Larapinta Trail Packing List Essentials

Are you planning your Larapinta Trail packing list?

I hiked the Larapinta Trail, W2E, and experienced scorching hot days and sub-zero temperatures at night, razor sharp rocks underfoot, and steep inclines and declines.

The gear I carried on the Larapinta Trail proved itself under tough conditions — since then, I’ve refined my kit to include only the most reliable essentials, each one tested across countless multi-day hikes.

The Larapinta Trail is an iconic and demanding trek through Australia's Red Centre, offering hikers the adventure of a lifetime. But to fully embrace the rugged splendour of this 223-kilometre journey, you must head out well-prepared and equipped.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a newbie, the essentials remain the same—a balance of survival basics, personal comfort, and practicality.

Let's get started. This Larapinta Trail packing list provides detailed information on what to pack for the Larapinta Trail, complete with personal recommendations and insights on the importance of each item, whether you're a solo traveller or part of a guided tour.

Looking for additional information on the Larapinta Trail? Explore these posts:

• The Complete Guide to Hiking the Larapinta Trail – Solo
• The Essential Guide to Larapinta Trail Food Drops
• Comprehensive Planning Guide to The Larapinta Trail – Section by Section
• Thorough Guide to What Food to take on the Larapinta Trail
• The Mt Sonder Summit

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Pack Weight vs Your Larapinta Trail Packing List

The iconic Larapinta Trail features tough, rugged terrain with loose scree and boulder hopping, as well as weather extremes, remote wilderness, and some of Australia's deadliest snakes. Yet, amidst these challenges, it boasts a profound beauty that's hard to articulate.

In discussing your pack weight, I'll focus on the base weight—the fundamental items you carry irrespective of trip length—rather than the full weight, which includes consumables like food, gas, and water that will vary with each section.

One of the great features of the Larapinta Trail is the ability to arrange food drops, which are crucial due to the sparse resupply locations. At any one time, it is unlikely you will need to carry more than 4-5 days worth of food or gas. For detailed food drop planning, refer to my essential guide to Larapinta Trail food drops.

Water supply is a primary concern on the Larapinta Trail, as natural sources are sparse. You'll often need to carry enough water to last until the next NT Parks-operated tank, and if you're dry camping at primitive sites, adequate water is even more critical. Sometimes, this means shouldering up to 6L, adding an extra 6kg to your load.

With that in mind, ensuring your Larapinta Trail gear list includes only the essentials is vital and save yourself the extra weight by skipping any non-essential luxuries

1. When selecting your “Big 4″—a sleeping bag, tent, backpack, and sleeping pad—opt for lightweight yet safe options that ensure warmth and protection from the elements.
2. You do not need a fresh change of clothes each day! I detail my method of ensuring you have clean undies and socks each day.
3. Ensure your Larapinta Trail packing list includes an item to withstand the coldest temperatures you'll face, along with daily wear that offers protection from harsh heat and intense UV exposure. However, you will only need one of these item. Layering is key!
4. Choose your food wisely by opting for items with high-calorie content and low weight.
5. Skip luxuries and leave non-essentials at home. As far as grooming, go back to basics!
6. Share gear with your group. Together you can share gas cylinders, first aid kit, water filter, and utility kit.
7. Consider using the Larapinta Trail Food Drop “Bounce Box” service, to send items you may not need straight away ahead of you.

Not sure how much you pack weighs? Put it on and stand on your bathroom scales. Take it off and weigh yourself again. Do the math.

Ideally, your base-weight should be around 12kgs. Remember, this does not include 4 days food, gas, or up to 6kgs of water.

So now let's dive in and take a look at what you really need!

Protection from the Elements

Preparing for the intense sunlight in the Northern Territory is essential, and this should be a top priority on your Larapinta Trail packing list. The region enjoys an abundance of clear, sunny days—typically 20-25 per month—and due to the geography, the sun's rays strike with less atmospheric interference, heightening UV exposure to near 100% during daylight hours, even when it’s cloudy.

To avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion, your gear should include a sun hoodie, UV-filtering sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen to shield from the harsh Australian rays.

I use a sun hoodie that protects my neck, ears and sides of my face. The sun hoodie is used with a cap. I strongly recommend this system, which is included in my suggested list.

A face/neck buff is also a great addition to your packing list. It's versatile, offering protection from the sun, helping block the wind, and keeping you warm when temperatures drop.

To protect my hands rom harmful UV rays while I'm out on the trail, I wear UV sun gloves. These gloves also protect chafing from pole handles which is an extra bonus.

For more on managing sun exposure, read our great guide on Hiking in Extreme Heat to stay safe during your Larapinta hike.

• Sun Hoodie: Sun Hoodies – seriously the best for UV protection. Choose moisture-wicking, lightweight and breathable.
• Sunglasses: Classic Armless Sunglasses by Ombraz – my favourite hiking glasses that won't slide off or break easily.
• Iso-Chill Cap (Cap used with Sun Hoodie)- keeps you cool and shades your face during the intense sun exposure.
  
  Cap Options, if not using a sun hoodie:
• Cap with neck shield
• Wide Brimmed Hat
  
• Sun Gloves: Especially when hiking with poles, your hands are at risk of getting burnt. Plus they minimise chaffing from your pole handles.
• Sunscreen: I use a mineral-based UPF 50+ stick for easy application, plus it won't leak or spill
• Face Buff: Choose an ultra-stretch moisture wicking fabric that features UPF 50+ sun protection.
• Sun Umbrella: Lightweight sun umbrellas not only protect you from the sun, but they also drop the temperature by about 5%. A sun umbrella clips onto your pack so it is hands-free.
  

Shelter & Sleep System

On the Larapinta Trail, you'll find yourself setting up camp on a variety of surfaces, from soft sand to hard rock. While some people have successfully used a non-freestanding tent, I feel a freestanding tent has more flexibility odue to the terrain.

For situations when normal tent pegs can't be used, our guide on Wooden Tent Platforms, details the Big Rock Little Rock method to secure a non-freestanding tent (or any tent for that matter)

A freestanding tent is also great for nights when you wish to stargaze, as you can remove the fly and just sleep in the inner mesh. The desert's clear air and minimal light pollution create a sparkling tapestry above, offering some of the best night-sky views on the planet.

Your Larapinta Trail packing list should definitely feature a warm sleeping bag, as temperatures can plummet to below-freezing at night. For cold sleepers, an insulated sleeping bag liner is a good choice for extra warmth.

However, I have just started to use a sleeping quilt as opposed to a sleeping bag. Unlike sleeping bags, quilts do not have a zipper. Instead, they are designed to be draped over the body and tucked under the sleeper to keep the cold air out. They are lighter and more compact than sleeping bags, making them easier to carry on long hikes.

At night, the desert ground can get very cold, therefore, I suggest using an insulated sleeping pad. My go-to is the EXPED 5R, which has excellent insulation.

If you find you need more insulation under your pad, a cost-effective solution is a reflective windscreen shield, which can add a layer of warmth.

Pro-Tip: Store your sleeping pad in the centre of your pack, surrounded by other items, to shield it from the sharp spinifex grass which can puncture through materials, even Dyneema!

For the adventurous at heart, cowboy camping can be incredibly fulfilling, bringing you face to face with the raw beauty of the outback night sky. 

It takes a bit of practice to get used to sleeping without a barrier to the dark outside. But once you get the hang of it, falling asleep under a blanket of stars can be a serene end to an awesome day of hiking.

• Tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 – one of the most popular freestanding, lightweight tents that's lightweight and supereasy to set up. EDIT: as of 2025, I have started using my new SlingFin Portal
• Sleeping Quilt: Quilt style sleeping bag is to eliminate what’s not truly necessary.
  Or
• Sleeping Bag: Invest in a good quality lightweight down bag, that provides warmth during cold desert nights without excess weight.
• Sleeping Bag Liner: A Thermolite liner – adds an extra layer (approx 5°), is ligh, and can be used as a sleeping sheet when hut to hut hiking in New Zealand, or on the Camino.
• Sleeping Pad: I swear by EXPED mats due to their amazing comfort, warmth, and packability — and really easy to inflate using their Schnozzel Pumpbag, which also doubles as a waterproof stuff sack.
• Ground Sheet: Polycryo Tent Groundsheet – cheap, tough and super light – otherwise use Tyvek which you can buy by the metre and cut to size.
  

Pack & Storage

When gearing up for the Larapinta Trail, the lighter your pack, the better. The Larapinta is hot and you really want to go as lightweight as possible. I go through a lot of packs – not because they don't last, but I seem to upgrade as new improved models come onto the market.
At the time of writing this article, my favourite all time pack was the Bonfus Framus 48L Ultra 200X. It's ultra-light at just 450 grams, and thanks to being made of Dyneema, it's incredibly tough—stronger than steel. As at 2025, I have upgraded to a Durston Kakwa. I still have a fondness for the Bonfus and will be using it for my hike of the Fishermans Trail in Poirtugal, Easter 2025.

In the West MacDonnell Ranges, sudden downpours aren't common, but when it rains, it can be heavy. That's why including a Nylofume Pack Liner in your gear iis a great idea. The modern ultra lightweight packs don't include rain covers that traditional cloth backpacks have, so yiou need to protect your gear from the inside.

The versatility of a “pillow clothing bag” is something not to overlook. It stores your camp clothes by day and acts as your pillow by night, with the day's clothes inside for padding. 

And if you end up washing clothes and drying them overnight, you can still maintain your pillow's loft by substituting your puffer jacket as stuffing. This dual-function method is all about reducing your pack load while maximising utility.

• Backpack: Choose an Ultra Lightweight pack made from Dyneema, Ultra 200X -or Ultra Grid. All durable and ultra lightweight materials. Trust me, you don't need all the heavy zippers!
• Pack Liner: Nylofume Pack Liner – keeping contents dry against the elements. Alternatively, be like a PCT'er and use a heavy duty black bin bag.
• Gear Stuff Sack Pillow: Turn it inside out at night and fill with clothing. Doubles as my pillow, with a soft lining – magic!

Daily Hiking Clothes

Dressing “smart” is part of the journey on the Larapinta Trail, where the hiking clothes you choose must cater to the extreme nature of the desert climate.

When compiling your Larapinta Trail packing list, opt for either pants or shorts – it comes down to personal preference, weather, sun and shrub protection, and if you like your knees or not (and I'm one of the “nots”!). 

Your top layer should have built-in sun protection (SPF), be it a sun hoodie, or other long sleeved item. 

Even in the desert, a cold wind can surprise you so bringing an extra moisture-wicking t-shirt not only serves as a backup but also adds an insulating layer if needed. 

A sports bra that's comfortable for long treks alongside moisture-wicking underwear is also important.  I have a plain black sports bra and plain black undies, so they can double as swimwear.

I have a habit of washing my underwear each night – so I pack 3 pairs, and after my nightly wash, I put on a clean pair.  So having quick dry underwear is pretty important.

Every piece of clothing you pack should be mindful of weight, dry quickly, and contribute to your overall comfort and protection on the trail.

• Pants: Choose a lightweight but durable quick dry fabric – damp pants are ok to put on in the morning – wet not so much!
• Shorts: Choose a stretchy mid-weight fabric that won't get caught or snagged when climbing over boulders.
• T-shirt:  A Stretchy, quick-drying and moisture-wicking performance top can also be used as a base layer if extra warmth is needed.
• Sports Bra: Choose a moisture wicking, medium impact, Sports Bra – doubles as swimwear when paired with underwear.
• Underwear: Sport Bikini Undies – choose moisture wicking and quick-drying.
• Sun Hoodie: Sun Hoodie – indispensable for UV protection, lightweight and breathable.

Camp Clothes and Layers

As you refine your Larapinta Trail packing list, don't forget to include essential layers for warmth and protection. For your base layers, merino wool thermal tops and pants are indispensable, pulling double duty as cosy camp attire AND sleepwear. 

Merino’s superior warmth-to-weight ratio and resistance to odours makes it a hiker's best friend.

A down insulated jacket is another important item, providing warmth during the nights or early morning starts on the trail. It's lightweight and easily compressible, so it won't add unnecessary bulk to your pack once the sun begins to warm the day. 

Invest in a small stuff sack if your jacket doesn’t come with one.

Also, no Larapinta Trail hike is complete without a reliable wind jacket.  A jacket that's both waterproof and windproof is key—it's your first line of defence against the cold desert wind that can pierce through the landscape. 

Managing to block out the cold wind can be the difference between a comfortable hike and a challenging one.

• Merino Pants: versatile jogger-style bottoms or leggings, can double as camp clothes and pyjamas
• Merino Top: an all-purpose base layer long-sleeved T-shirt made with soft and breathable 100% merino wool.
• Down Jacket: Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket – my go-to for instant warmth during chilly nights.
• Rain and Wind Jacket: Northface -A dual-purpose rain and wind jacket
• Beanie: Patagonia Beanie – Choose one that can pull down over your ears
• Gloves: XTM Merino Gloves – Keep those hands warm at night!
  

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Footwear

Selecting the appropriate footwear is crucial for a successful trek on the Larapinta Trail.

My preference is the Topo Athletic Terraventure 4 Trail-Running Shoes, which caters to my wide feet and provides a spacious toe box—a perfect match for my foot shape.I actually wear the men's version for that extra bit of extra room that I need.

The Larapinta Trail's terrain is unforgiving, and needs boots or shoes that are both sturdy and equipped with a reliable sole stitch and glue.

Adequate tread for the rocky surfaces is essential, as well as good traction and grip to prevent slipping. The outer layer needs to be robust to withstand constant abrasion, while proper underfoot padding provides cushioning to protect against the hard terrain.

Where standard gaiters might be too hot and cumbersome some people opt for light, breathable ankle gaiters. They keep out the irritating spinifex needles, saving you from numerous stops to remove the invasive grass seed from your footwear.

Socks are a no-brainer on your  Larapinta Trail packing list, and for me, Darn Tough socks are the best. The have a lifetime warranty, and the added cushioning of their merino hiking socks is a blessing on lengthy hikes.

Rotating through three pairs is vital to maintaining foot health and comfort when covering many kilometres daily. This rotation, combined with nightly washing, aids in preventing blisters and managing moisture, which keeps your feet in top condition for the entirety of your hike.

• Trail Runners: Topo Athletic Terraventure 4 Trail-Running Shoes,, serving those with wide feet and offering rugged durability for the harsh trail conditions.
• Gaiters: Moxie Gaiters are lightweight and stretchy, able to fit all shoe types and leg/calf thickness.
• Socks: Darn Tough Socks – I carry three pairs, rotating and washing them to ensure fresh feet each day.
  

Safety and Navigation

When tackling the Larapinta Trail, it's essential to prioritise safety. Carrying a personal locator beacon, such as the Ocean Signal RescueMe PLB1, can be crucial in emergencies, especially given the isolated stretches of the trail.

If you don't have one, you can hire a PLB from Larapinta Trail Trek Support (LTTS).

Don't forget to pack a whistle and a reliable compass in your safety kit. A whistle is essential for signalling for help if needed, and a compass is invaluable for navigation should your electronic devices fail and you walk off track.

These items should be  non-negotiable for your Larapinta Trail packing list, providing you with simple yet effective means to stay safe and find your way.

• Personal Locator Beacon: Ocean Signal RescueMe PLB1 – a non-negotiable item for off-grid adventures, never off my shoulder strap.
• Whistle: SOL Metal Emergency Whistle for attracting attention in emergencies.
• Compass: Suunto M-3 Global Compass – a reliable tool for navigation when electronics fail. I totally recommend doing a navigation course to learn how to use a compass properly.
• Maps: Larapinta Trail Map Pack – A separate map for all 12 sections. Detailed mapping and notes – and a great momento of your trip!
• Online Maps: Farout Guides: Farout has an amazing bundle for Australia and New Zealand. The guides are constantly updated. If you prefer not to puchase a guide outright, you can consider GAIA

Hydration and Water Treatment

On your Larapinta Trail packing list, every item related to hydration and water treatment is critical, not just for comfort but for safety.

Start with a hard water bottle, like the reliable 1-litre Nalgene, known for its durability. It can also be used as a hot water bottle to provide warmth at night.

A soft, collapsible water bottle is also essential when you're stopping at a dry camp. I carried two 3L Hydrapak Seekers which gave me an extra 6 litres of water. 

These bottles collapse down to save space once you've moved on. If you're using water from billabongs, pair the Hydrapak Seeker with the Katadyn BeFree water filter to ensure you can drink safely from any source.

Even though the campsite water is potable, it's a good habit always to treat water on the Larapinta Trail. And remember, in freezing conditions, keep your water filter and power banks insulated in your sleeping bag overnight. A frozen filter might crack, leaving you without a way to purify your water.

Electrolyte supplements are another key part of your hydration strategy to help keep a balanced fluid intake during the strenuous parts of your hike. 

Dehydration can lead to serious issues like heat exhaustion, and for women, there's an added risk of cystitis or UTIs. To help prevent these problems, I make it a point to pack Urals in my medical kit, ensuring I have a solution at hand should any urinary issues arise.

Note – at the time of hiking the Larapinta, I was using a hydration bladder. I no longer use these and prefer lightweight refillable water bottles.

READ NEXT – Hiking in Extreme Heat – A Comprehensive Guide

• Hard Water Bottle: Nalgene Water Bottle (1L) – durable and versatile, can be used as a hot water bottle at night.
• Soft Water Bottle: Hydrapak Seeker x 2 – collapses down when empty and fits the Katadyn BeFree for water treatment.
• Water Filter: Katadyn BeFree fits the Hydrapak system so there is no doubling up.
• Electrolytes: LMNT powder for essential hydration balance during intense hikes.
• Urals

Meal Time

The great think about the Larapinta Trail is that you get new food every 4 or so days. It's a bit like Christmas. I've detailed how to organise your food drops in my Essential Guide to Food Drops.

The Jetboil Stash stove is a go-to for its quick heating and compact design. It's lightweight and robust – plus its boils water fast.

As for utensils, I use the Toaks Titanium Spork and Cup—I eat and drink out of the cup. Both are lightweight and durable, and they'll last you through countless meals without adding significant weight to your pack.

For storing your food, the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag is a reliable option. Not only does it keep your provisions dry, but you can also hang it out of reach of wildlife using a cord from your utility kit, whether from the shelter rafters or a tree branch.

• Stove: Jetboil Stash for quick and efficient cooking
• Utensils: Toaks Titanium Spork. There is no need for a knife, fork and spoon.
• Cup: Toaks Titanium Cup – light and extremely strong. I eat and drink out of my cup.
• Food Storage: Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag to keep provisions dry, organised and easy to hang using paracord from your utility kit.
• Coffee Plunger: Jetboil Coffee Plunger. There's no way I'm going without my morning brew. This nifty coffee plunger fits into the Jetboil booking pot and packs inside when done. The coffee grains can be put down the toilets at the trailheads.

First Aid

A critical component of your Larapinta Trail packing list is a comprehensive first aid kit. You can purchase a small lightweight one from a camping store or assemble your own.

Ensure it's equipped with a snake bandage and additions like blister plasters, which are particularly important for hikers

• First Aid Kit: – ensure your kit has a snake bandage!

If you are an overseas visitor, you may have a different understanding of snake bite management. Due to the difference in venoms, Australia uses a compression technique called a Pressure Immobilisation Technique.

We have an in-depth article of the difference between Australian and USA snake bites and their the snake bit management, which is essential reading for any hiker crossing the Pacific.

Read the article about the Difference in Snakes and their Bite Management here.

Personal Hygiene

When it comes to brushing your teeth, what you do with the toothpaste afterwards matters. Spitting it out isn't ideal as it creates unsightly white marks and is harmful to wildlife.

A good solution is to use toothpaste tabs that can safely be swallowed, or transfer a natural toothpaste into a reusable toothpaste tube or lip gloss tube purchased from Amazon.

For hair washing – which you'll only be able to do 2-3 times – do not do it under the drinking water tap – Ever! I request foil samples from my hairdresser which are the perfect size. Showers are available at Ormiston Gorge and Standley Chasm – two food drop locations on the Larapinta Trail. Shampoo and Conditioner are both popular items to add to your food drop containers, or your bounce box.

I have a wash kit consisting of a collapsible dog bowl and a small bottle of biodegradable washing liquid.

Using a microfibre washcloth, I start cleaning from the top – my face and armpits – working my way down, and finally, clean sensitive areas last to maintain hygiene. 

The cloth does not return to the bowl after washing my bottom, to prevent any risk of cross-contamination for the next day's use.

If you're dealing with menstruation on the trail, a menstrual cup is environmentally friendly and a fuss-free option compared to tampons.

And of course, a dependable insect repellent with a is essential—don't let bugs turn your adventure into an ordeal.

• Toothpaste Tabs: – Small, light and convenient
• Natural Toothpaste: – If the concept of toothpaste tabs doesn't appeal. Make sure you use a quality natural toothpaste that you can swallow.
• Reusable Toothpaste Tube: You will use these time and time again for travel.
• Foldable Wash Bowl: Yes, it's actually a dog bowl. However it's sturdy so you can clean up in your tent and not worry about water spilling.
• Wilderness Wash: Biodegradable – however, do not use near any water sources
• Menstrual Cup: Hassle free period control that can last up to 8 hours.
• Microfibre Towel: To be honest, I didn't use my towel much for drying. Instead, i draped it over my tent as the full moon was like a stadium light!
  

Wash Kit

I've spoken about my wash system and I feel this deserves it's own mention

My personal evening ritual involves cleaning myself and my socks and underwear. It's my preference that I get clean and put clean on.

Using my dog bowl as a wash bowl, I clean myself first. Please read Personal Hygiene for how this goes.

I also clean my socks and underwear worn that day, and hang them out to dry. I will also include my kula cloth with this wash.

What if someone sees my undies hanging out to dry? Well, to be honest, I really don't care. I do wear undies that can double as bikini bottoms and they are very quick dry (30 mins). If any bloke is hanging around a remote campsite getting excited about women's underwear – well idk.

The air is so dry on the Larapinta, that items will dry overnight. On other hikes, in more humid conditions, I have hung my socks on my backpack to complete drying when I start out.

Having 3 pairs of both undies and socks allows me to rotate them all, and if I miss an evening of “laundry”, it's not the end of the world.

Poop Kit (AKA Waste Management)

Managing your human waste properly on the Larapinta Trail is part and parcel of a hiker's responsibility. 

A trowel is generally used to dig a cat hole for your solid waste. However, the arid and rocky terrain of the desert often makes digging difficult, and without the moisture of the ground, faeces decomposition is hindered.

An alternative is to pack out your waste. Carrying biodegradable dog poop bags is a good solution when you're unable to dig a hole.

Note  – The trowel does not come into contact with your poop.  Use a stick to push your doings into the hole – or get good at aiming.

READ NEXT: Our Complete Guide to Toileting when Hiking

Toilet paper should always be packed out as well. It can be easily disposed of at the next available toilet facility, typically within reasonable distance on the trail. I always use my dog poop bags for packing out toilet paper.

For more information on hiking toileting techniques, you can refer to my post on the 7 principles of Leave No Trace, which provides a detailed guide.

For female hikers, a Kula cloth offers an innovative way to maintain hygiene. Used for wiping after urination, it replaces toilet paper, dries rapidly, and features antibacterial properties. I wash my kula cloth during my evening “laundry” session.

• Trowel: The Deuce #2 Ultralight Backpacking Trowel for Leave No Trace practices.
• Sanitation Bags: Lux & Bones Eco Poo Bags, because packing out is a must.
• Kula Cloth: Designed to wipe the drips off your labia. No need for toilet paper and keeps you undies nice and clean.

Tech and Power

Maintaining a charge for your electronic devices is essential on the Larapinta Trail, not just for safety but also to capture the breathtaking views of the amazing Outback.

The cold desert nights can drain your battery, so a useful tip is to keep your power banks and mobile phones warm by nestling them in your sleeping bag with you. This helps maintain optimal battery levels, ready for use the next day.

Never leave your phone charging on the floor of your tent for this reason.  If it’s not in your sleeping bag, put it in an inside pocket of your tent wall, or inside your pack.

Charging Cables: Don’t forget to pack charging cables for everything you need to charge. USB-C to Lightning, C to C, and micro USB may all be necessary to accommodate the various devices you might bring along—ensuring your smartphone, camera, or GPS device can be charged when needed.

• Power Banks: Nitecore NB10000 for keeping devices
• Charging Cables: A set inclusive of USB-C to Lightning and micro USB to cater to different electronic needs.

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Utility and Repair

A utility kit should be a key inclusion in your Larapinta Trail packing list, equipped to handle a variety of tasks and unforeseen repairs.

Ensure you include  a reliable knife  – you can get very small lightweight knives – there really isn’t much need to carry a heavy Leatherman.

A tent pole sleeve, also known as a sheath, is the best way to temporarily fix a tent pole, if it snaps (as it did on my very first multi day hiking trip!).

While many opt for a tent repair kit to fix the body of your tent, I find that duct tape, conveniently wrapped around my hiking poles, works just as well – plus the duct tape has multiple uses.

In my utility kit, there's also a length of cord. Its uses are numerous: from hanging food out of reach from wildlife, a washing line, emergency repairs, or tying things down  – such as your hat during windy weather!

• Knife:
• Tent Pole Sleeve:
• Duct Tape:
• Cord:

Communication and Documentation

An Apple iPhone 14 Pro is my choice, serving a dual purpose as both a phone and a camera. To keep it safe and accessible, I store it in a waterproof WEBO Shoulder Pouch, which makes it easy to reach when I'm on the move.

Carry essential documentation like your licence and bank card securely with you—they're fundamental, not only for identification purposes but also for food purchases at stops such as Omiston Gorge and Standley Chasm.

Additionally, it's important to carry written details of your emergency contact person in case you are incapacitated and unable to communicate this information yourself.

• Smartphone: Apple iPhone 14 Pro doubling as a camera to document the journey.
• Shoulder Pouch:
• Documentation: Licence and bank card, because you never know when you’ll need them.
  

Accessories and Miscellaneous

Headlamp: I use a rechargeable headlamp that also takes batteries as a back up. I keep the spare batteries in my utility kit

Mosquito Head Net: An essential piece of gear not just for mosquitos but for keeping the flies away – Australian outback flies are brutal, especially in Central Australia.

Day Pack: The Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil is perfect for summiting peaks like Mt. Sonder, which hikers tackle either at the start or finish of their Larapinta journey. It's lightweight, making it ideal for day hikes but also useful when in Alice Springs or onwards travel to Uluru.

Flip Fuel: This handy tool enables the transfer of gas from one canister to another, ensuring you're able to use all available fuel and carry less weight.

Plastic Bags for Rubbish: I always carry at least 3 with me. Large ziplock bags come in handy for storing wet muddy socks, a leaky food vessel, or your trash. A strong ziplock bag ensures your trash bag won't break or spill. The rubbish bag gets hung with the rest of your food at night.

Hiking Poles: Don’t underestimate the importance of trekking poles, which help protect your knees during the challenging inclines and descents.

Instead of carrying a roll of duct tape, I wrap duct tape around my hiking polls so I always have it on hand, even on day hikes.

Final Thoughts on Preparing Your Larapinta Trail Packing List

Each piece of gear selected for my Larapinta Trail packing list has been tested on the trail and chosen for its balance of utility, weight, and reliability. While this list may seem extensive, every item has a purpose, whether for safety, comfort, or simply helping to enjoy what the Larapinta Trail offers.

Remember, packing is a personal process, and this Larapinta Packing List is tailored to my experiences – yours may vary.

For insights into why I choose specific items, check out my posts like “What is in my Utility Pouch?”, “What is in my Poop Kit?” and “What is in my First Aid Kit”

These resources, along with the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace, will help ensure you're prepped and packed for an unforgettable experience walking the Larapinta Trail.
Safe travels, fellow adventurers, and may your pack be light, and your steps be sure.

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