WHAT TO TAKE

The following gives a general idea of what you should take on a walk. It will vary according to personal preference, and the nature and circumstance of the walk. It is important to be prepared for the unexpected, such as changes in terrain, weather, illness or injury, getting lost. On the other hand, carrying an unnecessarily heavy pack is undesirable, and itself increases risk. So use your judgement. Dogs are not acceptable on walks in the country or walks in the suburbs.

Clothing and gear

  • Suitable pack, with waterproof cover or liner.
  • Appropriate clothing specific to bushwalking. Carry spare clothes, esp spare socks and fleece top.
  • Good hiking boots (and good socks) are essential. Consider gaiters.
  • Adequate rain protection, including light rain jacket even on fine days.
  • Map and compass, whistle and torch.
  • Minimum 1 litre of water, more in summer. Extra food (eg scroggin, muesli bars) in case of delay
  • Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, gloves.
  • Toilet paper and trowel
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Trekking poles (optional)
  • Mobile phone. Consider charger or backup battery. (Remember you may be out of range).
  • Waterproof matches
  • Emergency contact and medical information form in labelled envelope, in outer pocket of pack
  • Consider GPS enabled PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) for one person in the group, if remote area walking.
  • Trip plan left with responsible person.
  • First Aid kit – see following

First Aid Kit

  • Compact first aid manual.
  • Triangular bandage.
  • Medium wound dressing and tape.
  • 2x10cm elastic compression bandages for snake bite (eg Setopress). Consider carrying one each, as bulky.
  • Assorted bandaids or equivalent. Blister kits.
  • Vials of saline for washing wounds, eyes.
  • Antiseptic liquid or cream.
  • Insect repellent. Bites treatment (eg Stingose gel). Salt (for leeches). Freezing spray, tweezers (for ticks).
  • Paper, pencil. Safety pins.
  • Emergency hypothermia blanket (note that these are very small and light nowadays, and could save someone’s life).
  • Oral pain relievers, antihistamine, oral rehydration salts
  • Personal medication (with instructions).