Use this kit list to help pack for your birding and wildlife watching activities
- Rucksack
- Drybag or plastic bag
- Food and drink
- Spare clothing (hat, gloves, warm layer, waterproof clothing)
- Binoculars (H)
- Sunglasses
- Mobile phone
- Local maps and information
- Any personal medication
- Walking pole
- Notebook and pencil
- Lens cloth
- Money
- Headtorch (for winter or early/late days)
- Insect repellant
- Insect/Midge net
- Sunscreen
- Camera and spares
- Sit mat or folding stool
- Field study kit
- Guide book or apps (L)
- Telescope (L)
- Tripod (L)
- Digiscoping adapter (L)
- Emergency kit (eg: survival bag, group shelter) (L)
- Small first aid kit (L)
- GPS (L)
- Toilet kit (L)
H = Hire locally? (Check availability)
L = Group leader
NOT ALL ITEMS ALWAYS NEEDED!
Spring birding in the Cairngorms and more
What you need for birding:
Firstly, take a rucksack large enough to carry everything you will need. Birding can be more physically demanding than you might think, so ensure you stay hydrated and well fed with enough food and drink. Sunglasses are handy especially in snowy or coastal areas. If you are new to using binoculars, 8×42 and 7×32 are recommended sizes. It’s also worth learning how to adjust binoculars so you are ready to go. Various digital bird guides and apps are available (the Collins Birdguide app is recommended for UK birders). Finally, if you are using them, check you have any spares you need for your camera and/or telescope.
Are you a guest on an Arc Guiding trip?
Check with the guide when deciding what to wear/pack. Choose items from the list depending on the weather, route and type of group.
Also see:
FAQs
For bird watching, you need hiking gear and spare clothing appropriate for the weather, maybe some food and drink and don’t forget your binoculars (if you have them). There are plenty of other items you could take, depending on circumstances (eg: telescope, camera, a bird ID book).
Binoculars aren’t essential for watching birds and other animals, but they can be a big help.
A telescope is certainly a luxury when watching birds and other wildlife, allowing much closer views. However, a good set of binoculars is more important.