Backpacking Tents . . . The Season Is Almost Upon Us . . .

The date is March 10th. This can only mean one thing - well actually it means lot's of things, but I'm only thinking of one. Spring. Spring is finally in the air. The days are getting longer, the temperature is rising, the trees are shooting and daffodils are showing their heads. It's paving the way for summer. This also means camping season is once again almost upon us.

"Horay!!" I hear you all scream.

Today, I'm going to blog about backpacking. I'm also going to mention the Ten Tor race that takes place in Dartmoor during early May. I only know about this because I have family who live down that way. I've never hiked across Dartmoor, but I've driven through it - or been driven to be more accurate. It's a lovely place if you like hills, wild ponies, and buzzards that circle over you waiting for an easy meal.

Every year the British Army organise a hike ranging from 35 miles to 55 miles. People from all over the world turn up to take part and visit the ten specified tors. Some people use it as a race to try and finish as quick as they can, while other people use it as a test of endurance and survival, or even just because they love doing it.

Either way, if you want to take part in something like this, you need to ensure you have the correct equipment. If you get lost on Dartmoor without proper equipment, it's not fun. The Ten Tor race has been held almost every year since 1960. Some years have had to be cancelled due to bad weather, which just goes to show what you could be up against if you go hiking. It also strengthens the argument that your equipment needs to be of a good quality that can withstand something like this.

It's at this point that I re-introduce you to our camping range. How many of you had forgotten about this range over the winter months? I certainly hadn't.

As the camping season approaches, and whether you decide to take part in the Ten Tor race, or the Four Inns Walk in the peak district - or any of the numerous hikes organised across the UK, ensure you won't be let down by shoddy camping equipment . . . and good luck.

Look out for those circling buzzards . . .

D. Ilott

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