What to buy for a city walk

A city walk needs more than printed directions. Plan supplies for registration, navigation, breaks and unexpected delays, especially if the route runs into the evening or the weather changes. This shopping list covers drinks, snacks, route materials, name tags and safety equipment for participants and chaperones. Buy or pack items early enough to print maps, charge phones and chill drinks before people arrive.

The full checklist for this plan is being updated. The tips and answers below still apply.

Tips

Pack one route map per group, plus a few spare copies, and place each map in a waterproof route cover if rain is possible. Keep pens and clipboards with the attendance forms at the start point.
Allow at least one charged mobile phone and one power bank for each lead guide. Bring the right charging cables as well, because a power bank without a compatible cable will not help during a long walk.
Plan drinks for the walking time and the breaks: water jugs, reusable drinking cups and coolers cover cold drinks, while thermos flasks and reusable coffee cups are useful for a hot stop. Chill drinks several hours before departure.
Prepare one name label and lanyard for every registered participant, plus at least 5% extra for late additions or replacements. Keep the attendance forms, emergency contact cards and registration folder together at the start.
Do not leave visibility and first aid until the last minute. Pack a first aid kit, reflective vests, directional signs, barrier tape and headlamps or battery lanterns if any part of the walk takes place in poor light.

Frequently asked questions

How much water should I buy for a city walk?: Plan about 500 ml per participant for a short walk, and up to 1 litre per person for a walk lasting several hours or taking place in warm weather. Add extra water for guides and keep it in coolers or water jugs.
How many route maps do I need for a city walk?: Prepare one map for each walking group or guide, not necessarily one for every participant. Print at least two spare copies per route and protect all copies with waterproof covers if rain is forecast.
How many name tags should I prepare?: Prepare one name label and lanyard for every registered participant, then add at least 5% extra. For 40 participants, that means 42 name tags, so late registrations or damaged labels do not delay check-in.
When should I buy and prepare supplies for a city walk?: Buy non-perishable route and registration supplies at least 3 to 5 days beforehand. Chill drinks, pack snacks and charge phones and power banks the day before, then check the weather and final participant list on the morning of the walk.