Are you getting started outdoors, gearing up for a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, or just need to save a few quid? We all need to get out, even in this economy. Here’s the lowdown on the best, more budget-friendly backpacking kit our team have reviewed over the last year or so, in one place for the first time

Far more than a walking aid, a properly made stick is a tangible–not to mention very useful– link to the land itself, says Gabriel Stone

All the gear you need to tackle bold outdoor pursuits, from bikepacking through Wales to a Lake Como retreat

STAY WARM AND, HOPEFULLY, DRY WITH THESE COLD-WEATHER ESSENTIALS THAT CHAMPION FLEECE, MERINO WOOL AND HIGH-TECH WATERPROOFING

From DIY pot cosies to learning to love noodles, these cost-cutting ideas can make your bank account great again

I’ve long been a winter boot denier. My go-tos for winter riding have always been regular summer shoes (sometimes with vents taped up) plus overshoes and thermal socks. In really poor weather I’d swit