Initially we recommend you spend little or no money until you discover which activities you enjoy. Discussion with experienced members will reveal the "pros and cons" of their style of boots, backpacks etc. Personal preferences vary considerably. Specialised equipment can cost alot of money per item, therefore you should be sure you will continue bushwalking and know which items are best for your choice of walks or camps. There are some things that you must always take on any walk and this is covered in the 'Always Take' section of your Members Handbook and is also included in the lists below. Note that up until 2017 the club used to list these items on 'page 3' of the monthly hard copy magazine, so you will occassionally find members referring to 'page 3' items - these are the 'always take' items.
Specialised bushwalking shops sell an extensive range of gear and many offer a 10% discount to Club Members. Family camping stores also have a range of items but don't stock as much lightweight equipment for through walking.
Equipment Hire
Through walking equipment is available from the Club for hire. This is a good way to "try before you buy" and discover which styles or brands suit you, especially if you do not have any previous through walking experience.
The Equipment Officer is often very busy on Club meeting nights, so if you wish to hire gear or purchase Tyvec, please send an email ahead of the meeting, (minimum of 2-3 days beforehand) to equipment@brisbanebushwalkers.org.au . The Equipment Officer can then have your equipment ready for you to collect at the Club meeting.
It is helpful to include in the email the activity details (name of activity and dates) .
Equipment can be booked many weeks in advance to secure a booking of a particular pack or tent.
Equipment and gear available for hire includes:
- Men's and women's larger packs, of various sizes and weight, for through walks
- Tents for both through walks and base camps
- Sleeping mats (suitable for alpine or SE Queensland temperatures)
- Stoves and cooking pot sets
Please note that for hygiene reasons, we do not have sleeping bags for hire. You will need to have your own.