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 fi ll
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.PACK WELL, PACK SMARTLY