Weather is unpredictable in Tasmania so you need to be prepared for four seasons in one day. I have compiled a list of essential hiking gear for bushwalking in Tasmania which will ensure you are prepared. Even in summer, the weather can be unpredictable in Tasmania. Even day walks in Tasmania require quality equipment so while preparing for our Tasman Arch to Fortescue Bay walk consider the following.
Our essential hiking gear recommendations
- A breathable coat – good quality. Why breathable? Because a coat that is not breathable will rain on the inside as well as the outside. Armpit vents (zippers in the armpit) are quite desirable, not essential.
- soft shell outer layer – qualities include windproof and breathable, and some even have light shower proofing (not to be confused with a coat). There are many variations as to what these are made of – just not cotton – wet cotton is a disaster in the mountains
- Lightweight waterproof pants – again ensure they are breathable.
- Shoes – lightweight boots or trail shoes. Sandshoes are too soft along the soul for the distance and terrain. There may be mud, there will be rocky and uneven tracks and because of this a sturdier soul is preferred.
- Zip off trousers are awesome so spend a little extra and get a drip proof fabric. By ‘zip off’ means they are both shorts and trousers. In other words, the legs literally zip off and on.
- Backpack – 25-35 litres, very comfortable and with a waist/hip strap.
- Socks that are merino blend and without seams. 😊 Reduces the chance of chafe / blisters.
- A simple nylon bra (optional for men . . .). Cotton based crop tops are really cold against the skin if you sweat and then cool down. In winter they feel like a ring of ice around your chest (not so bad in summer though).
- Hat – lightweight, bucket or legionnaires is perfect. The sun in Tassie is fierce so a good hat will protect your neck from sunburn but because it’s Tassie bring a beanie too.
- T-shirt – not cotton as cotton is so cold to the body if you get wet or sweat a lot. A simple blended fabric with quick dry qualities is perfect.
- Long sleeve shirt – windproof/drip proof qualities are perfect, they also protect against the sun. 🙂
- Hiking poles are desirable and essential if you are not great on hills.
- First aid kit – 1 kit per team.
- Water container – you’ll need around 3 litres. The benefits of a long tube or straw attached to a bladder kept in your pack is that you can drink as you go and this saves time. Particularly great when you are walking as a group.
Essential hiking gear brings peace of mind
That sounds like a lot of equipment, doesn’t it! The more essential hiking gear you carry the more you will continue to enjoy your walk. As you can meet the needs of changing weather and you can continue to enjoy your day through it all. That’s Tassie – four seasons in one day!