What's in my pack | Ultralight gear for hiking Australia | Packing for a backpacking trip

[@KateGrarock]

I tend to update my gear vids once a year so be sure to checkout the latest one. Cheers

[@billsmith6884]

Great to hear an Aussie voice. I hit the Himalayas fairly regularly, so I watch a lot of these types of videos. Always Americans on the PCT or JMT, or Europeans in Iceland; so really good to see a fellow Australian out there offering advice. I also love your level of enthusiasm, it just kept me watching even though my load out is well and truly bedded down. Thanks for the time.

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks a lot mate. Great to hear. Happy hiking to you

[@katvalentic7485]

As a beginner multiday hiker watching your clips has helped me so much. Thank you for sharing your adventures!

[@KateGrarock]

What a lovely message thanks a lot. I am so glad. Hope you are loving the hiking life

[@ktdoan98]

Budget way to avoid blisters (and prevent leeches) is pantyhose/stockings under your usual (not Inji) socks. Thanks for the Sawyer drip-feed rig idea!

[@KateGrarock]

So good. I have hear that but great to know it works. Cheers mate

[@bellsde3796]

haha!!! her excitement when she brings out the zpacks tent :D love it

[@KateGrarock]

Hahaha totally wait till I do a vid on how much I love it.

[@DJBigC]

Great video! Thank you for sharing your gear loadout - really insightful as someone getting back into hiking/backpacking after a long break (of almost a decade) - things have changed so much!

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks so much. Glad it is helpful. Exciting that you are getting back into it. Hope you love it. Happy hiking

[@MegaMastiffman]

Best headlamp ever I have three of em I carry one everyday for work super handy. Great vid thanks

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks mate it’s a ripper hey

[@ashman870]

I’m so glad this came up in my recommendations. I’ve been researching gear to start thru-hiking. It’s refreshing to not only find an Aussie but a fellow Canberran. This channel is gold.

[@KateGrarock]

thanks a lot mate. I have a newer one here kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXzCo52io6ematE I have also been getting into some lightweight gear from local canberra brand MONT - loving the bag and pegs bit.ly/3MQ5Kew and bit.ly/3IuGOGz

[@tangoduck01]

Kate, just watched your cooking video as well - thanks for your advice! One thing for you, I vacuum seal my snake bandages and cut a little V shape into a tear area on the side - keeps them super clean and reduces the volume.

[@KateGrarock]

Oh so cool. Thanks mate. Will give that a crack. You have me thinking now and other things I could do that to

[@AussieBushman]

Nice gear setup subbed, free tip: the NU25 has a lockout mode by holding both buttons down together, same to unlock.

[@KateGrarock]

Cheers thanks for watching, and thanks for the tip. I have had a few torches in the past have there battery drained as they send a flash signal even when locked. but so good to know I'll give this a crack too. Cheers

[@DebOxy]

Your packs not dirty, it’s just Aussie Bush camo 😉

[@KateGrarock]

hahahaha totally - got to love a well worn pack

[@kellythompson4432]

Great video. Just subscribed. Quick note on the toiletry kit, saw a product on the “Hungry Hiker” vid that I can’t wait to try on trail. Portawipes - compressed miniature toilettes that just take a tiny bit of water and instant cloth to wipe up with.

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks a lot. Welcome to the channel. They look cool. Happy hiking

[@obje0110]

I'm embarrassed I didn't even think of the wash in a bag and lip balm deodorant!! Love learning new things. Thanks for sharing 👍 Can finally ditch the wet wipes!

[@KateGrarock]

Haha so good. Yes I love all the little tricks. A bit overkill sometimes but so much fun. Thanks for watching and happy hiking.

[@alib2801]

I've got all my gear but your presentation style is so infectious! So I watched the whole thing, liked and subscribed. Can't wait to see more!

[@KateGrarock]

Cute. Thanks mate. There is a newer gear vid if you are keen for more. Cheers

[@AlainStewart]

Awesome review, and great channel. I think I'm similar in my approach to gear; started off with a heavy pack, dabbled in some lightweight gear, but now moving back to more affordable but durable gear. I don't mind the weight.

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks mate - Totally its all about finding your style hey. Thanks for watching

[@emmylou11]

This is awesome Kate, thanks so much. I ordered my first quilt about a month ago so I’m looking forward to living the quilt life :)

[@KateGrarock]

Amazing thanks, welcome to the proud quilt users club - I hope :) Happy hiking.

[@sophiebrowne2319]

oh my goodness you are a delight!!! I never really comment on videos but... I just couldn't not this time! you are inspiring to watch, your enthusiasm is infectious and you offer such knowledgable advice. thank you so much, I shall be coming back for more advice since I want to take up hiking for the first time soon! :)

[@KateGrarock]

Thank a lot mate. Really appreciate it. I have a newer gear vid if you are keen. Love the comment. Best of luck on your hiking journey hope my channel has a few tips and tricks for you. Cheers.

[@nedanother9382]

hey Kate thanks for the vid. Your kit started strong and finished pretty strong - my only comments towards improvements would be a far simpler water system. this hose connects to that hose with this cap and that......or spend two minutes enjoying your day while squeezing 2 or 3 liters of water.....1 piece. I love me some BeFree filters. For me simplicity is king and pretty equal to weight. Additionally it looked like your med kit could cover at least two episodes of Ambulance Australia. You have absolutely nothing in there for a meteor strike by the way...Just some thoughts. Oh by the way I started using those compressed towels (one brand is wisy wipes on amazon) instead of toilet paper. WAY more packable than TP and as strong as one of those blue wipes just by adding a few drops of water or alcohol for a wet wipe. Happy trails

[@KateGrarock]

Cheers mate. I'm pretty in love with my water setup - I often hike with mates and treat water for the group. love just being able to scoop a bag of water and hang it and have 3 l treated. I find squeezing 6L+ a day pretty annoying. But the BeFree looks cool.

[@odysseus800]

Funny - south west tassie turned me off quilts and shoes. Boots, proper sleeping bag and a spare set of dry something for me down there!

[@KateGrarock]

For sure mate, I haven't done much hiking down there. Hope to get down there sometime soon. Do you think a quilt could be ok for just one person, not shared?

[@DavidKD2050]

Even during the years of small children I couldn’t imagine having such a raft of medical supplies at home, let alone taking on a hike, each to his own I guess. Duct tape is my medical and repair kit combined, plus some pain medication. I am with you re zlite pads. I advocate an oversized “light”, pack so that they can be carried internally, and more of it strapped to the outside of desired.

[@KateGrarock]

Haha yep. Surprised how many people think my med kit is over kill but that’s cool.

[@DavidKD2050]

@@KateGrarock first aid is first aid. Emphasis on FIRST. It’s not the whole shooting match. I too carried a fair amount of stuff years ago. But let me tell you, the nearly 55 year old body would rather bleed than carry.

[@DieselDave]

Oh wow. Pure experience right there. Thanks so much for sharing those wise pearls of advice with us. Well done once again Kate.

[@KateGrarock]

So glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching and cheering up my day with that comment. Cheers

[@CameronLittlesustainablecam]

Great video, nice to hear from an Australian for a change :) With the gas canisters you can buy little adapter gadgets online that you can use to transfer left over gas between bottles. Good so you don't end up with a bunch of partial canisters that you don't feel confident to take away with you

[@KateGrarock]

So cool. I’ve been meaning to get one of these. Thanks mate.

[@billsmith6884]

I practice new meals at home with low gas canisters, if I run out I don't get caught short.

[@lindsaygumley4524]

Your content is always so good! Perfect detail. Super helpful!!

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks mate. I’m thinking of doing another one of these with some cool new gear. Happy hiking

[@raykinit4701]

i love your excitement about the duplex just scored one myself and slept on the front lawn first night . unbelievable. going to put it on the trail in three weeks on the cape to cape wa watched your video there looked cool cant wait.thanks mate.

[@KateGrarock]

That is awesome! How great are the tents. Oh you will love the cape to cape the rocks keep changing and the ocean is spectacular. Happy hiking

[@briansmythe3219]

Ive been Living in the Blue montains for about 6 years , im just starting too get into a Few days hiking , I really Love it , Thanks for shareing some tips

[@KateGrarock]

So great Brian. Hope you love the hiking up there. Cheers

[@acedecs]

Great video Kate. It’s always nice to see people’s kit it can give you so many ideas for your own use.

[@KateGrarock]

So true! thanks so much for watching and happy hiking

[@charlesgreen7233]

Found this really helpful. Thanks so much.

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks a lot. I have a new gear vid too if you are super keen. Pretty similar vibe but just a few new toys

[@KyleD]

Thanks Kate, great advice, took lots of notes for the upcoming season. Thanks heaps

[@KateGrarock]

So glad it was helpful. Thanks for watching. Happy hiking

[@lmgaming9675]

I'm a hiking newbie and I found a lot of value in this, thanks for the upload! I've subbed and very curious what other videos you have, all this info is much appreciated :D now I just have to start the seemingly never ending equipment collection ha. Planning an overnight hike with the goal of doing a week long hike

[@KateGrarock]

Amazing thanks mate. Welcome to the wonderful world of hiking. Hope you get a lot out of it. Never underestimate the power of a camp in your backyard to test all the gear. I actually have a newer video on gear. It can be an expensive hobby but also I had just as much fun back in the day hiking with a $100 tent. Happy hiking to you

[@lmgaming9675]

@@KateGrarock awesome that’s a great idea for the backyard! Cheers 😄

[@jeanwatson189]

Very interesting, thanks! I'll look forward to seeing that fancy-schmancy tent in use. :)

[@KateGrarock]

I cant wait to give it another run, and hopefully do a little review too. Happy hiking to you

[@nedanother9382]

that tent is just such a hard purchase.....not unlike a good quilt from EE, but when they get there....man are you thrilled. Its so seldom that things like this arrive and you find them better than you thought. This is my third season for the tent and the 5th or 6th for the quilt (-12c). Both are like brand new. Theres never a question about whats going with you and you know you're covered. I hike at altitude in all temps and conditions and the setup Kate is showing really works (shave that med kit and water complexity) embrace your slinkiness and enjoy your hike. The only other improvement could be to slog in the gutter with the rest of us and bone out the 15.00 for walmart Frogg Toggs in lieu of expensive rain gear.

[@campfirejesus]

Thanks for taking the time to make and share another film. Some cool gear and as always your first aid kit is epic. If ever I'm unfortunate enough to hurt myself I hope you are the first hiker that stumbles passed!

[@KateGrarock]

Haha thanks mate, maybe because every time I go to make changes to the first aid I'm near a friend who is either a doc or nurse and they think I take way too little. hahaha

[@nedanother9382]

I feel the same - My kit can do very little for serious problems other than stopping bleeding, pooping or sinuses but I can always count on over packers if I lose a limb or need a stretcher or helicopter. God bless those folks

[@RA-go5qk]

I thought that was cute when you were talking about your cool red quilt from Enlightened Equipment. You said you don’t have to get your quilt from them; you can also buy local. Well they ARE local for me. I was just there a week ago! 😊

[@KateGrarock]

Haha amazing. Would be so cool to have them as a local. Happy hiking to you

[@reganbryce8864]

I love your vids and info Kate! I watched this one twice, the second time with my kit laid out all around me doing a check and also taking notes for pieces of kit to research and purchase lol. Can't wait for your next one. Happy hiking

[@KateGrarock]

Amazing so glad it was helpful. Sing out if you have any questions. Happy hiking

[@labellaescrima1996]

Wow you have a great attitude, smiling all the time we can observe clearly you enjoy your hiking trips and it is funny to see you apologize for spending so much money for a tent, quilt or whatever. It is not you who choose the price we are all stuck paying for good quality material...sadly. I love your equipment many of it I own, if you permit me I would suggest to you other choices for example your toothpaste where I live they freeze so instead I prefer toothpaste pills instead (they are light to carry and they taste great) I use Superbee dentos they are great. I also prefer for my water purifier Grayl Geopress water purifier, go have a look at their website and see for yourself. For fire I use ferro rod, waterproof matches, and a lighter (redundancy is not a bad thing), I also have paracord galore, my boot laces are paracord, I have a bracelet made with paracord, also have a necklace made of paracord with ferro rod as a decoration but also useful. For my socks I use Smartwool, Icebreakers, Injinji Wigwam (my favourite), I only wear merino wool sweaters, short and long sleeves. I always have down jacket Ghost Whisperer, tuques or beanie, my light jacket is made by OR, ( I honestly don't like Arc'teryx, I have a hard time explaining to people why I need to pay so much for clothes that I can get cheaper but good quality, like OR, Eddie Bauer, Columbia, Adidas, etc.) I also own an Appalachian sweater long sleeve, for pants I own Fjallraven expansive but oh so well made, I own also Altra lone peak, (2 pairs), but in the desert I usually wear hiking boots Salomon, Vasque, Merrell, Keen, Lowa, Oboz are my preferred brand names. You are indeed very agreeable to watch you are so positive and happy to share your knowledge with us, I really like your attitude, well done Milady. I will subscribe to your channel definitely. we need more people like you.

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks a lot for the comment. Some very cool additions there. I will be sussing out the toothpaste for sure sounds brilliant. LOVE OR they are so good hey and Fjallraven - love the motto of buying once but buying to last. Thanks again for the lovely comment and additional items you use. I love hearing what other people do. cheers

[@paul13kelly]

Love your work Kate. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience.

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks so much for watching! cheers

[@lameagirl8565]

A great video as always. Stuck in lockdown so it inspired me to do a checkover of my gear. Gotta keep dreaming of the next bushwalk.

[@KateGrarock]

Oh thanks so much and so glad it helps a little. Hope you are out there before you know it. Stay safe

[@Itsmebuddy98]

I am really enjoying your channel Kate! A great video, helping me prepare for my solo Larapinta in June this year.

[@KateGrarock]

Omg so excited for you. It’s a bangers of a trail. Best advice on this trail I can give is to camp up high when you can it’s like being on top of the world. Oh and hydration hydration hydration keep the water up. Enjoy wish I could be out there with everyone this year.

[@Itsmebuddy98]

@@KateGrarock this is great advice!! I have a night planned at Brinkley Bluff, very excited to wake up to those views!

[@KateGrarock]

@@Itsmebuddy98 amazing. Hope you love it

[@errolkilov4734]

Awesome and incredibly helpful video Kate, I am learning so much, thank you.

[@KateGrarock]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks so much for watching. Hope you are well

[@AlexsAustralianAdventures]

Thanks for sharing Kate - a few ideas to look into! I’ll definitely need to update my first aid kit.

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks mate hope you are well.Sing out if you have any questions. Happy Hiking

[@dannynimmo3052]

I bought some powdered toothpaste on Amazon and its surprising, pretty effective. works great my mouth feels clean and thats a great weight saver, I think you'd like. thanks for the video:)

[@KateGrarock]

Oh so cool. Thanks for the tip. Going to check this out.

[@oak664]

I’d just recommend a rain cover for your pack if you don’t want to add 10 lbs of water weight when your pack absorbs the rain mate .

[@KateGrarock]

Yeah good point

[@lizadale584]

Thanks Kate! Great kit & very helpful video.

[@KateGrarock]

You're so welcome! Glad you liked it. Happy hiking

[@frugalmum7943]

Ohhh, I never thought of the splint 😮 I've got a thermorest zlite... I'm 5.5 and was thinking of cutting it to make a seat as well. Still deciding as it will obviously impact resale, although I doubt I'll ever want to resell it.

[@KateGrarock]

on nice now thats a good gram counting hack

[@rebeccaowen25]

Just discovered your channel, loving the videos!!! 😊😊

[@KateGrarock]

Yay! Thank you! Happy hiking to you.

[@janingham1823]

Brilliant!!! Just subscribed. Lots of great tips here. Thank you. Greetings from Canada

[@KateGrarock]

Amazing hi from oz. Thanks so much for the sub and lovely comment. Happy hiking

[@frugalmum7943]

Love the pie container lid, comes with free pie too 😂

[@KateGrarock]

haha yeah ive moved on to real titanium lids now

[@frugalmum7943]

@@KateGrarock well, I'm still glad you shared this tip, as it frees up $ for other things :)

[@julsm3584]

So great! Thanks Kate for sharing your expertise. I love your videos and so glad to have come across this one just as I’m about to pack for my first overnight 👍

[@KateGrarock]

Amazing this is very exciting. I hope you love it. Some bits always suck but mostly it is great and it gets better the more you do it. Happy hiking and thanks for watching

[@FreedomOnFoot]

Great gear list, Kate. Right with you on the Altras. Don't see how I'm ever going to be able to go back to boots again after using my Lone Peaks! Great to see you have a sensibly stocked first aid kit too. Always worries me when I see hikers carrying the very bare essentials in first aid items. Seems like you'll never need it until you do! I'm still trying to lighten my gear overall and have the next item on the production line at the moment down in Tassie. 😉 Thanks for sharing and happy hiking!

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks so much. Oh excited to see what changes you make and how you feel they go. I'm going to the snow an might have to leave the Altras at home - so sad. Totally agree re first aid. I get a lot of comments about how I over do the first aid. Happy hiking mate - cant wait to see some of your Tazzie stuff

[@praktika1082]

Flextail gear pump pro 2 will inflate your pad in 30 seconds, and doubles as a lantern.

[@KateGrarock]

So cool. How much does it weigh?

[@WadeAbout]

Yay. Another Kate video!

[@KateGrarock]

haha thanks. Hope you enjoyed it! And hopefully i can get out in to bush sometime soon

[@WadeAbout]

@@KateGrarock of course. Loved it. Love seeing another CBR KZbin champion. Love all ur videos. Maybe a video on planning / locking down trails - checking parks are open, research etc too??

[@KateGrarock]

@@WadeAbout oh love it great idea. I'll put it on the list. thanks so much

[@megansaussey7065]

Great video Kate! Thx so much.

[@KateGrarock]

You're so welcome! thanks for watching, happy hiking

[@chrisgibson5803]

Thanks for the videos Kate

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks for the comment. I’ll hopefully do another one mid year. I’ve been doing some lockdown shopping haha

[@StepsbyKaatje]

I always like to see what other people carry! 😁 Enjoyed watching! All the best! Kaat

[@KateGrarock]

Thank you so much 😄 happy hiking to you Kaatje

[@frugalmum7943]

Test that snakebite bandage Kate, I cannot stress enough, we tested one, I was showing Mr 16 for practice, it was way, way to tight. It cut off circulation. The goal is not blood flow, it's lymphatic system. You want to maintain blood flow. An ambulance officer at a snake awareness workshop demonstrated it.

[@KateGrarock]

absolutely dangerous to cut off the blood

[@JakeMarcin]

Great video Kate How good is the Duplex right! Such a good point about making a custom first aid kit, saves so much weight and you get to carry what you actually need There is a really great headband conversion kit for the NU25, few videos on it, uses bungie cord, might be worth a look if your current headband dies.

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks Jake yes I bloody love the duplex - I wasn't sure it would be worth the hipe but it totally is. oh so cool about the NU25 will check it out. cheers and happy hiking to you

[@livableincome]

One question I have about the duplex which actually kept me up last night: I can see it being great if you are doing a through hike and never leaving the tent on its own. But if you are setting up a base camp and going for a day hike...might one's very popular and very expensive duplex take a little and permanent hike itself? Is there a cheaper but close enough tent one might take that gives more flexibility?

[@paulpagotto1846]

Great videos Kate. Very informative 👌

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks a lot Paul. Thanks for watching and commenting, really appreciate it. Happy hiking

[@garrycollins3415]

KZbin said I should watch this video so I did. I am now subscribed. You pack like I do, not quite ultralight.

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks mate. I have a newer gear vid too. Getting lighter. Cheers

[@georgeweber1337]

Great video thank you for sharing.

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks mate. Happy hiking to you

[@71funkychick]

Hey Kate, love following your videos. My gear list is almost identical LOL! When you're looking to update your beloved pack, check out Wilderness Threadworks Ossa 48. Aussie made in Brisbane. Recently did the Larapinta with it and it was a dream to use!!

[@KateGrarock]

Hey thanks so much - I do often wonder if people have exactly the same gear. Nice tip on the Wilderness Threadworks - I'll check them out. Oh so cool you just did larapinta, what an amazing trail hey. Would love to get back out on it one day. Happy hiking to you

[@Luluorange569]

Thank you for this!!!

[@KateGrarock]

My pleasure. Cheers

[@lauracox3859]

Great vid Kate!

[@KateGrarock]

Thank you! 😁 Can't wait to get back out for a hike with you. Let's plan a cracker for the end of lockdown, with P man as our driver

[@amandalampe1291]

Hi Kate, this has been one of the most useful videos for me and I’ve already started to binge your others. Thank you so much for sharing. I’ve decided to re-jig our first aid kit and I went on the hunt for the elastoplast tape you mentioned with no luck. Would you happen to know the name of it?? It looked exactly like what I need!!

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks a lot for that. I think it the Fixomull Stretch stuff. It’s the white stuff I use for blisters. Although I don’t tend to get blisters now I have my sock shoe combo working well. Best of luck. Happy hiking

[@amandalampe1291]

@@KateGrarock Thanks so much! Found it online and will stock up! Thanks again for replying 😊

[@KateGrarock]

@@amandalampe1291 no worries. Thanks for watching.

[@amandant]

Really love your energy. New subscribers here hehe

[@KateGrarock]

Welcome. Thanks for watching. I have also just released a new gear vid with some fun gear. Cheers 😃

[@roberttrinies7698]

Cool video... Curious if your tent is lighter than your first aid kit ? (Joking)😉✌️

[@KateGrarock]

Haha yep it probably is

[@biomorphic]

A soft shell won't protect you from heavy rain, a hard one will do. So if you expect a lot of rain, carry with you a hard shell.

[@KateGrarock]

I don’t have a soft shell. I use a rain coat. But yes agree there are more hardcore “hard shell” raincoats out there. I tend not to hike high in the mountains where a proper hardshell may be required

[@kylieyoung7239]

Thanks so much Kate, there are awesome tips here. I’ve noticed you’re using a different pack in your latest videos. Is it possible to get you’re review on it? I can’t believe you fit so much in it 😅

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks mate. It’s an atom pack a small brand from the UK a bit of a lockdown purchase. wildernessthreadworks.com is a cool Australian brand making something similar. I love my new pack. The waist is super comfy and there is a small frame in the pack. I love it. Hope to do a full review one day.

[@justanotherhuman1701]

Great video. I’m interested that you feel the need to filter water. Certainly a North American thing but I just don’t see the need in Aus. Maybe I like to live dangerously ! Cheers !

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks mate. Yeah I’ve seen way too many dead wombats/ kangaroos upstream of beautiful water points. I guess I just don’t want to take the risk of gastro on the trail. Couldn’t think of anything much worse. But I’m sure as you say many would be perfectly fine.

[@ktdoan98]

@@KateGrarock leeching /overflowing septic tanks?

[@SodaPopandRitalin1]

Hi Kate, thanks so much for the comprehensive information. Just wondering whether you actually did that Durston tent review? Can't seem to find any links. Keen for any info you have to share. Happy hiking :)

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks a lot mate. Yep here it is. This is the old version the new ones look good and Dan sounds like the nicest bloke kzbin.info/www/bejne/sGHQindvftmIoKc

[@KateGrarock]

Happy hiking to you

[@MrLorryt]

luv the magnifyig glass, where from???

[@KateGrarock]

Just eBay or similar

[@frugalmum7943]

A chemist told me that cold meds are basically paracetamol or similar and an antihistamine. Love your first aid kit, what are your thoughts on "emergency bandage" (Israeli bandage)?

[@KateGrarock]

we have them for work but i'm hopefully not doing anything that could cause arterial bleed (ie no axes). could be good to have one in the car though.

[@frugalmum7943]

@@KateGrarock they are also useful for covering eye or head injuries, which can bleed' alot, even if not serious. Can be used for arm sling. Very lightweight and useful

[@frugalmum7943]

@@KateGrarock some examples from Queensland ambulance service...kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGfRXqB6idiBnZosi=WJr8rsZl1_8oR8-q

[@flash2mc]

Great video!

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks mate 😀

[@dani83red]

Amazing. Thank you

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks for watching

[@megansaussey7065]

Kate, love your videos. Would love to know what tech set up you use? Particularly microphone?

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks so much. I use my iPhone on a dji gymbal on 4K and DJI Pocket: click.dji.com/APRqnxuOS0O-y2strC-mmQ?pm=custom I use a rode mic and a boya wireless but I’m not a huge fan of the boya. Cheers

[@98776607]

Hi Kate, thanks for the great video. How did you get the Zpack tent? I didn’t know that they ship it to Australia.

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks mate. Yep they sent it to me no worries at all. Just be super careful not to spend over $1000 AUD of you get in a world of hurt with import tax. I got it direct from the z-pack website here bit.ly/3k6J6ik

[@livableincome]

First time viewer and subscribed already. Love the way you have done this and very helpful info. Thank you very much. Two observations: Your first aid kit is so comprehensive ( but no bug spray?) yet your cooking fuel so slim as is size of pot. You are WAY more experienced than me. This nervous Nellie is inclined to buy a bigger pot and larger gas. The one thing I have struggled with is how to eat. Every light hiking video I have seen has these unhealthy dehydrated just add water main meals and sugar rich junk foods for breakfast and lunch. As an older person with various health issues I couldn't do a single hour of that. As a gluten free ( allergies) whole foods by necessity eater, is there any hope for my packing relatively light food for...3 or 4 days? Any ideas? Links? Thank you so much again. You are great. 😊👍

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks so much - welcome to the channel - I have a video on making your own food and dehydrating it kzbin.info/www/bejne/nIDcY6anaaebsKc I get what you mean about eating rubbish - the easiest and healthiest food I have found that caters to different intolerances is bit.ly/33VgynV they actually feel healthy and they have some great breakfasts too. I tend to carry bug cream in my toiletries bag but maybe that has fallen out of the packing list as they dont tent to bother me too much and I don't really like using it - I guess id rather go to bed early if the mosquitos are bad. Best of luck hope this helps a bit. Happy hiking to you

[@davidbarnes3591]

Hi Kate, love the videos. I have a Merlin 0c sleeping that packs up small and I use as a quilt. Weight is about 0.8kg. I am tossing around going with a quilt but keen on your thoughts on their worth in warmer temps (I live in Victoria)

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks so much mate. Sounds like you have a good thing going there. I got my quilt for cold weather camping down the -6 (need to clip into bag for this cool). But then I fell in love with quilts I never take my summer bag now. I still use the quilt in the warm weather just keep it low around my waist. So I’m probably carrying a quilt that is technically too heavy for warm weather but I still find it cosy. But I find it nice to be able to have my leads and torso sticking out at warm temps and I guess kinda cuddle the quilt. Haha not sure if that answers your questions. I guess if I was made of money I’d get another warmer weather one. But it still works well.

[@davidbarnes3591]

@@KateGrarock thanks you have convinced me. I found a quilt from Tier Gear in Tasmania and am going to support local and get it custom made so I can get sizes that suit (I am bigger than the average bear!). Was flicking between a minus 10 and minus 7 but went with the -7 as the owner Simon said it’s a good all rounder. Thanks for the advice and keep the videos coming. I have sent away for some Laughing Pug coffee as it looks a lot better than my current Nescafé!!!

[@KateGrarock]

@@davidbarnes3591 amazing they look like a great company hey. So good you have supported them. I wasn’t really aware of them when I got mine sadly. Any yay for the pug. Hope you love it. Cheers and happy hiking

[@glossblack1098]

Hi, Thanks for sharing. I’m pretty new to hiking. Just did 5 day hike in Tassie. Totally Awesome now hooked. My Pack was 17 kg without water so about 19 kg heading out day 1. With your cool set up, how much lighter is your pack. Cheers

[@KateGrarock]

Amazing congratulations on getting out there and 5 days is impressive. I once had a pack that heavy. Mine now is around 7kg not including water or filming gear. Just take your time with reducing weight. There are many ways you can drop some weight without spending much money. Like talking less changes of clothes and packing smarter food (high calories to weight). I also went too ultralight and found my gear wasn’t comfortable. I now choose my quilt over my lighter sea to summit sleeping bag. Best of luck on your hiking journey

[@glossblack1098]

@@KateGrarock hey thanks for your reply. 7 kg would be nice. My tent is 2.5 kg, pack 2.5 kg and sleeping bag/mattress 2 kg, so that’s 7 kg already. I can obviously shed some more weight as I get more experience and buy better gear. Thanks for your suggestions. Cheers

[@KateGrarock]

@@glossblack1098 oh yes it’s adds up quick hey. But great you are getting out there. There are some good ok priced things out there too. The Dan durston tents are very reasonable and the lanshan tent looks great too. Best of luck

[@MoosebearAdventures]

Great vid.

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks mate. I do love playing with gear

[@foxtonstreet]

Good video but I really want to straighten that painting up.

[@KateGrarock]

Haha thanks.

[@ts2184]

Hey Kate how come you use the sawyer filter instead of the Platypus one? I was just going to get the Platypus gear but now I'm considering both. Cheers

[@KateGrarock]

Hi Tim, I used to have the platypus but I guess I used it a lot and despite back washing it really slowed down. I feel the sawyer has a much faster flow i'd love to see a comparison. they sawyer is probably cheaper if you were starting from scratch with a CNOC bag and filter into your existing water bladder. I actually got the sawyer for the squeeze function as its so quick but as I started hiking with friends again I found the gravity method was easier to treat bulk water. I use the standard sawyer - not the mini. Best of luck let me know what you end up with.

[@frugalmum7943]

May I ask why you don't have a spacer? I'm asthmatic as well, so would value information.

[@KateGrarock]

hey I dont need it much so dont bother taking it. But when i was going though a rough patch and needed it more so i did hike with a spacer

[@frugalmum7943]

@@KateGrarock that's good, glad you don't need it much :)

[@megansaussey7065]

Kate when are you going to do a review of your new pack?? Is it an Atom? (Which style?) I’m looking to buy a new pack and have been looking at these. Do they carry the weight well? Would love your thoughts. X

[@KateGrarock]

Oh yes. It’s on the list just wanted to give it more of a run. Atom + custom 40l. I’m so impressed. Such a soft hip belt. And the manufacturer is so happy to discuss size shape colours. Crazy good service. Hopefully in a month or so I’ll get to a review but the only other pack is look at would be wildernesses threadworks. They are Australian and similar packs but a few different bits and bobs. But I’m so happy with atom especially if you don’t go custom they are a great price. My colours are possibly out of stock now but their new colours are made from recycled plastic bottles. Something like the bottles in each pack.

[@megansaussey7065]

@@KateGrarock of fabulous! I’m glad you’re happy with it. I’m ready to evolve my through hiking and need to drop some weight from my ten year old Osprey and I’m hoping this will be a good choice. Thx for responding so quickly and congrats on new Bub. X

[@KateGrarock]

@@megansaussey7065 thanks so much. It’s such a good pack and I love the roll top. It’s super handy for locking it down tight on an overnight or expanding out when I’ve got more stuff. Only thing I’d say is careful with the weight if you are a real gram counter. I got all the pockets and a large hip belt so the weight of the pack was a bit heavier than I expected. Still super lightweight, can’t remember exact weight though sorry. Still under a kilogram but not like 700g. Thanks again 😀

[@frugalmum7943]

While on the topic of snake bites... spotted elsewhere.. "kzbin.info/www/bejne/bpa6o4eAbLB5i9Usi=KkaMzGsKKaBR1ePO One thing to be aware of, to my knowledge, "snake bite bandages" are not regulated. So pressure may vary. Practice is key. The goal is to immobilize the snake bite victim and get help to them as quickly as practical. Unless it was a "dry bite"- they need antivenom. Never wash the bite sight. It doesn't help and it prevents venom testing to help with snake ID."

[@KateGrarock]

Nice. Yes I’ve had several bandages and I did wonder if some are better than others

[@davef5916]

Hey Kate, do you have any recommendations on what temperature spread it'd be worth catering for in terms of getting a quilt that's mainly for spring, autumn and winter? It'd be mostly NSW, maybe the blue mountains. What's your rated to?

[@KateGrarock]

Great Question - I love how bags these days are rated to comfort level. I love having it town to about -6. Neve gear in Australia are now making banging good quilts that are a bit cheaper than Enlighten Eq. I just got one and am very impressed. They are super chatty and love to talk about what would suit you best. I also love checking out climate statistics on BOM they have great details on what the coldest recorder temp for an area is. Happy hikng.

[@davef5916]

@@KateGrarock Thanks for the reply! I was checking out the nevegear ones only tonight. I really like that you can open the quilt fully because the foot area isnt a box but draw strings instead, wondered if the drafts would still get in though. Would love to see a review once you've had a good go with it.

[@KateGrarock]

@@davef5916 yes I’m keen to do a review one day. I used it for a couple of nights in a chilly enviro so had the foot box zipped and drawstring pulled and top part open it worked really well. I still felt free but warm. The drawstring tightens well. It comes with extra straps to tuck the sides under but I tend not to use these. I’m no expert though.

[@RoseyCheeks07]

Hi Kate, I’m also looking at getting a Neve gear quilt. Did you go for the -5 or did you add additional over stuff? Tossing up between -5 and -10 as I can be a cold sleeper. Great vid! Lots of inspiration.

[@KateGrarock]

@@RoseyCheeks07 hey mate just looking at it I got 0degrees in the neve to save a few grams but yep -5 might be good. I guess it depends how cold you want to camp. I went zip foot normal length and wide width. It’s 370g down and 553g total. Have a chat to Ryan from neve he loves a chat about what would work best for you. Cheers and happy hiking

[@PrimalRenegade17]

OH YOU'RE AN ECOLOGIST? OKEY I AM SUNSCRIBING! Ecologist gotta support each other haha got my gear partly for uni and volunteering (ecologist in training here :P)

[@KateGrarock]

Amazing thanks a lot. So excited for you. It's so amazing learning about nature there is always so much more to learn. Best of luck with it follow you passion and happy hiking

[@PrimalRenegade17]

@@KateGrarock absolutely! Plants are my focus for this year! Usually reptiles are my jam lucky me being able to hike in a hotspot for umique reptiles!

[@KateGrarock]

@@PrimalRenegade17 Oh wow so cool - I wish I knew more about plants, I'm learning slowly. Best of luck with it

[@paddle_hike]

Great gear loadout!!! New friend and subscriber. Take care

[@KateGrarock]

thanks so much and thanks for the sub

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Great video! Awesome gear choices. New follower here. Crow✌️

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks mate. Welcome. 😀

[@Spiritual_Sniper]

self protection ?

[@KateGrarock]

Bug spray, sunscreen, hat and gaiters :)

[@angelashcroft1832]

This vid is rite banger 😊

[@KateGrarock]

Haha thanks mate. Working on a new one now with some cool new kit. Cheers

[@frugalmum7943]

Neve is a well reputed Australian brand, if anyone is interested (not affiliated)

[@KateGrarock]

they are going from strength to strength hey

[@MrFastFarmer]

Bloody hell, I hope you put a Red Cross on the back of your pack.

[@KateGrarock]

Yep mate.

[@moderneaux]

Are snakes more an issue than spiders?

[@KateGrarock]

I guess it depends on your fears but in terms of survival snakes pose a much greater risk than spiders. Spiders can freak me out sometimes when you don't expect them. There are funnel web spiders that can potentially harm people but I have never had any big issues with them. Snakes are beautiful and in summer and spring you see them but they tend to run away from you. The closet encounters I have had have been winter or colder months when they are a bit slow to move and i have nearly trod on snakes sunning themselves. but its always nice to know that nothing will eat me in my sleep here in Oz.

[@moderneaux]

@@KateGrarock thank Kate for that reassurance. Planning to go camping in NSW either Blue Mountains or Berowra. I've camped before, but at beaches not in the bush. Your videos: I've taken so many notes on. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@KateGrarock]

@@moderneaux Best of luck just give any snakes and spiders a bit of room and they will leave you alone. I do wear gaiters when i hike just for a bit of added protection - probably unnecessary but it makes me feel more confident. Happy hiking hope you love it

[@jasonthompson5256]

It's so true how you start overweight, go ultralight, then find just right 🤣👌

[@KateGrarock]

Totally - I keep changing my style and now I'm really enjoying the comforts of hiking too. Thanks for watching, happy hiking

[@fraserarts8397]

Gortex is over rated, we need snake proof boots

[@KateGrarock]

Yeah does feel good when going through long grass

[@dirtyscoundrel2013]

Way too much talking without saying anything

[@KateGrarock]

Thanks for watching buddy 😀

[@annaravenhand5536]

Minute and a half of advertising, followed by an ad, is a great way to lose views.

[@KateGrarock]

This is one of my most popular vids. I purchased everything with no incentives from any brand. I do these vid as people are keen to see what’s in my pack and learn from one another. Happy hiking to you