Expedition essentials 2

Katadyn BeFree filter 600ml bottle

www.exped.com
The Exped Synmat UL S (ultralight) is an inflatable sleeping pad/camping mattress from Exped that offers fantastic compactness, warmth and comfort.

A proper cold-weather sleeping mat is essential if you want to go camping in winter. Cheap, thin roll mats made of foam are next to useless when the ground is really cold – regardless of how warm your sleeping bag may be. You’ll end up cold and awake if you don’t have a layer of air between you and the groundsheet. However, you don’t want to be transporting a bulky lilo around either, which is where the Exped Synmat UL 7 steps in. The UL 7 (UL stands for Ultralight) scores much higher in terms of weight and packability.

The UL S is rated down to minus 6 degrees celsius (21.2 degrees fahrenheit), which is more than enough for most conditions that you’ll encounter. The package also contains the Schnozzel Pumpbag that inflates the mat instantly, whilst also preventing the moisture in your breath from affecting the insulation.

The ‘S’ stands for short meaning this mat’s measurements are a length of 163cm and a width of 52cm. Their are three other sizes culminating in the LW, which is 197x65cm.

• Synthetic micro-fibre filling that is laminated to both upper and lower sides of the mat which eliminates loss of pressure.
• Two year warranty.
• Anti-slip GripSkin coating.
• Schnozzel Pumpbag UL included.
• Proven FlatValve Technology: separate inflation and deflation valves, non protruding and more durable than traditional valves.
• Repair kit included.

Price approx: £95.00

Ortlieb First Aid Kit Medium

www.ortlieb.com
A must-have for all outdoor activities: is a first aid kit for emergencies – always at the ready thanks to its waterproof case.

Having it with you is everything, no matter whether you’re out for a whitewater first descent, an ocean kayaking expedition or a simple paddle on your local river. The kit should allow you to treat anything from small injuries on location or make a contribution to treating more serious injuries while you’re waiting for the professionals.

A First aid kit should be an permanent part of your equipment and the Ortlieb is amongst the best. The size of medium featured here is suitable for most outdoor activities.

• Medium-sized first aid kit in waterproof sleeve made of PU-coated nylon fabric with roll closure.
• Can be fixed to a bag, strap, belt, etc.
• Comes with first aid kit and fixing straps.
• Suitable for all kinds of sports.
• Removable inner pocket for clear organization and quick access.

Contents

• One pair surgery gloves.
• One first aid packet size M.
• 5m sticking tape.
• Two wound pads.
• One set plaster strips.
• One gauge bandage.
• One rescue blanket.
• One first aid instructions, multilingual.

Price approx: £35.00

Ortlieb Safe-it

https://www.ortlieb.com
In our increasingly digital world and one in which sometimes our lives depend upon our mobile devices our smartphones, tablets, e-readers and GPS devices need special protection when you take them along on a paddle.

The Safe-it is really marketed at the bike industry, however, with all that cyclists sometimes have to face – it is waterproof and so works just as well for paddlers. This protection is provided by the practical Safe-it pouch, which comes in five different sizes for all of your mobile devices. The proven roll closure offers reliable protection against spray water and dust without limiting your ability to operate the devices, including the side buttons.

All Safe-its come with smart drawstring cords that allow you to conveniently carry your devices. Safe-it models in size S and M are also outfitted with loops that allow you to attach your device to your belt or backpack. Available in black or lime.

It has to be said that in the watersport market, the Safe-it is up against some pretty good opposition that have been market leaders for many years and that are cheaper. So it has its work cut out to become established in the eyes of paddlers. That said, here it is – take your pick.

• Tear-resistant, UV-resistant polyurethane.Tear-resistant, UV-resistant polyurethane.
• Protection against dirt, scratches and liquids.
• Adjustable drawstring cord.
• Transparent window on rear for cameras.
• Lightweight design.
• Made in Germany
• Five year guarantee.

Price approx: £20.00; $35.00; 25.00€

Petzl BINDI headlamp

https://www.petzl.com/
Ultra-light at just 35 grams, the BINDI headlamp fits in the palm of your hand. With 200 lumens of power, it is ideal for everyday activities and regular training around town or in the mountains. Featuring a micro USB port, so all you have to do is plug it in, wait for it to charge, and then you are ready to go once again. The thin headband adjusts easily and can also be worn around the neck.

In max power you can see up to 118 feet ahead of you, that’s a long way on the river or anywhere else for that matter. To get that range, you have to use the brightest of the three settings, which does drastically reduce battery length to around 90-minutes. I tended to use the middle setting, which is still good for over 70 feet and you’ll get an extra hour from the battery. The Bindi is rated as IPX(4), which is the water-resistant rating. It will hold up to light rain but not heavy rain or submersion.

Truth is I use this torch for almost everything – it is much lighter than other head lamp I have used and more importantly doesn’t inadvertently move or tilt.

Price approx: £35.00; $50.00