Hiking in Australia: Expert Tips for Adventure

A hiking tour in Australia has to be on every adventurer’s bucket list. The natural beauty and exploration opportunities are unmatched, and here are a few tips to remember before hitting the trails. 

Research

Firstly, you need to do your research. While it’s exciting to think about sitting back with a cup of and your pod vape watching the sunset, you want to ensure you get there safely and without any worries. 

Most of the famous hiking trails will have information that is available, and you should also research what you need to pack, the nearest hospitals, etc. 

The Weather

Australian weather, especially in the Outback, can be difficult to contend with. It can get exceptionally hot in the day, and close to freezing during the night; therefore, you need to be prepared for this and choose the right time to visit. 

Research the monthly temperatures and know what weather to expect to ensure you are not only physically ready, but that you also pack the right gear and you aren’t left freezing or suffering from heat stroke. 

Have the Right Gear

If you are an experienced hiker, you will already know what gear you need to take. However, if this is your first time, you mustn’t underestimate how much having the wrong gear could ruin your trip. 

Once again, do your research to ensure you pack the right shoes, clothing, head protection, etc. If you are planning on camping, be sure you have the right tent and gear to have a comfortable stay. 

Test Hikes

This is more for beginner hikers, but it is never a bad thing to take a few test hikes. Australia has a harsh environment, and many of the trails that you want to take are not going to be short, leisurely walks. 

Therefore, find similar terrain near your home and go for hikes with all your gear. This will allow you to experience what to expect, and test your stamina and overall strength. It will also give you time to test your gear and see if anything needs replacing. 

Trails

As mentioned earlier, you need to spend a bit of time researching the different trails you can take. You need to know the terrain, rest points, distance from emergency services, etc. Considering the dangers you could face, you don’t want to go in blind. 

Whether you are an experienced hiker or not, if this is your first time in Australia, it is important to take a route that is tried and tested, and not go somewhere unknown. 

Stay on Course

While it may be tempting, it isn’t a good idea to go off the trail and do your own exploring. Many hiking paths aren’t more than a small dirt trail, and it is easy to go off course and potentially get lost. 

This is especially true if you are in an area that doesn’t have many natural landmarks that can help you with direction, and the last thing you want to do is make a wrong turn and start walking further away from your starting point, and not towards it. 

Food & Water

Whether you are planning to camp and spend a few days out on the trail, or only spend an afternoon, you have to pack a good supply of food and water. This is not only to keep you fueled and hydrated, but there is a good chance you will be out there for longer than you think. 

There is also little to no chance of coming across clean water, especially in the Outback, and the last thing you want is to run out of water halfway through your journey. 

Stay in Communication

It is crucial to have a satellite phone and several contacts when hiking. From emergency services to locals, you should not be hiking in Australia without a way to contact those who can help you in the event of an emergency. 

Australia has massive swathes of land that you may want to hike but aren’t close to civilization. Because of this, if there is an emergency, it can take you hours, potentially a day or two, to get the help you need. 

First-Aid

Another crucial step to take is to have an Australia-focused first-aid kit. In addition to your typical first-aid kit, you also need things that can help in the event of bites, scratches, and encounters with poisonous plants and animals. 

It is well-known that Australia is packed with plants and creatures that can cause you harm, and you should think about more than just scratching yourself or twisting your ankle, for example. 

Follow an Expert

Finally, if possible, it is always best to travel with a local expert. Not only will they know the best routes to take and sights to see, but they will also know how to avoid, or at the very least deal with any potential danger. 

If you aren’t from Australia, you won’t have a ton of local knowledge that can help you deal with snake or spider bites, or know the best way to find help if you need it.