs Challenge was a great success, and Charity Challenge played a key role in making the event run smoothly. From the initial planning stages through to event delivery, their team provided excellent support and clear communications. 

The organisation on challenge day was well managed (big shout out to Tom Armes, the Event Manager and the Challenge Leader team!) and the support the leaders provided to our trekkers throughout the day was second to none. I knew we were in the safest hands from previous experience. They are professional, knowledgeable and incredibly encouraging throughout the day, which made our participants feel, safe, motivated and confident at every step of the trek. 

Everyone said it was quite a tough challenge, but the sense of achievement outweighed the blisters!

South Downs Challenge trekkers walking across a pathway, next to a field of bright yellow flowers

What were your highlights?

My personal highlight from the day was seeing so many supporters coming together for very different personal reasons, but all supporting the same cause. Some were participating just for the challenge, some in memory of a loved one and some finishing their own cancer journey and using this trek as a celebration!

A group of Royal Marsden Cancer Charity supporters on the Seven Sisters Cliffs, during their South Downs trek, dressed in waterproof jackets.

What did Charity Challenge do well?

Before the trek, our Account Manager, Tilly, provided clear guidance and regular communication, from the initial planning stage onwards. The Participant Account Area is particularly useful, giving trekkers direct access to all the information they needed. This enabled everyone to feel fully prepared prior to challenge day. 

Challenge day was delivered to a very high standard. From the route, checkpoints, leader support, lunch provided and just the general morale being kept high from start to finish! Overall, Charity Challenge delivered yet another welcoming, enjoyable and professionally run event for our fundraisers.

A section of the white Seven Sisters Cliffs in the South Downs next to the blue sea, and a red and white lighthouse.

Testimonial

I would highly recommend Charity Challenge to other charities and corporate organisations. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and participant-focused approach made the entire experience seamless from planning through to event delivery. The team provided excellent support throughout, while ensuring participants had a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience. Their expertise and enthusiasm played a huge role in the success of our South Downs Challenge, and we would not hesitate to work with them again. 

– Sarah Green, Challenge Event Executive at The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.

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

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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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Challenges, Latest News

BE FIRST TO BOOK 2027 UK CHALLENGES – 50% OFF FOR A LIMITED TIME

July 28, 2026

From mountain summits to marathon finish lines, our challengers have been making a real difference for charities this year! We’re now excited to launch our 2027 UK Challenge dates, including seven National Three Peaks Challenge departures, brand-new Half Marathon Distance and One-Day Challenges, and a new Race Across The Lakes challenge for exclusive groups!

2027 UK Charity Challenge's Summer Sale

Celebrate the launch with 50% off in our UK Summer Sale! For a limited time, we’re offering 50% off the registration fee on all 2027 one-day UK Open Challenges.

Use the code UK2027 when booking. Offer ends Midnight Sunday 30 August 2026. T&C’s apply.

National Three Peaks Challenge

a group of trekkers at the summit of a mountain at sunrise, during their national three peaks challenge

National Three Peaks Challenge

Trek the three highest mountains in Scotland (Ben Nevis, 1,344m), England (Scafell Pike, 978m) and Wales (Snowdon/Yr Wyddfa, 1,085m) all within 24 hours! Considered one of the toughest UK challenges for a reason.

We have 7 new 2027 dates to choose from, book early and get training!

3 days | UK | Tough

Marathon Distance Challenges

A group of trekkers hiking through a green path in the peak district

Peak District Challenge

Set in the heart of the beautiful Peak District National Park, this one day challenge will see you trekking over hill and dale, all in the name of charity. 

*Half marathon distance option available for exclusive groups.

1 day | UK | Tough

a large group of trekkers walking along the seven sisters cliffs, in the south downs national park

South Downs Challenge

Challenge yourself on this incredible walk along some of the UK’s most famous coastal scenery, including the stunning Seven Sisters and Beachy Head, before finishing in Eastbourne.

*Half marathon distance option available for exclusive groups.

1 day | UK | Tough

We also offer: Manchester Canals Trek, Bristol Gorge, Bridge and Castle Trek, Birmingham Castle to Canal, Chilterns Challenge and Thames Footpath Challenge in epic marathon distance routes!

Half Marathon Distance Challenges (NEW!)

Looking for a shorter one-day challenge? We’re excited to introduce two brand-new Half Marathon Distance Challenges, conveniently located near major UK cities

a section of manchester's canals, reflecting the buildings surrounding it and the bridge across it.

Manchester Canals Half Marathon

Take on a memorable 21km walk through Manchester, exploring historic canals, rivers and waterfronts from Sale to Castlefield.

1 day | UK | Tough

a group of challengers wearing their medals and posing for a celebration photo in front of tower bridge in london, after completing their thames footpath challenge

Thames Footpath Half Marathon

Discover a different side of London on this 21km trek, following the iconic River Thames from Chiswick to Tower Bridge.

1 day | UK | Tough

One-Day Challenges (NEW!)

Some of our favourite challenges such as Hadrian’s Wall Trail Challenge, Lakes 5 Peaks Challenge, Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) Triple Challenge and the Lake District Triple Challenge have been give a makeover and are now available as one-day challenges!

With no accommodation included, it’s the perfect option if you’re looking for a more affordable challenge or prefer to plan your trip your own way. Enjoy the same incredible challenge experience, with more freedom and even greater value.

two trekkers smiling for the camera, with a section of hadrian's wall behind them

Hadrian’s Wall Trail Challenge

Hadrian’s Wall runs across the north of the UK from coast to coast and remains one of the largest ancient monuments in Northern Europe. You will trek in the footsteps of the Roman Empire and take in some of this extraordinary structure that protected the Roman armies from the Scottish.

1 day | UK | Tough

A group of people standing stationary with their mountain bikes, raising their arms in celebration, during their lake district triple challenge

Lake District Triple Challenge

Trek to the summit of one of the Lake District’s most iconic peaks, the Old Man of Coniston, before testing yourself on the off-road mountain bike trails of Grizedale forest, then kayak across iconic Coniston Water. One day, 3 adventures!

1 day | UK | Challenging

Race Across The Lakes (NEW!)

This new team-based challenge is designed exclusively for private groups. These unique experiences encourage collaboration, strengthen relationships, and maximize fundraising potential, creating a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

a person taking a selfie with a group of kayakers in a lake

Race Across The Lakes

Race Across the Lakes is an action-packed one-day team challenge combining problem-solving, adventure activities and teamwork in the heart of the Lake District.

Interested in booking? Get in touch at info@charitychallenge.com

3 days | UK | Tough

And that’s not all! We have plenty more UK challenges available to join in 2027 – including: Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge, Ben Nevis at Night, Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) At Night Challenge.

Choose your 2027 challenge early and give yourself an incredible achievement to work towards and an adventure to look forward to – all while supporting a cause you care about!

CHOOSE YOUR 2027 UK CHALLENGE
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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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