Vango Duke of Edinburgh Award Recommended Kit Guide
Vango Duke of Edinburgh Award Recommended Kit Guide
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a fantastic opportunity for young people to build confidence and resilience through outdoor adventure. Whether you're preparing for your first expedition or helping someone else get ready, choosing the right gear is crucial. Vango, a trusted name in outdoor equipment, offers a DofE-recommended range designed specifically for reliability, comfort, and value. Here's a quick guide to the essential kit categories.
Tents
For DofE expeditions, your tent needs to be lightweight, durable, and easy to pitch. Vango's Nevis 200 and Scafell 200+ models are top choices. These tents are compact enough to carry in a rucksack yet spacious enough for two people and their kit. With color-coded poles and simple construction, they’re ideal for young explorers learning to camp independently. Plus, they're built to handle unpredictable British weather.
Sleeping Bags
Vango’s DofE-recommended sleeping bags offer a great balance of warmth and packability. The Nitestar Alpha 250 is a popular option, providing 3-season comfort with a compact design. Its synthetic insulation performs well even when damp, and the mummy shape retains heat efficiently—ideal for chilly nights in the hills.
Sleeping Mats
A good night’s sleep is key to a successful expedition, and a quality sleeping mat makes all the difference. The Vango Trek 3 Compact self-inflating mat is a top DofE recommendation. It’s lightweight, rolls up small, and offers insulation from the cold ground, helping to reduce fatigue over multi-day hikes.
Backpacks
Comfort and fit are crucial when it comes to rucksacks. Vango’s Contour 60:70 and Sherpa 60:70 are adjustable, well-padded, and include essential features like multiple compartments and hydration compatibility. These packs are designed for multi-day treks, offering stability and load distribution even with heavier gear.
Accessories
Vango’s accessories range includes all the small but important extras. The Vango Dry Bag Set is perfect for keeping clothing and electronics safe from the elements. A head torch, compact stove, and lightweight cook set are all must-haves. Don’t forget a repair kit, water bottle, and first aid supplies—essentials that often get overlooked but can make or break an expedition.
Vango’s DofE-approved gear is specifically selected for young adventurers—offering durability, simplicity, and reliability. Investing in the right kit not only boosts safety but also helps participants enjoy the journey that bit more.
Are you prepping for your first DofE expedition, or helping someone else gear up?
