People of all ages, backgrounds and abilities can enjoy alpinism, but if the prospect of learning new skills in a harsh and complex environment seems a little bit daunting, then our new booklet will help to guide you along your first steps as an alpine climber.

Written by BMC Ambassador and aspirant Mountain Guide Calum Muskett and Mountain Guide Steve Long, there is an emphasis on making a success of your first alpine trips.

The skills, knowledge and equipment required to become an alpinist are covered to prepare you for many years of safe and memorable adventures in the high mounta

Calum says, “Our aim with the booklet is to cover the core alpine skills, point people towards more detailed information and make alpinism more accessible for hill walkers, climbers and skiers who have yet to venture into the high mountains or glaciated terrain.”

Jonathan Conville Memorial Trust Patron Andy Cave sees great benefits in the booklet, "The Alps offer so much exiting adventure! But knowing how to start out safely can be difficult as there are lots of new skills needed - dealing with bigger terrain, glaciers, changing conditions. This modest booklet is a great first step to help overcome some of these hurdles. Highly recommended. You’d be wise to read it."

The 32-page booklet includes chapters on equipment, fitness preparation, planning and acclimatisation, glacier travel and hazards, huts and bivouacs, and emergency procedures.

New Alpinists is available to download as a FREE PDF, or you can order a printed copy from the BMC online shop for just £2.50 (plus delivery charge) for members.

Member price: £2.50; non-members: £3.00 (plus delivery charge)

As Europe is unlocked, BMC travel insurance is loaded with the essential cover that you need for adventure.

From 10 July, many European destinations are opening up to UK travellers. This means that you can still have your summer adventure – from sport climbing in Spain to trekking in the Alps.

BMC travel insurance comes in five policies: Travel, Trek, Rock, Alpine and Ski and High Altitude.

All of our policies include the following Coronavirus cover:

24-hour emergency assistance helpline

£10 million emergency medical cover

£100,000 Search, rescue and recovery cover

Please be aware that there is no cover for cancellation, curtailment, delays or journey disruption in any way caused by or resulting from coronavirus / Covid-19. Read more about the Covid-travel FAQs here

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