Thru hiking gear list + navigation, nutrition, safety and Q&A on the AAWT (Australian Alps Track)

Recently I’ve been receiving some great questions about solo hiking, thru hiking and my AAWT traverse so wanted to put some information together. Please feel free to check out the following resources or drop and further questions in the comments 😊
Trail info and resources:
Australian Alps National Park website: theaustralianalpsnationalpark...
Chapmans AAWT Guidebook: www.john.chapman.name/pub-aaw...
NSW NPWS current alerts: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/...
Parks Victoria: www.parks.vic.gov.au/get-into...
FarOut: faroutguides.com
AAWT Facebook page: share/7asS9Y...
Itinerary:
Track itinerary (30 days): docs.google.com/document/d/1m...
AAWT KZread video (28 days): • Solo hiking the Austra...
Food and gear:
Campers Pantry: camperspantry.com.au/?dt_id=6... (Discount code: LAURAWADDELL_ )
Activewear: www.unit.com/?dt_id=201952 (Discount code: LAURAW10)
Transport:
Train/bus timetable: (Train to Bairnsdale then on to Canberra via bus runs Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays) www.vline.com.au/getattachmen...)
Track Angels Facebook: share/c2J5ER...
My socials:
Instagram: laura.wadde...
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@laura.waddell...
Buy me a coffee: www.buymeacoffee.com/lauramay...

Пікірлер: 82

  • @maxhill5197
    @maxhill51977 күн бұрын

    Brilliant!! Love how you have responded to comments. ❤

  • @user-tw9zl2nj8m
    @user-tw9zl2nj8m2 ай бұрын

    Laura you are a legend and a wonderful role model for young women and men interested in testing themselves by being self reliant I’ve watched each of your videos and am in really impressed. I’m a 78 yr old deer hunter who has prided himself on being s elf reliant, you have taken that to the next level. Stay safe and travel far. Rex Willmer

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Wow thank you Rex for such a lovely comment, I really appreciate it! I love being out there and am really grateful to get to share it. I’m sure you must have some incredible skill and there is a lot I could learn from you! Thank you 🙏🏼

  • @steveallen648
    @steveallen6482 ай бұрын

    Never seen anybody smile as gorgeously as you

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you 🥹🥰 I love being out there and I’m so glad it shows and gets others smiling with me!

  • @MisterTMH

    @MisterTMH

    2 ай бұрын

    @@LauraWaddellTravel You must have type 3 fun days. No? Days when it is not fun !. Take the descent of Black Possum spur as a case of Type 3 fun. File under NEVER AGAIN!!

  • @janemay7937
    @janemay7937Ай бұрын

    Well done Laura. Such a comprehensive video with natural and well flowing delivery. Wishing you many more adventures in your future

  • @yuliehill8638
    @yuliehill863817 күн бұрын

    I have berm watching your hiking videos and this is the one i really looking forward to watch as i need lots of info for me about the overnight hiking gear also planning to go with my husband and my 9 year old daughter in the warmer months. Thanks so much Laura Keep safe ❤

  • @jaz_likes_bees
    @jaz_likes_bees2 ай бұрын

    So nice to have Australian content 🙏 I haven’t done a multi day hike yet but these kinds of videos are really inspiring and really helpful in a practical way. I’ve done some day hikes solo and I’m usually nervous. I think if I did a more remote day hike it might feel better 🤔 it’s not the snakes I’m concerned about. And there’s a bandage for them!! Regardless, your videos are awesome and confidence inspiring ❤

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you, so glad you enjoyed this and found it helpful 😊 I can totally understand the nerves around it if it’s not something you’re familiar with or have done before but when you’re feeling up for it I’d say definitely trust yourself and go for it! Thank you, stay safe out there and happy hiking ❤️

  • @simplylifeau
    @simplylifeau28 күн бұрын

    Thanks for sharing your insights Laura, great tip on the socks and enjoy Campers Pantry too. Was just wondering about toe socks this morning and checked out a Japanese shop with no luck, watched you vid and boom, spot on, will give them a go….👍

  • @nunya2171
    @nunya217123 күн бұрын

    I have just started getting back into hiking, kayaking, camping etc again after a long layoff (kids, work etc) and have also done alot of bush work as an exploration geologist in several states. Was great to get some more tips about planning and new gear (obviously a little different given I am a 6'2" guy) but still the knowledge can be translated as I am keen to start doing some longer trips than just a couple of days that I have experienced so far. If you ever need any assistance with future food drops, ideas etc for the Victorian high country (especially the far NE Vic section, let me know, more than happy to provide some knowledge or arrange some local help. keep up the great adventures and I am loving the content as you have completed a number of walks I am very keen to do when I get a chance.

  • @janellekoch
    @janellekoch2 ай бұрын

    So refreshing to hear someone else carries a tea towel 😆

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Haha I get that it’s ‘extra weight’ but I think it’s so worth it 😂

  • @headwerkn
    @headwerkn2 ай бұрын

    Thankyou for the comprehensive rundown. The logistics of such big trips is usually a big barrier to most people so it is great to see how others have managed to do it. Especially when, like yourself, you’re not a local or have family/friends who can help out. Enjoy Tassie - it’s the best place! (I’m biased, of course). You won’t need to filter water in alpine areas here. Also if you’re passing through Launceston, get some of Alps and Amici’s freeze dried meals to try, they’re by far the best tasting hiking meals I’ve come across.

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks! I totally agree logistics can be such a big barrier and it’s always really helpful to me to have different options about how people have managed. I love Tassie so much, it’s just stunning and thank you for the recommendation 🙌🏼😊

  • @maggiemayandme1953
    @maggiemayandme19532 ай бұрын

    Very sensible real world advice Laura. Thank you. I very much enjoy watching you videos.

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you 🙏🏼 so glad to hear you’ve been enjoying them!

  • @carolynmoore9788
    @carolynmoore97882 ай бұрын

    I’ve been hanging for some Aussie women hiking content. Would love to know how to get started!

  • @Andysfishing
    @Andysfishing2 ай бұрын

    I got giardia when I rode around NZ solo. A good idea would be to take Imodium for such an occasion.

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Oh no! I’ve heard of a few people getting giardia in the Aus Alps area as well, thanks for the tip!

  • @PerspectiveAustralia
    @PerspectiveAustralia2 ай бұрын

    Loved this video! Thanks for answering my question re shoes. Love that you go with what you have and don’t let not having ultralight gear stop you. It’s expensive, and is something we’re working on over time as money allows.

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks! Shoes/keeping your feet happy on trail is so important so hope that helped (: Ultralight gear can be super expensive especially when you’re starting out and have to get a whole kit together from scratch 😅 I’ve definitely learnt a lot about what does and doesn’t work for me along the way so am excited to slowly keep upgrading and making changes for future hikes!

  • @jaymiddleton772
    @jaymiddleton7722 ай бұрын

    Getting to and from the trail has always been a limiting factor for me. Looking forward to an autonomous future where I can just tell my car to come pick me up 😂

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Haha definitely a limiting factor!! I think what I did would probably be easier then attempting to get sectional transport if you don’t live in the area. Very grateful for the track angels, they make a lot possible 🫶🏼

  • @danielbarron5165
    @danielbarron51652 ай бұрын

    Wow you're quite inspirational. Articulate, humble and knowledgeable. Any advise for strengthening the body for longer duration hikes? Particularly the knees for the higher elevation trails. Its the area i notice most on day 3. Thanks 😁

  • @PavoTreks
    @PavoTreks2 ай бұрын

    You're an absolute legend Laura, I'm saving this vid to my favs for the time when I'm ready for doing multi day walks 🙌

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you! Have an amazing time when you get out there and hope this helps 🙌🏼✨

  • @Amanda-ei7oc
    @Amanda-ei7oc2 ай бұрын

    Oh my gosh! I saw one of your videos for the first time earlier today and I thought “it would be great if she did a gear video” and low and behold you did! What uncanny timing 😊🙏

  • @peter-robinson

    @peter-robinson

    2 ай бұрын

    Lo

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Haha meant to be! I’ve had a few requests for a gear vid so its awesome to hear the timing was right 😊

  • @johnbutcher4748
    @johnbutcher47482 ай бұрын

    A great to the point over view. With no unnecessary drama. Very refreshing. Well done

  • @seratbushcraft6979
    @seratbushcraft6979Ай бұрын

    Check out the grayl filters

  • @CJoy076
    @CJoy0762 ай бұрын

    Thanks so much, I loved your video of the hike and hope to do it in the next few years.

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you! That sounds amazing, hopefully you have great weather and an unreal time out there 👏🏼🥾

  • @user-te2hu8zb8s
    @user-te2hu8zb8s2 ай бұрын

    your videos are fantastic. many thanks

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you! So glad you enjoyed it ❤️

  • @duffynorris-bailey854
    @duffynorris-bailey8542 ай бұрын

    Great content. These follow ups after hikes are helpful 👍

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you! 🙌🏼

  • @keithfalcao1844
    @keithfalcao18442 ай бұрын

    Thanks Laura , you’ve inspired me

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you ☺️ hope you have the best time out there!

  • @jessdavis2926
    @jessdavis29262 ай бұрын

    Thanks heaps for this video! Answered a lot of questions I had.

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    No worries, so glad you found it helpful! 🙌🏼

  • @ilyiza1
    @ilyiza12 ай бұрын

    This video was absolutely amazing! So much information in one video, great job, thanks so much!

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you, so glad you enjoyed it 💛

  • @Hapi2bpba
    @Hapi2bpba2 ай бұрын

    Thanks

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you!! ❤️😊

  • @elisesmith3596
    @elisesmith35962 ай бұрын

    You have no idea how excited I was when I saw this! I’m super keen to do this hike! Probably just the Victorian stretch though

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Aw hope it answered some of the big questions for you! Unfortunately our Aussie hikes can be a bit limited on information sometimes but it’s an amazing trail and the VIC section has some incredible views! Have the best time out there 🙌🏼💛

  • @ChrisNash-kf5kc
    @ChrisNash-kf5kcАй бұрын

    Another wonderful video! Any idea what ran past (in the background) around the 13:30 mark?!

  • @kategiles7503
    @kategiles75032 ай бұрын

    What an awesome adventure 🤩 Check out the Big Agnes Tigerwall UL 2P - it’ sets up like your NF tent but only weighs 1kg and is very roomy for one!

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you and thanks for the recommendation! My current tent has been great for what it is and fitted into the budget I was happy with at the time but I can see so many benefits to making the switch to something lighter! Big Agnes is definitely one I’m considering 🤩🙌🏼

  • @benl4322
    @benl43222 ай бұрын

    Altras + Injinjis FTW! Switched to them last year for half marathons and noticed I wasn't getting blisters anymore 😁

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Such a good combo!! Awesome to hear that you’ve loved them for marathons as well 👏🏼👏🏼

  • @darkangeljas
    @darkangeljasАй бұрын

    Was that a Wallaby hopping across the treeline at 13:35 ? Also, great video!

  • @Resignandreset
    @Resignandreset2 ай бұрын

    Pademelon jumping behind you :D

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    He was so cute! 🥰

  • @grahamalbrey2804
    @grahamalbrey28042 ай бұрын

    Hi Laura, very much enjoy all your videos but this AAWT one is an epic. So with the benefit of hindsight and having had the opportunity to research the subject, do you still think it was "cows" that scared you off your intended campsite that night? From your description I don't think that is the sort of terrain one might expect to find cattle. Perhaps ask the local indigenous elders what they think about it. Love your work girl 🎉.

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you, it really was an amazing adventure for me! In hindsight I would still say that it was cattle that I encountered however I completely agree that it is not typical cattle country and they should not have been there which is what threw me off. I’m sure the local indigenous elders of the area would have very interesting insights and so much knowledge of the land ❤️

  • @chihirosfriend
    @chihirosfriend2 ай бұрын

    Hey Laura! Thanks for the video. Did you start hiking young? Your knowledge is amazing and so inspiring for me as another female starting out!

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you! I’ve been day hiking since I was little but only started multi day hiking last year and have learnt a lot thankfully along the way. So awesome to hear you’re starting out and hope you’re having the best time ❤️

  • @brianclarke1695
    @brianclarke16952 ай бұрын

    Try a white spirit stove, the same volume in fuel will last a lot longer than gas

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for the recommendation! I’ve camped with a few people who use them and I’m not sure the fuel option is right for me (just because it’s not something I’m used to). I find I get a lot longer than the recommendation out of a gas stove but it’s great to try new things so I might have to look into it 😊🙌🏼

  • @brianclarke1695

    @brianclarke1695

    2 ай бұрын

    @LauraWaddellTravel Hi Laura, if your considering a white spirit stove, have a look at the optimus svea, I have used one of the for many years, they are tough, compact and reliable, easier to operate that MSR, use a few chips of a firelighters to preheat the stove. White spirit can be found at most hardware stores. About 100ml of white spirit will last about a week or more, and no bulky gas cannisters to carry and dispose off, safe travels

  • @MisterTMH

    @MisterTMH

    2 ай бұрын

    @@brianclarke1695 I have always used a Trangier/ Methylated spirits stove. I can see how much fuel is left in the One litre bottle.

  • @tangoduck01
    @tangoduck012 ай бұрын

    Thanks very much Laura - super detailed and very informative. Loved the video and the walk - what did the walk cost you in terms of weight - you went very hard and no rest days - did you lose much weight compared to the Bib or Larapinta? Thanks again.

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you and great question! Unfortunately I never weighed myself but it would have been very interesting to know for sure. I’d say from the three the AAWT is definitely the hardest on your body and has the most elevation which would burn through calories fastest. I have a fairly small build to start with so ideally I try to avoid losing weight on trail (:

  • @fabiainski8142
    @fabiainski814223 сағат бұрын

    hello, would you recommend buying a car in australia, even though i am keen on doing a couple of long distance hikes? is it hard to find safe spots to leave your car for the duration of the hike? if you could go back, would you buy a car in aussie again? thanks and all the best, fabian

  • @Alan-Godden
    @Alan-Godden2 ай бұрын

    Well I must say I am really impressed young lady. My daughter is a little older than you. She has trouble tying her shoe laces, lol. I'm ex Army and fairly familiar with the outdoors. I predominantly live outdoors these days. Love your content. Stay safe. Flares are handy for all sorts of situations. 👍

  • @Alan-Godden

    @Alan-Godden

    2 ай бұрын

    Btw take a look at military winter and sumer sleeping bags they are extremely durable and long lasting. Watch for colourful rocks. You'd be surprised how many gemstones you've stepped over.

  • @MisterTMH

    @MisterTMH

    2 ай бұрын

    Wearing Flared trousers won't save your backside in the wilderness if things go properly wrong . ;-P

  • @timmo971
    @timmo9712 ай бұрын

    Ha ha “Moe”. It’s Moeee.

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Haha thank you!! I’ve always said Moe 🤦🏼‍♀️

  • @MisterTMH

    @MisterTMH

    2 ай бұрын

    M O E= Moccasins on Everybody! ;-P

  • @brocky77
    @brocky772 ай бұрын

    Camera equipment?

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    My AAWT hike way just my iPhone as it was logistically easiest to keep charged but have recently been using a gopro on trail since it’s so compact and better quality (:

  • @MultiReinforced
    @MultiReinforced2 ай бұрын

    Can some brands please sponsor Laura

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks legend! I’m learning so much about gear and outdoor brands along the way 😊

  • @MisterTMH

    @MisterTMH

    2 ай бұрын

    @@LauraWaddellTravel One Planet are based in Melbourne and make good stuff in Melbourne. MONT are based in the ACT.EXPED make good stuff too but I think they are Swiss.

  • @robertwaddell7532
    @robertwaddell75322 ай бұрын

    ⛺️. Hello ~ you are so Far away ! What do you do ~ while hiking 🥾 / camping 🏕 in an Emergency situation for fire 🔥. ?? Hope you carry ~~~ flint & steel & Fat wood ~~~ for making a fire 🔥 ! It could bee a. Life saver ! ☀️🌻☕️

  • @LauraWaddellTravel

    @LauraWaddellTravel

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for the question! A lot of the AAWT is fairly remote so I carry a first aid kit and PLB as well as my phone in case of emergency situations. As the trail walks through a number of national parks some areas have restrictions about having fires but there are some great spots as well 🔥