Safety

The good thing about bikepacking in the UK is that you are normally going to be within reach of a built-up area where you can get help to find supplies, a bike shop or any other things you may need. However, that doesn’t mean there are no dangers, and taking care of your safety is extremely important. You have to understand it’s not if something goes wrong, it’s when. You can put in as much preparation as much experience and yet sometimes things just go wrong. And while I would encourage anyone to go on a bikepacking adventure you should still understand your limits, you should still only ride trails that you feel comfortable with and always air on the side of caution. That can be anything from hiking down a trail because it’s too steep to finding another way to cross a river. But like I said, sometimes things go wrong, so here are some things to know before you go on a UK bikepacking adventure.

The emergency phone number is 999 You can reach the same service by dialling 112 or 911 in the UK. The 999 switchboard can connect you to the ambulance, fire, police, coast guard, search and rescue and bomb disposal services. You should call 999 in a serious emergency only.
The UK is quite well-connected, but there are areas where you may not have signal. This is common in some remote sections in Scotland and wales. Especially when down in between mountains or hills. If you are going to be going into a remote area on your own, then a Satellite phone like the Garmin in reach might be a good idea.
Alternatively, make sure to let someone know where you are going and give them a copy of the route you will be doing and check in with them regally.
If you do find your self in a scenario where you need to contact the emergency service, and you are not sure exactly where you are, there are a couple ways to let them know. If you are using a GPS unit, then you should be able to access your current GPS coordinates. On my Garmin, it’s as simple as a couple of taps. A couple of apps to add on your phone are “What3words” so you can give your current position. Another app is OS Locate, which converts your GPS location to the OS Grid reference. The emergency service operator will have access to a computer and internet, so the more details you can give the better.

Understanding basic first aid is a good idea also, having a basic knowledge of first aid will not only help you treat any injuries you might have, but often knowing first aid is not for yourself but for someone else. Carrying a first aid kit is good practice, personally it’s nearly always better to just build it up yourself that buy a pre mad one but something better than nothing. For bikepacking it’s a good idea to have plenty of antibacterial wipes some kind of bandage, enough that you can wrap it around a twisted ankle for example. Some plasters, some cream for insect bites, hydrocortisone is the cream I use. If you are in Scotland, then some Smidge to repel the midge.
The main thing to remember while in an emergency is to stay safe and stay calm.