Blog

Andy’s 2023 TGO Kit List

Posted by Andy Neil on May 09, 2023

Andy on the 2022 TGO

Andy’s 2023 TGO Kit List

May means one thing here in the Ultralight office, The Great Outdoors Challenge, or the TGO for short. We are incredibly proud to be a sponsor of this communal coast to coast crossing of Scotland. Three of our team, Danny, Chris and myself, are participating in this year’s TGO, so I thought I’d give you an insight into what’s in my pack and some of the gear I’ll be taking for this year’s challenge. I won’t be going in-depth into everything in my pack, but the complete kit list is at the bottom of this page.

 

If you aren’t familiar with the TGO Challenge, it’s a coast to coast crossing of Scotland like no other; it has no set route, no fixed start or end point. Instead, the 400 challengers set off from one of 14 designated start points on the West Coast and must make their way to the East Coast via a route they devised. Once you have dipped your feet in the North Sea, you make your way to Montrose, where you officially end your challenge. Four hundred people, all taking different routes across Scotland, ensure you will undoubtedly meet many fellow “TGOers” on your journey. The walk takes on a festival-like quality that people return to year after year.

Rucksack

Arguably the most important bit of kit is the rucksack itself; I took the Gossamer Gear Mariposa on last year’s TGO, and it is not something I was looking to change. It's perfect for multiday, long-distance hiking, a sizeable well-structured pack that swallows gear; it excels at transferring its load; large shoulder straps and a well-padded hip belt spread the pack's weight efficiently over the whole upper body. My favourite feature is the long side pockets that easily accommodate my shelter, hiking poles and umbrella. The large mesh pocket is incredibly stretchy and can store a lot, such as wet weather gear and extra clothing, close at hand. It’s been a firm favourite here at UOG since it came out.

Shelter

The balancing act between weight and durability is a tightrope the ultralight backpacker must often traverse, especially when considering what shelter to take on a two-week crossing of Scotland in May; the only predictable thing about Scottish weather is its unpredictability. The Hilleberg Anaris was my chosen tent on last year’s crossing, and I have no desire to change it out for anything else. Its robust, roomie, packs down small and can be pitched to shrug off the worst Scottish weather. This will be my fourth crossing of Britain; it will also be the Anaris’s.  

Sleep System

Quilts are a brilliant way to lighten the load, and we are incredibly pleased to be suppliers of Enlightened Equipment, a quilt specialist from the U.S.A. The 20F Revelation has a comfort limit of -6, I'm not expecting the temperature to drop that low on the challenge, but the beauty of a quilt is that in warm weather, you can regulate your heat quickly, but in cold weather, you can chinch the quilt down to retain heat like a sleeping bag. Adaptability and versatility are traits I value on the trail, which is why this year, I have chosen a quilt over a traditional bag.

Sleeping Mat - Big Agnes Zoom UL Insulated Sleeping Mat (Regular Wide) - 514g

Brand new to the market, the Big Agnes Insulated Zoom mat has an incredibly low weight, high R-value, and is an impressive 8cm thick. It has a more quilt-like sleeping surface than horizontal or vertical baffles, which I find to be less comfortable or supportive. I prefer rectangular mats, as I fall off the mats that taper in at the feet; a little extra weight for a more comfortable night’s sleep is a trade-off I am willing to make.

Pillow - Rab Stratosphere Pillow - 104g

I always considered a pillow a luxury item, but I have seen them more as a necessity since I started using the new Rab Stratosphere Pillow. Rab, recently entering the sleeping mat market, brought us this little gem! It’s covered in a soft, cosy polyester that feels supple and smooth against your skin. The outer is fully removable and, therefore, washable. It packs down incredibly small, vastly improving my sleep quality.  

Stove and Kitchen 

I don't particularly appreciate washing up at the best of times, but if I'm backpacking, it's something I can do without, so this setup eliminates the need for it entirely. The only thing I want to be heating up while I’m on the trail is water, so this cooking system is focused on boiling water for freeze-dried meals as efficiently as possible while keeping weight and effort to a minimum. The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe performs well in windy and cold conditions. The wind lip does a surprisingly good job of protecting the flame in windy conditions, so you get a constant flame that doesn’t splutter out in high gusts. Should the temperature drop, the Pocket rocket deluxe has an inbuilt regulator that keeps the pressure of the gas canister steady, so you don’t lose performance in cold weather.

Water and Filtration

It’s taken me years to be happy with my water filtration setup, but the Platypus QuickDraw Microfilter, combined with the CNOC Vecto, is a setup that ticks all the boxes for me. A fantastic flow rate that can be easily backflushed without any additional equipment and an easy-to-fill, easy-to-clean water carrier that moulds to my pack. This setup allows me to carry 3 litres of water at a time.  

Wet Weather Gear 

I'm taking a different approach to this year’s wet weather gear. Last year’s TGO was very wet, and although my gear kept me dry, hiking in my waterproofs day in and day out soon became a chore; I was hot and sweaty despite the damp conditions, so this year, I looked for alternatives. The solution I have come up with is a waterproof hiking kilt, umbrella and incredibly breathable waterproof jacket.

 

The Gossamer Gear Hiking Umbrella allows me to walk without my hood up, which helps keep me cool, and I don’t end up trudging along staring at my feet all day; in strong winds, the umbrella can be ungainly, so I’ll have to resort to putting my hood back up, but the hiking umbrella works surprisingly well even in moderate wind.

 

The Hiking Kilt shields my legs from the rain and wind yet still facilitates good airflow, and the Outdoor Research Foray II is possibly the most breathable Gore-Tex jacket on the market; the “pit zips” extend right to the hem of the jacket, which can then be opened up like a poncho; it can be cinched down in truly bad weather, but in moderate rain, does a good job of keeping me cool.

Trekking Poles 

I've always hiked with telescopic hiking poles, but when travelling, especially by train, I find them cumbersome and potentially dangerous, so I have recently switched to “Z poles”. They pack so much smaller and slip into my rucksack side pocket; I no longer fear taking a fellow passenger’s eyes out. As I use a trekking pole tent, I was always hesitant to switch to z-poles, but as the Black Diamond Pursuit FLZs are also adjustable, I can use these with my shelter set-up.

TGO 2023

  •   Category Weight
  • Rucksack
    904 g
  • Shelter
    1260 g
  • Sleep System
    1286 g
  • Sleepwear
    323 g
  • Wet weather gear
    572 g
  • Stove and Kitchen
    225 g
  • Trekking poles
    512 g
  • Water and filtration
    187 g
  • First aid and toiletries
    264 g
  • Electronics
    790 g
  • Worn Clothing
    972 g
  • Additional clothing
    428 g
  • Total 7723
    g
    • oz
    • lb
    • g
    • kg
  • Worn 972 g
  • Base Weight 6751 g
    • Rucksack

      Weight qty
    • Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 Rucksack Light, tough and plenty of storage options there's a lot to like about the Gossamer Gear's Mariposa 60 Rucksack. Designed for big trips in the hills carrying all you need in comfort. 904
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • 904 g
      1
    • Shelter

      Weight qty
    • Hilleberg Anaris The new Anaris is a very light and airy two-person ridge tent inspired by the first Hilleberg model, the Keb. Conceived for warm-weather backpackers and trekkers who prefer hiking with trekking poles, its two-vestibule construction is configured so the occupants sleep parallel to the vestibules. This provides impressive room for two people, with plenty of space for both and a dedicated entrance and vestibule for each. It also offers – along with the Anaris’s remarkably low weight – voluminous luxury for the solo traveler. 1260
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • 1260 g
      1
    • Sleep System

      Weight qty
    • Enlightened Equipment Revelation 850FP 20F Down Quilt Quilts are a brilliant way to lighten the loads, and we are incredibly pleased to be suppliers of enlightened equipment, a quilt specialist from the U.S.A. The 20F Revelation has a comfort limit of -5, which I'm not expecting on the challenge, but the beauty of a quilt is it in warm, you can regulate your heat quickly, and in cold weather, you can cinch the bag down simpler you a sleeping bag. Adaptability and versatility both traits I value on the trail. 641
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Big Agnes Zoom UL Insulated Sleeping Mat - Regular Wide Designed for ultralight backcountry adventures, the Zoom UL Insulated eliminates the need to compromise between comfort and weight savings. With a generous 4.3 R-Value for three-season use, sustainably sourced materials, and aviation-grade lamination for ultimate reliability, the Zoom UL provides great sleep in the backcountry, at an incredibly low weight. 541
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • RAB Stratosphere Pillow https://ultralightoutdoorgear.co.uk/stratosphere-pillow/ 104
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • 1286 g
      3
    • Sleepwear

      Weight qty
    • 0
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Icebreaker Sphere LS Crew SLEEPWEAR A technical blend of natural and synthetic fabrics goes into making the Sphere range ultralight weight, comfortable and versatile. This breathable, quick drying long sleeve tee is ideally suited to warm conditions and intense activities. 156
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Rab Syncrino Leggings SLEEPWEAR Warm, breathable, form fitting leggings ideal as a baselayer on cold mountain days. Made with Syncrino™ 125 fabric they benefit from a blend of warm, wicking merino and rapid dry synthetic fabric. 119
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Stance Rebuild Socks SLEEP SOCKS Stance produce great socks using a blend of natural and synthetic fibres that will keep you comfortable whether you're running, hiking or just going for a casual, stylish look. 48
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • 323 g
      4
    • Wet weather gear

      Weight qty
    • Gossamer Gear Lightrek Hiking Umbrella Gossamer Gears Lightrek Hiking Umbrella is perfect to give sun protection as its reflective silver on the outside and opaque Black on the inside surface. Although ultralight its still a reasonable diameter at 95cm. 175
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Rain Kilt 53
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Outdoor Research Foray II GORE-TEX Jacket A jacket that excels in foul weather, dependable, durable, water and windproof protection, with some nice technical features to keep you comfortable on the trail, most notably , possible the largest pit-zips on any jacket. 344
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • 572 g
      3
    • Stove and Kitchen

      Weight qty
    • MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Gas Stove This enhanced PocketRocket stove boasts premium features, including a pressure regulator that makes it ideal for all-condition environments, offering consistently faster boil times than non-regulated canister-mounted stoves. Just a smidge heavier (10 g/ 0.3 oz, or the weight of two nickels) than the PocketRocket 2 stove, this ultralight deluxe version features the most durable push-start Piezo Igniter we've ever built and a broad burner head for better heat distribution and simmering. For backpackers traveling fast & light on the trail, or a quick weekend in the Cascade Range, this deluxe model offers one of the best overall cooking experiences in its ultralight class. 83
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • MSR Titanium Titan Kettle Versatile enough to be a pot, mug or bowl, this ultralight titanium kettle complements the Titan 2 Pot Set perfectly. The Kettle holds .85 liters of liquid and comes with a tight-fitting lid and drip-free spout for smooth, easy pouring. Team with Titan Tool Spoon or MSR® Folding Utensils (sold separately) for a bare-minimum "solo" cookware kit. 130
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Sea to Summit AlphaLight Long Handled Spoon Made from durable hard-anodised aircraft grade aluminium combined with a sleek-yet-strong shape to create an extremely lightweight utensil. 12
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • 225 g
      3
    • Trekking poles

      Weight qty
    • Black Diamond Pursuit FLZ Trekking Poles Packed with comfort-focused features like ergonomic cork grips and Bloom grip extensions, plus our highly packable Z-pole collapsible system, the Pursuit FLZ is a premium pole option for any hiker. 512
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • 512 g
      1
    • Water and filtration

      Weight qty
    • Platypus QuickDraw Microfilter & Reservoir System The QuickDraw Microfilter System draws upon decades of expertise in filtration and hydration to provide adventurers the best user experience of any fill-and-squeeze water filter on the market. 110
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • CNOC Outdoors Vecto 2L Water Container - 28mm A fantastic bit of water carrying kit. The large open mouth means collecting water is much simpler and faster than traditional bottles and the strong fastening clip means you do not have to worry about any leaks. 77
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • 187 g
      2
    • Electronics

      Weight qty
    • Petzl Actik Core 600 Lumens Headlamp A lightweight and powerful, rechargeable headlamp, with 3 light settings, and an impressive 600 lumens of power in a torch that weighs less than 100 grams. 88
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Motorola Defy The resistant motorola defy smartphone works hard no matter where your day takes you. Dust-proof, waterproof and drop-proof, it’s been tried and tested to the extreme so you don’t need to worry. 233
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Garmin InReach Mini 2 Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator, Hiking Handheld. Used in Majorca this year to help get Dan off a mountain 100
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K) Anker PowerCore Essential 20000 Powerbank 20,000 mAh External Battery with PowerIQ Technology and USB-C Port 369
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • 790 g
      4
    • Worn Clothing

      Weight qty
    • Montane Dart Zip Neck The Dart Zip Neck is a fully recycled Synthetic technical base layer that offers a highly breathable and warm layer, but also odour resistant. 142
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Lumiko Hooded Jacket A close fitting, lightweight fleece for fast paced mountain activities. This versatile piece works well as a year-round base layer or thin midlayer in milder conditions. 244
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Berghaus Extrem MTN Guide MW Technical Pant The Guide Extrem Pants are a rough tough durable pant that is perfect for any adventure in the mountains, if you are looking for a pant that is comfortable and will last on any terrain then this is a go to choice. 437
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Darn Tough Element 1/4 Length Light Socks A firm favourite with our staff and customers. Darn Tough socks are comfortable, durable and ready for anything. There are loads or variations for padding and materials to ensure that you can get the perfect sock for whatever you do in them. 40
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Altra Lone Peak 7 The thru-hikers favour trail runners have had an update; the Lone Peak 7’s is the latest incarnation of the zero drop legend. 0
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Buff Original Buff A Buff is a must have piece of kit for any trek, lightweight and stretchy tube provides insulation, sun & wind protection and can be used in a variety of ways. 35
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • SAXX Vibe Boxer Brief The Vibe Boxers are the best-selling, slim-fit, and super-soft boxer in the Saxx range. This boxer brief is made with moisture wicking fabric and equipped with the BallPark Pouch for all day, everyday comfort. 74
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • 972 g
      7
    • Additional clothing

      Weight qty
    • Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Insulated Hoodie The SuperStrand LT Hoodie is a very lightweight insulated layer that for the price makes it ideal for those wanting a good packable midlayer or a warm lightweight outer-layer to provide warmth when the temperature drops. 314
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • Darn Tough Element 1/4 Length Light Socks A firm favourite with our staff and customers. Darn Tough socks are comfortable, durable and ready for anything. There are loads or variations for padding and materials to ensure that you can get the perfect sock for whatever you do in them. 40
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • SAXX Vibe Boxer Brief The Vibe Boxers are the best-selling, slim-fit, and super-soft boxer in the Saxx range. This boxer brief is made with moisture wicking fabric and equipped with the BallPark Pouch for all day, everyday comfort. 74
      g
      • oz
      • lb
      • g
      • kg
      1
    • 428 g
      3
  
Andy Neil
 

Andy has been a keen long-distance hiker and wild camping enthusiast since he completed the Cleveland Way in 2015. Since then, he has walked thousands of trail miles all over the UK and is an active member of the Wild Camping UK community, being an admin of the largest wild camping community on Facebook. He strongly advocates for responsible wild camping and believes it is important to leave no trace when camping in the wilderness. He joined the UOG team in 2021 and works as a website developer and content creator.

Read more from Andy Neil


May means one thing here in the Ultralight office, The Great Outdoors Challenge, or the TGO for short. We are incredibly proud to be a sponsor of this communal coast-to-coast crossing of Scotland. Three of our team, Danny, Chris and myself, are participating in this year’s TGO, so I thought I’d give you an insight into what’s in my pack and some of the gear I’ll be taking for this year’s challenge. I won’t be going in-depth into everything in my pack, but the complete kit list is at the bottom of this page...