Popular hiking locations like Murramarang National Park on the South Coast are a perfect opportunity for outdoor fun, but what should you pack to stay safe, comfortable and in good spirits? Photo: John Spencer, DPE.
Australia is home to some of the most beautiful, impressive and often challenging outdoor destinations in the world.
Whether your next adventure is on the coast, in bushland or up in the tropics, it’s important to invest in quality gear to stay safe and make life a little easier on the trail.
Tony Fischetti, manager at Fyshwick’s Military Shop, talks through a few essentials to pack for your next outdoor adventure.
The day trip
Always prioritise proper hydration and nutrition, even if you’re only heading out for a few hours. Day essentials include a water bladder style hydration kit to go with your food and medical supplies.
Tony says quality clothing is important.
“A rain jacket or even a lightweight poncho is important because weather can change rapidly at any given time,” he says.
“If it is cold, pack good gloves for being out in the elements, and consider moisture wicking shirts that dry rapidly. These can be worn as an under shirt or on their own and are useful in any environment whether warm or cold. And consider variations of outdoor, pocketed pants, they are great for easy storage.”
The overnight getaway
If you’re camping overnight, you’ll need to set yourself up a little more. Look at taking a personal cooking system to brew your hot drinks and and heat freeze-dried food.
Other overnight essentials include an emergency blanket, compass, multitool and a waterproof bag to keep your essentials dry.
“A multitool with a knife or saw function is handy. Military Shop has multitools with up to 19 features,” Tony says.
“If you’re camping without a tent, I highly recommend you at least get a Bivvy bag to protect your gear from the elements.”
The expedition – storage, shelter, safety
Here’s where it gets a little more interesting. If a true expedition is on the cards, careful planning is needed to keep everyone’s spirits high. The longer you’re out for, the more important compact storage will be.
“If you’re planning to go out for a week or more, military-style packs will add storage capacity on the outside, so you’re not stuffing everything in one bag,” Tony says.
Most campers use a tent, but if open air in a sleeping bag or swag is more your thing, be sure to invest in a good shelter to pack as a backup for inclement weather. Tony recommends a Hoochie shelter.
“A hoochie can be tied up with paracord and is lightweight,” he says.
“Self inflatable pillows and sleeping mats are a lightweight way to increase comfort on the ground when you’re out for nights at a time.”
Above all, keep safety front of mind and set yourself up according to the environment you’ll be in.
“Remember that weather and environmental conditions can change suddenly, so never skip out on safety gear.”
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