An extra-light packing guide for bivvy camping in the Lake District. Photographer Hugo Hunt demonstrates the art of carrying only what you need, taking us along local lakeland paths for a night under the stars, treading lightly as he goes.
Words and Photography by Hugo Hunt | @hugoshootsfilm
Late one balmy summer’s evening, I stepped out of my front door and walked, the simplest kind of travel there is. Instead of cycling across Canada as planned, this summer has been an exploration of the fells, tarns, and becks surrounding my home in the Lake District.
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"Smith the Roll Pack is wonderfully versatile and my go-to bag for short adventures. It fitted everything I needed for my minimalist night on the hill – sleeping bag and mat, bivvy bag, torch, toothbrush, water and warm clothes that doubled up as a pillow. The attention to detail and subtle features make Smith the Roll Pack a joy to use."
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I reached the summit of Loughrigg, my local fell, shortly after the sun dipped behind the horizon, the remnants of light still painting clouds pastel pink and yellow. I unfurled my makeshift bed from Smith and settled down to watch the diminishing light with grazing herdies for company, a warm and heavy breeze keeping the midges at bay. As darkness fell, bats flitted overhead feeding on insects. Eventually the stars revealed themselves, the outline of the Milky Way faintly visible and the occasional shooting star drawing the eye.
The following morning I woke at first light, the valleys smothered by the sleepy tendrils of mist. It is my favourite time of day - almost everyone is still asleep and watching the first rays of sunlight creeping down the highest peaks is magical.
Once home, I jumped on my bike and set out on a day of swimming adventures, my trusty companion on my back, marvelling at what was on my doorstep.
