When you arrive at the walkers’ base it would be great if you could have all the gear you intend to take with you separated from any other luggage (perhaps in a garbage bag). This will make the packing process run more smoothly.
- Lace-up hiking boots that cover the ankle and have sturdy, treaded soles (full-grain leather or Gore-tex with Vibram soles recommended.
We can not over-emphasise the importance of appropriate footwear. Lower-profile hiking shoes, walking shoes, running shoes, approach shoes, sand shoes, elasticised boots and similar are not acceptable. Boots must be worn in to minimise the risk of blisters. The Overland Track is quite unique in the nature of its terrain. You will be unable to commence the walk without the appropriate footwear.
- Polar fleece jacket (preferred) or woollen jumper/pullover
- Light jumper (warm)
- Beanie or balaclava
- Gloves or mittens
- Waterproof over-pants (nylon, PVC or Gore-tex)
- Gaiters (long gaiters, reaching just below the knee; for protection against mud and rough vegetation)
- Shorts and/or light walking trousers
- Thermal base layer (long-sleeved top and long johns – merino or polypropylene; 2 sets preferred)
- Warm, long pants (evening hut wear)
- Shirts/t-shirts (merino or polypropylene; 3 recommended)
- Socks (3 pairs recommended)
- Underwear
- Lightweight indoor footwear (thongs/sports sandals; for hut use)
- Sun hat & sunscreen (small bottle for use during the day)
- Travel towel or body chamois (for showering; light and quick-drying)
- Water bottle(s) or water bladder (2-litre total capacity required; our packs can fit a water bladder – just ask your guides)
- Head torch or small torch
- Lightweight, compressible day pack (essential for adventure departures, recommended for regular departures – should pack down to pocket size; available for purchase at our walking base)
- Any personal medication, including anti-inflammatories and EpiPens
* DENIM AND COTTON CLOTHING ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE
Recommended Gear List
- Walking poles (highly recommended for negotiating rocky terrain and muddy patches, as well as assisting with balance and muscle fatigue)
- Camera
- Spare batteries or USB power cord for camera (there is one charging station in each hut, with 2 USB ports and 1 cigarette lighter socket)
Optional Gear List
- Bathers
- Small mirror (especially if you wear contact lenses)
Tip
Layering of clothing has long been the basis for dressing in the outdoors and the gear list above follows this principle. When the temperature drops, we add another layer of insulation; if it rains, we add a rain shell on top and when it’s warm and dry, we strip off a layer.
Notes
Your comfort and enjoyment are of paramount importance to us, and our intention is to keep your pack weight to a minimum. Aim for one set of warm clothes for evening and another set to wear whilst walking. Thermals are necessary due to their lightweight, quick-drying and warm properties.
While the huts include drying rooms for wet gear, they do not incorporate laundry facilities. If you adhere to the packing list, you should be all set for the duration of your walk.
Please note that guides will do a thorough gear check prior to departure. If you are unsure about anything on the gear list, please call us or talk to your local outdoor adventure store.