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Kit List

Firstly, check that you've got everything basic that you need – your horse’s tack, your riding clothes and the horse’s travelling gear. Your horse's tack must be the same for all three phases, with the exception of saddlebags, which can be removed for the PTV and CG sections.

Boots with a raised heel and treaded sole (with/without chaps) are usually a more practical option than long leather riding boots - you need to be able to walk comfortably on varying terrain, including muddy ditches. Trainers and other items of footwear with no raised heel are only acceptable if you are riding with caged stirrups.

Alternative tack (western, bitless, parelli etc) is allowed. As long as you are in control of your horse, and the tack you use is safe and well fitting then almost anything is permitted apart from standing martingales and other fixed reins. Be aware that different tack may slightly affect your ability to score on some PTV obstacles, but if you phone the organiser beforehand they will be able to advise you on this.

If you use a whip it must be no longer than 75cms, and spurs (if worn) must be rounded and no longer than 3.5cms.

Don't forget to take water and food for your horse and yourself.

You will also need some specific equipment for BHS TREC, the official essential kit list (you will be penalised for each item you don't have) comprises:

Hard hat to current BHS standard (PAS 015/BSEN 1384)
Rider's ID - eg. a medical armband. MUST be worn in all three phases. These can be ordered from the BHS bookshop.
Fluorescent/hi-viz clothing - the minimum requirement is clearly visible fluorescent strips (or garment) on the rider's torso. It is strongly recommended that this is also reflective, and is supplemented by a fluorescent/reflective hat band. You can pick up hi-viz clothing relatively cheaply from tack shops, builders'  merchants, e-bay and many local markets.
Compass - these are available at a range of prices from outdoor shops. To begin with you only need a very simple low-tech one. Remember that the red needle points North, and don't use it near metal objects ie power lines/cars/magnetic bracelets.
Map marking pens - light coloured/fluorescent gel pens in at least 2 different colours (pink and orange are popular) - one for the route, one for notes and markings. You may also want to take a biro or pencil for writing other things down such as the emergency contact numbers.
Torch or suitable light - a head torch is the most practical but unless you're getting into higher level competition just use a normal torch from home.
Headcollar and rope - the headcollar is usually worn under the bridle (without noseband), the rope coiled and clipped onto the saddle. Combination bridles are also suitable.
Waterproofs - there are some available which fold neatly away into a zip pocket, great for space-saving.
Basic first aid kit for horse and rider - hoofpick, wound wipes, antiseptic cream, dressing, bandage, plasters - just enough to deal with any minor scrapes.
Tag attached to the saddle with competitor number and organiser's telephone number on in case you and your horse become separated (you will have to provide your own tag)
Whistle for attracting attention to yourself if you're in trouble.
Emergency farrier's tools and equi-boot - only compulsory at level 3 and above, but it's advisable to buy one once you start to compete regularly. If you lose a shoe on the POR you will be held at a checkpoint until a hoof boot is fitted, so if you don't have one, you can't continue.

Also recommended to make life a little easier:

Map case - trying to read a soggy, creased map is no fun
Medical armband - available from the BHS Bookshop, contain space for medical history and contact details
Drink/snack for rider - make sure you have enough water, more than you think if it's a warm day, and a couple of chocolate/cereal bars or fruit (take all litter home with you). It is surprisingly easy to go through 2 litres of water on the POR on a warm day when you're concentrating. Take small sports cap bottles to drink from as they can easily be refilled if there's a tap at a checkpoint, and can be opened with one hand.
Coins for emergency phone call, or mobile phone (which must be switched off & sealed, with number given to organiser)
Digital watch (or stopwatch) to keep an accurate record of your times.
Saddlebags - either in front or behind the saddle (or a saddlecloth with sturdy pockets, available from Equikits) are really useful. You can set them aside for the control of paces and PTV (obstacles), though all other tack must be the same in all phases.