5 Essentials for Aussie Bushwalking
Quick answer: The five essentials for Aussie bushwalking are a paper map and compass, sun protection with plenty of water, extra food, a first-aid kit and extra clothes. Pack these on top of your normal hiking gear and always tell someone where you are going before you set off.
The Land Down Under is not only Melbourne, Sydney or the Great Ocean Road. Australia offers much more, and it is a haven for anyone who loves a challenge. One of those challenges is bushwalking: hiking and walking through the Australian wilderness. Hundreds of people take it on every year, making it one of the most interesting and bold things you can do in Australia.
Two Ground Rules Before You Go Bushwalking
- Tell someone. Always let your landlord or the manager of your hotel, hostel or motel know you are going bushwalking, so they do not think you are missing if you do not come back for a night or two.
- Use a checklist. This is anything but a regular walk, so have a list of things to take on top of your hiking equipment.
Here are the Aussie bushwalking essentials you should always have with you.
1. Navigation: Map and Compass
Keep a map and a compass with you every minute of your bushwalk. You probably have both on your smartphone, but do not depend on them, because your battery might die at some point. Always carry a physical navigation pack as a backup.
- Your map should be topographic, since you are heading into unknown terrain and want to know what lies ahead.
- If you can, choose a compass with a mirror. It can be used to flash sunlight at helicopters if you need help.
2. Sun Protection and Water
The Australian sun is very strong, even when it does not seem like it. Protecting yourself is a must, so pack:
- High-quality sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV radiation as well as possible.
- Sunscreen, and use it even when it is cloudy, because UV rays still get through the clouds.
- Plenty of water to avoid dehydration. a nice 2 litre water bottle, or even a couple depending on how far you are walking, is an excellent idea.
So you do not drink everything at once, allow yourself a couple of sips every now and then.
3. Extra Food
Always pack extra food in case bad weather or an injury slows you down. You may have to spend extra time in your tent (not on this list because it is a no-brainer, and you should always have one in your backpack), and you will get hungry.
Finding food in the bush is difficult, and you definitely do not want to spend the whole day hunting, making a fire and cooking.
4. First-Aid Kit
You might not need it, but it is always better to be safe than sorry. Having a first-aid kit and knowing how to use it matters on every hike, let alone an Aussie bushwalk, because you never know what the wilderness will throw at you.
Your kit should include all the essentials, such as:
- Blister treatment
- Adhesive bandages in various sizes
- Gauze pads
- Pain medication
5. Extra Clothes
You can never rely on the weather, especially in the backcountry. Things can get wet, chilly or windy, so pack extra clothes, especially jackets and raincoats. Bring a spare pair of underwear and extra socks too. We take these for granted while hiking, but they can really help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bushwalking in Australia?
Bushwalking is the Australian term for hiking and walking through the wilderness.
Can I rely on my phone for navigation while bushwalking?
Not on its own. Your battery can die, so always carry a topographic map and a compass as a backup.
Do I need sunscreen on a cloudy day?
Yes. The Australian sun is strong and UV rays still get through the clouds.
Who should I tell before going bushwalking?
At a minimum, tell your landlord or the manager of your accommodation so nobody thinks you are missing if you stay out overnight.
Conclusion
This is not the complete list, but these are the five essentials you should always carry. Aussie bushwalking is an experience to have at least once in your lifetime, especially if you are up for an adventure, so make the most of it and come fully prepared.
