PACK WELL, PACK SMARTLY

If you’re heading off for a big day in the backcountry – you need more than a couple of muesli bars in your pocket. You need to be thinking about your food for the day, clothing for changeable weather, what you’ll do for drinking water, spares for your bike, plus navigation and communication. Pack a mix of food ranging from sports bars, to nuts and even salami and cheese. It’s always cooler in the mountains so expect to be burning more energy than during a quick shred at your local trails. It is easy for weather to change, so always throw in something warm for your head, a spare base layer, and a quality waterproof jacket as a minimum. It sounds kooky, but a set of latex gloves can be very useful as a waterproof layer if it gets cold and wet. Don’t forget the suncream too – the alpine sun can be harsh! If you’re up around Falls Creek, there’s always water in the aqueducts – but you’ll want to treat it to be safe. Always fill up on high ground, where you know the water is draining from land that is mostly native plants, and where the water is moving. Puritabs are light and easy to pack – and the taste isn’t too terrible. Take all your regular spares like tubes, a good multi-tool with chain breaker, a spare hanger, quick link, some duct tape, tyre boots, a pump, and maybe some spare brake pads. Don’t forget a small bottle of chain lube. If you haven’t got a route backed up on your GPS (or even if you do!) take a map and compass and know how to use them. It’s worth checking in with resort management and letting them know where you’re going and when you will likely be back. Take your phone and keep an eye on the battery life. If you’re planning on doing a multi-day trip – look at a Spot Tracker. And don’t forget a camera! Getting up into our high places is really special – make sure you make the most of it and bank some memories and epic shots.