Hi fluppy – last time I went I took one of these http://www.gogogear.com.au/shopexd.asp?id=1829 – quite comfortable and came with a repair kit. Packs down to around the size of a coke can.Next time I will simply take my Hennessy Hammock and leave the mat.

Hi fluppy – last time I went I took one of these http://www.gogogear.com.au/shopexd.asp?id=1829 – quite comfortable and came with a repair kit. Packs down to around the size of a coke can.Next time I will simply take my Hennessy Hammock and leave the mat.

5 liters is alot of water to be carrying. I would ditch the 2 one liter containers and maybe carry a 600ml external for mixing (Tang – Gatorade – whatever) . There is plenty of water to be had on the trek. You generally carry everything you might need during the day including your food pack.(PS – Whatever you do – don't put anything other than…[Read more]

Fluppy,I have used for many years, a 3/4 length Thermarest ( the original manufacturer of this type of hiking accessory and often used as a generic term for this type of mattress)) self inflating mattress which I have always found excellent apart from the occasional puncture which did in fact occur during our Kokoda crossing in August 2007. Had to…[Read more]

Fluppy,I have used for many years, a 3/4 length Thermarest ( the original manufacturer of this type of hiking accessory and often used as a generic term for this type of mattress)) self inflating mattress which I have always found excellent apart from the occasional puncture which did in fact occur during our Kokoda crossing in August 2007. Had to…[Read more]

Hi fluppyI notice no one has come in to advise you on this topic!Firstly, I don't know too much about IBS, but I had worried a bit about constipation on the trek. However, I had no trouble. Maybe it was the muesli we had for brekky every day, or even the squatting position as opposed to sitting on a seat, but I was regular. I think walking all…[Read more]

With respect, carrying a latrine shovel is basic hiking etiquette and an essential requirement. A suitable implement is essential to ensure adequate depth (20-30cm min.) is achieved thus ensuring animals do not disturb and uncover faeces. Using your Boots and sticks will not easily achieve the required depth quickly and easily.In my opinion it…[Read more]

Hi Gary, have just read your article on Jim Cowey and wonder how many other Australian's know about this man. If you were to forward to me any of your articles relating to Kokoda, I would love to post in full on this website and on my other png website – http://www.pngbd.com If you agree, please email as a word document so I can copy paste along with…[Read more]

Hi LornaMy Camelbak day pack had a 2 litre bladder I also carried 2×1 litre aluminium bottle one in the net or bungee pocket what ever you call it on each side of the pack. 4 litres (4KG in weight) was ample for my needs if necessary I had ample opportunities to fill up along the track. I filled up the bladder with water from the 1 litre bottles…[Read more]

No, I didn't worry about a latrine shovel. In an emergency you can always scrape a hole with the heel of your boot (or a stick). Try to keep pack weight down as much as possible, even if it means leaving behind stuff you "might" need. I'm not sure how big my day pack is (30 litres??) but it just fitted my bladder, two 1 litre bottles for water…[Read more]

Yes, the ration pack…one more thing. Did you also carry a small latrine shovel Mrs Moo? It seems i'm going to need a decent sized day pack. These forums are a fantastic learning/information tool arent' they. Cheers

LornaDon't forget you will need room for your ration pack each day as well.Moo

Thanks for replying Brian. The Black Wolf 'python hydration pack is described as a streamlined hiking pack… which I think is where the problem lies. As such it's quite small and fitted to the back. There is a large zippered section and then one big outside pocket that has bungy cord type adjustments. … though the sides are quite low on this…[Read more]

LornaJust thinking my Camelbak Day Pack has a pocket outside of the pack on each side each taking a 1litre water bottle I feel your day pack may have the same leaving room inside the pack for your gear.Brian

Hi LornaYou appear to have every thing covered well whilst different brand your day pack seems the same size as the one I took with much the same as I carried.If with KTL your porter will be quite happy when your group stops to let you get into your main pack so do not carry any more weight than you need to in your day pack.I just carried the very…[Read more]

Hi LornaOn our trek we only had two major river crossings all others were "bridged" or rock hopping.The two rivers we wadded through we took our boots off and in my case I wore a pair of "crocks" that I purchased at Kmart for only $12.00 I also wore them around camp they were great.They were much lighter than the sandals that I…[Read more]

Thanks so much, that's put my nerves at ease!Kerryn

Thanks Geoff – yes, it did slip my mind that leeches can throw themselves at you from surrounding vegetation. Can't see myself smothering my upper body in vaseline lol!

G'day lornai walked last july, there is plenty of water but i was worried about getting the runs so i always sterilised!! i carried 2x 1ltre bottles on the side of my pack. Whwnever we filled up i would drop in a aqua tab ( available in boxes of 100 from camping stores) and a spoon full of staminade. Next time we stopped i would put this 2 ltres…[Read more]

Tar matethanks for the review, i have been working to try to improve the dvd, to give information that you can't find in books. The unexpected things that you might learn the hard way. the dvd now runs for 1hr and 30min. I have sold over 55 so far and have received all positive feedback!!!The dvd is selling $22 delivered just email me at…[Read more]