Britons heading out for a trip to a national park are being urged to take home their rubbish, carry a map and wear the right shoes.
The experts at My Baggage have put together their advice for days out in the great outdoors as lockdown restrictions begin to ease, and the weather starts to improve.
They’re urging Brits to make sure they dress appropriately and wear shoes suitable for uneven terrain and to carry a map in case there’s no Wi-Fi signal.
Taking home all rubbish is another must even biodegradable items like banana skins and cleaning up any dog waste.
There are 15 UK national parks dotted across nation and all are areas of relatively undeveloped and scenic landscape. They welcome millions of visitors each year.
Popular spots include the Peak District, Lake District, Snowdonia, Dartmoor, Pembrokeshire Coast, North York Moors, Yorkshire Dales, Exmoor, Northumberland, Brecon Beacons, The Broads, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, Cairngorms, the New Forest and South Downs.
Paul Stewart, Managing Director at My Baggage said: “The thought of being able to get out and about and enjoy the stunning scenery the UK has to offer is certainly keeping us all going right now.
“When you do head to the great outdoors and UK national parks, it is important to give them and the local communities within them, the respect they deserve. If anyone is visiting or moving to the UK from abroad, then this is must-know information.
“Make sure you remember the basics like wearing the right clothes and footwear, taking all your rubbish home, carrying a map and keeping your dog under control.
“Also make sure you’re aware of other visitors and on narrow paths, allow plenty of passing space.”
Here are MyBaggage.com’s tips if you’re planning days out in the UK national parks:
1. Wear appropriate clothing
Make sure you dress the part when heading for a day out at a national park. Weather conditions can change quickly and remember the higher you get, the cooler it can get too. Think about footwear as well. Walking boots or sturdy trainers are a much option than sandals and sliders.
2. Getting there
If you’re going by car, make sure you’re heading somewhere you can safely park and do not block any drives or gateways. If you can, and it’s safe to do so, then please take public transport as it reduces the environmental impact.
3. Take a map
Maps may seem a little outdated now, but when you can’t get a Wi-Fi signal they’re your best hope if you get lost. Keep a lookout for signs too if you stray off footpaths.
4. Local community
Respect the local community and other visitors. Make sure you shut gates, leave areas as you find them and keep to paths. Do remember to allow other people room if the paths are narrow.
5. Setting up camp
If you want to camp out in a national park you need to check the local guidance. Most land is privately owned but there will be some family-run campsites available. Don’t take a chance, check and book before you go.
6. Lighting a fire
Do not light a fire during your day out. Even if they’re kept under control, they cause damage. Barbecues are a big no too.
7. Take home your rubbish
If there are no bins, bag up your rubbish and take it home. Take home biodegradable waste like banana skins too.
8. Pet friendly
National parks are very dog friendly. Remember to keep your pet under control and when signs tell you to put your dog on a lead, follow them. Bag and bin any dog poo too.
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