Depending on the length of your hike you will need to bring different things. Below is a guideline of what to bring for short, or longer hikes.
- Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support. There is a lot of climbing on most of the Sunshine Coast Trail. When conditions are wet (and we ARE on the wet coast!) things get slippery. Make sure your boots have good tread, good ankle support, are broken in, waterproof and comfortable.
- Proper clothing. Obviously the definition of proper clothing will vary depending on how long you are hiking for and what time of year you are hiking. However, always be prepared for rain, and regardless of the time of year it’s always a good idea to carry extra, dry clothes and socks.
- Hiking stick or poles. These can be useful when climbing/descending some of the trickier sections of the trail, and many people find hiking with a stick/pole useful on uneven or slippery terrain.
- A good backpack, and a waterproof cover for it. Your loaded pack should weigh 30-35% of your body weight, at most.
- Sleeping bag and sleeping mat. The sleeping mat is not necessary, but will make your trip more comfortable. The sleeping bag should be lightweight but warm. Carry it inside your pack to ensure it stays dry. A suspendable mosquito net is also recommended.
- Tent (with waterproof fly). Even if you are planning to hike hut-to-hut it’s a good idea to bring a tent in case the huts are occupied when you get there. The huts can sleep 8-12 people but the SCT is getting busier and more popular all the time, and the huts are often busy. It’s a good idea to carry a tent for emergencies, and so that you can stop between huts if you want/need to.
- Lightweight camping stove and fuel.
- Food and water. Especially for longer hikes it is a good idea to carry lightweight, high-energy foods, and a water bottle with a built-in purification system.
- Cell phone or satellite phone. Although your cell coverage will be patchy, it’s a good idea to take a cell phone with you for emergencies (leave it off when you are not using it since being away from access will drain the battery quickly).
- Miscellaneous items, such as:
- lighter/waterproof matches
- candles
- plastic bag (to pack out your garbage)
- toilet paper
- map
- guidebook
- first aid kit (including moleskin)
- insect repellent
- sunscreen
- warm hat, gloves, sun hat
- clothing layers
- gaiters
- emergency signalling device
- cash for unexpected emergencies
- knife
- lightweight sandals/shoes for camp or hut
- repair kits for equipment
- sunglasses
- toiletries (preferably eco-friendly)