Expedition Symposium 2026

Set in the stunning surroundings of Plas y Brenin, the National Outdoor Centre in North Wales, the Expedition Symposium 2026 is designed to support you with everything you need to launch your first major expedition.

Supported by the Alpine Club, Mount Everest Foundation, Arctic Club and the BMC, the symposium brings together experienced expedition leaders and industry experts to share what it really takes to plan, fund and deliver a successful expedition. 

Over the weekend, hands-on workshops will cover every aspect of the expedition experience - from team selection and managing group dynamics to first aid, equipment, logistics and grant applications. Alongside the practical sessions, hear inspiring stories from seasoned expeditioners that will challenge, motivate and help spark ideas for your own adventures.

Is this event for you?

• Are you a regular day paddler looking for guidance on planning multi-day trips?
• A hiker who wants to head off the beaten track?
• A climber dreaming of heading into the greater ranges to explore unclimbed peaks?
• Eager to travel abroad but unsure where to start?
• Or do you regularly organise expeditions but want to pick up fresh tips, tricks, and industry insights?

Whatever your experience level, you'll leave with the knowledge, confidence and connections to make your next adventure happen. We look forward to welcoming you at Expedition Symposium 2026 at Plas y Brenin.

Day one: Saturday

Introduction: Objectives, logistics, and administration: 

• Speaker: Paul Ramsden
• Overview: Navigating where and when to go, organising shipping, using tech for planning, and handling insurance. Learn how to make the nitty-gritty admin tasks flow smoother and feel easier.

Staying healthy and injury prevention

• Speaker: Sam Whitley
• Overview: Stretching and targeted exercises specifically designed for paddlers. Whether it’s warming up, cooling down, or maintaining long-term fitness, this workshop provides the practical know-how to keep your body healthy out in the wilds.

Fuel, food, and fluids

• Speakers: Joe Browns and Cathy Casey
• Overview: Expedition foods and outdoor cooking. Discover the best meal options for longer expeditions and learn how to stay properly fuelled over multiple days.

Clothing and equipment

• Speakers: Mountain Equipment (Rich Bailey, Dr. Down aka Matt Fuller)
• Overview: Lightweight and warm clothing developments. Learn which layers to pack for paddle expeditions in all seasons, alongside top tips for minimising weight on expeditions that require portages or hiking in.

Climbing (routes, gear, and bivis)

• Speaker: Paul Ramsden 
• Overview: Essential insights into route planning, gear selection, and bivouac strategies for mountain environments.

Funding and applying for grants

• Speakers: Rebecca Stephens, Mount Everest Foundation (MEF):  Nick (BMC), and Paul Ramsden and Olly Sanders 
• Overview: Navigating the funding landscape can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. With years of combined experience, Paul and Nick will help you navigate the system and connect you with the right organisations.

Guest speakers

• Speakers: Katie Keeley (Mountain Equipment) and James Price (Young Alpinist Group) 

Day two: Sunday

Team dynamics and selection

• Speaker: Olly Sanders, Plas y Brenin 
• Overview: How to choose the right expedition partner. Discover what makes a successful team, how to maintain high morale and sustained team dynamics, and how to thrive together in adversity.

Communications

• Speaker: Iona Pawson, Plas y Brenin
• Overview: A deep dive into using satellite phones and Garmin InReach devices to stay connected, especially during emergencies. Communication technology moves fast - ensure you are up-to-date and learn tips and tricks to maintain vital links.

Altitude and risk management

• Speaker: Remote Area Risk International
• Overview: Assessing risk on expeditions and minimising the chances of incidents. Learn proactive methods for identifying risks before they happen and how to manage incidents effectively if they do occur.

First aid and expedition medicine

• Speaker: Remote Area Risk International
• Overview: What medical supplies to carry and how to choose the right training courses for your specific expedition. Prepare for any eventuality so you're ready to look after yourself and lead groups, whether personally or professionally.

Photography and filming

• Speaker: Tom Laws, Plas y Brenin
• Overview: Documenting your journey and adventures. Whether you want personal keepsakes to share with friends and family, or you're looking to start an adventure vlog, this workshop covers everything you need to know about expedition photography.

Final wrap-up, Q&A, tea and cake

• Overview: A casual closing session to answer remaining questions, reflect on the weekend, and network over refreshments.

Sample programme...

Saturday: Foundations and Preparation

• 09:00 - 10:00: Introduction, objectives, logistics, and insurance.
• 10:00 - 12:30: Rotating workshop sessions covering:
  • Staying healthy and injury prevention
  • Fuel, food and fluids
  • Clothing and equipment
  • Climbing (routes, gear, bivis, etc.)
• 12:30 - 13:00: Lunch.
• 13:00 - 16:00: Continued rotating workshops
• 16:00 - 16:30: Break: Tea & Cake.
• 16:30 - 17:30: Plenary: Funding & Applying for Grants.
• 18:00 - 19:30: Dinner.
• 19:30 - 21:00: Evening talks featuring Katie Keeley and James Price

Sunday: 

• 09:00 - 10:00: Plenary: team dynamics and selection
• 10:00 - 12:30: Rotating workshop sessions covering:
  • Altitude and risk management
  • First aid and expedition medicine
  • Communications
  • Photography and filming
• 12:30 - 13:15: Lunch
• 13:15 - 15:45: Continued rotating workshops
• 15:45 - 16:00: Plenary: Final wrap-up / Q&A
• 16:00 - 16:30: Tea, cake, and farewells

Frequently Asked Questions

What's included in my ticket?

We offer two ticket options: a residential pass and non-residential pass.

All tickets (residential and non-residential) include:

• Meals and refreshments: Dinner on Friday; breakfast, a packed lunch, dinner, and tea/coffee with cake on Saturday; breakfast, lunch, and tea/coffee with cake on Sunday.
• Facilities: Full access to our onsite showers and drying rooms.
• Perks: A goodie bag packed with gear from our partners and sponsors.
• Evening events: Access to the brand meet-and-greet and the guest lectures on Saturday evening.

The residential pass also includes:

• Two nights accommodation onsite at Plas y Brenin. You can choose between a single or twin en-suite room, or a bed in a shared dormitory room.

Can I borrow equipment from Plas y Brenin?

Yes. If you forget your waterproof jacket or trousers, you're welcome to borrow gear directly from our onsite stores.

What happens if I can no longer attend the event?

Cancellations and transfers are subject to our standard terms. Please review our full policy on the Plas y Brenin Terms & Conditions page.