what was in my pack?

Ultimate Hikes suggest taking one set of clothing to walk in, the more that is taken, the more that must be carried and I am so glad I followed their advice. All of their lodges had hand washing and drying facilities so clothing can be washed and dried ov

1 Backpack: I used The North Face women’s Banchee 50, which as the name suggests can carry up to 50litres. I did not need this much however, it was one of the lightest packs I could find (weighing in at 1520g) and also women specific. This meant the harness and hip belt were designed specifically for a women’s body making it super comfortable. It had excellent ventilation (which was paramount when walking on warm days) and the numerous pockets meant it was easy to access snacks, cameras and anything else we needed on the walk. 2 Hiking Boots: Whatever you do, do not make the mistake of buying these new and not wearing them in. Although in saying that my boots (Merrell Turbulence) were comfortable from day one and although they were super lightweight, which I loved, they also provided ankle support which was good in uneven terrain. If you are not buying a fully leather boot then look for something that has goretex in it providing the waterproof comfort you need when crossing streams or simply walking on a dewy morning. 3 Raincoat: You also want this to be lightweight as you are hoping that most of the time it will just be taking up room in your bag. When you do need to use it, it needs to be comfortable, breathable and of course waterproof. I used The North Face Venture Jacket. 4 T-shirt: The less you take the better so if you can get away with one or two at the most tops for walking in then there’s less to carry. Look for something lightweight that is easy to dry so you can rinse it through at night if it’s a bit smelly. I used The Northface Skycrest T which as well as being lightweight also came with a UV30 filter! 5 Base layer: You need something that will help keep you warm and dry but also is able to breathe. One of the issues with polyprop is the smell so as I was only taking one top I used The North Face Light long sleeve crew. It boasts flashdry technology which helps regulate your body temperature by accelerating moisture removal. This increases drying time and is also anti-odor! Perfect… 6 Fleece Jacket: Choose a midweight jacket that was super light and also quick drying and breathable. The Northface Tech 100 was perfect.

7 Hats: Yes, more than one! One for the hot days and one for if it’s cold. Shorts: Also only one pair of shorts was recommended I took some 8 leggings as well as a pair of water repellent ones in case it did get wet, which it did! 9 Socks: Probably one of the most important pieces of equipment so make sure you have a good pair (or two). Merino or thermal socks are what you need – not cotton! Your main consideration is warmth. 10 Sunscreen and Insect Repellent: Sandflies can be pretty lethal in the South Island so make sure you have an insect repellent with a high percentage of Deet. 11 Waterbottle: Keeping hydrated is paramount. It doesn’t have to be huge as there’s plenty of streams to refill from along the way. FOR EVENING: In the Lodge A change of clothes is recommended for the lodges and for sleeping in. Remember the more that is taken, the heavier the pack is to carry. The nights may be cold so a warm change of clothing is recommended. 12 Sleeping liner: Beds are provided so you could take a sleeping bag liner or they provided you with one – I took mine. 13 Lightweight shirt or sweater and Lightweight trousers: Something comfortable to wear at the end of the day. 14 PJs These did not need to be too heavy as the rooms were all heated at night and warm. 15 Lightweight shoes or sandles: I took my Keens, which are pretty much jandles but with added protection of a toe piece – they were perfect. 16 Pack of cards: Always great to be able to play a few games along the way. 17 Personal toiletries: Toothbrush and toothpaste etc. We didn’t need to take shampoo or soap as this was provided in the lodges. I also carried some panadol, voltarin and some strapping tape.