Everything we wish we had known before...hiking a multi-day trail

A common utterance over cups of morning coffee at Dune Daisies Headquarters is “we wish we’d known (…) before we (…).” Which is then followed either by inspired Google searches or cringeworthy laments. Surely, we can’t be the only ones who have wished for such things? When we started to note them down, the list was substantial, and we would love to share them with you.

This month, we’d like to start with unpacking (‘scuse the pun) “everything we wished we had known to pack before we went on our multi-day hike.”

Hiking as a form of exercise and adventure has become vastly popular. There are trails over mountain ranges, through forests and hugging rugged coastlines. In our neck of the woods, there are a variety of established trails, ranging from one hour to five days, 2kms to 90. However, your enjoyment of these hikes can be marred by your degree of preparedness.

It’s one thing to forget your water bottle when you take the dog for a half an hour amble down the road and quite another when you have 5 hours to get to your next pit stop with not a drop to drink. It could actually become a safety concern. Luckily, there are no excuses to be properly kitted out as the marketplace is literally flooded with every piece of equipment you could ever dream of taking with you (including things you didn’t!).

Congratulations, you have taken the plunge and booked your first ever multi-day hike! Once the payments, dates and hiking party have been finalised, your organisers will provide you with all sorts of information on your upcoming adventure; distance & average duration of each day’s walk, accommodation options, points of interest, transport details and … what to pack. This last item will depend on how long your trail is, but we (together with some of our trusty hiking buddies) have narrowed down a few must-haves to include. So that you don’t have to declare “I wish I’d known to pack that before I went on my hike”. Interested? Come and let’s pack your bag….

Hiking day pack

Depending on whether or not you are slackpacking or carrying all your gear, your requirements for a day pack will vary. If slackpacking (we love this option!), it’s important to have a good quality day pack that can fit the following: space for 3ls liquid; sarong (for drying off after swims & lying on when you take a much needed rest); buff (you can wet your buff beforehand and keep it in a ziplock bag for that extra coolness if hiking in hot weather); lunch pack and long sleeve top or lightweight jacket (for a range of weather). The day pack should have good back support and ideally have zips on the waist belt to pack your phone (for pics), sunscreen and easily accessible snacks.

Overnight bag/pack

Again, this depends on the requirements of your particular hike, but stick to the ‘less is more’ adage and you won’t go wrong. A small pillow and good quality sleeping bag (that’s not your auntie’s ‘70’s double duvet version) will reduce your packing size. And if you happen to be sharing a bunk room/tent, don’t forget the eye patches and ear plugs to ensure a good night’s rest!

“ You’ll need special shoes for hiking – and a bit of a special soul as well.”

Terri Guillemets

Water bladder

These are very nifty water packs that you fill up, put in your day pack and allow you to suck water/liquid from an attachment that snakes over your shoulder. They come in different sizes from 500mls to 2ls. Benefits: you don’t have to hold up your walking crew while you stop, lug out your water bottle, drink, put it back in, ho-hum (you get the idea); when empty, the bladder becomes literally weightless; you can add ice if walking in hot temps or an isotonic drink if you need extra hydration. Drawbacks: they can leak! Ensure that your water bladder is intact and sealable before your hike, otherwise you’ll end up with a soggy bottom (trust me, we have been there!).

Micropore / Vaseline / Zambuck / Vicks

You will thank us when you include these to carry in your day pack. Tape micropore over any ‘hot spot’ that you may feel will erupt into a blister and sabotage your walking enjoyment for the day. Those who wish to err on the side of caution can tape each toe in the morning before the day’s hike (just make sure there is no dirt to cause friction). To eliminate any potential abrasion, you can always liberally apply Vaseline or Zambuck in between your toes and all over your feet – the theory is that any small particles of sand/dirt will be unable to find purchase on your skin and cause blisters. Zambuck is a fabulous all-rounder for stings, blisters & moisturising lip balm, plus the packaging is iconic. An evening rub with Vicks can help soothe even the sorest of feet. While we are on the topic of feet, a great tip we received is to take your shoes and socks off when you stop to rest – let those hard-working feet take a breather while you do.

Tyre & transport savvy

There’s a good chance the start of your trail is found at the end of a long dirt road. And so remember to pack your common sense and reduce your car’s tyre pressure. Softer tyres are less likely to puncture. Make sure you have directions to your destination on hand. Cell reception is patchy in the wilderness and GPS is not helpful, so clear, concise directions are a must-have.

Energy

We’re talking battery power here, not muscle power; for cameras, rechargeable headlight batteries, cell phones, etc.  A power bank is super useful even if your accommodation claims to have solar. Infrastructure can fail in the wild, and it’s good to be self-sufficient where energy is concerned.

Hiking sticks

Hold on, hiking sticks? Believe us. Beg, borrow or buy a pair, and you will not be sorry. Your hiking sticks will become your favourite accessory. They will help you scramble up that rocky incline, stop you from wobbling off that ledge and give you a much needed support to lean on when your breath leaves you. Another plus is that even though they come in pairs, you can use just the one and lend its pair to your walking buddy.

Snacks & lunches on the go

Everyone loves a snack and as your body exerts itself up those mountains, it will thank you for the added nutrition and energy. There are many online sites to browse for self-prepared trail mix inspiration (www.thepioneerwoman.com) and delicious salad options (or you can try out our cabbage salad recipe).

Earth friendly toiletries

Remember to pack biodegradable nappy bags for when you need to ‘go’ en route. Even if you dig a hole, do NOT leave dirty loo paper lying around. It’s a big no-no. Shampoo bars and environmentally friendly soaps are also a must-have to pack. Many rest camps have showers that drain straight into the earth. There’s no room for chemicals in the wilderness.

Dry Bag

These are worthwhile accessories ranging in size from 5-50l. Perfect for the times when it’s poring with rain or you are fording ice cold rivers and have items that need to stay dry. Bring a dry bag to your hike and know you’ll be helping out your hiking partners.

Ice

It’s one thing to have tepid water to drink while you are hiking and quite another to have warm beers waiting for you at your destination. Plan ahead (as far as possible) and make sure someone has thought about your post-hike beverages.

Meditative moments

Sociable animals that we are, it’s natural that we have heaps to share and discuss with our hiking buddies. But make it a ‘thing’ that you start each morning’s hike with a 1/2hr-1hr silent spell. No talking, no chit chat. Just silence. The effect on the group dynamic will be profound and you will all benefit from the inner reflection whilst immersing yourself in the wilds.

And finally, a Dune Daisies must-have: don’t forget to pack your sense of humour …

Let us know what else you think us daisies should pack next time we hit the hills!