What kit do you really need for an adventure travel holiday, and how do you choose the right gear without wasting your money?

In this practical, no-nonsense episode, expedition leader Jake Field walks you through the three most essential pieces of kit you’ll need for almost any trip: boots, jackets, and rucksacks.

Whether you’re gearing up for Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp, or just getting started on your hiking journey, Jake explains how to make smart choices, what to avoid, and the simple gear hacks that will save you time, money, and pain on the trail.

This is your beginner-friendly kit guide, packed with expert insight from someone who’s been there, done that, and worn out the boots to prove it.

In this episode, Jake covers:

• How to choose your first pair of hiking boots (and why the wrong socks can ruin your trip)
• What the difference is between synthetic vs leather boots – and which is better for EBC or Morocco
• Why most people forget to break in their boots properly (and how to avoid painful blisters)
• How to build a simple, effective layering system for jackets without spending a fortune
• What “waterproof” really means — and how to actually test your jacket before you go
• Why rucksack fit matters more than size, and Jake’s favourite brands for comfort and performance
• Top recommendations for kit that lasts — including Osprey, Scarpa, Mountain Equipment & more
• Smart packing and organisation tips: dry bag colour-coding, side-access zips, and gear hacks

Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned hiker looking to upgrade your gear, this episode is packed with advice to help you get adventure-ready, the smart way.

Takeaways:

• Synthetic boots are often lighter, more breathable, and ideal for altitude.
• Don’t overspend on gear you don’t need — fit and comfort come first.
• You don’t need the most expensive jacket — just the right one for your trip.
• The wrong rucksack size can ruin your posture and your experience.
• Proper kit = more enjoyment, less stress, and fewer blisters.

Chapters:

00:00 – Welcome & Why This Episode Matters

02:00 – Choosing the Right Hiking Boots

05:00 – Leather vs Synthetic, Ankle Support & Fit

08:00 – Breaking in Your Boots (Avoid These Mistakes)

10:00 – Socks Matter More Than You Think

12:00 – Jackets & Layering Systems Explained

14:00 – Down vs Synthetic: Which is Right for You?

18:00 – When Expensive = Worth It (And When It Doesn’t)

21:00 – Waterproof Jackets: What to Look For

24:00 – Pockets, Hoods & Hidden Features

26:00 – Rucksacks: Finding the Right Size for You

29:00 – Pack Organisation Tips & Jake’s Favourite Brands

34:00 – Recap & Final Thoughts

Ultimate Guide Links;

Get the Kilimanjaro Guide

Get the Everest Base Camp Guide

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https://www.ultimateadventuretravel.co.uk/

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In this episode of the Ultimate Adventure Travel Podcast, Jake Field breaks down the biggest myths holding people back from booking their dream trip — starting with the idea that you need to be “super fit” to go on an expedition.

From Kilimanjaro to Everest Base Camp, Jake shares first-hand experience leading countless trips with people of all fitness levels. He explains why it’s about preparation, not perfection, and why mindset matters more than muscle. You’ll also hear about other common myths, including whether adventure travel is only for young people, solo travellers, or elite athletes — and why all of that simply isn’t true.

This is the episode to listen to if you’re sitting on the fence and need a nudge to finally say yes to that once-in-a-lifetime trip.

You’ll learn:

• Why being “athletic” isn’t a requirement for adventure travel
• What kind of training really makes a difference
• How people of all ages and backgrounds succeed on challenging trips
• Why recovery and mindset often matter more than raw fitness
• The truth about solo travel, cost, group dynamics — and what really makes a trip life-changing

Chapters:

00:00 — Introduction: Tackling the biggest myths

01:28 — Do you need to be athletic?

03:51 — What “fit” really looks like on an expedition

08:40 — Why cardio isn’t everything

11:33 — Can you just “wing it”?

12:56 — Myth: It’s only for young people

15:24 — Worrying about being the slowest

18:14 — Do you need a big tour company?

20:38 — “You’ll be miserable the whole time” — debunked

22:04 — It’s only for experts

23:29 — Is it really too expensive?

27:17 — Will I feel out of place as a solo traveller?

28:44 — It’s unsafe to go alone — true or false?

29:42 — It’s all about the summit… or is it?

30:06 — Why these myths are holding people back

Ultimate Guide Links;

Get the Kilimanjaro Guide

Get the Everest Base Camp Guide

Instagram

https://www.ultimateadventuretravel.co.uk/

Subscribe for Weekly Insights and Updates – Receive expert tips, adventure stories, and practical guides straight to your inbox.

In this solo episode of the Ultimate Adventure Travel Podcast, Jake Field explores why group adventures can offer so much more than just an epic destination. Drawing on years of leading expeditions across the globe, Jake shares the psychological, emotional, and practical benefits of travelling with others, from unexpected friendships to newfound confidence.

Whether you’re a solo traveller considering a group trip or simply curious about how group dynamics can transform an experience, this episode gives an honest, heartfelt perspective on why the people you travel with matter just as much as the place you’re going.

Key Takeaways:

• Shared experiences create powerful emotional bonds
• Group travel builds confidence and reduces pre-trip anxiety
• You meet people you’d never normally cross paths with
• Support from a group can help push through tough moments
• Many group travel friendships last long after the trip ends

Bonus Insight:

Jake answers common concerns about group travel from independence to group dynamics and why you don’t have to sacrifice your freedom when you join a group adventure.

Chapters:

00:00 – Welcome and Today’s Topic

02:00 – Why Who You Travel With Matters

04:15 – Humans Are Wired for Connection

06:35 – Lessons from Solo Survival Training

08:30 – Building Bonds Through Shared Challenge

11:20 – The Strength of a Built-In Support Network

14:15 – From Strangers to Teammates

16:40 – New Perspectives from Unexpected Friendships

18:50 – When Group Support Pushes You to the Summit

21:00 – Confidence and Belonging Through Travel

23:00 – Vulnerability and Growth on Expedition

26:00 – FAQs: What If I Don’t Get On with the Group?

29:00 – Is Group Travel Just for Backpackers?

31:00 – Do You Lose Your Independence?

33:00 – Final Thoughts and Community Callout

Ultimate Guide Links;

Get the Kilimanjaro Guide

Get the Everest Base Camp Guide

Instagram

https://www.ultimateadventuretravel.co.uk/

Subscribe for Weekly Insights and Updates – Receive expert tips, adventure stories, and practical guides straight to your inbox.

Podcast Description:

In this episode of the Ultimate Adventure Travel Podcast, Jake Field breaks down everything you need to know about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro — specifically, how to choose the right route for your adventure.

From the popular Machame and Marangu routes to lesser-known options like the Northern Circuit, Jake shares honest insights into what makes each route unique — including terrain, acclimatisation, comfort levels, cost, and crowding.

Whether you’re a first-time trekker or thinking about summiting Kilimanjaro again, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to choose the path that suits your style — and your goals.

Key Takeaways:

• There are 7 distinct routes to summit Kilimanjaro — and they’re not all created equal.
• Machame is a tented route offering varied terrain and strong acclimatization.
• Marangu is the only hut-based route — ideal for those seeking a more comfortable experience.
• Your fitness matters — but proper training and altitude awareness matter more.
• Choosing the right sleeping gear can make or break your trek.
• Lesser-known routes like the Northern Circuit offer quieter paths and new perspectives.
• The real magic of Kilimanjaro? The spirit of Tanzanian guides and the impact of giving back.

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro: Why route choice matters

02:00 – Understanding the main Kilimanjaro routes

04:30 – What makes Machame unique

08:10 – Marangu: The ‘Coca-Cola’ route explained

13:00 – Essential packing advice

18:00 – Fitness, altitude, and realistic expectations

22:00 – Comparing acclimatisation and terrain

25:00 – The Northern Circuit: A quieter alternative

28:00 – Why Kilimanjaro is about more than the climb

31:00 – Wrap-up and key advice

Ultimate Guide Links;

Get the Kilimanjaro Guide

Get the Everest Base Camp Guide

Instagram

https://www.ultimateadventuretravel.co.uk/

Subscribe for Weekly Insights and Updates – Receive expert tips, adventure stories, and practical guides straight to your inbox.

Not all roads to Machu Picchu are the same and choosing the right one can shape your entire adventure.

In this episode, Jake Field breaks down the key differences between the iconic Inca Trail and the stunning, remote Salkantay Trek. From altitude and difficulty to culture, scenery, and comfort, Jake shares everything you need to know to decide which route is best for your next Peruvian adventure.

Drawing on his own experiences guiding both routes, Jake explores the history, logistics, and hidden moments that make each trek unforgettable — plus offers honest advice for how to get the most out of your time in Peru.

Whether you’re a history buff, a mountain lover, or just curious about which trail is worth the effort, this episode is packed with insight.

✅ Key Takeaways

• Both treks include time in Lima and Cusco for cultural immersion and acclimatization.
• The Inca Trail offers a deep dive into history, ending with a hike directly into Machu Picchu.
• The Salkantay Trek is more physically demanding, with alpine passes and jungle terrain.
• Inca Trail camps are more isolated; Salkantay offers more comfort and chances to rest and refresh.
• Rainbow Mountain is available as an add-on for both treks and worth considering — especially if you’ve had recovery time.
• Huayna Picchu is a thrilling optional summit for repeat visitors — steep, technical, and incredibly rewarding.

📌 Chapters

00:00 – Intro: Choosing the Right Trek to Machu Picchu

01:30 – Why This Episode Matters (and Who It’s For)

03:00 – What Both Treks Have in Common

06:00 – What Makes Cusco So Special

08:00 – Deep Dive: The Inca Trail Experience

17:45 – Hiking Into Machu Picchu: What Sets the Inca Trail Apart

21:45 – Deep Dive: The Salkantay Trek Experience

27:00 – Solitude, Altitude, and Alpine Views

30:00 – Extra Add-Ons: Rainbow Mountain & Huayna Picchu

33:00 – Comparing Difficulty: Which Is Harder?

34:00 – Final Thoughts & Listener Call-to-Action

Ultimate Guide Links;

Get the Kilimanjaro Guide

Get the Everest Base Camp Guide

Instagram

https://www.ultimateadventuretravel.co.uk/

Subscribe for Weekly Insights and Updates – Receive expert tips, adventure stories, and practical guides straight to your inbox.

Why do we sometimes feel low after the high of an epic adventure?

In this solo episode, Jake Field opens up about the very real — and often unspoken experience of post-expedition blues. Drawing on personal experiences from returning home after big trips, he shares the emotional rollercoaster that can follow a powerful adventure, as well as practical ways to navigate it.

From the psychological drop that can hit when the buzz wears off, to the importance of movement, connection, and having something else to look forward to this episode offers reassurance and real-world ideas to help you bounce back with purpose.

If you’ve ever come home from a trip and felt strangely flat, this one’s for you.

✅ Key Takeaways

• You’re not alone — post-expedition blues are incredibly common, even among seasoned adventurers
• Your body and brain need time to adjust to the shift in stimulation, routine, and adrenaline
• Staying active and maintaining a routine can ease the emotional comedown
• Having something to look forward to — even something small — is a powerful antidote
• Reflection, storytelling, and connection help process the experience and keep the spark alive

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome and Episode Introduction

03:42 – What Are Post-Expedition Blues?

08:25 – Jake’s Personal Experiences After Big Trips

12:40 – What the Research Says

15:17 – Why These Feelings Are Normal

18:33 – Tips to Combat the Low: Movement, Journaling, Connection

23:15 – Why Booking Your Next Trip Helps

26:45 – Final Thoughts and a Message for Fellow Adventurers

Ultimate Guide Links;

Get the Kilimanjaro Guide

Get the Everest Base Camp Guide

Instagram

https://www.ultimateadventuretravel.co.uk/

Subscribe for Weekly Insights and Updates – Receive expert tips, adventure stories, and practical guides straight to your inbox.

What if one of the world’s most underrated adventure destinations was hiding in plain sight, right in the heart of Europe?

In this episode of the Ultimate Adventure Travel Podcast, Jake Field is joined by Slovakian guide and local expert Alena, who shares why Slovakia is a paradise for adventure lovers all year round. From hiking in the High Tatras to husky sledding through snow-covered forests, Alena paints a picture of a country that offers raw beauty, rich culture, and heart-pounding experiences — without the crowds.

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path with all the thrills of an epic expedition, this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Slovakia is a year-round adventure destination, offering both snowy escapades and summer treks.
• In winter, you can snowshoe through the Tatras, ride with huskies, and even sleep in an igloo.
• In summer, enjoy ATV driving, wildlife spotting, alpine hikes, and cinematic views with zero crowds.
• Local knowledge makes the experience special — and Alena’s stories bring Slovakia to life.
• Slovakia offers world-class adventure without breaking the bank.

Guest Bio:

Alena is a seasoned mountain guide and a Slovakian native who has spent the last 7+ years leading travellers through the wild beauty of the Tatra Mountains. Her passion for her homeland and her deep knowledge of its trails, traditions, and terrain, make her the perfect voice for this episode.

Chapters

00:00 – Why Slovakia is an Adventure Traveller’s Dream

03:25 – Meet Alena: Guide, Local, Explorer

06:49 – What Makes the Tatras So Special

10:12 – Winter in Slovakia: Huskies, Snowshoeing & Igloos

16:31 – Summer Adventures: Buggies, Bears & Epic Hikes

22:08 – Culture, Food, and Warm Hospitality

27:15 – Behind the Scenes of Leading Tours in Slovakia

32:44 – Sustainable Tourism and Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

36:12 – How to Plan Your Slovakia Trip

40:55 – Final Reflections and Travel Tips

Resources & Links

• Book your Slovakia adventure:
• ultimateadventuretravel.co.uk/slovakia
• Follow the journey:
• @ultimate_adventuretravel on Instagram for behind-the-scenes content from Slovakia and beyond

Ultimate Guide Links;

Get the Kilimanjaro Guide

Get the Everest Base Camp Guide

Instagram

https://www.ultimateadventuretravel.co.uk/

Subscribe for Weekly Insights and Updates – Receive expert tips, adventure stories, and practical guides straight to your inbox.

What happens when endurance racing meets purposeful travel?

In this episode, Jake Field is joined by endurance athlete and race organiser Brett Harrison to explore how adventure travel can go far beyond personal goals — and directly benefit the communities it touches.

From organising races on Kilimanjaro to leading community development projects in Tanzania, Brett shares how immersive experiences can create real-world impact. They dive into the ethos behind his events, the challenges of running races in remote areas, and how travel can teach us (and our children) curiosity, humility, and connection.

If you’re someone who wants their next adventure to mean something more, this episode will inspire and inform you.

He explains:

1. Why endurance events can be powerful tools for community development.
2. The difference between donor-led and community-led change — and why that matters.
3. How consumer choices in travel can either harm or help local economies.
4. What it’s really like to run events on Kilimanjaro and in rural Tanzania.
5. Why adventure travel should stretch you and connect you to something bigger.

📍 Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Adventure Travel and Guest Introduction

02:54 – Exploring Endurance Events on Kilimanjaro

06:43 – Community Engagement through Adventure Events

11:14 – Brett’s Journey to Tanzania and Community Development

17:20 – The Intersection of Adventure and Community Support

22:59 – Community-Led Development vs. Donor-Led Initiatives

25:14 – The Importance of Education in Community Support

27:33 – Consumer Power in Adventure Tourism

29:32 – Balancing Profit and Community Benefit in Tourism

34:09 – Personal Journeys: From Adventure to Business

41:10 – The Future of Adventure Travel for the Next Generation

Ultimate Guide Links;

Get the Kilimanjaro Guide

Get the Everest Base Camp Guide

Instagram

https://www.ultimateadventuretravel.co.uk/

Subscribe for Weekly Insights and Updates – Receive expert tips, adventure stories, and practical guides straight to your inbox.

What paperwork do you actually need to trek Kilimanjaro, hike Everest, or explore India? And which vaccines really matter?

In this solo episode of The Ultimate Adventure Travel Podcast, Jake Field breaks down everything you need to know about visas, vaccines, and travel documents for your next big adventure, including some of the most popular group trips on offer:

• Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lakes (Nepal)
• Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)
• Salkantay Trek (Peru)
• Golden Triangle (India)
• Istanbul & Cappadocia (Turkey)
• Mount Toubkal (Morocco)

Jake shares insider tips, what to expect at borders, and why preparation is everything. Whether you’re worried about Yellow Fever certificates, e-visas, or just staying healthy, this episode makes it easy to plan and feel confident before you set off.

You’ll learn:

✅ What visas you need for each destination, and how to get them easily

✅ Which vaccinations are recommended or mandatory for each trip

✅ How to keep your travel documents organised and avoid last-minute panic

✅ Why proper planning makes a huge difference when travelling in places like India and Nepal

✅ Tips for saving money and time while staying compliant and safe

Chapters

• 00:00 – Why visas & vaccines matter more than you think
• 02:15 – Common mistakes travellers make (and how to avoid them)
• 04:00 – Nepal: visas, permits & recommended vaccinations
• 08:45 – Tanzania (Kilimanjaro): visas, Yellow Fever & travel wallet tips
• 13:10 – Peru: visas, Salkantay/Inca permits & vaccine advice
• 16:30 – India: navigating the tricky e-Visa process & planning
• 18:30 – Morocco: no visa needed, but strict drone rules
• 21:30 – Turkey: the simplest destination to plan for
• 23:10 – Why travel insurance matters as much as a visa
• 25:30 – How the Ultimate Adventure Travel app helps you prepare
• 27:00 – Outro: send your questions & don’t forget to subscribe

Ultimate Guide Links;

Get the Kilimanjaro Guide

Get the Everest Base Camp Guide

Instagram

https://www.ultimateadventuretravel.co.uk/

Subscribe for Weekly Insights and Updates – Receive expert tips, adventure stories, and practical guides straight to your inbox.

What’s next for adventure travel? And which of these brand-new trips will you take on first?

In this episode of The Ultimate Adventure Travel Podcast, Jake Field introduces a series of exciting new adventures- from Himalayan highs to cultural journeys through India and Turkey.

Jake explains why these trips were chosen, what makes each of them unique, and how to decide which is right for you. From the iconic Everest Base Camp to the serene Gokyo Lakes, the challenging Salkantay Trek, the vibrant Golden Triangle, and the unforgettable Istanbul & Cappadocia, this episode is your guide to planning your next big adventure.

He also shares his thoughts on budgeting, preparation, and how feedback from travellers like you helps shape the future of Ultimate Adventure Travel.

You’ll learn:

✅ Why Everest Base Camp still draws trekkers year after year

✅ What makes Gokyo Lakes a quieter, equally stunning Himalayan alternative

✅ Why the Salkantay Trek might be better than the Inca Trail

✅ How to experience India’s Golden Triangle on a budget — and why it can feel overwhelming

✅ What makes Istanbul & Cappadocia such a culturally rich destination

Chapters:

• 00:00 – Exciting New Trips Launch
• 02:50 – Exploring Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes
• 06:09 – The Salkantay Trek vs. Inca Trail
• 14:43 – Ultimate Golden Triangle Adventure in India
• 27:47 – Istanbul and Cappadocia Adventure Overview
• 36:39 – Future of Adventure Travel and Podcast Insights

Episode Links:

• Browse Upcoming Trips – Explore all of the new adventures announced in this episode.
• Join the Adventure Community – Weekly travel tips, podcast drops, and more.
• Contact Jake – Suggest topics or ask questions for future episodes.

Enjoying the podcast? Follow, share, and leave a review- and let us know which trip you’d choose first.

Ultimate Guide Links;

Get the Kilimanjaro Guide

Get the Everest Base Camp Guide

Instagram

https://www.ultimateadventuretravel.co.uk/

Subscribe for Weekly Insights and Updates – Receive expert tips, adventure stories, and practical guides straight to your inbox.