The Frontier.

Scotland, Edinburgh, Cramond

In our usual lives, we are almost always looking at something near to us. Our work, our computer or our book. So when you get the chance to look into the vast seemingly endless open sea, it gives you a feeling of deep freedom and relief.

Converse Chuck 70 Classic High Top (with Lock Laces)

My Chuck 70s went through a lot in Edinburgh. Although they’re not waterproof, they’re tough, comfy and sturdy enough for hiking through Scottish sea front terrain. Over deep sandy dunes, a lesser shoe would have folded at the ankle. When I was crossing rivers using precarious stepping stones, I didn’t fall in thanks to the great grip on the soles. Being Converse, they also don’t look out place when it’s time to get a well needed espresso. When your trip is over, simply put them in the washing machine.

Even though they’re not quick to put on or take off, they do the job of 3 shoes and are the perfect companion for your trip from start to finish.

Pelican 1120 Protector Case

Some people would say this case is too large and bulky to transport a camera. I say ‘Go big or go home’. I chose this case from the extensive range of Peli cases as it’s the perfect size to carry my Cannon G9X, charger and battery. Whats more, with its customisable foam inserts, its potential applications are vast.

Even with my extremely overpacked bag and my reputation for dropping things, I was never concerned about the valuable contents inside. Thanks to it’s ballistic polypropylene shell, shock proof foam and waterproof seal, i’d be confident enough to throw it off a cliff and watch my camera be unharmed. When it comes to protective carry cases, there is no better option.

Over the trip, I wanted to take the opportunity to train in the outdoors. Early in the mornings after coffee, I would run along the beach in the bracing sea mist. I’ll tell you something - running over dry sand and boulder fields in the fog is not like normal running. It’s tough, rugged and is far more rewarding than a jaunt on the treadmill.

Victorinox Medium Pocket Knife

Sheltering from the elements is where my multitool saw most of its use. I found it perfect to remove those tags off new clothing (that you forget to remove) and some light scissor use. When you don’t bring a multitool with you, you end up trying to bite packing open or attempt to unscrew stuff with a coin. The tools are rather compact so it takes practice to operate effectively, apart from that it is a very valuable addition to your travel gear.

You probably won’t need it on this sort of sightseeing trip, but you’ll be damn glad you brought one when there’s a DIY emergency.

Patagonia NanoPuff Jacket

I’m happy to report that the weeks of searching for a good coat has been successful.

Surprisingly, it didn't really rain a lot on my trip. but when it did, it was no match for the rain resistant DWR shell. Good for light showers, but if it pours down - you’d best bring your rain coat. When exploring the deserted WWII lookout island, the temperature dropped and the wind picked up. But thanks to my jacket, I was warm enough to appreciate the sea air in my nose, the crisp late year sun on my face and the oceanside wilderness that stretched out before me.

When you have top quality kit like this, you feel prepared. When you're prepared, you can relax and appreciate your trip even more.

Working at a desk is fine and all, but being stuck there for too long without a change of scenery is rubbish. For me, wading through some heather, having a drop of zesty scotch and breathing some fortifying forest air does the trick just fine.

Arun Kirwin 7/12/21 All Rights Reserved ©