First Tramp of 2015

Hi fellow trampers, hikers, hill walkers - I trust you all had a 'Turkey of a day' yesterday.

I'm getting excited! The first tramp of the year begins tomorrow. We are completing the Canterbury section of the Te Araroa Trail. Starting near Arthur's Pass to and coming out on Jan 8 at Lake Tekapo.

I will try and post some pictures as we progress as I will be taking my iPhone and Suntactics solar charger. I tested this out in the Kaimanawas on the recent Labour Day W/E trip and it was fabulous.

Here's a couple of pictures of this baby that weighs in at 240g!!

Sleeping Bag

My go to bag is the Western Highlite at 445 grams and +2 c rating (it has hood)
Over the shoulder season I use my Zpacks 20 bag (-7c). This is a true warmth to weight bag, but with no hood. I ordered it in extra length so I can pull it over my face, but wearing a beanie to bed adds warms and protection.

I love this bag!!

Glen Van Peski's Gear List

Glen owns Gossamer Gear. He is a respected American ultra lightweight hiker. Check out his gear list - http://gossamergear.com/wp/gear-lists/glen-van-peskis-gear-list  

Sleeping Mat Review

Came across this sleeping mat review that will be of interest to those contemplating a new lightweight mat. I'm pleased my Neo Ultra Lite rated best with this reviewer!

http://indefinitelywild.gizmodo.com/the-best-outdoor-sleeping-pads-for-every-camper-1659697249

Camp Footwear

Many lightweight trampers scorn camp footwear as unnecessary weight. Personally I love getting into camp and slipping off my tramping shoes to let my feet breath.

I have experimented with a number of sandals and thongs (even a fleeting moment with Crocs). My current choice is the Bedrock Gabbro Lite at just 116gm.

In colder conditions, or for sandfly protection, I team these up with toe socks - not the 5 toe variety, but the Japanese style with two pockets (big toe and rest of toes, sort of like a mitten). I found the basic toe sock was difficult to put on when my feet are damp (like after bathing).

To see the Bedrock range go to HERE

Some Great Food Ideas

Tracy Tate posted these food ideas from her recently completed PCT hike. It is American based, but there are some great idea for lightweight Kiwi Tramper here - Enjoy

Rambling Hemlock: Food for the PCT

How to Hike Long Distances Each Day

I subscribe to Erik the Black's blog. He has just posted a very interesting article with itineraries on how to hike 15 miles (24ks), 25 miles (40ks) and 30 miles (48ks) at day!

Of course this begs the question, "Do you really want to do that?" Sometimes you may have to.

See Erik's itineraries here http://blackwoodspress.com/blog/20401/how-to-hike-15-to-30-miles-a-day/

I get tired reading them :-)