Both the English cities and the English countryside provide a vast array of pedestrian-friendly activities. However, due to the country's ever-changing weather patterns, appropriate packing is of paramount importance.
Travel Documents
A passport is required to enter the United Kingdom. Your passport will be valid for up to six months. However, it must be valid beyond your intended period of stay. If you plan to stay for more than six months, you will require a visa. Bring your driver's license if you plan to rent a car, but remember, the English drive on the right side of the road. Be sure to bring duplicate copies of your travel itinerary. Make a photocopy of your passport, and carry other forms of identification.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Whether you are hiking the grassy, English countryside, or walking through the cobblestone streets, you'll be happy if you have a pair of sturdy but comfortable walking shoes. Be sure to break them in prior to your trip. Upon your return to the United States, you will be asked if you have walked through farmland. If you have, the customs agents will need to spray your shoes. Consider wearing an old pair of shoes and throwing them away at the end of the trip.
Rain Gear
England is famous for its frequent rainy days. so be prepared. If possible, bring a rain parka that can easily be folded and placed in a bag or backpack. If you plan to do a considerable amount of outdoor hiking, protect your travel documents with waterproof travel cases.
Backpacks
Bring along a backpack as well as a waist pack. Your money should be placed in the waist pack, and a change of clothes should be placed in the backpack. Be sure to bring along a sweatshirt, in case it gets cold. This can happen in the height of the summer.
City and Trail Maps
Although the British are helpful about giving directions, it's best to carry along a city and a trail map.
Cleaning Products
Bring along travel packs of Woolite. This eliminates the need for over-packing. Additionally, Shout makes a travel item called Shout Wipes. These are perfect for the immediate removal of stains. In some cases, they can eliminate the need for washing the entire item.
Dress Up Clothes
Bring one nice outfit for theater evenings and restaurants. A pair of dressier walking shoes will complete the outfit.
UK Power Adapter
Be sure to bring a UK-specific power adapter, so that you can recharge your cell phone and camera.
About The Author
Lisa Marie Mercer authored "Open Your Heart with Winter Fitness," "Breckenridge: A Guide to the Sights and Slopes of Summit County" and "101 Fitness Tips for Women." She's worked as a fitness professional, tour guide and ski resort employee. Her work has appeared in "Aspen Magazine," "HerSports," "The Professional Skier," "Pregnancy Magazine," and "Wired."
