Coast to Coast Walk Packing List: Essential Items for Your Wainwright’s Way Adventure
Planning your Coast to Coast walk across England? Whether you’re embarking on a guided Coast to Coast tour or tackling Wainwright’s Way independently, this comprehensive packing guide will help you prepare for one of England’s most famous long-distance walking routes.
What to Pack for the Coast to Coast Walk
When walking the 192-mile Coast to Coast path from St Bees to Robin Hood’s Bay, your main luggage will be transferred daily between accommodations. However, choosing the right items for your day pack is crucial for a comfortable and safe walking experience.
Since you’ll be staying in Coast to Coast accommodation including hotels, pubs, and B&Bs, you can adjust your daily kit based on weather conditions and terrain – whether you’re crossing the Lake District fells, Yorkshire Dales, or the North York Moors.
Essential Day Pack Items for Coast to Coast Walking:
Choosing the Right Backpack
A 35-50 litre day pack provides sufficient space for your daily essentials. Key features to look for:
- Multiple attachment points for water bottles and walking poles
- Elasticated webbing or rear pocket for wet clothing storage
- Consider a waterproof rucksack cover (secure it well in windy conditions)
- Line your pack with dry bags or waterproof liners to protect contents
Weather Protection Essentials
Always carry full waterproofs – jacket and trousers – regardless of the forecast. These serve as:
- Essential rain protection on unpredictable English weather
- Effective windproof layers on exposed sections
- Lightweight backup that you’ll forget you’re carrying
Gaiters are optional but valuable for wet, boggy sections common along parts of the route, particularly in the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales.
Navigation and Documentation
Invest in quality waterproof map cases:
- A3 size for Ordnance Survey maps of the Coast to Coast route
- A4 or A5 size for documents, guidebooks, and accommodation details
- Ortlieb waterproof cases offer excellent durability and protection
Technology for Coast to Coast Walkers
- Mobile phone: Essential for emergencies, accommodation contact, GPS, and photography
- Portable power bank: Crucial for multi-day walking routes
- Spare battery: Backup power for extended walking days
- Consider a dedicated camera for capturing Coast to Coast landscapes
Clothing and Comfort Items
Pack these in your day bag:
- Fleece or insulating layer (if not wearing)
- Extra long-sleeved shirt for sun protection or dry changes
- Remember: you may arrive before your luggage or accommodation opens
Food and Hydration for Long-Distance Walking
- Minimum 2 litres of water (refill from taps along the route)
- 500ml vacuum flask for hot/cold drinks
- High-energy snacks and bars in easily accessible pockets
- Protective container for packed lunches (optional but helpful)
- Take advantage of the refill app to fill your flask
Quick-Access Essentials for Your Top Pocket
Store these items in your rucksack’s top compartment for easy access:
Safety Items:
- Small head torch
- Emergency whistle
- Lightweight gloves and beanie hat
Personal Items:
- Lip balm and sun cream
- Waterproof wallet with passport, money, tickets
- Keys and daily essentials
- Broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses
Navigation Tools:
- OS maps of the Coast to Coast route
- Compass
- Guidebook and route notes
- Accommodation information
Coast to Coast Packing Tips
- Leave umbrellas behind – they’re impractical in England’s windy conditions
- Don’t pack spare clothing sets – focus on one good change layer
- Utilise your accommodation’s facilities – most provide tea/coffee making facilities
- Keep valuables with you – never leave important documents in transferred luggage
- Plan for early arrivals – you might reach your destination before check-in
Ready for Your Coast to Coast Adventure?
With this Coast to Coast packing checklist, you’re well-prepared for England’s most famous coast-to-coast walking route. Remember, the key to a successful Wainwright’s Way walk is balancing essential safety items with comfort while keeping your day pack weight manageable.
Planning your Coast to Coast walk? Coast to Coast Packhorse provides local expertise in organising your perfect trip, customised to you, and including baggage transfer services to make your Lake District to North Sea adventure unforgettable.
Ready to book your Coast to Coast walking holiday? Contact Coast to Coast Packhorse for professional baggage transfer services and local expertise for your Wainwright’s Way adventure.