Top Tips for Aconcagua

If you think you’ll get fit on the walk-in, think again. Not only is Aconcagua a big height gain for many people, but it’s also the first load carrying expedition for most.

I’d say the best way to train for carrying a rucksack, is to wear a rucksack. I spend most of my time fell running with only a bum bag, so although I have the “hill strength” it’s not really helpful when you put the heavier pack on. To overcome this I prepare by walking, first with a lighter pack and then slowly beginning to increase the weight. The easiest way to do this is with water, especially if you are combining it with going up hills, that way when you get the top you can pour the water out to save your knees on the way back down.

Think about big days out, and consecutive days out, it’s about time on your feet. I find long slow runs or cycles work best. Coming to the Weekend Meets is a great way to train, as well as ask questions, or our Scottish Courses also help with training whilst learning the winter skills needed for Aconcagua.

Does it fit you and does it fit all the kit you need in it? Carrying the extra weight is much easier with a good fitting rucksack, and make sure you try on the pack with weight in it. I use the Mountain Hardware South Col. Also make sure that you can fit everything on the kit list in it, without having everything hanging off the pack. Learn how to pack it – I make sure everything is always in the same place, top pocket for any emergency stuff (gloves, hat, sun tan lotion) and things I will use that day. Then at the top of the main pack I put my extra layers to pull on and my goretex. I use compression/dry bags, trying hard to keep them so I know what’s in each. Even if your pack is waterproof you should use dry bags inside, as if water gets in either from a wet jacket or leaving the lid open when you are trying to retrieve things then everything gets wet. Nobody wants a wet sleeping bag.