What is the best insect repellent for UK midges?

Smidge is the most widely recommended insect repellent for UK midges. It uses 20% Saltidin (picaridin) rather than DEET, which means it will not damage synthetic fabrics or plastics. It provides up to 8 hours of protection against midges, mosquitoes, and ticks, and was specifically developed for the biting insects found in Scotland and northern England.

Are trail running shoes suitable for hiking in the UK?

Trail runners are an excellent choice for most UK day walking where the terrain does not demand full ankle support. They are lighter and more agile than boots, dry faster when wet, and allow a more natural gait on good paths. Brands like Salomon, Hoka, and Inov-8 make popular options. They are best suited to well-maintained paths; for rocky scrambles or boggy ground, boots with waterproof membranes are still preferable.

What gear do I need for my first wild camp in the UK?

For a first wild camp you need a shelter (lightweight tent, tarp, or bivvy bag), a sleeping bag rated for the expected temperatures, a sleeping mat, cooking equipment, water and a purification method, navigation tools, and emergency kit including a whistle, first aid kit, and warm layers. April is a good time to start as temperatures are mild enough to be forgiving of minor gear gaps.

What midlayer works best for April walking in the UK?

A lightweight fleece or thin synthetic insulated jacket is ideal for April. You need something that adds warmth on cold summits without making you sweat on the ascent. Look for a midlayer you can pack small and reach easily when you stop — the Rab Nexus Pullover and Patagonia R1 are popular choices that balance warmth and packability.

Why is a sit mat worth carrying on UK walks?

A closed-cell foam sit mat lets you sit comfortably anywhere without getting cold, wet, or muddy. In April, ground is often still damp from winter, and sitting on wet rock or grass cools you down quickly. A sit mat weighs as little as 60g, takes up almost no space, and transforms every lunch stop and summit rest.

This page contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more

Updated this month

April Gear Picks — Best UK Outdoor Kit to Buy This Month

Survivals editorialUpdated 2026-03-255 min read

April: The Real Start

April is when things get properly good. Longer evenings, warmer days (mostly), and that unmistakable feeling that the outdoor season is here. Bluebells are out, the hills are green, and wild camping becomes genuinely pleasant rather than an endurance test.

1. Lightweight Midlayer — Around £50-80

April needs a midlayer that works across a wide temperature range. Too warm and you'll overheat on climbs; too thin and you'll freeze on summits. A lightweight fleece or thin synthetic puffy is perfect. Rab Nexus, Patagonia R1, or a simple Berghaus Prism fleece all work brilliantly.

2. Lightweight Tent or Tarp — From £100

If you're planning your first wild camp of the year, April is the month to sort your shelter. A lightweight 1-2 person tent or a tarp-and-bivvy setup opens up a whole new world of outdoor experience. Alpkit Soloist, Vango F10 Helium, or a simple DD Tarp with a bivvy bag — there's an option for every budget and style.

3. Insect Repellent — Around £8-12

Midges, mosquitoes, and ticks are all active from April. Carry a DEET-based repellent (50% DEET for serious midge country) or a picaridin alternative. Smidge is the UK favourite for midges specifically — it's designed for Scottish conditions and works brilliantly. Apply to exposed skin and around ankle and neck openings.

4. Trail Running Shoes — Around £80-120

If you're not in terrain that demands full boots, trail runners are a revelation for spring and summer walking. Lighter, more agile, and quicker-drying than boots. Salomon Speedcross, Hoka Speedgoat, and Inov-8 Roclite are all popular and well-proven. Break them in on shorter walks before committing to a big day.

5. Sit Mat — Around £10-15

A closed-cell foam sit mat weighs almost nothing and transforms lunch stops. No more sitting on wet grass, cold rock, or muddy ground. Thermarest Z-Seat or a simple foam offcut — either works. Luxury item? Maybe. Worth it? Absolutely.

April evenings are perfect for short after-work walks. Keep a small pack ready by the door with waterproofs, a headtorch, snacks, and water — grab it and go when the weather's good.

April Essentials

Smidge Insect Repellent (75ml)

Amazon UK

£0Budget

Insect activity ramps up in April. Smidge is the UK favourite for good reason — effective, DEET-free, and designed specifically for the biting insects we have here.

View deal

Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you