Much like the rest of 2020, I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here is a little different this year. A stark contrast to the tropics of the Australian jungle, the celebs are residing in the truly stunning Gwrych Castle, North Wales.
With a new location comes new kit (our favourite topic). The bleak winter landscape presents challenges never before experienced by the adventure-seeking celebs. It’s cold, damp and well… it’s November in the UK. Not to fear however, we’re here to guide you through how to survive the Welsh weather.
A Good Pair of Walking Boots
We’ve said this time and time again, but we can’t stress the importance of a good pair of walking boots. Specifically, the British-born Hi Tec Eurotrek Lite Boots. Now a truly iconic boot worn by the celebs year in, year out, the Eurotrek Boots stand up to the elements, be it the Aussie jungle, or the Great British countryside.
Completely waterproof (a must for Britain) and breathable thanks to Dri-Tec technology, the Boots will resist water, mud (and bushtucker slime), whilst expelling unwanted sweat and moisture. The only thing they aren’t resistant to are cockroaches and maggots, sorry Bev Callard.
Insulated Jackets & Gilets
In a bold red, the celebs this year are donning an insulated gilet, and we really can’t fault their choice! Insulated gilets provide a welcome layer of warmth surrounding your core. Choose from real or synthetic down for different pros and cons, depending on your adventure. Synthetic down, performs well even when wet, perfect for our stormy isles. While real down has a higher warmth-weight ratio, better for longer expeditions when weight is a deciding factor.
Thermal Baselayers
Unless the celebs are feeling particularly brave, there won’t be a cami-top in sight around the castle grounds. Instead, thermal baselayers are the t-shirts of choice. Whether you’re walking, hiking or cycling, a thermal layer will be your best friend. Thermal baselayers add an extra layer of insulation to combat cold temperatures. They fit close to the skin to quickly absorb excess moisture which then wicks away.
Walking Trousers
Back again in the dashing shade of red, walking trousers are an absolute must. Don’t be fooled by the name, they can be used for much more than walking. Although you won’t see many outdoor enthusiasts sporting the I’m a Celeb colours, walking trousers are exceptionally practical for any time spent outside. Walking trousers are thoroughly hard-wearing & durable (brilliant for bushtucker trials), have a water resistant finish (don’t fool yourself about the Welsh weather), and traditionally have some articulated areas, for greater freedom of movement.
Travel Shirts
Completely versatile, travel shirts act as a practical midlayer for all round exploration. They’re a super cross-functional piece of kit packed with technology, making them ideal for unpredictable weather and travelling. Adventure shirts are lightweight, usually with a shower and insect repellent fabric and some form of sun protection. Craghoppers offer a variety of shirts with international exploration in mind, for quality globe-trotting kit.
Waterproof Jackets
We’re yet to see waterproof jackets make an appearance yet on I’m a Celeb, but trust us when we say, don’t leave home without one! Wales gets a hefty 270 days of rain per year, that’s about 74% of the time annually, and if that’s not enough to convince you, here are some important features to look out for…
Waterproof jackets keep rain and wind out thanks to an internal membrane which stops any water entering the jacket. This same membrane allows internal moisture to escape, leaving you fresh and dry. Waterproof jackets are coated with a water repellent coating, allowing water to smoothly bead off in heavy downpours. My top recommendation for wet and windy weather is to opt for a peaked, adjustable hood. You can get a bespoke fit for you, and a stiffened peak gives your face added cover in blustery conditions.
Sleeping Bags
Only the most courageous of adventurers take on camp-outs in winter, but if you fancy it, check out 3, 4 and 5 season sleeping bags. This year’s campmates, or castle-mates, are hunkering down in thick sleeping bags. Much like insulated jackets, sleeping bags are available with either synthetic or real down fillings. The only difference this season is mosquito nets aren’t a requirement!
