Rock Climbing & Abseiling – Check List

Rock Climbing & Abseiling:

When preparing for rock climbing or abseiling (rappelling), you’re engaging in a technical, physically demanding, and exhilarating activity that requires strict adherence to safety protocols and trust in your gear and instructors.

Here’s what travelers need for Rock Climbing & Abseiling:

What to Bring/Prepare for Rock Climbing & Abseiling:

Comfortable, Flexible Clothing:

  • Full-length pants or capris (for climbing): Essential to protect your knees from scrapes against the rock and from harness chafing. Avoid short shorts.
  • T-shirt or long-sleeved athletic top: Comfortable and allows for freedom of movement. Long sleeves offer sun protection.
  • Layers: Depending on the weather and altitude, bring a fleece or light jacket for warmth between climbs or during belaying.
  • Avoid overly baggy clothing that could snag.

Secure, Closed-Toe Shoes:

  • Climbing Shoes: If you have your own, bring them. Otherwise, climbing centers/operators will provide specialized climbing shoes designed for grip and precision. They should fit snugly.
  • Approach Shoes/Athletic Sneakers: For walking to and from the climbing/abseiling site. These should be sturdy and comfortable. No sandals, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes for the activity itself.
  • Hair Tie/Band: If you have long hair, tie it back securely to prevent it from getting caught in equipment or obscuring your vision.

Sun Protection:

  • Sunscreen (High SPF): You’ll be exposed to the sun, especially on rock faces. Apply generously.
  • Hat/Cap: For sun protection for your face and head (worn under helmet).
  • Sunglasses (with strap): To reduce glare. A strap helps prevent loss.
  • Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during physical exertion.
  • Snacks: High-energy snacks (nuts, energy bars, fruit) for quick boosts during breaks.
  • Small Backpack (Daypack): For carrying water, snacks, extra layers, and personal items to the climbing site.
  • First-Aid Kit (Basic): Your guide will have a comprehensive one, but a small personal kit for minor cuts, scrapes, and blisters is handy.
  • Personal Medications: Ensure you have a supply of any prescribed medications.
  • Gloves (Optional, for Abseiling): Thin leather or specialized abseiling gloves can protect your hands from rope burn during rappels. Often provided by outfitters.

GoPro/Action Camera (Optional, if allowed):

  • Check operator policy first! Many require you to use their mounted cameras or have strict rules about personal cameras for safety reasons.
  • If allowed, it must be securely mounted to your helmet (often provided) or wrist. Never hand-held.
  • Booking Confirmation/ID: For check-in.
  • Waiver/Release Forms: Be prepared to read and sign detailed liability waivers.
  • Payment: If you haven’t paid in full, have your payment ready.
  • Empty Pockets: Ensure all pockets are completely empty to prevent items from falling out.

Equipment Provided by Operators/Guides (Usually):

  • Harness: Your primary safety connection.
  • Helmet: Mandatory for head protection.
  • Ropes: Dynamic ropes for climbing, static ropes for abseiling.
  • Belay Device & Carabiners: For managing the rope during climbing and abseiling.
  • Quickdraws/Protection: For lead climbing.
  • Slings/Webbing: For anchors and other setups.
  • Climbing Shoes: As mentioned, usually available for rent.

What NOT to Bring on the Climb/Abseil Itself:

  • Loose Jewelry: Rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets can snag, get lost, or cause injury. Remove them.
  • Phones/Wallets/Keys: Anything that can fall out of your pockets or off your body.
  • Bulky items: Scarves, loose hats not secured under a helmet.

Etiquette and Responsible Behavior for Rock Climbing & Abseiling:

  • Listen to Your Instructor/Guide (Absolutely Critical!): Your guide is a highly trained professional. Follow every instruction immediately and without question, from harnessing procedures to climbing commands (“climbing!”, “Belay on!”), and abseiling techniques. Your safety depends on it.
  • Be Honest: Be truthful about your weight, medical conditions, and any fears. This information is vital for configuring equipment and ensuring your safety.
  • Communicate Clearly: Use standard climbing commands if you’re learning. Communicate any discomfort or concerns immediately to your guide.
  • Check Your Partner/Gear (if in a group): If you’re learning to belay or are paired up, double-check your partner’s harness, knots, and equipment as instructed. Trust but verify.

Respect the Rock & Environment (Leave No Trace):

  • Stay on Designated Paths: Avoid trampling vegetation around the base of climbs.
  • No Littering: Pack out everything you pack in.
  • Minimize Chalk Use: Use chalk sparingly and clean off excess after your climb.
  • Don’t Chip or Damage Rock: Treat the rock face with respect.
  • Respect Wildlife: Be mindful of nesting birds or other animals.
  • Be Patient: Climbing and abseiling often involve waiting turns. Be patient and courteous to your fellow participants.
  • Control Your Body: Avoid swinging wildly or doing anything that could destabilize the rope system or put others at risk.
  • No Horseplay: Treat the activity seriously.
  • Stay Hydrated & Fueled: Take breaks and refuel as needed.

By being well-prepared, focused, and completely cooperative with your instructors, you’re set for an exhilarating and safe rock climbing or abseiling adventure!