To make the most of unexpected sunny evenings and early escapes from work, it’s a nice idea to have an escape kit packed and ready to go. If you keep it by your front door so that you see it every day then you’ll be more likely to make the most of your 5 to 9. Phone your mate, grab your packs, jump on your bikes, and go!

1. Rucksack. A 30 litre one is a good size. It doesn’t need to be fancy, expensive or new. That applies to all the kit on this list.
2. Bivvy bag. This post will help you choose. Buy a cheap one – you can upgrade next year if you use it lots.
3. Foam camping mat, strapped to the outside of your pack. A ThermaRest is comfier and more compact, but it’s pricey too.
4. Sleeping bag.
5. Warm top
6. Wooly hat and gloves.
7. Head torch and spare batteries.
8. A beer can camping stove. Fun to make, cheap, and effective.
9. Mess tin, Swiss Army knife and spoon.
10. 2 litre water bottle.

This post first appeared on the howies blog.