Packing a proper backpack for hillwalking or climbing could prove to be a lifesaver. With so many variables in a mountain environment it’s important not only to have the correct equipment but to be aware of how and when to use it.

We took a look inside the bag of Mike Pescod on Aonach Mor (4,006 feet), at the Nevis Range near Fort William. As a British Mountain Guide he is affiliated to the International Federation of Mountain Guides which is the highest qualification for mountaineering in the world.

This was his check list…

Bag: use a bigger bag than necessary, this means that when you have to access your bag you don’t have to remove items as you go, speeding the process up and keeping your thing dry. Pack things as you’ll need them – do you think you’ll need your gloves before a helmet? Pack appropriately.

More gloves: You should always have spare gloves. Since gloves will often come into contact with water, ice or snow on a winter walk, it’s vital that they are kept as dry as possible. Mike recommends Dachstein mitts (traditional heavy duty woollen) as warm extra gloves.

Sunglasses: Sun glare from the snow is intense and can cause sun-blindness after a short period of time.

Sun cream: Keep your skin protected from strong sunshine. At altitude UV rays can burn very quickly. Plus you’ll look younger and sexier.

Plastic bags: The most basic plastic bags are ideal for keeping your belongings dry inside your backpack.

Helmet: A helmet can be easily packed away in case you need it. They can save your live.

Crampons: Extremely useful when walking, crampons are essential when going further up the mountain in winter.

Another warm layer: As height increases so will the wind, while air temperature can drop dramatically.

Goggles: A good pair of goggles can improve visibility in poor light conditions and help to protect your face from whipping rain, sleet or hail.

Camera: For when inspiration strikes.

Group shelter: A serious piece of protective kit in a tiny bag. Made of parachute-like material the shelter means you can shelter from the wind and rain while sharing body heat. Stand in a circle, pick it up over your head then sit down. Not water proof.

Spares: In case of emergency. Keep spare gloves, hats, layers etc in a separate waterproof bag.

Synthetic pullover jacket: A synthetically lined jacket is quick, effective and simple to use in an emergency and takes up very little room in your bag. Down filled jackets will not work when the feathers get wet.

First aid: A small standard medical bag and some improvisation should cover a large number of situations.

Spare food: This doesn’t mean a spare sandwich. Put some food in your bag which won’t go off. Try to resist the temptation to eat it and leave it there for months at a time.

Torch: In the Scottish winter light fades very quickly and it’ll be dark by 16:00.

Whistle: The international distress signal is to blow six times in quick succession, then wait. Repeat as necessary. If you hear a distress call, whistle three times in response to signal that you have heard them.

Map and compass: Every person should have a map and compass. In heavy weather the path can be easily lost. A small map case should be easily accessible to encourage frequent use. A scale of 1:50,000 will show you the smaller features and contours which will often be disguised under snow or in bad weather.

Hot drink: Excellent for warming up.

Survival bag: A six foot by three foot plastic bag which is ideal for a quick form of shelter. You should get in head first and make a hole to breathe if necessary. This can also be used as a make-shift stretcher or ripped up for a tourniquet.