How to prepare for your expedition

We have fantastic expedition resources available to support you and your group during the preparation and undertaking of the Expedition section of your Award! Download, share or print all of our expedition resources below. 

Ways to use these resources:

Email to DofE participants 
Add to DofE section on your school/centre portal 
Put up posters on noticeboards 
Use in Expedition training sessions 

What to wear
It’s important to plan your outfits to make sure you have all the layers you need for your expedition.
How to pack a rucksack
Your rucksack is very important. Get it right, and it can make your expedition. Get it wrong, and you could be in for a long, uncomfortable...
Eating on your expedition

Getting the right food will help you enjoy your adventure. It’s a chance to be creative, and to understand more about rationing and outdoor survival.

Look after your feet
Choosing the best walking boots and socks for your expedition is crucial. Get them early so you can wear your boots in and be comfortable...
Technical clothing and layers
Layering your clothing helps you manage your temperature on your journey, and will keep you comfortable in all weathers.
Get a good nights sleep

A good night’s sleep always helps on expedition. A good sleeping bag can last you many years and be a great value addition to your camping kit.

First aid

On your expedition you’ll need to know how to keep yourself safe in the outdoors, and how to act in an emergency.

Cooking stoves

You’ll need to cook a hot meal and show that you can use a cooking stove effectively in the wild. Get advice and safety instructions on cooking outdoors.

Waterproofing and kit care

Having waterproof kit if it rains on expedition will make it much more enjoyable. Add extra waterproofing to your clothing and footwear before you set off.

Campcraft and cooking

Using specially designed camping utensils can really cut down on weight and space. It’s also more robust than regular cookware, which is helpful on longer Gold expeditions.

Wash kit and tools

There is a wide range of equipment available to ensure your health and safety on your expedition, whether for sunburn, storms, or midges.

Tents

For most expeditions, DofE groups will use lightweight trekking tents that are easy to carry and quick to put up.

Maps and compasses

A map and compass are expedition essentials, and it’s important you can trust your navigation skills to guide you on unfamiliar ground.

Tracking systems

Trackers can be used to monitor the location and progress of groups on expeditions – they should be thought of as additional safety equipment, not a navigation tool.

Expedition Resources

Our fantastic free expedition kit resources are here to help you and your group during the preparation and undertaking of the expedition section. Click 'Download Now' for Easy access to all of our expedition posters if you want to know a little bit about everything!
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