Being located only an hour from the impressive Brecon Beacons and vast coast, the outdoors has always been easily accessible place for me to escape everyday life.

I visit the local beaches most days, which drew my attention to the litter issue in Swansea's tidal pools, prompting me to start litter picking. This marked the beginning of my sustainability journey and ultimately led me to pursue my master's in sustainability leadership.

My passion for protecting my local area and our planet quickly deepened because I became more aware of the role the outdoors played in my happiness. Whether its going for a sunrise hike or meeting friends for a walk in my local park, I discovered that any time spent outside positively impacted my mood.

Being outside in the fresh air for as little as five minutes makes a huge difference to my well-being. 

I’m more compassionate and kinder after spending time outside. It's become a non-negotiable aspect of my routine, contributing to my own personal growth and helping me connect to the world around me. 

When I’m surrounded by nature, my body and mind respond differently. After conquering a challenging hike, I feel incredible. For me, reaching the summit is one of the best feelings. It fills me with immense happiness. 

I hike most days of the week, with the occasional cold-water swim thrown in. Although, less so in the chilly autumn and winter months! 

My favourite times of day to get outside are at dusk and dawn because it's the most quiet and peaceful times of the day for me. Pen Y Fan is one of my top destinations to watch the sunrise, mainly for its breathtaking 360-degree views at the top. Living near the coast also provides me with an endless amount of coastal paths to explore. 

When I lived in South England, I'd spend a lot of my time exploring the Dorset area, including the iconic spots Durdle Door and Chapmans. 

Having recently moved back to Wales about six months ago, I've been enchanted by its landscapes. While biased being Welsh, I genuinely feel it's unmatched, with an abundance of natural wonders on my doorstep. There aren't many countries that you can drive almost entirely around in a day — it's one-of-a-kind. 

Every time I visit North Wales I'm left in awe; it's truly spectacular and unlike any other place in the UK. The landscapes transport you to a different world. It’s an incredible destination that everyone should visit if they ever have the chance.

Most of my followers are women, which I love because our shared experiences make it easier to connect with one another. Our conversations involve our adventure stories and things we've learned along the way.

I've noticed that many women have common questions and concerns when it comes to solo exploration, especially those new to the outdoors. Venturing out alone can feel daunting, and some face additional hurdles that make getting outside more of a challenge.

Through my community, I aim to empower more women to confidently step into the outdoors, instilling a true sense of belonging.

Owning quality outdoor gear definitely helps boost confidence when you're exploring. Durable, waterproof gear is a must for unexpected weather and muddy trails.

If you’re ever stuck wondering what you need to stay protected and comfortable, the Snow+Rock's gear specialists are great for answering any questions you may have in-store. They’re here to build your confidence, with fantastic recommendations tailored to your style and adventure preferences. 

Always remember that when it comes to exploring the outdoors, perfection isn't necessary. There's no need to scale steep peaks — an afternoon walk in a local spot is as equally rewarding. Embrace the journey, and remember, everyone starts somewhere. 

I found trying on the gear and speaking one-on-one with in-store specialists extremely useful. With an overwhelming amount of choice today, speaking to someone who knows the ins and outs of the gear made choosing a lot more easy.  

The growing shift towards community-focused shopping is quite exciting. When it comes to buying essentials like walking boots or a rucksack, your interactions in-store create lasting connections. Recognising a familiar face when you return builds confidence and adds a personal touch to your outdoor adventure journey. 

My upbringing instilled a mindset of resourcefulness at a young age. My parents, never quick to discard, repair and repurpose items, set a good example for me.

Their approach, taping, stitching, and repairing clothes, has influenced me to prioritise longevity and reduce my environmental impact. This mindset of not just discarding but finding creative solutions has helped me keep my gear performing its best for longer. 

For me, comfort is crucial. Especially when it comes to your exploration must-haves. A well-fitting backpack that offers plenty of space and storage or waterproofs that effectively shield you from the elements are crucial for a good experience outside. I’ve also learned the importance of layering correctly and having enough space in my pack to carry additional gear for when the weather takes a turn.  

I think feeling good in what you wear translates into confidence while exploring. Although comfort is my priority, feeling stylish is a bonus. 

I’ll always pack a picnic blanket and a flask of coffee. I’ll also bring my camera because I love taking pictures when I’m outside exploring — it's one of my favourite things to do. 

On hikes and walks, I’ll find a good spot to watch the sunrise or set. Sometimes I’ll take a book to read if the weather is nice. I also enjoy watching the waves crash onto the shore, which I love most in the winter months. It just feels a bit more mystical. It's amazing. 

Thanks for talking with us, Elinor! Wherever's your outdoor playground, get the gear advice you need at an appointment with an in-store specialist.  

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