Choosing a pack
I choose fit over features every time. A 50 to 65 litre pack covers most multi-day walks in Australia, and the torso length matters far more than the badge on the front.
- Measure your torso, then buy the size that matches it, not the size that looks right.
- Load it with 12 to 15 kg in the shop and walk around for ten minutes before deciding.
- Most of the weight should sit on your hips, with the shoulder straps only steadying the load.
- Worth spending on: a pack that fits. Worth saving on: rain covers, extra pouches and gadgets.
Choosing a shelter
In Tasmania and most of alpine Australia you are choosing a shelter for wind and sideways rain, not for a still summer night.
- Look for a fly that reaches close to the ground and a pitch you can put up in wind, on your own.
- Freestanding tents suit rocky platforms. Trekking-pole shelters save weight if you already carry poles.
- Sharing a small tent is tight. If you walk as a pair often, size up.
- Worth spending on: fabric and pole quality. Worth saving on: footprints, which a cut sheet of builder's plastic replaces.
Choosing a sleep system
I treat my mat and bag as a system. Cold ground steals more warmth than cold air, so the mat is not the place to cut corners.
- Match the bag's comfort rating to the coldest night you actually expect, then add a small margin.
- For alpine trips, look for a mat with an R-value of around 4 or higher.
- Down packs smaller and lasts longer. Synthetic handles damp conditions better and costs less.
- Worth spending on: the mat and a quality down bag. Worth saving on: pillows, a stuff sack of clothes does the job.
Choosing your layers
I use layers to do different jobs: move sweat away, hold warmth, and keep weather out. Buy for the job, not the brand.
- Base layer: merino or a synthetic that dries fast. Never cotton.
- Mid layer: fleece or a light insulated jacket you can walk in without overheating.
- Shell: a proper waterproof jacket with a hood that fits over a beanie, plus overtrousers for exposed walking.
- Worth spending on: the shell and base layers. Worth saving on: the mid layer, where I find a cheap fleece performs.
