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I’d always close the gate, because the impact is always going to be lesser. If the Farmer wanted it open, he can do so. But if it was an inconsiderate rambler who left it open? Better it be closed.

Oh, and properly map your route. In the UK there are public rights of way, which include Bridal Paths now centuries old. Some Farmers might not like it, but provided it’s mapped there’s not a lot they can really do. But, if you think crossing their field is a shortcut? Don’t act surprised if the Farmer or land owner takes exception.

In England, you mean. Scotland has a general right of access even to private land, provided you don’t damage stuff (among other requirements etc).

The best advice I've ever gotten when camping is make sure the site/area is cleaner when you leave, then when you found it. Pick up trash, even if it's not yours. It's not a major inconvenience.

Also, water is more important than 90% of the other stuff you're bringing. I'd gladly trade the solar battery charger for another 36oz of clean water at the end of most days.

 Flinty wrote:
In England, you mean. Scotland has a general right of access even to private land, provided you don’t damage stuff (among other requirements etc).

True that. Even so, stick to the beaten path where possible. Especially in the Highlands, as even if you get stuck, you should come across a Bothy sooner or later for shelter.

 Haighus wrote:

I also find breathable waterproof layers are worth the higher price, things like goretex. Great for avoiding sweatiness and also protecting from rain and wind.

My big tip on this is if you are going to go for goretex or other breathable materials you have to do it for every layer. There's no point throwing on a goretex shirt and then throwing a regular non-breathable top over that. That does indeed mean you'll spend more layering up, but it means that because every layer can breath, then it can work. Otherwise you are just allowing the sweat to penetrate another layer of clothes and still hang around you.

It's basically one of those all or nothing choices.




Also on the subject of clothes and layers don't forget your legs can have layers too. Thermal underwear can be a huge boon for keeping your legs warm. A lot of people layer up like crazy on their top half and yet still only wear one layer of clothes over their legs. That's a lot of body surface to lose heat over!