Spending time outdoors is epic, but nothing throws a spanner in the works quite like a gear fail. Even the smallest mistakes with your kit can spiral into big problems.

Here at Fjern, we’ve clocked up more trail time than we’d care to count, and natuarally have learned a few things the hard way. Here are the most common gear slip-ups we see (and how to steer clear of them).

1. Packing like you’re moving house

What goes wrong?
You think you’re being prepared, but your pack ends up stuffed with things you never use. Your shoulders hate you by lunchtime.

• Focus on function rather than “just in case.”
• Stick to the basics: reliable layers, decent footwear, water, navigation, and a few snacks.
• Use a checklist.

2. Cutting corners on core kit

What goes wrong?
That bargain waterproof? Not so much when the rain comes in sideways. Cheap gear usually fails when you really need it.

• Invest in gear that can handle rough weather.
• Look for proven fabrics like Gore-Tex, eVent^®, Polartec, or durable ripstop weaves.
• Field-test your gear before the big trip.

3. Wearing cotton

What goes wrong?
You sweat, your cotton tee holds onto it like a sponge, and suddenly you’re freezing, even when moving.

• Layer properly: sweat wicking base, insulating mid, weatherproof outer.
• Choose merino or synthetic for next to skin. Both keep you dry and warm.
• Always dress for changing conditions.

4. Ignoring gear care

What goes wrong?
Mud-caked boots chucked in the shed. Wet jackets rolled up for weeks. The next time you grab them, it's game over.

• Clean your kit after every outing.
• Store it dry and ventilated.
• Reproof jackets and boots regularly.

5. Not testing before you go

What goes wrong?
You unwrap your new tent at dusk. It’s windy. The instructions are missing. Guess who’s not getting much sleep?

• Pitch your tent and light your stove at home first.
• Test your layering system on a local walk.
• Know how to use your compass before you’re lost.

6. Trusting tech a bit too much

What goes wrong?
Your GPS dies. Your weather app didn’t mention this storm. You’ve no signal, and no plan B.

• Always carry a paper map and compass.
• Learn the basics of navigation and stay aware of your surroundings.
• Bring backup power, but never rely on it completely.

7. Ignoring fit and comfort

What goes wrong?
That shiny new pack or stiff pair of boots looks the part, but by mile 3, you’re regretting every step.

• Try before you buy, or at least adjust everything properly.
• Make sure your pack sits right on your hips, not your shoulders.
• Break boots in slowly before big trips.

Quickfire checklist: what not to do

• Don’t pack everything “just in case”
• Don’t buy cheap kit and hope for the best
• Don’t wear cotton
• Don’t skip maintenance
• Don’t save first-time setups for the trail
• Don’t trust your phone to do everything
• Don’t settle for uncomfortable gear

Start smart, go further

We all make mistakes, it’s part of the adventure. But the right kit, some know-how, and a bit of prep can make all the difference.