Camping
Camping is an essential part of the Highlander Mountain Marathon experience. Unlike traditional races where you finish and head home, this two-day challenge requires participants to carry their own camping equipment and set up camp in a designated overnight area. This adds a unique survival element to the event and makes effective camping preparation crucial to success and comfort.
The Overnight Camp
The overnight camp is a vital element of the Highlander Mountain Marathon, offering participants a well-earned rest after the first day’s challenging route. However, this camp is far from luxurious — participants must be self-sufficient, bringing everything they need to survive the night.
The designated camping area is often located in remote, wild Highland terrain, offering minimal facilities. While there may be access to clean water, competitors must prepare to rely on their own gear for cooking, warmth, and comfort.
Essential Camping Gear
Competitors are required to carry specific camping equipment to ensure their safety and comfort during the overnight stay. Here’s a checklist of essential items to include in your pack:
- Tent or Bivvy Bag: Lightweight yet durable, with enough room for two people and their gear.
- Sleeping Bag: Designed for mountain conditions, providing warmth even in low temperatures.
- Sleeping Mat: Essential for insulation and comfort on cold, uneven ground.
- Cooking Equipment: A lightweight stove and suitable fuel for preparing meals and hot drinks.
- Food: Dehydrated or lightweight, calorie-dense meals are ideal for reducing pack weight.
- Water Storage and Purification: Many sites will have access to fresh water, but carrying purification tablets is recommended.
- Warm and Dry Clothing: Conditions can turn cold and wet quickly in the Highlands, so layers are vital.
- Rubbish Bag: Following Leave No Trace principles, all waste must be carried out with you.
Meal Planning and Nutrition
Your nutrition during the event plays a crucial role in your performance and recovery. Since weight is a key factor, aim to pack lightweight yet calorie-dense food that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and protein.
Recommended Food Options:
- Instant porridge or cereal for breakfast
- Energy bars, nuts, and trail mix for on-the-go snacking
- Dehydrated meals or lightweight pasta/rice dishes for dinner
- Electrolyte tablets to replace lost minerals after a demanding day
Setting Up Camp Efficiently
After a full day of racing, conserving energy while setting up camp is crucial. Follow these steps for a smoother setup:
- Pick Your Spot: Choose a flat, sheltered area within the designated zone. Avoid camping too close to water sources to reduce condensation and exposure to insects.
- Tent Setup: Pitch your tent securely with guy lines anchored to withstand potential overnight winds.
- Gear Organisation: Store essential items inside your tent to keep them dry and accessible.
- Prepare Your Meals Early: Cooking before darkness falls allows you to conserve energy and warm up before sleeping.
Staying Warm and Comfortable
The Scottish Highlands are notorious for sudden weather changes, so keeping warm overnight is essential:
- Change into dry clothing immediately after finishing the day’s race.
- Wear a hat and thermal base layers while sleeping to conserve body heat.
- Use your rucksack as a windbreak or insulation layer inside the tent.
- A hot drink before bed can provide much-needed warmth and comfort.
Safety Considerations
Safety is a top priority during the overnight camp. To ensure a safe and successful stay:
- Ensure your tent is securely pitched to withstand potential wind and rain.
- Keep emergency items such as a head torch, whistle, and first aid kit accessible.
- Familiarise yourself with the camp’s boundaries to avoid straying too far when navigating at night.
Embracing the Experience
The overnight camp is more than just a practical necessity — it’s a core part of the Highlander Mountain Marathon’s spirit. The camaraderie around camp as competitors share their day’s experiences, stories, and strategies makes this a memorable aspect of the event. Embrace the challenge, prepare wisely, and enjoy the unforgettable adventure of camping in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.