D of E and the extensive kit list - where to source?

[Stumpedasatree]

DD doing her first D of E (bronze) with school and school offered a kit pack which cost in the £100s which I didn't purchase. Where can I find all the bits and bobs she needs at a decent price?

Presumably things like waterproof trousers can be bought nearer the time once we see the forecast?

I feel your pain OP. I’m planning to get the boots at half term so she can wear them on our walks, and maybe also trousers and rucksack. She’s v worried about being to walk with the rucksack as she has knee and back issues so important to get one she is happy with.

I’ve got a north face light weight raincoat , is that any good? Maybe too pricey to risk her taking as I would be a bit mad if she lost it !

You barely need anything they don't already have. My DS borrowed my Dads walking boots and my waterproofs but other than that it's normal everyday clothing

My DS school lent them all a large backpack as no one had their own that large and sleeping mats. We provided sleeping bags.

They were weird with food and shared and ate a strange selection between them which made me laugh when he got home

Decathlon is good for cheaper but well made items

Have you got a kit list?

I've attached the two day kit list for bronze DofE. Go Outdoors will give you a discount on DofE purchases if you show them the registration email

Except you cant wear Jean's or joggers as they are not suitable clothing it it's hot or it rains. That's why the provide the lists, to ensure the children are fully prepared and not just thinking it's a couple of hours walking and Jeans will be fine

Borrow, borrow, borrow.

Boots need to fit (though if you are dog walkers waterproof comfortable boots have got to be a good thing for your every day life).
Everything else is borrow-able.

Blimey I’ve just looked into this and it’s expensive isn’t it ? Most of the stuff is going to be re-used I would think, except the walking trousers. Do they need 2 pairs ?

If I remember correctly you get a discount at Go Outdoors AND if you have their loyalty card then you get that discount too.

It’s all changed a bit since my day. The school provided everything, even boots if you didn’t have them already.

Bronze is only a couple of days. Some of DDs team wore running leggings rather than walking trousers, iirc.

I think they’d be too hot in the summer . I’ll just have to lose some weight so I can have the walking trousers afterwards , she will be getting them on the slightly large side for certain!!

And I’ll have to get her decent boots as she has slightly troublesome knees. Still, they should last her forever thank god her feet have stopped growing !

My DD just wore gym leggings. Lighter to carry a spare and takes up less room. Waterproof trouser can go over for warmth as well as staying dry. Useful for sitting down at the campsite if raining or heavy dew.