Backpacking the Balkans 2019

As the trip is getting closer, now is a good time for us to start thinking about what we’re going to take with us...and most importantly, how we’re going to fit it all in! Our top tip is to keep checking the kit list and tick it off when you have something that you need. Ultimately, you know yourself better than anyone else so you will know what is comfortable for you, but the following tips and guidance may be helpful... 1. Packing cubes You may have heard of these before or you may have just heard people raving about them. Used correctly, they can not only save you space, but also keep your kit organised and tidy whilst on the move. There are loads of different size and colour options available on sites such as Amazon, or you can use small bags of your own (i.e. wash bags, draw strings backs, boot bags).  2. Fold like a pro Space saving is key when backpacking and the way you fold your items (especially clothing) can make a difference. There are making dif...

Hi! I'm Alice, a Guide Leader and primary school teacher on the Isle of Man where I have lived for most of my life, bar my time in Liverpool for University. I have been involved with Girlguiding in some form since joining as a Brownie and I have been a Leader for just over 15 years. As well as running a Guide unit, I am County International Advisor, an occasional Rainbow Leader and have been a Brownie Leader and District Commissioner in my time. I have also been known to volunteer with a Young Carer project helping teenagers and young adults get respite through camping experiences.  I enjoy visiting new places and like to make the most of the school holidays! I rarely go any time without having the next trip lined up! Our Guides often visit the UK for camps and trips, this summer we went further afield to Adventures in Prague, followed with a trip to Berlin which was lots of fun. Although I've visited several European countries over the years, I've never been...

This weekend, the group was reunited at Seven Springs Outdoor Activity Centre in Disley, Manchester, for our second briefing weekend. Agnes BP would have loved having a giant bee named after her Despite a small ladybird invasion (and Tory throwing her phone across the room in a complete overreaction) the site was lovely and we definitely tried to make the most of the nice weather. In between planning sessions, we made time for their butterfly trail, a chocolate cake picnic (food seems to be a massive feature in this trip) and a visit to Agnes Bee-den Powell, who was Girlguiding Manchester's entrant in the Manchester 'Bee in the City' campaign last summer. With the bare bones of our trip already in place, we had the task this weekend of filling the gaps in between.  O ur flights, first three nights (including our white water rafting trip!) and the last night were already booked after making the plans at the first briefing weekend, so the girls had the freedom t...