Drakensberg guide

Hiking gear

Backpacks
There are three main areas where you'll need to make choices:
- Backpack capacity: The size pack you'll need is tied to the length of your trip and how much weight and bulk you want to carry.
- Backpack features: These are the refinements that affect how the pack works for you.
- Backpack fit: Torso length, not your height, matters most.
Backpack size:
- Weekend (2-3 nights; 40-50 liters)
- Multiday (3-5 nights; 50-70 liters)
Once you've chosen the type of backpack you want, the next step is to have the sales specialist expertly fit you to your pack.

The right fit is one that offers:
- A size appropriate for your torso length (not your overall height).
- A comfortably snug grip on your hips.
Women-Specific Backpacks

Because they have smaller frame sizes, women's backpacks often work well for young backpackers of either gender. Torso dimensions are generally shorter and narrower than men's packs. And hipbelts and shoulder straps are contoured with the female form in mind.

Youth-Specific Backpacks

These typically offer smaller capacities and include an adjustable suspension to accommodate a child's growth. Women's backpacks, with their smaller frame sizes, often work well for young backpackers of either gender. So do small versions of some men's packs.
Tents

Your choice of shelter should reflect a balance between your individual needs and the environment in which you are hiking. The perfect shelter for all conditions does not exist, however, generally speaking you are looking for something that keeps you dry when it rains, holds up well in high winds, keeps out the bugs and doesn’t weigh the proverbial tonne.

Double-Wall Tents

Double-wall tents have three parts: (1) an inner tent with a waterproof floor and non-waterproof roof, (2) a waterproof outer tent (rain fly), and (3) poles. Ease of pitching, weight and weather resistance vary by model. Choose a tent suited to the conditions you expect.

Tarp Tents

Tarp-style shelters vary in design; some include a floor and insect netting, while others do not. Check the specific model’s weather protection, ventilation and pitching requirements before choosing it for exposed mountain conditions.

Tent Sizes (2 Man, 3 Man, 6 Man…)

The size of a tent is generally described by the maximum number of people that can sleep inside, for example you will see tents described as 2 man, 2 person or 2 berth. To find the best tent for you, you must first consider the number of people in your party.

As a rule if you plan on keeping kit in your tent, choose a tent that is one person bigger. If there are two adults sharing a tent, space will be limited in a two man tent. A 3 or 4 man tent will allow you plenty of space to sleep comfortably and store your gear.

Tent Weight

Compare the total packed weight, usable space and weather suitability of the tents you are considering. Weight alone does not establish durability. When backpacking as a group, you can share the tent body, rainfly and poles between packs.
Sleeping

Down and synthetic insulation each have advantages. Down is usually lighter and more compact for its warmth; synthetic insulation is generally less affected by damp conditions. Keep either type dry.

Choose a sleeping bag for the lowest temperature you expect, allowing for how warmly you sleep. Check whether its quoted rating is a comfort or lower-limit value; these are guidelines, not guarantees. The bag, clothing and an adequately insulated mat must work together.

A welcome addition is to have a sleeping mat which provides cushioning and insulation. There is a huge range of sleeping mats on the market. If you have space select a larger mattress for more luxurious sleeping comfort.
Clothes and Footwear
Clothing to take hiking includes:
- Underwear
- Quick-drying pants or shorts
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Sun-shielding hat
- Bandanas or buffs
- Hiking Boots
- Socks
- Long underwear
- Insulating jacket or vest
- Insulated pants
- Gloves
- Rainwear
- Sandals
- Gaiters
Kitchen
Kitchen & cooking equipment should include:
Matches or lighter

Lightweight cooking pots/pans

Food-storage containers

Resealable storage bags

Trash bags

Plates/bowls

Mugs/cups

Utensils

Spatula

Cutting board

Pot scrubber

Water container

Canister stove or liquid fuel stove
Food
Ideas of foods to pack are:
- Coffee/Tea
- Milk
- Cereal
- Eggs
- Breakfast bars
- Energy bars
- Rolls
- Soup packets
- Pasta (gnocchi)
- Pasta sauce
- Smoked chicken
- Cooking oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fruit
- Cheese
- Crackers
- Chocolate
- Biltong
Hygiene
Below are the basic items to include:
- Toilet paper
- Toothbrush, toiletry kit
- Biodegradable Soap
- Trowel
First Aid
Carry a first aid kit suited to your group and trip. Basic supplies include:
Your personal medication

Bandages

Plaster strips

Sterile gauze

Antiseptic wipes

Tissues

Pain relief suitable for the individual, following the label and pharmacist’s advice

Disposable gloves

Sunburn lotion

Clean water for rinsing minor cuts and scrapes

Scissors

Tweezers

Eye wash/eye drops

Mosquito repellent