Edition 2 James Market News Property Report - Flipbook - Page 22
Making Tracks
What to pack
After years of hiking through some of the world’s most rugged terrain—Everest, Kilimanjaro,
Patagonia, Mont Blanc—I’ve refined my kit to what actually works. Here’s what I took on the
Milford Track, what I wouldn’t hike without, and a few bonus tips to save you from blisters,
snorers, and those bloody sandflies.
On the Track
Walking Boots
I’ve always used Asolo boots (Italian
made). Pricey, but cheap over time—they
last, and I’ve never had an issue.
Base Layer
100% merino wool—from any brand.
Warm, breathable, and crucially: doesn’t
stink after days of use.
Fleece or Jacket
Again, merino. Warm and adaptable.
Waterproof Raincoat
I use a Mont jacket—100% windproof.
Used this exact one on Everest,
Kilimanjaro, Mont Blanc, Patagonia
… and now Milford.
Mid and Upper Layers
Long-sleeved: merino wool,
polypropylene, or thermal.
T-shirt: merino (always avoid cotton).
Sunhat
Lightweight, fits under the hood of my
Mont jacket.
Beanie/Wool Hat
Rarely need one below 3000m, but good
to have.
Warm Gloves
Always pack some. I rotate brands, but
they’re essential.
Shorts/Trousers
Love Lululemon trackies/shorts: smart,
quick-dry, comfy.
Swimwear & Lightweight Towel
A cold plunge = instant body reset.
Invigorating and addictive.
Hiking Socks
Merino wool like Icebreakers.
I always wear two pairs—massively
reduces blister risk.
Spare Laces
Always carry a pair.
Gear & Accessories
Lip balm, Sunscreen, Insect repellent
Those sandflies on the last day—still itchy.
Also pack: earplugs (for snorers) and a
mouthguard (so I don’t snore).
Water Bottle
Any bottle works.
I don’t like hydration bladders—too fiddly.
Strapping Tape
Always handy.
Headtorch
Even if not hiking at night—you’ll want it
for midnight toilet runs.
Walking Poles
I swear by Leki aluminium poles—tough,
reliable, and don’t snap like carbon ones.
Waterproof Over Trousers
I usually hike in shorts, gaiters, and my
Mont jacket, but in heavy snow/rain I’ll go
for comfy overtrousers like Patagonia.
Gaiters
I use Sea to Summit (the taller ones), but
ankle gaiters would’ve done on Milford.
Reusable Lunchbox
Yep again.
Backpack
30–40L lightweight so you can carry it
on a plane. I love Osprey or Alpine Low—
super comfy, well-built.
Passport & Documents
In a waterproof pouch/jacket.
AirTag
Handy to keep tabs on your gear.
Down Jacket (Optional)
I carry one sometimes (Mont)—didn’t
need it here.
In the Lodge
Shirt or Long-Sleeved Top
Merino or poly. Can double as hiking gear.
Sweater/Jersey
Again, merino. Functional and warm.
Lightweight Trousers
Good for lounging or hiking if your main
gear is wet.
Lightweight Shoes
With hard soles—your feet will love the
break from boots.
Nightwear
I use cheap merino PJs from Snowgum—
simple and perfect.
Toiletries
Just the basics.
Phone & Charger
You won’t have coverage, but it’s still
useful for pics and journaling.
Underwear
Quick-dry, hiking-specific.
Cards
Great for group downtime.
Chocolate
Non-negotiable.
I still took too much gear and I had to
carry the bloody extra weight.
