u/Soggy_Fee_8059

Me and my partner are planning to do part of the WHW mid July for 5 days. As we don’t get more time off, instead of rushing the walk to fit it in 5 days, we will just walk as far as we get in those five days.

I have read a lot online and in this forum (great stuff!) but I am still very unsure if our planning is good and some of the practicalities of the walk. I hope you can help!

Our plan route is as follows:
Day 1: early train from Edinburgh to Milngavie and start the walk latest mid day towards Drymen. Wild camp around Drymen (do we just find a quiet place?)

Day 2: Dryrem - Rowardennan
As I understand at Rowardennan we would need to book a spot for wild camping in the restricted area. Do we definitely need to camp in those areas or can we camp outside that area without needing to book a permit? What are the benefits and problems of camping in the restricted area and outside of it?

Day 3: Rowardennan - Inverarnan
Still not sure if booking a camping permit is needed?

Day 4: Iverarnan - Tyndrum. Wild camp.

Day 5: Either train to Edinburgh from Tyndrum Lower or walk to Inveroran and take train from Bridge of Orchy back to Edinburgh

I would love some feedback and inside info about this plan, what should we know/do/avoid/plan?

I am also wondering about food and water. Based on this route, do we need to pack full meals for all those days or just for each day and refill in every town? I tend to drink LOADS of water (also need it for health reasons) and I want to know how to plan the water supply for the whole walk.

Wild camping: do we need to book permits along Loch Lomond or can we camp outside those areas without it? Any troubles with doing this? Are the areas clearly marked? Would hate to wake up to the surprise of walking up in the wrong place.

What do you think is definitely essential to bring with us? A tent and so on… obviously. But any camp gear/equipment or so on that we should think of?

We are newbies to wild camping and such long walks. We are both fairly healthy and fit and want to make sure it is an enjoyable experience.

Thanks for any information or advice you can provide!

Hello,

I got approved last week and already traveled to the UK after clearance (UKVI account set and connected to passport/eVisa). I am now trying to organize all admin I can in the next few months for the final move.

What are/were your first steps?

I have applied for a NI number which will take up to four weeks.

I am now thinking of a British bank account. I tried Monzo but they are asking proof of address (e.g. utility bills and letters addressed to me) which I still don’t have. Is there a smart way to get an account during this transition period? Or do I have to wait a bit longer to get one once I have more documentation of my residence?

Looking at the papers needed for FLM(M) and eventually ILR, I am thinking already of adding my name to the council tax, opening a joint bank account,etc.

Can somebody share their first admin steps when they got approved and started the move? I want to cover as much bases as I can the next few months.

Thanks in advance!