Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For trickier tracks and alpine routes, sturdy leather walking boots are a much wiser
choice, offering more support with a stiff leather upper, durable sole and protective shanks.
Many also feature a high-tech waterproof lining. When choosing new boots, do your re-
search and purchase the best quality and most comfortable you can afford, and break them
in before you go on your tramp.
Most trampers also carry a pair of 'camp shoes' such as thongs (flip-flops, jandals) or
sport sandals, to wear around the huts and give some welcome relief to achy feet.
Gaiters
If you will be tramping through snow, deep mud or scratchy scrub, consider using gaiters or
puttees to protect your legs and keep your socks dry. The best are made of strong synthetic
fabric - with a robust zip protected by a flap - and have an easy-to-undo method of securing
around the foot.
Socks
The best tramping socks are made of a hard-wearing mix of wool (70% to 80%) and syn-
thetic (20% to 30%) material, and are free of ridged seams in the toes and heels. Socks with
a high proportion of wool are more comfortable when worn for several successive days
without washing. On any trip longer than two days you should have at least three pairs of
socks.
Equipment
Backpack
For day tramps a 30L to 40L day-pack should suffice, but for multiday tramps you'll need a
backpack of between 45L and 90L. The required capacity will depend on the destination,
whether you plan to camp or stay in huts, and the duration of your tramp. It should be big
enough for your gear without the need to strap additional items to the outside.
Assemble the kit you intend to take and try loading it into a pack to see if it's big enough.
Keep in mind that as your pack's weight increases, your enjoyment decreases, so think twice
about taking unnecessary items.
A good backpack should have an adjustable, well-padded harness, and a chest strap to
evenly distribute the weight between your shoulders and hips. External pockets are good for
quick access to water bottles, snacks and maps. Finally, even if the manufacturer claims
