Do I need a hat and gloves, or should I pack my flip-flops? We don't often experience four seasons in one day, but there are a few pieces of equipment I recommend to help you avoid feeling like a packhorse.

Okay, so what follows is a generalisation. Certain walking holidays will require specific clothing items, but generally, walking in Andalucía does not necessitate expensive or bulky equipment.

For the days out on the trail, you should look to pack in your suitcase, amongst other things -

Shorts, trousers, t-shirts or technical T-shirts, which are light-coloured to help repel the heat from the sun.

A hat that protects not just your head but also provides cover for the back of your neck.

A thin fleece top that provides just enough warmth when we start the day in the shade or to take the edge off of a cool breeze.

Boots or trail shoes with a high side are best, as many of our trails include stretches of broken, karstic rocks, which can be hard on the ankles.

Sunglasses.

Water bottles or a hydration system.

A daypack that allows you to carry your food and drinks, as well as clothing that you might only be wearing during parts of the day.

The type of water- or windproof clothing you bring will depend on the time of year and the location of our walks. I will contact you a few days before your arrival to provide an update on the weather forecast and any additional clothing you may need.

Notwithstanding that, it is always great to have a lightweight, packable windshirt in your daypack, such as the Alpkit Arro. I always carry one of these with me. It is lightweight, packs down small, and is perfect for blocking out a chilly north wind.

The hotel where you will be staying is used to accommodating walkers, so dressing up for your evening meal is not necessary. Walkers who pack light often wear the clothes they plan to wear the following day for the evening, but any casual attire is perfectly acceptable.

 

What else is nice to have?

Trekking poles are a great addition to your walking attire, and I have written about them, as well as a hydration system, in this article.

A camera is handy, and if you have a high-quality DLSR, you won't be disappointed with the opportunities you will have to use it. I often carry my trusty old Nikon D800, complete with a mix of lenses, all over the place and frequently take fascinating shots.

Something to protect your derrière is desirable, as the sharp limestone rocks can be very distracting during a lunch stop. A sitmat is worth its weight in gold.

And any other personal nick-nacks: lip balm, suncream, mosquito spray, etc.

This is not a definitive list, so if you have any particular questions, please email or WhatsApp me, and I will endeavour to help as best I can.