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Subject Topic: Backpacking the South Downs Way Post Reply Post New Topic
PersonConniechops
24/8/2011 at 9:36pm
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Hi guys! I fancy walking the S.Downs Way with my family. Is it better to get one tent for the 4 of us to share the weight of, or two 2-berth tents? I've never backpacked, only basecamped with car.


PersonSceptical Camper
25/8/2011 at 8:19am
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Quote: Originally posted by Conniechops on 24/8/2011
...I've never backpacked, only basecamped with car...
In that case, I would advise against starting with a long stage-by-stage family trek on a long-distance footpath. I suggest that you do some trial one-nighters to see how you get on. Use any equipment you already own (rather than buying specially) until you have a better idea of what will work for you.

The most important choice will be your rucksacks. Choose carefully as fit and comfort are very important.

Here are two threads that might be useful to you (they contain packing lists and advice):

Thread 1

Thread 2


PersonNaughtytaz
25/8/2011 at 11:56pm
 Location: Southampton
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I'm planning on walking a few stages of it in late September. Ive started doing some long distance walks with backpack on to build up to it as Ive not carried a pack on mi back for some time. We had a good 10 mile + walk on tuesday http://www.endomondo.com/workouts/j1atTFT-lq8?ref=nf

Good luck an hope u have a good time


PersonNaughtytaz
30/8/2011 at 9:16pm
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Went for another walk over part of the SDW yesterday up & over Old Winchester Hill just over 16 miles in total http://www.endomondo.com/workouts/nCRlYAX-PIQ?ref=nf

-------------
24th 25th June Roundhill Caravan & Camping Site Forest Holidays
1st 2nd July Long Meadow campsite
Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park IOW 26th - 30th Sep
NWSC campsite Nottingham 30th Sep - 2nd Oct


PersonFinnboy
10/9/2011 at 9:25pm
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On a side note, I can only say I hope you get to walk it. I cycled the route Summer before last and slept rough the first night** and stayed at a YH the second.

I will never forget the experience. I am hoping to ride it next rear with my 14 year old son.

** Had no room for tent or even a sleeping bag or mat. I chose to ride with as little as possible due to my lack of readiness (2 bike rides in the preceding year due to illness) and bike tools/ spares were my priority.
Only had room for a sleeping bag liner and that was it. Froze on the first night (was late July) and was wringing wet from the dew that formed on the grass I slept on. Couldnt wait for sun rise so I could start riding to warm up! Had no change of clothing, goodness, I must have stunk!
Planned on using binliners to sleep in on last night bought from a service station.... then rode straight past a YH and was too tempted by a shower and nice bunk bed. Washed my clothes in the shower and rode off in them wet the next day, soon dried out though.

Sounds horrible in a way, but the scenery and people I met along the way will be with me forever.

Sorry to sound all evangelical, just want to convey how good an experience it is to walk/ ride the SDW.....

-------------
(Quechua popup addict!)
Planned for next year, hopefully!

Summer Solstice wild camp.

Chilled in a Field, July.

Crantock, August. Fouth year with the fantastic Quechua Base Seconds 4.2!
..... and the odd night wild camping in my Argos 1 man tent...


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Personprivatehudson
10/9/2011 at 9:38pm
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I can imagine it would be yes, I really need to plan a long distance hike for next year...


Personpetemillis
18/9/2011 at 11:13pm
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Two small 2 berth tents, I would say. Reliable ones like the Coleman Avior X2 or X3 or similar. Nice and light to carry. Also, take a couple of tarps, pegs and bungees and extra cord for guylines then you can sort out all sorts easily for shelter and for keeping gear dry. What ages are the kids?


Personsmashing69
20/9/2011 at 10:10pm
 Location: London
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There are lightweight 4 person tents under 2kg so it is an option (and these will do 4 - not 3½..)

e g   http://www.tarptent.com/hogback.html

I suppose it depends how cosy you want to be..

But would agree with SC that it is a very ambitious start to backpacking. Perhaps a shorter trip to hone your pack weight a bit? Be ruthless with how few clothes you take - a change of togs as often as you might be used to will just weigh you down. Campsite with laundry facilities will be your saviour.

Oh.. and do anything to keep your pack weight to max. 20% body weight or your knees will feel it in years to come


PersonTheHagueFamily
06/4/2014 at 10:34pm
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Hi Conniechops, We're planning to backpack the S. Downs Way in August and there will be 4 of us (including two boys aged 9 and 6). We have bought a TerraNova Hoolie 4 tent because it's supposed to be reasonably lightweight.

Just wondered if you did your trip and how it went. Any tips for family backpacking?

-------------

Sharon


Personconniecello
07/4/2014 at 7:47am
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I'm afraid I never realised that dream! Kids now too independent, and into other things. I'd forgotten I'd posted this, it's been a long time!


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Personheather + phil
07/4/2014 at 9:18am
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I'm sorry that you never got to go on what I'm sure would have been an epic journey. perhaps you could do it with someone else? Or by yourself?

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The true test of fairness is how fair you are to those who are not



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