When looking at packing lists, trekking / walking poles are recommended. Do you really need them??

On some shore landings poles are recommended, especially when there was ice as they do help you to keep stable and upright.

If you’re like me, you’ll be carrying a camera but when walking on ice or stepping into snow which can be mid-thigh deep, areas with larger rocks or loose snow to traverse, walking poles are invaluable, especially if you don’t have strong balance – you don’t want to fall over with your camera!

We suggest one walking pole but actually, if your balance is a bit sketch we definitely recommend taking a pair of poles.

Using walking poles will help protect your knees, shins and ankle while descending and should help to prevent slips and falls plus aid balance on the most uneven terrains.

When choosing a walking pole look for these:

  • Folds up small but can be deployed quickly plus makes for easy packing in your suitcase
  • Lightweight and strong and means there is less pendulum weight when swinging them thus causing less fatigue
  • You’ll need a pole which has a snow basket accessory
  • Look for a pole which has a had strap