Skiers and snowboarders are becoming increasingly seduced by the idea of ski touring and splitboarding.

Hiking up a mountain with no lift access at the break of dawn, wandering into the wilderness, lusting over untracked snow and basking in the empty silence.

If that sounds like your kind of thing, then it’s time to have a go at it. But where to start?

We’ve summarised a few essentials to get you ready for taking on the backcountry – from equipment to knowledge and a few extra tips to consider before you head out in search of adventure and solace in the mountains.