A necessity: My rucksack and vacuum flask. I was given them as a freebie at the Olympics. I must have been the only person who was really happy to get the flask.

A luxury: My MiniDisc player. I don't tend to listen to it when I'm actually walking, but I have it with me and then have whatever I've been listening to in my head as I walk.

For luck: My parents' boxer dogs - Mollie and Ruby. Boxers are real companions and would get you out of any sort of trouble. I also have a beaded bracelet which I wear - it's supposed to symbolise health and happiness, I think. I had another two but I lost them. One was for wisdom, the other for wealth, but they have gone. Luckily, I still have the most important one.

If only: Some kind of invisible ear covering. I can't cover my ears for the programme as I wouldn't hear whoever I'm with, but they get absolutely freezing, so I would love to invent a thermal insulating cream.

• Ramblings with Clare Balding is on Radio 4, Sundays at 2.30pm