KitUp For A Winter Adventure: Climbing In The Grampians

11th Mar 2024Bruce LeishmanLeave a comment

One of the things I love more than writing about my adventures is reading about other peoples adventures! Today we have the pleasure of seeing what Ben and his friends got up to in the Grampians over the weekend.

Just 2 Scottish lads (Ben and Ryan) at the summit of Tower Ridge, Ben Nevis after an incredible climb (March 2024).

Getting Started

Hey there, fellow adventurers! I’m Ben, a lover of all things climbing and mountaineering. I came across KitUp last year and have since used it as both an Owner and as a Renter (they have a great selection of winter climbing equipment available). Having just had one of the best Scottish winter weekends I thought it would be great time to share it with the community.

The day started with an incredibly early departure from my parents house in Glasgow, where we charged ourselves with strong coffee and popped ‘Ben Nevis’ into the GPS – the goal was to summit Tower Ridge, possibly the best mountaineering route in the UK. As with any mountaineering trip (especially in Scotland) it needs some prior planning – route selection, weather checks, equipment etc and this was one of those rare occasions that all went to plan and we were able to do exactly what we wanted to.

Upon arriving at the car park just after sunrise, we were greeted by postcard views of the snow-capped peaks that towered above us and the crisp mountain air. We knew that this was going to be a truly special day out.

Ryan, trying hard not to fall into the freezing cold water at the foot of Ben Nevis (also taking a cracking photo for the Gram!).

Time To Get The Crampons On!

As we hiked up the slopes to the bottom of the climb, the beginning of Eastern Traverse, the snow started coming in hard but thankfully the winter was not too strong. This is where having the appropriate kit, especially clothing, comes in very handy. The mixture of wind, rain and snow that often characterise Scottish mountaineering require some sturdy stuff!

To begin the real climb we entered Douglas Gap a 20m groove/chimney leads to the crest of the ridge, which rises gently to become quite narrow (picture below). Whilst waiting for the others to come up behind me, it was a great time to snap a quick pic and enjoy just how picturesque the area is. It can be a busy climb but luckily, we were almost totally alone.

The Douglas Gap on the West Gully of Ben Nevis. Ben is starting to feel a little chilly at this point!

Crux Time (The Difficult Part)

After the Douglas Gap we were faced with 3-4 pitches of harder climbing on the ‘Little Tower’ which took a good couple of hours to get through. We have all done a lot of climbing so this was not beyond our ability (if relatively new to winter hiking/climbing then I would recommend getting a guide from the likes of Lochaber Guides). This was then followed by a traverse across a steep bank of snow and then another pitch of climbing to the ‘Great Tower’, which the route is named after.

We then climbed up through the chimney (image below) via a series of steep wall sections and ledges. For those not wanting to do this, there are other, simpler routes to get to the summit.

Ryan climbing The Chimney – probably the toughest part of the climb!

After popping out of the top of the chimney it’s pretty smooth sailing to the summit – time for a quick cup of tea and a picture! Doing something like this with a group of friends is one of the best experiences. It creates a bond of trust and comfort that you won’t have with too many others.

An After-thought

As I reflect on this epic day on Ben Nevis, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity. I totally understand the commitment that it takes to buy and store this equipment (for most people it is used so infrequently) but for the vast majority, its deeply unnecessary if nothing else. KitUp is a really valuable resource for not only trying new activities but for anyone that is limited by what they can travel with. The ability to rent equipment ahead of time also means that you meet new people and hopefully learn about new routes!

So, to all you aspiring adventurers out there, I urge you to seize the day and embark on your own winter climbing escapade. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or not, there’s something truly special about exploring the great outdoors and pushing your limits in the most breathtaking of settings.

With equipment from KitUp and a spirit of adventure in your heart, the possibilities are endless. So go ahead, grab your boots, pack your kit, and let’s make some memories that will last a lifetime. The Grampians are calling – will you answer?

Ben and Ryan at the bottom of Little Tower, during a climb of Tower Ridge on Ben Nevis.

KitUp Community Adventures

it is so inspiring to read about other peoples adventures. To see more of what Ben is up to, you can check out his instagram profile here. If you would like to feature your escapades in our blog, please get in touch with us at info@kitupadventures.com or via any of our social media channels.

The Power of Consistent Training

8th Nov 20238th Nov 2023Bruce Leishman

When it comes to sports, more specifically outdoor sports, it’s likely that you can remember a pinnacle moment in your journey; whether that’s the initial spark of interest, or your first taste of success as you progressed. Regardless, we all have specific moments that we often reflect on. Bruce, our founder at KitUp, is no exception. Today, Bruce is sharing his story, take a read.

KitUp’s Founder, Bruce, recently completed a triathlon in Barcelona.

Reigniting the spark for outdoor sports adventures

Has your life ever revolved entirely around your work? 6 months ago I was in this bracket and I can now see the impact that this had, not just on me but on those around me. I would be with my wife or with friends but never fully giving them my attention. I was always checking the KitUp social media feeds or drafting emails or looking at new listings. One evening, I was at home and my wife told me that enough was enough, that I needed something else to drive me.

Dedicated sports training

I have always loved tough endurance races like ultra marathons, partly because of the stunning settings and the connection with nature but also because of the discipline needed to get through the build up training and the event. I had always wanted to complete an Ironman triathlon so I took the plunge and entered the Barcelona Ironman Triathlon. All triathlons follow a swim, cycle, run, format so require dedicated training for 3 separate sports.

Improving health, wellbeing and productivity with consistent physical activity

The program that I followed (see here) had been intense, with a minimum of 6 sessions per week averaging 2 hours per day. The weekends were pretty tough, often with a 4 or 5 hour cycle on a Saturday and a long run on Sunday. During the first month or so it felt pretty overwhelming but I stuck at it and soon got pretty used to it. It seemed to give me the drive and discipline not only to complete my training but to achieve so much more every day.

Consistent training gave me the structure in my life that I can now see I needed. Getting up for early morning swimming sessions or heading out on my bike not only gives me satisfaction at having been productive, it also releases so many endorphins that you are energised and focussed throughout the day. It also helped with my sleep (you have to prioritise this when training so much). If I went out for drinks or had a late night, I really felt it during my training so I had to really cut back. Again, this led to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. I spent fewer hours ‘working’ than before, but I got far more done, my work was to a better standard and I felt a greater sense of achievement.

Creating a social and active community

It was also a great way to spend some time with friends in a different setting. Training alone can get a bit lonely so convincing people to come out and join you, even for a small part of your cycle or run and a lot more fun to the schedule and you get the added benefit of catching up with friends.

I could not recommend this enough. You do not have to sign up to anything as radical or as time consuming as an Ironman triathlon but try adding some training structure to your life and see how you feel. I had all of my training sessions in a PDF document so I had the added bonus of crossing each one off. Seeing the race get closer and closer made me stick to the plan.

Tuning into your body

For the 6 months leading up to the triathlon, this was my guide. I completed about 95% of the sessions but it is important to listen to your body. If you feel that you are training too much, scale it back as the risk of overtraining could stop you entirely. Also, if you’re feeling great and want to add more in, you can. Just make sure to accommodate your diet – the calories you burn will increase drastically so make sure to fuel properly!

How I KitUp

Naturally, with 3 sports to train for, I’d acquired an abundance of kit to fulfil my training needs, starting with an investment of state-of-the-art bikes to the comfiest yet most stable running shoes, it’s not easy on the pocket, but it’s worth it.

Having completed the Barcelona Ironman Triathlon 2023

To support the outdoor sports community, my Giant Propel bike is an incredible hire, especially for intermediate-advanced cyclists in the London area who want to take on an adventure. From the carbon frame for reaching top speeds to the cutting-edge shimano gears for the smoothest ride, it’s a beauty. While this kit wasn’t available for the big Ironman day, it has been since.

3 Best South-West Adventures for Summer 2023

14th Aug 2023Bruce Leishman

As the summer of 2023 is in full swing, it’s time to ‘KitUp’ for some adventures in the South-West! This picturesque corner of the United Kingdom offers an array of beautiful destinations to explore, from the vibrant city of Bristol to the rugged coastlines of Cornwall and Devon. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious traveller, we’ve got you covered with so much to see in these well-loved locations, as well as some top kit recommendations for each location.

Explore the waters of Bristol

Kickstart your South-West escapades with a visit to the vibrant city of Bristol. This cultural hub boasts a captivating blend of history, modernity and artistic flair, making it an ideal destination for all types of adventurers.

Paddle on gentle waters

Start off in Clevedon Marine Lake, a safe bet with gentle water to keep you up on your feet. This Body Glove Performer inflatable paddle board comes with both an electric and hand pump for each inflation, paddles and a carry bag for convenience with simple pick-up in Bristol.

Coast along the River Avon

If you’d like an alternative view, the River Avon is an earth location to be-at-one with nature. Simply head to Bristol and rent this ready-to-go 11ft inflatable blue paddleboard through KitUp. Not only is it stable and easy-to-handle, but it’s a generous size for cruising (or surfing small waves if you head to alternative beach locations). Collection is in the heart of Bristol and packed up in a convenient bag for ultimate exploration.

Paddleboard with rucksack for easy portability

Take Cornwall by bike or board

Next on our list is the captivating coastal beauty of Cornwall, a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its coastal waters and trails awaiting to be explored, there’s endless adventure.

Whizz through Lizard

Zip along the coast and loop back through the Lizard National Nature Reserve with this Giant Rove Liv Women’s Hybrid from the amazing team at Lizard Bike Hire. Venture with enhanced comfort and control, courtesy of a suspension fork and reliable disc brakes that ensure you can maintain your speed, even when facing wet weather conditions.

Hit the waves of Fistral Bay

Power through the rapid waters of Fistral Bay with this Nigel Semmens Hazzatron shortboard surfboard, courtesy of Fistral Surf School. Ideal for hollow, faster waves for the ultimate beach adventure. With collection from Fistral Bay, it couldn’t be any easier. The team are also incredibly talented so if you have never surfed before, pop in and say hello!

Embrace the wonders of Devon

Lastly, head into the captivating landscapes of Devon, where rolling hills, endless countryside and charming villages await. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast eager to conquer Dartmoor National Park or want to pedal through the streets, KitUp has everything you need.

Opt for a weekend away in Dartmoor

Start by hiring the Vitesse e-bike powerhouse, with effortless navigation and exploration. Benefit from a 40-mile range to allow robust investigation of the beauty that Dartmoor National Park has to offer, as well as upgraded tyres, seat, grips, saddle and bar bags.

Level-up with an overnight camp

We could not be happier that the ban on Wild Camping (camping without written permission from the land owner) has now been lifted!! We can pack our tents and enjoy the quiet, incredibly starry skies and the early morning views of the Moor. Why don’t you set up camp with this 3-4 man, all seasons tent. Designed to withstand extreme weather, you’ll be guaranteed a good night’s sleep. The Zhota also features plenty of interior pockets for storage, vestibules to keep your shoes and gear away from the living space, as well as colour-coded poles for fuss-free pitching.

KitUp for your Bristol, Cornwall or Devon adventure now

With Bristol, Cornwall and Devon offering a diverse range of experiences, you’re in for an extraordinary summer adventure in the South-West region. Whether you choose the bustling city life of Bristol, the coastal charm of Cornwall, or the tranquil national parks of Devon, head to KitUp today to remain sustainable, whilst also ticking things off your bucket list.

Get started with KitUp

Sustainable Summers: Best Festival Tents 2023

19th Jul 202319th Jul 2023Bruce Leishman

As the summer festival season heats up, it’s time to prepare for unforgettable experiences under the open sky taking in the vibrant atmosphere among a buzzing crowd. However, amidst the excitement, it’s important to address the environmental impact of festivals, particularly in terms of tent wastage.

In this blog, we’ll be discussing the impact of tent waste, as well as guiding you through the best festival tents, while keeping the environment in mind. We’ll explore different tent functionalities, recommend top picks and discuss how renting tents can improve sustainability.

Tents and Festivals: Current Practice

The Association of Independent Festivals (AIF) estimates that around 250,000 tents are abandoned at music festivals across the UK each year. On average, a tent weighs 3.5kg and is predominantly made of plastic – the equivalent of roughly 8750 straws or 250 pint-size cups, according to AIF. This is clearly a huge amount of waste! We certainly have some improvements to make. We believe it’s crucial to embrace more sustainable approaches to reduce this impact and create a positive change. But, how can we start the movement?

Here at KitUp, we have a huge array of tents for hire. From tents to hire near Boardmasters, to pop-up tents to rent for Leeds Festival, there’s a tent for every occasion. Then, once the fun is over, simply pack up your tent, hand it back to the owner and head back home for some rest and relaxation (let’s face it, you’ll need it after a festival full of entertainment!)

Which tent is best for a festival?

When it comes to choosing the best tent for a festival in the UK, several factors come into play. The ideal tent will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as the number of people sharing the tent, desired comfort level, ease of setup, durability and weather resistance.

Spacious family tents are great for groups, while lightweight and compact tents work well for solo festival goers, or those attending as a duo. Additionally, tents with good ventilation and waterproof features are essential for unpredictable festival weather. By assessing your requirements and considering the recommendations in our guide, you’ll be well-equipped to select the perfect festival tent for an enjoyable and comfortable experience.

Spacious Festival Tents for Hire

For festival-goers attending with their families or larger groups, spacious family tents are an excellent choice. These tents offer multiple rooms or separate sleeping compartments, providing privacy and ample space for everyone. Look for tents with a high peak height to allow for comfortable movement inside. Many family tents also feature built-in storage pockets and additional features to enhance your camping experience to make it as comfortable as possible.

If you’re heading to Boomtown this summer with a group of friends or family and need a tent to hire, this tent might be the ultimate choice for you. It comfortably sleeps 4-6 people and can even come with additional accessories on request.

4-6 Person Quecha Tent to Hire — **4-6 Person ‘Quechua’ tent to hire near Winchester**

This one’s an ideal tent pick if you’re heading to Reading Festival or Boomtown Festival. It’s situated slightly further out but you could factor in collection while making your way to the event. Based in Basingstoke, this quick-pitch inflatable tent for hire is ideal for groups of 6 and provides a huge amount of room to safely secure your belongings for the duration of the event.

**6-Person ‘Berghaus’ tent to hire near Basingstoke**

Lightweight Festival Tents for Rent

If you’re planning to attend a festival as a solo traveller or prefer a more lightweight setup, backpacking tents are worth considering. These tents prioritise portability and ease of carrying, making them ideal for those who have a little distance to walk before setting up camp. If this sounds like your situation, we recommend looking for tents made from lightweight materials. Not only do they benefit from being easy on your back, but they won’t compromise on durability or weather resistance. These tents are typically easy to set up and pack down, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festival.

Need a tent to rent for Boomtown Festival? This 1-person backpacker tent is the perfect solution for a solo attendee, or if you’re going with a group but want your own space to rest your head as it’s available to hire from Alton, perfect to pick up en-route. With a simple set-up, you’ll be heading towards the stage in no time.

1-Person Backpacker Pro tent to hire near Alton

Paying a visit to All Points East this summer? Check out this ultralight 2-person tent. Available to rent and collect from Hoxton, it’ll be the perfect fit and allow you to travel across London with ease.

**2-Person ‘Vango Force’ Ultra-Light Tent to hire in London**

Quick Pitch Pop-Up Festival Tents to Hire

For festival-goers seeking convenience and ease of setup, pop-up tents are a popular choice. These tents come with pre-attached poles that can be easily unfolded and set up in a matter of minutes. They are perfect for those who want to spend less time assembling their tent and more time enjoying the festival atmosphere.

Heading to Boardmasters Festival this summer and need a tent to hire for a small group? Check out this 3 person pop-up tent in Cornwall. It fits perfectly in the car and can be hired from Cornwall.

All-Weather Festival Tents to Rent

Festival weather can be unpredictable, so investing in an all-weather tent is a smart choice. Look for tents specifically designed to withstand various weather conditions, including rain, wind and even extreme heat or cold. These tents often feature robust rainflys, sturdy poles, and durable fabrics to keep you protected and comfortable in any climate. Ventilation is also crucial in all-weather tents to prevent condensation buildup. While it might take a little longer to erect, it’ll certainly provide peace of mind for protected sleep during a festival.

This 4 season’s tent is one of our favourite picks if you’re going to experience the fun of Boardmasters this summer. Available to collect from Devon, this 3-4 man tent can be hired so you know you’re supporting the environment, whilst also having a great time.

**3-4 Person ‘Alpkit Zhota’ Tent to hire in Devon**

How Renting a Tent for Festivals Can Improve Sustainability

In light of the significant tent wastage at festivals, we strongly advocate for renting tents as a more sustainable alternative. Renting not only reduces waste but also allows festival-goers to enjoy high-quality tents without the long-term commitment of storing a tent, or the cost it can incur to purchase new.

How Much Does a Festival Tent Cost?

This question can be quite complex to answer as it completely depends on the type of tent, size, quality and functionality. If you’re looking for a cheap tent to purchase brand new, you could be looking at spending from £30. However, with this low price, comes compromises. You’ll likely be receiving a tent that has low or limited durability, meaning you might end up getting a damp tent throughout your festival stay, or very little comfort and space. If you’d prefer something more luxury, you can expect to spend £1000’s. However, renting a festival tent allows access to a wide range of higher-quality tents, at a fraction of the price.

At KitUp, our online platform currently has tents to hire from £7 per day. Explore what our renters have on offer today and head to our online platform.

To conclude, it’s crucial to consider the environmental impact of tent wastage as you prepare for your upcoming festival adventures. By choosing sustainable options like renting festival tents, we can collectively work towards minimising waste and preserving our planet. Whether you’re camping with family or venturing solo. Let’s embrace the festival spirit responsibly, explore new locations, and make lasting memories while keeping the environment in mind.

Ready to hire your perfect festival tent and make a positive environmental impact? Visit KitUp now to start your sustainable festival adventure in comfort!