The Ultimate Woodland Photography Packing List That Will Keep You Comfortable in Every Season and Situation

What you pack can make or break your time in the woods. The right gear helps you stay safe, comfortable, and creative, no matter the weather. Whether you’re photographing bluebell carpets in spring or misty pines in winter, having a dependable woodland photography packing list is key.

Spending time in UK woodlands means preparing for changing light, unexpected weather, and muddy trails. I’ve learned this the hard way – like the time I forgot my lens cloth in the drizzle and spent an hour shooting through foggy glass. So let’s make sure that doesn’t happen to you.

This guide covers the essentials I always bring, plus extras for each season. Think of it as your go-to checklist for any woodland shoot. If you’re just getting started, you might also enjoy my starter guide to woodland photography which covers the fundamentals in more depth.

Want a printable version of this list with extra tips on mindset, planning, and safety? Download my free Woodland Photography Pre-Shoot Checklist to get fully prepared for your next shoot. When you download it, you’ll also receive a free bonus: a 5-day email mini course designed to help you build confidence, simplify your kit, and sharpen your woodland photography skills across every season.

Essential Gear for Your Woodland Photography Bag for Every Outing

These are the non-negotiables I always pack – essentials that make every woodland photography outing smoother, safer and more enjoyable:

• Camera body + backup batteries – Cold, damp conditions in the UK can drain batteries quickly. Always bring extras so you’re not caught out mid-shoot. I have just upgraded to a Sony Alpha A7R V after years of using Sony’s Alpha A7R III.
• Lenses – I usually carry a standard zoom (Sony FE 24-105mm F/4 G) and a telephoto lens (Sony FE 100-400mm F/4.5-5.6 GM). This combination gives me the flexibility to shoot wide woodland scenes and tighter, more intimate compositions without switching lenses too often. On wetter days, I swap them for the Tamron 28-200mm travel zoom – this helps reduce the need to change lenses in damp conditions. I often pack a macro lens as a third option (Sony FE 90mm F/2.8 G Macro), which is perfect for capturing details like fungi, leaves, bark textures, or insects. Tailor your lens selection to the kind of images you’re hoping to create, but always think about versatility, weight, and how frequently you’re likely to change lenses during a shoot.
• A tall, sturdy tripod – A must-have in low light, fog, or when shooting long exposures. It also helps you slow down and refine your woodland compositions. I use the Gitzo GT3543XLS and Manfrotto MT055CXPRO3 tripods with a geared head. 
• A precise tripod head – For woodland photography, I prefer to use a geared head because of the precise movements that the gears afford. Some photographers swear by ballheads – there’s nothing wrong with them, but I find the precise nature of woodland photography – where small camera movements make a huge difference – is better suited to a geared head. My main tripod head is the Arca Swiss C1 Cube, which is the best tripod head I’ve ever used – it’s reassuringly expensive, too, so be warned! I also use the Benro GD3WH geared head, which is far more budget friendly but still offers precise geared movements. If you can’t afford a geared head, a cheaper option is a 3-way pan and tilt head. Manfrotto’s MH808-3W is a 3-way pan and tilt tripod head I have used extensively in the past and is a great option for those on a budget.
• Lens cloths + blower – Woodland shoots often involve mist, drizzle, or spray. Keep multiple microfibre cloths on hand to clean your lens and a blower to remove dust or moisture. This is the blower I use.
• Polarising filter – Helps reduce reflections on wet leaves and water, and enhances contrast and colour, especially after rain. I use the Maven Magnetic Linear Polarising Filter – magnetic filters make it much easier to switch between filters quickly as you install a magnetic ring on each lens and then simply clip on the filters you desire (they can be stacked, too). I also have several of their circular polarising filters.
• Black or Gold mist filters – These diffusion filters help soften highlights, bloom light sources and subtly lower contrast to create a cinematic, atmospheric look – especially useful on overcast days or in misty and wet conditions. I use the Maven Show Glow 1/4 black mist filter, which adds a gentle, flattering haze ideal for softening the highlights. I also use the Formatt Hitech Firecrest Bloom Gold 1/8 gold mist filter for a slightly warmer glow. Both can help lift woodland scenes by adding subtle mood and depth without going over the top. Be careful using these filters with telephoto lenses, though – they will soften the overall image far too much.

• Microfibre towel – Doubles up for drying gear, wiping your hands, or laying down equipment on damp ground.
• A compact, but strong umbrella – I prefer using an umbrella and attaching it to my tripod with a golf cart umbrella adapter. It enables me to keep both hands free and doesn’t cover all of the buttons. This is the one I use.
• Map or phone with offline maps – Many UK woodlands have patchy signal. Always have a way to navigate back safely. I use the OS Maps app as it’s the gold standard for outdoor mapping in the UK.
• Snacks + water – Walking and shooting for hours can take it out of you. Pack high-energy snacks and stay hydrated.
• First aid basics – A simple kit with plasters, antiseptic wipes, and pain relief goes a long way if you get scratched, stung, or blistered.
• Notebook or voice recorder – Capture composition ideas, natural observations, or notes on locations to revisit in different light. I often use the voice notes and notes apps on my phone, in combination with the camera app – the latter records GPS coordinates in photos by default, so it’s a great tool for scrap booking ideas.
• Headlamp or torch – Woodland light fades quickly, especially in winter. A small torch means you won’t be fumbling on the way back to the car. This is my preferred headtorch from Petzl – it includes a rechargeable battery.

Spring Woodland Photography Packing List

Spring in the UK means damp ground, vivid new growth, and unpredictable skies. It’s a season full of colour and transformation, but you need to be prepared. Here’s what to bring:

• Waterproof lightweight walking boots – Bluebell woods can be muddy and waterlogged, especially after rainfall. Get your boots fitted at a reputable outdoor store like Cotswold Outdoor – your feet will thank you. I wear the Salewa Ultra Flex 2s on dry days and switch to Solognac Lightweight Trail wellies when the ground is sodden.
• Breathable walking socks – Good socks make a huge difference. The Bridgedale Lightweight Merino Performance socks provide cushioning where it counts with a little bit of warmth through the rest of the sock. If your feet are typically warm, I recommend the Ultralight T2s below. I switched to Bridgedale socks for about 10 years ago now and swear by them – many of the original pairs I bought are still holding up strong today with no real signs of deterioration.
• Kneeling pad or small mat – You’ll spend time at ground level with wildflowers and ferns. A mat keeps your knees dry and your clothes clean. The Therm-a-Rest Z seat is a great, durable option.
• Macro lens or extension tubes – Spring offers tiny details worth capturing: young shoots, insects, fresh moss. Close-up gear helps you explore these hidden scenes. I carry the Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 G Macro lens for this purpose.
• Light gloves – Early mornings can be crisp. Choose thin gloves that keep your hands warm without making it hard to adjust camera settings.
• Lightweight waterproof jacket – Spring showers are a given. A breathable shell keeps you dry while you move between compositions. If there’s a heavy rain shower on the way, I take the Paramo Alta III but if there’s very little chance of rain, I pack the Rab Torque Softshell Jacket. It’s lightweight and has enough waterproofing for light drizzle, but it won’t stand up to heavy rain.

Summer Woodland Photography Packing List

Long days, dappled light, and biting insects make summer woodland photography both beautiful and challenging. Here’s what I recommend packing:

• Insect repellent – Dense foliage and still air in shaded areas make woodlands a haven for midges and ticks. A good repellent keeps you comfortable and focused. It’s also worth packing a tick removal tool if you are visiting a woodland with a dense understory, or if you will be wading through a lot of bracken.
• Breathable clothing – Summer walks can get hot. Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics help regulate temperature and reduce sweat build-up.
• Lightweight jacket – I almost always pack some kind of waterproof jacket as you can never 100 percent rely on the forecast. During the summer, I usually just pack the Rab Torque Softshell Jacket I mentioned earlier if I am local, but if I’m heading to the hills I will always pack a more substantial hard shell jacket like the Paramo Alta III.
• Lightweight walking boots or shoes – I will often wear a pair of Merrell Accentor 3 Sport walking shoes, but if the ground is rougher I’ll opt for my Salewa Ultra Flex 2s as they are still lightweight but add extra ankle support.
• Breathable walking socks – Good socks make a huge difference. The Bridgedale Ultralight T2 Merino Performance socks provide cushioning where it counts while staying light and breathable elsewhere.
• Sun hat or buff – The woodland canopy doesn’t always provide full coverage, especially on wide paths or clearings. A hat or buff helps protect your neck and face from UV exposure.
• Lens hood – Direct sun can cause lens flare and reduce contrast. A lens hood helps you manage harsh light and maintain clarity in your shots. I use one of the Maven Falcon magnetic lens hoods, which works across all of my most commonly packed lenses.
• Infrared camera – This may sound like a strange option, but the woods are extremely difficult to shoot with a conventional camera on a bright, sunny day. However, with the aid of an infrared camera, I’m now able to shoot beautifully dramatic black and white images in the middle of a heatwave – the sunnier it gets, the more amazing the effect is! I picked up an infrared-converted Sony A5100 with a couple of cheap E-mount lenses that are good for IR shooting. There are several stores to buy from, but I chose to purchase a full-spectrum converted camera from Lumographic on eBay. I’ll write a separate guide about this at a later date.

Autumn Woodland Photography Packing List

Autumn brings rich colour, soft light, and unpredictable weather. The trees are at their most expressive, but the environment can shift quickly from crisp to damp to cold. Here’s what I recommend packing:

• Extra batteries – As temperatures drop, battery performance suffers. Always carry spares, especially during longer woodland sessions in cooler air.
• Wool hat + gloves – Mornings and evenings can get nippy. Keep your extremities warm so you can shoot for longer. I like to use thin, grippy gloves that still let me operate the dials.
• Microfibre towel – Fallen leaves, mossy logs, and wooden benches are often wet. A small towel lets you wipe down gear or dry a seat so you can shoot comfortably.
• Cloth bag for leaf collecting – Autumn is full of inspiration. I often gather colourful leaves or interesting textures for flatlays or macro work later at home.
• Telephoto lens – Compress layers of foliage, isolate distant trees, or create painterly compositions from a distance. Autumn colour often looks best when layered. My chosen lens is the Sony FE 100-400mm F/4.5-5.6 GM.
• Macro lens – It’s mushroom season, so my macro lens is always in my bag at this time of year. I carry the Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 G Macro lens, which delivers superb sharpness and just the right working distance for photographing fungi, fallen leaves, and woodland textures without casting shadows or disturbing the scene.
• Kneeling pad or small mat – You’ll spend time at ground level photographing fungi, so a mat keeps your knees dry and your clothes clean. The Therm-a-Rest Z seat is mat of choice.
• Waterproof walking boots or wellies – Mud is nearly guaranteed in many UK woods during autumn. I alternate between the Salewa Ultra Flex 2s and the Solognac Lightweight Trail wellies, depending on the terrain and how long I expect to be out.
• Breathable walking socks – I stick with Bridgedale Lightweight Merino Performance socks in autumn. They strike the right balance of warmth and moisture management, keeping feet comfortable across changing conditions.

Winter Woodland Photography Packing List

Short days, stark trees and moody light – I love winter. It strips everything back to its bare essentials, rewarding simplicity and patience with clean compositions and quiet drama. Here are the things I pack:

• Thermal base layers – Wear them, don’t just pack them. A good thermal layer helps trap heat and wick away moisture, which is crucial for long, slow woodland shoots in cold conditions. Go Outdoors does some decent thermal base layers under its OEX brand if you’re looking for something affordable but effective.
• Down jacket – Because you’re often standing still for long periods, I always wear a warm down jacket to trap body heat and stay comfortable. The Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket is my go-to – it’s lightweight, packable, and offers excellent insulation.
• Waterproof jacket – A good waterproof shell is non-negotiable in winter. I always pack my trusty Paramo Alta III, which is reliably breathable and keeps me dry even in sustained rain. It’s cut generously enough that I can wear my down jacket underneath on freezing mornings, making it ideal for long shoots in cold, wet conditions. Layering your insulation and shell this way gives you the flexibility to adapt to changing weather without sacrificing warmth or comfort.
• Waterproof trousers – Snow, mud, and wet brambles are common obstacles during winter woodland shoots. A good pair of breathable waterproof trousers is essential to stay dry and comfortable over long sessions. I recommend wearing rather than packing them, especially when ground conditions are bad from the outset. The Sprayway Nakuru Gore-tex rainpant are a solid choice – durable, windproof, and light enough to wear all day without overheating. They also layer easily over thermal leggings or base layers when extra warmth is needed.
• Warm liner gloves – Essential for maintaining dexterity when shooting in cold conditions. These gloves allow you to operate your camera – adjusting dials, buttons and even touchscreens – without needing to expose your hands to the elements. I use the Rab Power Stretch Pro gloves, which are warm, breathable, and flexible enough to wear all day on their own or as a base layer under over-gloves or mittens.
• Over-gloves or mittens – If it’s really cold, these go over the top of my thinner liner gloves. I use the Rab Xenon mitts, which are my go-to over-glove in winter. They’re incredibly lightweight, pack down small enough to fit in a side pocket or pouch, and offer excellent warmth for their size. While not fully waterproof, they do a decent job of repelling light rain or snow, especially for short stints of shooting in wintry conditions. They also act as a vital backup if your main gloves get wet during a long session in the woods.
• Hand warmers – These small additions make a big difference on freezing mornings, especially when you’re standing still composing a shot or waiting for light. I keep a few in my bag throughout winter, just in case. Whether you prefer single-use heat packs or reusable gel warmers, they help keep your hands warm between exposures and make the experience far more pleasant on cold days.
• Thick winter socks – Good socks are vital for comfort and warmth when you’re spending hours on your feet in freezing woodland. I wear the Bridgedale All Season Merino Comfort socks. They’re thick enough to keep your feet warm but still breathable, and they wick moisture away to help prevent cold, damp toes. Bridgedale socks have held up for me through years of wet, cold outings, and this particular pair strikes a great balance of warmth, fit, and durability for long winter shoots. If you’re cold, you could always add a merino wool liner sock inside for additional warmth.
• Walking boots or Wellington boots – Choosing the right footwear makes a huge difference to your comfort and mobility in winter woodlands. I wear the Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid Gore-Tex boots when walking in hilly, uneven terrain or when I need more ankle support and grip on icy or rocky paths. They’re tough, well-cushioned, and hold up brilliantly in challenging conditions. On flatter, muddier ground like the woodlands I often visit in Hertfordshire, I tend to wear the Muck Boots Arctic Ice Tall. They’re warm, insulated, and easy to slip on and off, making them a practical choice when you know the trails will be waterlogged. Having both options means I can adapt my footwear to match the day’s forecast and terrain, which really helps avoid cold, wet feet or unnecessary discomfort during long shoots.
• Waterproof stuff sacks – These are essential if you’ve been out in rain, snow, or heavy mud. They let you separate wet or dirty gear from everything else in your backpack or car, helping to protect electronics, notebooks, and dry clothing. I use a couple of different sizes depending on the trip – larger ones for waterproof trousers or jackets and smaller ones for gloves, hats or socks that get soaked. Look for sacks with roll-top closures and taped seams to ensure full waterproof protection.
• Hot flask of tea or coffee – A winter essential. There’s nothing quite like warming your hands and lifting your spirits with a hot drink when the cold starts to creep in. Whether you’re on a short break between compositions or waiting patiently for the right light, having a warm flask of coffee (or tea, if you prefer) keeps you comfortable and focused. It’s one of those small things that can turn a tough shoot into an enjoyable one.

Conclusion

The UK’s woodlands offer something new in every season as long as you’re prepared. With the right gear and a plan in mind, you can focus on being creative and present, rather than reacting to discomfort or forgotten kit. This guide has walked you through the essentials I always pack, plus the seasonal items that help me stay ready year-round.

If you’d like a checklist version of everything you’ve read – complete with extra mindset and planning tips – download my free Woodland Photography Pre-Shoot Checklist. It’s designed to help you head into the woods with confidence and clarity.

When you download the checklist, you’ll also get a free bonus: a 5-day email mini course designed to help you become more confident and consistent in your woodland photography. It covers everything from simplifying your kit and reading woodland light to mastering composition and staying inspired throughout the seasons. It’s the perfect follow-up to this guide, delivered straight to your inbox.