Please reach us at carolinesmith@tenttrek.co.uk if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Expeditions include training, a practice expedition, and a qualifying assessed expedition, where you plan and navigate your route while carrying your kit and camping overnight.
Tent & Trek operate expeditions from March to October, but generally avoid running trips in August due to the high temperatures.
For most expeditions, a 3‑season mummy sleeping bag is ideal make sure it’s lightweight, packs down small, and keeps you comfortable across spring to autumn conditions. For colder nights, especially at higher levels, adding a sleeping bag liner gives extra warmth without much extra weight or bulk.
Group kit (tents, Trangia, rucksacks, maps, compasses, gas) is included. Sleeping bags, roll mats, torches, and waterproofs can be hired for a small fee. Participants just need food, hygiene items, clothing, and suitable footwear.
Yes. Expeditions are led by experienced instructors at a ratio of 1:10, with DofE-approved assessors regular checkpoints along the route and safety equipment including first aid kits, GPS trackers, and emergency phones.
Yes. Tent & Trek runs open expeditions, so individuals can join alongside other young people even if they’re not part of a school or youth group.
A basic level of fitness is recommended, as expeditions involve walking several kilometres a day while carrying a rucksack. Training sessions and practice expeditions help participants build stamina and confidence.
All groups carry first aid kits, emergency phones, and GPS trackers, and instructors are trained to respond to injuries or emergencies. Participants receive full support throughout the expedition.
During DofE expeditions, groups are assessed as a whole. This means that the group will either pass together or be deferred together. To successfully complete their expedition, participants must work as a team, sharing all responsibilities such as navigation, cooking, campsite setup, and safety tasks.
If a group is deferred, they will have the opportunity to retake either the practice expedition or the qualifying assessment, depending on where the deferral occurred. Tent & Trek will support the group to re-plan and complete the expedition, ensuring everyone can achieve their DofE Award.