In this solo episode of The Ultimate Adventure Travel Podcast, expedition leader Jake Field breaks down exactly how to pack for high-altitude treks like Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp, and the Inca Trail.

Jake answers real listener questions about gear, weight limits, layering systems, and what actually works on the trail. He shares practical tips to save weight, avoid costly mistakes, and build confidence before you even set foot on the mountain — all rooted in years of guiding experience.

Whether you’re overwhelmed by kit lists, unsure how to stay within porter weight limits, or just want to feel more prepared, this episode gives you a clear, step-by-step approach to packing smart.

You’ll learn:

✅ How to prioritise the essentials when working with a strict weight limit

✅ The right way to build a layering system for warmth, comfort, and flexibility

✅ Why renting or buying secondhand gear can save you money without compromise

✅ What personal first aid items are crucial — and often overlooked

✅ How to balance functionality with comfort on the trail

Chapters:

• 00:00 – Why This Episode: Packing Questions From Listeners
• 01:23 – The Importance of a Proper Kit List
• 05:06 – Weight Limits on Kilimanjaro and EBC: Why They Matter
• 07:29 – Building a Smart Layering System
• 15:05 – Footwear and Why Two Pairs Can Be Enough
• 17:23 – The Must-Haves in Your Personal First Aid Kit
• 20:11 – Miscellaneous Extras: What’s Worth Bringing
• 22:34 – Key Travel Documents and Why Paper Copies Are Vital
• 26:54 – Where to Buy, Rent, or Source Affordable Gear
• 30:46 – Why Expensive Doesn’t Always Mean Better
• 35:04 – Why Preparation Builds Confidence

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 is joined by Dawa Tamang, a seasoned Nepali trekking guide who’s been leading groups through the Himalayas for over a decade.

Together, they explore the realities of trekking in the Everest region, from how to prepare both mentally and physically, to what surprises even seasoned hikers. Dawa reflects on his own inspiring journey from porter to professional guide, growing up near Everest and later moving to Kathmandu to pursue a career in adventure tourism.

You’ll learn what really matters when planning a trek in Nepal, including the importance of acclimatisation, the best seasons to go, alternative routes like Gokyo Lakes and the Annapurna Circuit, and why trekking with locals gives you a far deeper insight into the landscape and culture.

Whether you’re planning your first EBC trek or dreaming of remote Himalayan trails, this episode offers first-hand knowledge, grounded advice, and a deep appreciation for Nepal’s trekking heritage.

Dawa shares:

1. His journey from carrying loads as a young porter to leading international groups through the Himalayas
2. Why the Khumbu Glacier is shrinking, and how climate change is impacting the Everest region
3. The biggest misconceptions travellers have about Nepal and the EBC trek
4. What to actually focus on when training for high-altitude hikes
5. Why routes like Gokyo Lakes and Annapurna are just as rewarding (and often less crowded)

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction: Growing Up in the Shadow of Everest

04:13 – Kathmandu Life & Trekking Seasons in Nepal

07:26 – From Porter to Guide: Dawa’s Story

10:23 – What Surprises Trekkers on the EBC Trail

13:23 – Preparing for the Challenges of Everest Base Camp

16:13 – Local Perspectives: Culture, Views, and Community

19:15 – Training Tips and Fitness Advice for Trekkers

22:19 – Debunking EBC Myths: Cleanliness and Crowds

33:17 – Gokyo Lakes and Why It’s Worth the Detour

38:19 – Lesser-Known Treks Around Nepal

41:46 – How Tourism Supports Local Communities

46:49 – The Future of Trekking in Nepal

51:58 – Final Thoughts: What Adventure Travel Teaches You

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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What does it really take to get adventure-ready, physically and mentally?

In this episode, Jake Field is joined by Wolfy, a personal trainer with a deep passion for adventure travel and a background in elite sport. Together, they explore what it means to truly prepare for high-altitude expeditions like Kilimanjaro.

From recovery protocols to mindset shifts, Wolfy shares the methods he uses to train clients preparing for serious mountain challenges. Whether you’re training for your first big trek or want to perform better on your next summit attempt, this conversation is packed with practical, actionable insights.

He explains:

• Why strength alone isn’t enough — and how movement, mobility, and mindset all play a vital role in adventure readiness.

• How to structure an effective training week for long-distance trekking, including specific exercises that prepare the body for the trail.

• Why recovery and resilience matter just as much as endurance, and how to build them into your routine.

• How to overcome common physical barriers like age, injury, or lack of time with smart, adaptive planning.

• The mental side of expedition fitness, including why self-awareness and psychological flexibility are critical on high-altitude routes.

Chapters

• 00:00 – Introduction to Wolfy and His Background

• 04:20 – The Journey to Personal Training

• 07:22 – Adventure Travel and Fitness Preparation

• 10:14 – The Importance of Recovery in Expeditions

• 13:01 – Training for Kilimanjaro: Insights and Strategies

• 16:10 – Structuring a Training Week for Expeditions

• 18:58 – Specific Exercises for Expedition Readiness

• 22:11 – The Role of Core Strength in Fitness

• 25:04 – Final Thoughts on Training and Preparation

• 37:00 – The Importance of Deceleration and Movement Patterns

• 39:51 – Building Resilience Through Mobility and Balance Training

• 42:01 – Testing Your Body Before Adventure

• 44:03 – Overcoming Age and Injury Barriers

• 47:08 – Mental Resilience in Adventure Travel

• 52:18 – Understanding Altitude and Its Effects

• 56:42 – Key Takeaways for Training and Preparation

Ultimate Guide Links;

Get the Kilimanjaro Guide

Get the Everest Base Camp Guide

Instagram

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

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Which is tougher- Kilimanjaro or Everest Base Camp? And which one is right for you?

In this episode, Jake Field is joined by fellow adventure traveller and guide Jack Aston-Hull for a side-by-side breakdown of two of the world’s most iconic trekking experiences: Mount Kilimanjaro and Everest Base Camp.

Together, they explore what really makes each trek unique — from altitude effects and terrain challenges to food, culture, and mindset. It’s a practical and personal conversation filled with honest insights, reflections, and advice for anyone considering either route.

They discuss:

• How altitude affects your body differently on each trek, and what you can do to prepare for both.

• The terrain, climate, and logistical differences that set Kilimanjaro and EBC apart — and how that impacts the trekking experience.

• Why mindset and preparation matter more than peak height, and how each trek challenges you in its own way.

• What to expect culturally and socially on the trails, from tea houses in the Himalayas to summit pushes on the African plains.

• Personal reflections on what makes these adventures transformative, and how to choose the one that’s right for your goals.

Chapters

• 00:00 – Introduction to the Adventure Comparison

• 04:07 – Guiding Journeys: How Jack Became a Guide

• 07:13 – Everest Base Camp: Challenges and Experiences

• 10:26 – Altitude: The Effects on the Body

• 13:12 – Terrain Differences: Kilimanjaro vs. Everest Base Camp

• 15:59 – Packing for the Climbs: Climate Considerations

• 19:04 – The Social Aspect: Amenities on the Trails

• 26:14 – Culinary Adventures on the Trails

• 35:08 – Comparing Trekking Experiences: Kilimanjaro vs. Everest Base Camp

• 45:05 – The Challenge of Summit Days

• 48:46 – Reflections on Travel and Adventure

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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What happens when photography becomes more than just capturing a moment, and starts helping you heal?

In this episode, Jake Field speaks with Graham Baker, a commercial photographer whose journey behind the lens began as a way to process personal loss and ultimately led to a meaningful career. Together, they explore how photography and adventure travel intersect to support wellbeing, creativity, and personal transformation.

Graham opens up about how photographing the outdoors helped him reconnect with himself, and shares practical insights into how anyone — from beginners to pros, can take better travel photos while still being present in the moment.

He discusses:

• How photography helped him through grief — and why it became a tool for emotional healing.

• The tension between capturing a moment and living it, and how to strike the right balance.

• Common mistakes adventure travellers make with photography, and how to easily fix them.

• Simple gear recommendations that make a difference, without weighing you down on the trail.

• Why storytelling through images is more powerful than picture-perfect shots, especially in the context of travel.

Chapters

• 00:00 – Introduction and Background

• 04:25 – The Journey into Photography

• 07:10 – The Role of Photography in Healing

• 10:16 – Capturing the Moment vs. Being Present

• 13:17 – Common Mistakes in Photography

• 16:09 – Tips for Improving Your Photography

• 19:01 – Storytelling Through Photography

• 22:17 – Equipment Choices for Adventure Photography

• 33:28 – Gear Essentials for Adventure Photography

• 40:04 – The Importance of Preparation and Awareness

• 47:11 – Key Takeaways for Capturing Adventure Moments

• 53:44 – Reflections on Travel and Personal Growth

Graham Baker Photography – Explore Graham’s work and story.

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 makes someone leave behind the ordinary and build a business around a life-changing adventure?

In this opening episode of The Ultimate Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jake Field introduces himself, the story behind his journey from childhood adventures to expedition leader, and why he founded Ultimate Adventure Travel.

Jake also shares the inspiration behind this podcast — a space for honest, practical conversations about preparation, personal growth, and the wild joy of stepping beyond your comfort zone. Whether you’re planning your first big trek or dreaming about future summits, this podcast is built to guide, inspire, and prepare you.

He shares:

• How a few early adventures lit the spark for a lifetime of exploration.

• What Costa Rica taught him about outdoor leadership and self-awareness, and why that shaped his career.

• Why most travellers arrive unprepared for altitude, mentally and physically — and how that can be avoided.

• The founding principles behind Ultimate Adventure Travel, and why preparation and community are at the heart of everything he does.

• What listeners can expect from this podcast going forward, including expert interviews, real-life stories, and practical tools for adventure success.

Chapters

• 00:00 – The Journey Begins: From Family Adventures to Expedition Leader

• 02:35 – The Birth of Ultimate Adventure Travel: A New Approach to Adventure

• 05:22 – Podcast Launch: Sharing Stories and Practical Insights for Adventurers

🔗 Episode Links

• Learn More About Ultimate Adventure Travel – Discover upcoming trips, training weekends, and free downloadable guides.

• Join the Community – Get weekly travel tips, episode drops, and adventure prep tools straight to your inbox.

• Follow on Instagram – See behind-the-scenes content, stories from the trail, and travel inspiration.

If you enjoy the show, hit follow, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s ready for their next adventure.

Ultimate Guide Links;

Get the Kilimanjaro Guide

Get the Everest Base Camp Guide

Instagram

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

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What does it take to cross Arctic Norway with nothing but skis, a snow kite, and sheer determination?

In this episode, expedition athlete Jemima Crathorne shares what it was really like to complete the Varanger Arctic Kite Enduro Challenge alongside her sister — navigating brutal weather, extreme cold, and one of the most remote environments in Europe.

We explore how she prepared, what went wrong, and what the Arctic taught her about teamwork, adaptability, and mental resilience. Jemima also opens up about her journey as a competitive kite surfer, her Olympic ambitions, and how adventure continues to shape her life.

If you’re interested in pushing your limits, facing the unknown, and hearing a powerful story of sibling strength and survival, this one’s for you.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Jemima's Adventures

04:25
The Varanger Arctic Kite Challenge

07:55
The Journey to the Competition

10:25
Kite Surfing Achievements and Olympic Aspirations

16:29
Preparing for Extreme Conditions

20:00
Challenges Faced During the Event

34:26
Overview of the Five-Day Event

42:28
Building Resilience in Harsh Conditions

46:12
Navigating the Whiteout Challenge

53:15
Facing the Storm: Preparation and Strategy

55:05
The Thrill of Competition and Team Dynamics

01:07:08
Future Adventures and Lessons Learned

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 really happens to your body at high altitude—and how can you prepare for it?

In this episode, Jake Field is joined by Nick Hart, an altitude training specialist with extensive experience preparing adventurers for high-elevation treks. They break down the essentials of altitude training, reveal common mistakes trekkers make, and explain why nutrition, hydration, and mindset matter far more than most realise.

Nick shares practical advice on acclimatisation, altitude medication like Diamox, and mental resilience, alongside real stories illustrating the unpredictability of high-altitude adventures.

Whether you’re planning to trek to Everest Base Camp, climb Kilimanjaro, or simply want to understand altitude better, this episode is essential listening.

He discusses:

• Altitude sickness doesn’t discriminate. No matter your fitness, your reaction largely depends on genetics.

• Preparation goes beyond physical fitness. True readiness means deeply understanding altitude’s effects.

• Nutrition and hydration can make or break your climb. These aren’t minor details; they’re lifelines at elevation.

• Guides aren’t just helpful; they’re essential. Their knowledge ensures your safety and enhances your overall experience.

• Adventure travel is more than summiting. The true lessons are resilience, respect for nature, and embracing every moment along the way.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Altitude Training Mistakes

04:10 Preparing for Altitude: The Importance of Testing

07:18 The Spectrum of Altitude Sickness

09:53 Nutrition and Hydration at Altitude

13:11 On-Mountain Strategies for Success

15:57 Pre-Trip Training and Acclimatization

19:07 Psychological Preparedness for Altitude

22:03 The Science of Acclimatization

25:10 Managing Expectations and Symptoms

27:47 Hydration and Altitude Effects

30:09 Understanding Altitude Sickness

31:50 Cognitive Awareness and Safety

33:42 The Role of Guides in Climbing

37:20 Altitude Medication: Diamox and Its Use

41:25 Personal Experiences and Lessons Learned

Episode Links:

• Altitude Training Resources: Essential fitness resources to prepare for altitude.

• The Altitude Centre: Expert-led altitude training and assessment programmes.

• What it’s like to climb Mount Toubkal: A personal account to give you an authentic perspective on altitude trekking.

Get weekly adventure updates and expert tips: Subscribe here

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.