Self Help Guides
Gear List for Overnight Bushwalking
The following equipment list is a guide to help you prepare for hiking trips. There are more items listed than you may need, to give you an idea of some of the equipment possibilities.
Dressing in layers is the best choice for outdoor activities. As you warm up you can take some layers off, and as the day cools down, you can put them back on. Start with a base layer that wicks moisture away from the skin and provides warmth. The middle layer should provide either sun protection or warmth, while still wicking moisture. The outer layers are a shell against the elements, providing wind and water protection.
Do not bring thick cotton clothes such as cotton hoodies or denim jeans. If these get wet they will stay wet for the whole trip and you’ll be wet and cold with them. Jumpers and jackets made from wool or fleece such as Polartec, will keep you warm even if they get wet.
Note also that some of the items can be split up between people in the group to spread the load when carrying, such as tents and food.
Clothing
- Underwear – Don’t forget!
- Thermal underwear – Polypropylene or wool
- Socks – Wool or synthetic are better than cotton as they keep your feet dry
- Wool or fleece jumper or jacket
- Hiking Pants - NOT jeans and belt if you need it
- Hiking shorts & T-shirt
- Long sleeve shirt for sun protection
- Waterproof jacket or poncho – MUST be waterproof rather than resistant
- Sun hat
- Beanie (and gloves if you expect cold weather)
- Gaiters
- Hiking boots – Already worn in
- Sandals or sneakers – More comfortable in camp and for river crossings
- Swimmers
- Pack – Must fit you properly and be big enough to carry all your equipment.
- Pack cover or liner – To make sure all your gear stays dry.
- Day pack - If you plan to do day hikes from a base camp.
- Sleeping bag – Compact is good but the right temperature is essential.
- Sleeping bag liner – Warmer in winter, cooler in summer and keeps bag clean.
- Sleeping mat
- Tent - Make sure you have put it up before your trip and nothing is missing.
- Compass
- Maps
- Waterproof map case
- GPS
- Lighter or matches with striker in waterproof container.
- Stove & fuel - Make sure you have enough for the length of your trip.
- Pots, pans, billies
- Pot gripper – don’t burn your hands.
- Cup / mug (unbreakable)
- Plate / bowl (unbreakable)
- Knife / Fork / Spoon kit
- Food (Include some tasty treats as a reward all your hard work)
- Water bottles or Camelbak & water
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Sewing needle
- Nylon thread
- Gaffa tape
- Nylon cord
- Extra stove parts (gaskets for stove, fuel cap, etc.)
- Lighter or matches with striker in waterproof container
- Fire starters
- Knife or Leatherman
- Whistle
- Hiker fly for emergency shelter
- Space (emergency) blanket
- First aid kit & book
- Re-hydration salts
- Spare shoe laces
- Emergency beacon (EPIRB)
- Toothbrush & paste
- Glasses or contacts
- Personal medication
- Toilet paper (Don’t forget this one)
- Small toilet shovel
- Biodegradable soap
- Travel Towel
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Camera
- Headtorch or torch with fresh batteries
- Watch
- Spare calf muscles for those extra long hikes
- Notebook & pen
- Book to read