PACKING CHECKLIST

Walking circles call it a 'daypack'. Fill it with the following goodies:

Water

On a hot day, the body can sweat up to 1 litre per hour. Carry more water than you think you will need, and know where to find more. Purification tablets and drops are readily available at camping stores if you are concerned about wild water sources.

Food

Fresh fruit, MUFA-rich nuts and dark chocolate are a bushwalker's staples. Never walk without some form of energy supply—a muesli bar or vegemite sandwich could save your life in an emergency.

Garbage Bags

Use bags to waterproof your pack, create a makeshift rain jacket or carry rubbish home. Additional zip-lock bags provide smart protection for your phone, wallet, matches and anything else you prefer to keep dry.

Extra Layers

Pack a warm layer as well as a rain layer to be in the best position to cope with unexpected weather. It's advisable to wear several thinner layers, rather than one heavy layer (such as a thick jacket). Layers let you regulate your temperature with your clothing when walking.

First-Aid Kit

Tailor your kit to suit not only the length and challenge of your walk, but also the wildlife you might encounter. Carry compression bandages for bites, creams for stings, a blister kit and a low-weight space blanket if you are travelling in an area where you are at risk for hypothermia. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also preventive first-aid essentials.

Torch

A torch and batteries will become your best friend if you overshoot your day's plan and find yourself spending a night in the bush. Tiny emergency head torches, such as the Petzl e-lite, are sufficiently lightweight, cost-effective options.

Communications

Carrying a charged mobile phone is a prerequisite for heading bush. If there's no reception in valleys and gullies you may find it on the tops of hills and ridges.

Toilet Paper and a Small Shovel

Bush etiquette asks that you relieve yourself at least 50 m from formed tracks and 100 m from waterways. Bury your waste and paper at least 15 cm deep to avoid its discovery by inquisitive animals, and use unscented, unbleached paper. (A hand disinfectant gel is a 'handy' accessory for bushwalking.)

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