Why do I need a head torch on a Large Outdoors guided walk or social weekend?

This is one of the most common questions we get here at Large Outdoors. It can seem strange to be asked to carry a head torch in your walking kit, especially in the summer months!

A head torch is always on the essential kit list no matter what trip you attend with us, for when you’re out walking but also when you’re back at your accommodation.

Here’s why it’s essential to carry a head torch when out walking:

• Walk Safety
  Whilst on a walk a head torch is essential for several reasons, we never plan to be out longer than planned but you just never know, someone maybe slower than expected or maybe even injured meaning the group get back later than expected so you could easily find yourself walking in the dark. 

• Night Walks
  For all our night walks, from Dark Skies Festival events to our Sunrise Adventures or Moonlight Walks a head torch is essential. It goes without saying that walking in the dark means you’ll need your own light to see. You will not, under any circumstances, be able to attend a night-time trip without a head torch. Handheld torches or phone lights are not a substitute for a head torch, as in the hill terrain you need to have your hands free for balance. 

• Dusk and Dawn starts
  If you’re taking part in a challenge like the Yorkshire Three Peaks, it’s possible you may be starting or finishing before sunrise or after sunset.

• Signalling for help
  Should you find yourself in a position where you need to attract attention or signal for help, a light is a great way to help emergency services pinpoint your location.

And here’s why we ask you to have a head torch for when you’re at our accommodation: 

• Arriving at the accommodation
  The accommodation we use for our getaways can be a little off-the-beaten-track (which is part of the experience!), but this means there may not be street lighting or lights in the car park when you arrive. Having a head torch makes it easier to unload your luggage and make your way to the entrance safely.

• Whilst staying in the accommodation
  If you’re staying in shared accommodation, be kind to your room mates and use a head torch to find your way around at night rather than turning on the room light.

• Walking to the pub 
  Many of our venues have a great country pub nearby. Again, as we’re out in the countryside, there’s a good chance you’ll have to make your way down a dark country lane to get there. Be prepared with a head torch to light your way and help any other road users see you.

• Any other times there’s not enough light to see what you’re doing!
  Can’t find the light switch in the loo? Don’t be left in the dark.

• Wild Camping
  This one goes without saying, but if you’re attending one of our Wild Camping experiences, you’ll definitely need a head torch throughout.