Thread: What to take with you

An alternative to the handy-wipes for those of us who are afraid of getting ribbed by their mates is to take a pack or 3 of those 'handy-pack' paper tissues. Really strong, they re-fold for optimum use, and best of all, they don't fall apart like crushed bog-roll does.

The alcohol-based wipes are briliiant for sterilising your eating kit after questionable washing - and will make a handy firelighter too! (I'm still looking for the larger-sized ones like in army-issue rat packs)

Are you doing alpine stuff? Very different list of gear compared to NI bush hunting. I can't comment on alpine stuff.

My hunting revolves around fly camping where nightfall catches up with you in typical NI lowland bush environment. There are a few things I'd like to add on the subject, mainly about weight. You ask what you need for a week? Well, its exactly what you would take on a three dayer, except with more food

1. Thermarest. No ifs or buts. Essential

2. Weigh out your food portions, have your daily intake planned before you leave

3. Clothing system should involve multiple layers, in both your wet set and dry set. No big heavy jackets etc.

4. Compartmentalize everything in your pack in the name of waterproofing and ease of access. Ziplock bags aren't just for drug dealers!

In Fiordland a couple of years ago, wring out wet clothes and put under fly for the night. Next morning wring them out a gain. 5-10min and your all cozy again. Did that for 5 days. On last day put on spare dry hunting clothes and out into the drizzle, aaaagh that was nice. Not something you would want to do in cold/alpine areas

Marino thermals and chocolate, the difference between a happy boy at the 7 day mark or wanting to go home

Luxurys like bacon are essential