Hiking Essentials: A Checklist for the Australian Hiker
Whether you're setting off on a gentle trail or preparing for a multi-day trek, there are some items you simply can't do without. On my recent trek, caught in the biting winds atop New Zealand's Tongariro Crossing, I learned that a forgotten windproof jacket is unmistakably one of those items. That day, shivering in basic layers and a wind-permeable jumper on an exposed ridge, I learned a hard lesson on the importance of not only having the right gear, but more importantly, packing it!
In this blog post, we'll unpack the essentials of hiking. First, a quick hiking gear checklist for reference before heading out on a trail. After that, we provide a more detailed checklist of the must-haves and those other items that, while not strictly necessary, seriously prove their worth by improving your comfort or safety.
Plus, don’t miss our downloadable, destination-specific gear lists for popular hikes around Australia and overseas; available at the end of this article!
✔ : Highly Recommended O : Optional ✖ : Not Required
1- Hiking Checklist - Quick Gear Summary
1- Hiking Checklist - Quick Gear Summary
MUST HAVE ITEMS
DAY HIKES
OVERNIGHT HIKES
MULTI-DAY HIKES
MUST HAVE ITEMS
DAY HIKES
OVERNIGHT HIKES
MULTI-DAY HIKES
Water
✔
✔
✔
- Water Bottles
- Hydration Bladders
- Water Filter / Treatment
- Collapsible Water Storage
Pre-hydrate: 2-2.5 Cups (0.50 L - 0.60 L) 2 to 3 hours before and 1 cup (0.24 L) 30 mins before the hike.
During the hike: About 1 cup (0.20 L - 0.30 L) per 10 to 20 mins of activity.
Post-hike: 1 cup (0.24 L) 30 minutes after the hike and then the remainder of the day 2-3 cups (0.47 L - 0.71 L) for every 450 grams of body weight lost during the hike.
Food
✔
✔
✔
- Ready Made Meals
- Energy Foods
- Hydration Mixes
- Easy-to-carry Foods
Always have an extra day's worth of food in your pack.
Carry 0.7kg - 1kg of food per day.
Depending on your body weight, you can burn from 180 kcal to 370 kcal per hour while hiking on a flat surface with average walking speed.
Navigation
✔
✔
✔
- Whistle
- Smart Phone
- Map & Map Case
- Compass
- GPS / PBL
The list of items in the list can be tailored based on the length and remoteness of the hike. However, these items are relatively lightweight and it is always better to be safe than sorry, so we recommend that you have them with you as much as possible.
Headlamp / Torch
✔
✔
✔
First Aid Kit
✔
✔
✔
Pocket Knife / Multitool
✔
✔
✔
Sun Protection
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Headwear and/or Neckwear
- Sunshirt
✔
✔
✔
Shelter
Choose one or a combination of Survival Blanket/Shelter, Tarp, Bivy or Tent
✔
✔
✔
Fire Source
✔
✔
✔
Backpack
✔
✔
✔
Hiking Clothing
✔
✔
✔
- Quick-Drying Underwear, Quick-Drying Shorts/Pants, Synthetic or Merino Wool T-shirt
-Waterproof Rain Jacket for Wet or Rainy Conditions as Outer Layer
- One or A Combination of Thermals, Lightweight Fleece, Down Jackets, Gloves for Colder Climates as Added Layer
- Appropriate Socks for the Climate (Have an Extra Pair)
Always aim for moisture-wicking, breathable, sun and weatherproof clothing that can dry quickly and can keep you dry.
In rainy or colder environments, added layering is crucial. Carry extra clothing to manage emergencies and to have a comfortable experience.
Hiking Footwear
✔
✔
✔
1x Pair of Sandals, Trail Runners, Shoes or Boots
Wear appropriate footwear depending on the length, terrain and weather conditions of the trail to avoid injuries.
SLEEPING GEAR
DAY HIKES
OVERNIGHT HIKES
MULTI-DAY HIKES
SLEEPING GEAR
DAY HIKES
OVERNIGHT HIKES
MULTI-DAY HIKES
Sleeping Bag or Quilt
✖
✔
✔
Inflatable Sleeping Mat or Pad
✖
✔
✔
Compact Pillow
✖
O
O
Insulated Footwear
✖
O
O
Sleeping Bag Thermal Liner
✖
O
O
Tent Footprint
✖
✔
✔
Quick Dry Towel
✖
✔
✔
OTHER HIKING GEAR
DAY HIKES
OVERNIGHT HIKES
MULTI-DAY HIKES
OTHER HIKING GEAR
DAY HIKES
OVERNIGHT HIKES
MULTI-DAY HIKES
Trekking Poles
✔
✔
✔
Gaiters
✔
✔
✔
Gloves
O
O
O
Footwear Traction
O
O
O
Dry Bags
Compression Sacks
Pack Liners
Pillow
O
✔
✔
Backpack Raincover
✔
✔
✔
Insect Repellent & Head Net
✔
✔
✔
COOKING GEAR
DAY HIKES
OVERNIGHT HIKES
MULTI-DAY HIKES
COOKING GEAR
DAY HIKES
OVERNIGHT HIKES
MULTI-DAY HIKES
Fork
✖
O
O
Spoon
✖
O
✔
Mug
✖
✔
✔
Plate/Bowl
✖
O
✔
Pot
✖
O
✔
Stove
✖
O
✔
Fuel
✖
O
✔
Portable Coffee Maker
O
O
O
UTILITY & COMFORT ITEMS
DAY HIKES
OVERNIGHT HIKES
MULTI-DAY HIKES
UTILITY & COMFORT ITEMS
DAY HIKES
OVERNIGHT HIKES
MULTI-DAY HIKES
Resealable Rubbish Bag
✔
✔
✔
Pegless Clothes Line
✖
O
✔
Compact Lantern
✖
✔
✔
Powerbank
✖
O
✔
Solar Charger
✖
O
✔
Lip Balm
✔
✔
✔
Hand Sanitiser / Soap
✔
✔
✔
Wet Wipes
O
O
O
Notebook & Pencil
✔
✔
✔
2- The Detailed Checklist
2- The Detailed Checklist
Must Have Items for All Hikes
Water
Pre-hydrate then keep hydrated during your hike and post-hydrate but avoid overhydration. Your water consumption on the trail depends on factors such as your body mass, your water consumption habits, hiking speed, weather temperature and trail altitude. You will need to adjust the amount of water you are carrying or the frequency of visits to the water sources on the route based on these variables. Always try to have extra water on you for unexpected situations on the trail, enough to keep you going to the next available water source.
To keep the human body optimally hydrated, the American Council on Exercise suggests:
Pre-hydrate
Drink 2-2.5 cups (0.50 L - 0.60 L) 2 to 3 hours before the hike and drink another cup of water (0.24L) 30 mins before the hike.
During the hike
Depending on the intensity, speed, temperature and altitude of the hike drink about a cup of water (0.20 L - 0.30 L) every 10 to 30 mins of activity.
Post-hike
Drink an additional 1 cup (0.24 L) of water 30 minutes after the hike. Then, remainder of the day, try to drink 2-3 cups (0.47 L - 0.71 L) of water for every 450 grams of body weight lost during the hike.
Water Bottle / Bladder / Storage Bag You can pick one or a combination depending on your preference.
Water/Hydration bladders can have larger capacity so are advantageous if you plan to hike for longer periods with scarce access to water.
Water bottles, on the other hand, have lesser capacity so lighter than a filled bladder and they are practical if you plan to drink hydration mixes or other drinks on the way.
Collapsible water containers are a great choice, similar to water bladders, they reduce bulk as you drink and can easily be refilled at water sources. These might become convenient on multiday hikes where you might need the extra capacity to manage distances between water sources for hydration, cooking or hygiene.
Water Filter / Treatment Having a reliable water filter or treatment method is crucial. Filters effectively remove bacteria and protozoa from natural water sources, ensuring you stay hydrated without the risk of waterborne illnesses. Chemical treatments like iodine or chlorine tablets are lightweight alternatives, though they may leave a taste.
Always have a means to purify water on the trail, especially on longer hikes where water sources may be unpredictable.
(Choose one or more)
Water Treatment Tablets
Water Bottle Filter
Water Filter Straw
UV Water Purifier
Check out our Water Filtration collection page to view all our products in this category!
Food
While what you eat while hiking is certainly a personal choice, on longer treks we recommend lightweight, high-energy foods that require minimal cooking. Dehydrated meals offer the comfort of a warm dish, a delightful luxury in the outdoors. Other great options include high-calorie, easy-to-carry foods like peanut butter and wraps. Always have an extra day’s worth of food than anticipated for emergencies or unexpected delays.
There’s no one-size-fits-all plan for optimal food intake while hiking but as a general reference:
Try to plan to carry 0.7 kg - 1 kg of food per day and keep them in zip-lock bags. Depending on your body weight, you can burn from 180 kcal to 370 kcal per hour while hiking on a flat surface with average walking speed (4.8km/h). See this guide to calculate calorie burn based on the activity.
Smart Phone Will not be functional in remote areas, if it gets wet or its battery goes off. It can still be useful in non-remote short-day hikes. Do not forget to keep it in a waterproof bag and have a powerbank in your pack.
Smart Phone
Whistle A whistle is a simple yet powerful tool for emergencies. It's much louder than the human voice and uses less energy to operate. In case of getting lost or needing to signal for help, a whistle’s sound can travel long distances and help others to find your location.
Compass Even in the age of digital devices, a compass doesn't rely on batteries or a signal, making it a reliable backup for navigation.
Map & Map Case A detailed topographic map is your best guide to the terrain you'll be exploring. It provides crucial information about trails, landmarks, elevation changes, and water sources. Protect your map with a durable map case to ensure it stays readable in all weather conditions. This combination is indispensable for planning your route and staying on track.
GPS or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) For remote or challenging hikes, a GPS or Personal Locator Beacon can be crucial for safety. A GPS helps with precise navigation and tracking your route, while a PLB can send out a distress signal in emergencies, no matter how remote your location is. These devices provide peace of mind, knowing that you can call for help if needed.
Headlamp / Torch
Effective lighting is crucial for safety and convenience on the trail. A head torch is perfect for hands-free operation, whether you're navigating in the dark or setting up camp. We recommend a headlamp with at least 350 lumens if you plan to use it while walking on the track. Always have extra batteries or another power source for your headlamp or torch in case of an emergency.
First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit is a hiking necessity. Your kit should include basics like bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatments, any personal medications and a snake bite kit. For longer hikes, add items like a splint and a thermal blanket. Customise your kit based on the length of your hike and personal health needs. For more information on putting together a first aid kit, visit our article on Staying Safe in the Wilderness & Outdoors.
Pocket Knife / Multitool
A good pocket knife is a versatile tool on the trail. It's useful for everything from preparing food to making quick gear repairs. Opt for a lightweight, durable model with essential functions.
Shelter
Your choice of shelter depends on the hike duration and conditions. For day hikes in colder weather, carry an emergency blanket, a bivouac (bivy) sack, a lightweight tarp or a combination of these for emergencies. For overnight and multiple-day hikes, you need to pick appropriate gear for the climate that you will be hiking. You might prefer to go extra light with a tarp setup or you can choose to pack a lightweight but durable enough tent to withstand the weather conditions you expect to encounter. To see our range of top-tier hiking tents, you can visit our Best Hiking Tents Australia.
Sun Protection
In Australia, skin cancers account for around 80% of all newly diagnosed cancers every year. The majority of skin cancers are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Sunscreen and sunglasses will be your base protection against UV rays.
Sunscreen
Headwear / Neckwear In sunny conditions, a lightweight sunhat with a wide brim or a cap with a buff is recommended for protecting against the sun. A beanie or a balaclava provides warmth on chilly days, a buff can provide an extra layer of warmth, shield your neck and face from sun and windburn, and is especially useful for humidifying the air you breathe in colder climates.
Sunshirts are made from moisture-wicking, breathable and, most importantly, high-rate UPF fabric. You can prefer to pack a long or short sleeve one but you will get the best UV and bug protection with the long sleeve version.
Fire Source
You have many options but ferro rods are a reliable choice that works even when wet in any weather and at any altitude.
Backpack
The size of your backpack will depend on the duration of your hike and the way you pack it. Here's a quick reference guide to help you how to pack your hiking backpack. For a more detailed guide on selecting backpack features, read our article on How to Choose a Hiking Backpack: Everything you need to know.
Hiking Clothing
The right clothing can really enhance your hiking experience. A smart approach is to use a layering system that's adaptable to various conditions. Start with a base layer of moisture-wicking underwear paired with quick-drying pants or shorts. Opt for a breathable top—choose either a vented long-sleeve or a lightweight t-shirt. Remember, steer clear of cotton as it retains moisture. Then, layer up with additional mid-layers for warmth, or an outer layer to shield against wind and rain depending on the conditions. For a thorough breakdown, dive into our comprehensive guide, What to Wear Hiking: The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Apparel.
Added Layers Start with moisture-wicking thermals, add a fleece layer for warmth, and top with an insulated jacket and waterproof outerwear. This combination keeps you warm, dry, and protected.
Hiking Footwear
For easy trails, comfy trail runners or hiking shoes are great. If you're tackling rougher, multi-day hikes, you'll want sturdy boots when carrying a heavy backpack over uneven ground for extra support and protection. We recommend coming to visit our friendly team to be sized and fitted correctly based on your needs. Choose one below:
Sleeping Gear
Sleping Bag
Slipping into a clean, comfortable sleeping bag after a day of hiking really makes all the difference while hiking. Select a sleeping bag or quilt based on the climate and your personal comfort preferences. Look for options that offer the right balance between warmth, weight, and packability. For more detailed information, visit our article on Down vs Synthetic Sleeping Bags: The Outdoor Experts Opinion.
Inflatable Sleeping Mat or Pad
An inflatable sleeping mat or pad provides cushioning from the ground and insulation to keep you warm. On colder expeditions when sleeping on snow or ice, a sleeping mat is not optional to ensure you are effectively insulated from the ground.
Compact Pillow
A compact inflatable pillow adds a touch of home comfort to your camping experience. It supports your neck and head, ensuring restful sleep, and deflates for easy packing.
Sleeping Bag Thermal Liner
A thermal sleeping bag liner boosts the warmth of your sleeping bag and keeps it clean. It's an easy-care solution that adds a cozy layer on chilly nights and can be used on its own in warmer weather.
Tent Footprint
A tent footprint protects the bottom of your tent from abrasion, dirt, and water. It's a simple addition that can extend the life of your tent and provide extra insulation from the ground.
Quick-Dry Towel
A quick-dry towel is great for drying off after a swim or wash. Choose a towel that's large enough for your needs but small enough to pack away easily.
Other Hiking Gear
Trekking Poles
Trekking poles reduce the impact on your knees and improve balance, especially when carrying a heavy backpack or navigating rough terrain. They can also be used to probe the depth of puddles or streams before stepping in. You have the choice between telescopic hiking poles and Z-Poles, which can be folded into a compact Z-shape that's easy to pack and carry. For more detailed information on selecting the right hiking poles to suit your needs, including the pros and cons of Telescopic and Z-Poles, visit our article How to Choose a Hiking Pole.
(Choose one)
Gaiters
Gaiters are essential for protecting your lower legs from scratches, mud, snow, and insects. They're particularly useful in dense vegetation or when trekking through snow or wet conditions.
(Choose one)
Gloves
In colder conditions, protect your hands from the elements, such as cold, wind, and rain. In warmer climates, you can wear a sun glove or sun sleeve.
Footwear Traction
Devices such as crampons or microspikes are vital for challenging terrains or slippery conditions. They provide stability and confidence when traversing rocky paths, icy trails, or steep inclines, ensuring your safety and reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Dry Bags / Compression Bags / Pack Liners
These are crucial for keeping your gear dry and organised. They're particularly important for protecting electronics, clothing, and sleeping gear in wet conditions. Compression bags and pack liners can also help save space in your backpack.
(Choose one or more)
Dry Bags
Compression Sacks
Pack Liners
Check out our Dry Bags & Compression Sacks collection to view our full range.
Backpack Raincover
A backpack raincover is essential for keeping your gear dry in wet weather. It's a simple, lightweight solution that can save you from the discomfort of soggy equipment.
Insect Protection
Insect repellent and a head net are crucial in areas with mosquitoes, flies, or other insects. They provide protection against bites and can greatly enhance your comfort in the wilderness
Cooking Gear
Cooking Supplies
Your kitchen kit should be lightweight yet functional. Include a knife, fork, spoon, mug, and a plate that doubles as a bowl. For cooking, a pot or billy is essential. Choose utensils that are durable and easy to clean.
Fork
Spoon
Mug
Plate / Bowl
Pot
Pot Grabber
All-Purpose Soap
Scourer
Check out our Cookware & Utensils collection to view our full range.
Stove & Fuel
A portable stove is a must-have for cooking hot meals on the trail. Choose a stove that's appropriate for your hike's duration and the type of food you'll be preparing. Remember to bring sufficient fuel, considering both the hike length and altitude, as cooking times can vary. All fuel canisters will indicate how many boils of water you could expect to get from the capacity of gas.
Portable Coffee Maker
For coffee enthusiasts, portable coffee makers are a lightweight, convenient way to enjoy a quality brew in the wilderness. They are compact, durable, and easy to use, making them perfect for a morning pick-me-up.
Utility & Comfort Items
Resealable Rubbish Bag
Leave no trace behind. A resealable rubbish bag ensures you can pack out all your trash, keeping the trails clean for others. This is an essential part of ethical hiking practices.
Resealable Rubbish Bag
Pegless Clothesline
Drying your clothes outdoors can be a problem without a clothesline. Pegless clotheslines are a practical, lightweight and nice-to-have solution in your backpack.
Pegless Clothesline
Compact Lantern
A compact lantern provides ambient lighting at your campsite, making it ideal for cooking, reading, or socialising. Opt for a rechargeable or solar-powered model for convenience.
Powerbank
A powerbank ensures your electronic devices stay charged on longer trips. Choose a high-capacity model that's robust and ideally has solar charging capabilities.
Solar Charger
A solar charger is a sustainable way to keep your devices powered. It's perfect for long treks where traditional charging options are unavailable.
Personal Hygiene
Maintaining personal hygiene is important on the trail. Sunscreen and lip balm protect against sunburn, while wet wipes and hand sanitizer help keep you clean when water is scarce. Other items might include your toothbrush, toothpaste and all-purpose soap.
Lip Balm
Wet Wipes
Hand Sanitiser / Soap
Notebook & Pencil
A notebook and pencil are great for jotting down thoughts, keeping a travel journal, or making notes about your route. They're also handy for leaving messages in emergency situations.
Waterproof Notebook
Pencil
3- Destination Specific Hiking Checklists
Bushwalking a specific trail or trekking across a unique terrain? We've got you covered with our destination-specific gear lists. Each list is carefully curated and based on real-world experiences, ensuring you have exactly what you need. Download and use these comprehensive guides to streamline your packing process:
As we conclude our journey through the essentials of hiking preparation, it's clear that every adventure requires careful planning and the right gear. Our team, brimming with outdoor passion and expertise, is dedicated to helping you select the perfect equipment for your unique journey.
Drop by or give us a call for personalised fittings, seasoned advice, and a shared enthusiasm for your next outdoor adventure. With K2 Base Camp's support, you can be confident you’ll be ready for the trail ahead.