BEST OF THE PYRENEES

What should I bring?

BAGS & PACKS

• Daypack

Bring a 40-60L rucksack that is well worn in and with a good waist belt. A waterproof cover is advisable (remember that these covers are not 100% waterproof but act as a barrier). You can leave belongings in Luchon for the end of the trek, but while out in the hills you will need to carry all of the kit that you are not wearing.

• Dry stuffsacks

Rolltop bags that keep fresh clothing and other important items lime your passports and electronics dry in the event of a total downpour that could seep into your kitbag. Good for quarantining old socks! Please note that France has banned plastic bags. In any case, we would always advise buying reusable and sustainable nylon rolltop bags for keeping your kit dry.

• Waterproof rucksack cover

SLEEPING GEAR

• 2-3 Season sleeping bag

You will need a 2 or 3 season sleeping bag for use in the refuges. Make sure it is rated to 5°C and choose a sleeping bag that functions within the comfort rating of this temperature. A silk sleeping bag liner will enhance this rating on cooler nights.

• Sleeping bag liner (Optional)

Bedding is provided at the hotels / guest houses and you will have your sleeping bag for the refuges, but some people prefer to bring a sleeping bag liner for extra warmth / comfort. Silk is best for keeping you a little warmer.

HEADWEAR

• Warm Headgear

This can be a warm hat, beanie, balaclava, anything to reduce the heat loss from your head. We’ll hope for sun, but it can be chilly in the mountains – and after the watersports you might be cold after getting out of the water.

• Wide brimmed hat

Keeps the sun off exposed areas like ears and the nape of the neck

• Sunglasses

Category 4, wrap around style sunglasses are highly recommended. These sunglasses allow for the highest available protection against harmful UV light found at altitude and from glare from the snow, if there is some at the higher altitudes. It’s worth spending money on good UV filters. 

• Lip Salve

Sun cream does not work on your lips, and they will be susceptible to sun burn without proper protection.

• Sunblock

We’d recommend you buy the highest SPF you can find, as UV intensifies with altitude especially when reflecting off the water.

UPPER BODY

• 2x Baselayer

This is the layer closest to the skin and its principal function is to wick, or draw, moisture and sweat away from the skin.

• Midlayer

These are typically lightweight microfleeces or similar technology that provide varying degrees of warmth and insulation without being overly bulky or heavy to pack

• T-shirts

A couple of T-shirts are advisable for this summer expedition.  The days are reasonably warm, with high temperatures at lower altitudes.

• Hard Shell

These jackets are thin, highly waterproof and windproof and worn over all other items of clothing. You’ll find these made of Gore-Tex or other proprietary waterproof yet breathable technology. Inexpensive hard shells that aren’t breathable will prevent evaporation, making you sweat intensely and, as such, are not recommended.

• Soft Shell (Optional)

These should be windproof (not all are) and insulative. They are mostly made of soft polyester and sometimes resemble a neoprene finish which makes them very mobile and comfortable to wear. While offering a degree of weather repellence, do note they are usually not waterproof.

• Gloves

LOWER BODY

• Shorts

A couple of pairs of shorts are advisable for this summer expedition. The days can be reasonably warm, with high temperatures at lower altitudes.

• Trekking trousers

These tend to be polyester so they dry quickly after a shower and weigh little in your pack. Consider perhaps a pair with detachable lower legs as an alternative to shorts.

• Underwear

Merino or wicking material, not cotton. How many pairs you take is entirely up to you!

• Waterpoof trousers

A lightweight pair of Goretex trousers will act as a great windproof too.

FEET

• Hiking boots

Well worn in 4 season waterproof boots with mid to high ankle support

• Spare laces

• Comfortable Trainers/Crocs

For use in the evenings. With most refuges, you will need to take your boots off when you go in. Some provide croc/slippers but not all.

• 3x Trekking socks

Whether you wear a single layer, or 2 pairs, is a personal choice. Lighter weight merino wool is a good option.

• Comfortable Evening Clothes

HYDRATION

• Water Bottles/Bladder

You’ll need enough to carry 2 litres, either in a combination of bladder and Nalgene bottles, or just Nalgene bottles

• Water purification

Although generally all water is boiled or brought filtered from the hotel or refuge in the morning, some trekkers prefer to double up and add purification tabs as well. Always good to have in your bag.

TOILETRIES

• Wash kit 

Keep it simple. Essentials are toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant. Moisturiser is advisable, everything else is a luxury!

• Alcohol Gel

• Toilet paper 

Provided at the accommodation, and at public toilet facilities, but a spare in your daysack may be useful if you need to hide behind a rock during the day.

• Microfibre towel

Packable & Lightweight!

MEDICATIONS

• Personal First Aid Kit

The 360 medical kits are designed to be used in emergencies and are akin to an A&E rather than a pharmacy, so please come prepared with useful meds for yourself such as painkillers (Ibuprofen if you can take it and Paracetamol) plus blister plasters, plasters, antiseptic, rehydration sachets and any muscle rubs you wish to use.

• Personal medication

Kept in an accessible location in your pack

MISCELLANEOUS

• Camera

Bring plenty of spare batteries and memory cards. A power pack is handy for keeping things charged in the case of no charging points in the refuges

• Head torch + A Spare or spare batteries

• Snacks

Although you will be fed well, we do we advise bringing a small selection of energy bars or your favourite snacks. Have a couple per day.

• Ear Plugs (Optional)

• Penknife (Optional)

• Swimwear

For the wild swimming, canyoning (you’ll be provided with a wetsuit on this day also) and for any other opportunities throughout the trip if you wish!

• Trekking poles

Optional, but they can be useful on the trekking sections. These tend to be a personal preference, but can help with your stability and can dampen the pressure on the knees coming down hill.

DOCUMENTATION

• Passport

Don’t forget this! Your passport should have at least 6 months validity: ie. your passport expiry date needs to be at least six months after the final day of travel. Make sure you also have at least two blank pages.

• Copy of passport

• Dental checkup 

We recommend you have a dental check-up before your trip. New fillings can be an issue at altitude if there is an air pocket left in the gap

• Travel Insurance

Bring a copy of your own travel insurance details and relevant contact numbers.

360 Expeditions have a partnership with True Traveller and would recommend that you contact them when looking for travel insurance for your trip with 360. However, it is vital that you ensure that the insurance cover they offer is suitable for you, taking your personal circumstances (items to be insured, cancellation cover, medical history) into account. Many other insurance providers are available and we do recommend that you shop around to get the best cover for you on the expedition you are undertaking.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the appropriate insurance for your intended trip, to include at a minimum medical evacuation and coverage up to the maximum altitude and for the relevant activities included on this trip.