Hello again, everyone! My name is Tatiana and I am a Marine Biology student studying at Exeter’s Penryn Campus. If you’re anything like me, you’ll probably spend far too much time wondering what to pack for your first field trip. After completing my first year, I thought I’d put together the list I wish someone had given me: what I used, what I didn’t, and what I wish I’d known beforehand.
1. A proper waterproof jacket (not just water-resistant!)
If there’s one thing worth investing in, it’s a genuinely waterproof jacket. There is a huge difference between water-resistant and waterproof, especially in Cornwall. We were lucky enough to have amazing weather during our field trip, but the weather here can change incredibly quickly. Make sure your outer layer is designed for heavy rain, not just the occasional shower. There are so many cheap options to shop second-hand, in charity shops or Vinted online.
2. Comfortable clothes will always beat fashionable ones
Field trips involve a lot more walking than you might expect, maybe some climbing, carrying equipment and spending hours outside. I found myself wearing comfortable leggings, quick-drying trousers and fleeces almost every day. Layers are definitely your best friend if the weather is cold. Always check the weather in Cornwall – you have to hope for the best but assume that rain is coming anyway!
3. Waterproof walking shoes
Buying waterproof walking shoes was probably one of the best purchases I made this year. I originally bought them just for field trips, but I ended up wearing them all throughout the wetter months walking to campus. They have definitely been worth the investment.
4. Waterproof your backpack too!
It’s easy to remember a waterproof jacket but completely forget about your backpack. If yours isn’t waterproof, I would recommend buying a waterproof backpack cover. It takes up almost no space and could save your notebook, laptop or spare clothes from getting soaked.
5. Bring more spare socks than you think you’ll need
This might sound like a strange recommendation but trust me. I keep a spare pair of socks in my university bag during the winter months in Cornwall because you never know when your feet might get soaked. Future you will thank you.
6. Going rock pooling? Bring proper rock pooling shoes
I made the mistake of wearing wellies while rock pooling. After stepping into a deeper pool, water poured straight into them and my socks stayed wet for the rest of the session. It was not a fun experience.
If your field trip involves rock pooling, I’d definitely recommend shoes with good grip that can get wet instead. I got mine from Mountain Warehouse for about £7!
7. If you enjoy photography, bring your camera
If you already own a waterproof camera, definitely bring it along. I brought my camera, tripod, spare batteries and charging cables because I was filming content throughout the field trip. If you are into photography, it is definitely a must!
8. Swimwear is more useful than you think
Whether you’re snorkelling or just fancy a quick sea swim afterwards, having swimwear packed is always useful. I normally wear a pair of gym shorts over my swimsuit if I want a little more coverage, and they work perfectly.
9. Marine Biology essentials:
A few things that I found useful were:
- Binoculars (especially if you’re going on boat trips or seabird surveys)
- Reef-safe sunscreen (might be more expensive but worth it)
- Lip balm (a must for me)
- A reusable water bottle or flask
- Sunglasses (dependent on the weather)
- A hat or bucket hat
- A notebook and pen (although you can just type notes on your phone)
- Seasickness tablets if you’re going out on a boat (remember to take them about an hour or so before getting on the boat)
- Snacks that won’t melt in your bag (I learnt to avoid chocolate!)
10. Don’t overpack!!
If you’re anything like me, you’ll probably pack far more than you need. I definitely did! I brought loads of extra clothes “just in case”, when I ended up wearing the same comfortable outfits on repeat. Save yourself the extra weight and leave some room in your bag for souvenirs or muddy clothes on the way home.
Nice to have, but definitely NOT essentials:
There are also a few things that are useful if you already own them, but I wouldn’t go out and buy them just for one field trip.
- A power bank
- One of those huge backpacking rucksacks
- Your own snorkelling equipment
- Your own wetsuit
Most places will either provide equipment or allow you to rent it if needed.
My biggest piece of advice:
You don’t need expensive gear to enjoy a field trip.
Nobody cares if your waterproof jacket is brand new or a few years old.
Nobody notices what brand your walking boots are.
Everyone forgets something and everyone borrows something.
Focus on being comfortable rather than looking perfect. Pack practical clothes, waterproof anything that might get wet and don’t overthink it. At the end of the day, you’ll remember the exciting wildlife, the people you met and the memories you made far more than what was in your backpack. Don’t forget to enjoy your time there, I promise it will go by super quick!