Ultimate Multi-Day Hiking Packing List (Cape to Cape & Beyond)
Planning a multi-day hike where you carry your own food, water, and shelter? Whether you’re tackling Western Australia’s Cape to Cape Track or heading off on another overnight trail adventure, this is the gear list I swear by.
I personally packed everything listed below for the Cape to Cape Track and have used it as my go-to setup for most self-supported backpacking trips. It’s lightweight, practical, and beginner-friendly.
💡 If you’re planning the Cape to Cape specifically, check out my 7-day itinerary here and ultimate trail guide here.
Backpack & Sleep System
Backpack: I used this North Face pack with a hydration bladder sleeve and padded hip straps. Make sure your pack fits your torso size and has a supportive hip belt—it’ll save your shoulders on long days.
Tent: Mine’s currently secondhand from Facebook Marketplace, but I’ve got my eye on this one from Zorali for its lightweight design and fast setup. You can also pick up a pretty light option cheaply on Amazon. I like this budget option.
Sleeping Mat: Sea to Summit Ultralight – compact, comfy, and easy to inflate. I recently upgraded mine to the Sea to Summit Ether Lite which i love but my previous option suited me well for years and wasnt that much heavier.
Sleeping Bag: I use the Hiker 200 by Black Wolf – warm enough for most three-season trips.
Sleeping Pillow: Optional, but I love this one for a bit of extra comfort.
Amy’s Tip: If you’re looking to lighten your load, skip the pillow and stuff clothes in a dry sack as a DIY pillow.
Cooking & Food Prep
Stove: I use the Jetboil Zip for boiling water fast—it’s perfect for dehydrated meals and tea. Add the Jetboil coffee press attachment if you can’t live without your brew.
Utensils: I carry a spork and an enamel cup clipped to my pack with a carabiner. This lightweight utensil set is great if you prefer more than one tool.
Matches or Lighter: Always bring at least two fire-starting methods in a waterproof bag, or you can get waterproof matches.
Food: Your meal choices are personal, but I recommend lightweight, calorie-dense meals like oats, instant noodles, tuna packets, and trail mix. Dehydrated meals from Back Country Cuisine are my go-to. I love the desert ones like apple crumble as i love a little sweet treat in the backcountry.
Water & Hydration
Hydration Bladder: A must-have on trail—no stopping to unscrew bottles. I use a 2L bladder that fits into my pack’s back sleeve.
Water Bottles: Bring 1–2L extra in bottles for backup.
Water Filter: I swear by the Sawyer Squeeze to treat water from rivers and rainwater tanks.
Clothing & Footwear
Shoes: I wear hiking boots for ankle support, but some hikers prefer trail runners for lighter weight.
Toe Sock Liners: These Injinji toe socks + Darn Tough hiking socks = zero blisters for me.
Hiking Clothes:
Zorali hiking pants – breathable with a comfy waistband.
2 x moisture-wicking shirts like these ones.
Cozy sweatpants or thermal base layer for sleeping
Sports bra, boyshort undies (I like these ones for chafe-free hiking)
Hat, Sunglasses & Sunscreen: This Neutrogena sunscreen is non-greasy and packs light.
Navigation, Safety & Essentials
Map & Compass: Always carry physical backups even if using GPS.
Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): I rent mine via Macpac’s hire service—worth it for remote trails.
Headlamp: My go-to is this LEDLenser—bright, rechargeable, and reliable.
First Aid Kit: This compact one covers the basics.
Insect Repellent: Australians know—Bushmans is elite.
Toiletries & Extras
Toilet paper & Ziplock bag: Pack it in, pack it out.
Trowel: Don’t forget one for Leave No Trace. You can get lightweight options like this one.
Powerbank: I use this solar rechargeable 20,000mAh bank—a bit heavier but lasts ages.
Ziplock bags: For rubbish, snacks, or wet clothes.
Carabiners: Clip everything—cup, shoes, socks, trash bag.
Bonus Tips & Final Thoughts
Magnesium tablets: I take two every morning—no leg cramps or fatigue on trail.
Multi-tool or knife: Handy for gear repairs or food prep.
Duct tape: Wrap a bit around your trekking pole or water bottle—you’ll thank yourself later.
Pack weight: Try to keep your base weight (excluding food/water) under 10–12 kg if possible.
The Comments
Gay
Very useful info and product links the power pack is really good
Three Capes Track: Ultimate Hiking Guide for Tasmania’s Most Scenic Trail - If you seek Amy
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