🏔️ This one piece of ESSENTIAL GEAR comes with me on each and every trip!

Fun Fact: Tasmania features over 4,000 lakes, including Great Lake, the largest permanent natural freshwater lake in Australia, and Lake St. Clair at an altitude of 737 meters (2,417feet) is the deepest lake in Australia at 167 meters (548 feet). Many lakes were formed by glaciation, creating basins from bedrock troughs, and they are vital for ecosystems and recreation.

In today's email

• Welcome Back

• Why you need a pack liner

• How the perfect wave is formed

👇 Watch: Last week’s video

WELCOME BACK

Hey there! After a bit of a break, we're back in action. I've been chatting about this for a while, and now it's finally happening – our newsletter is going weekly! Some editions might be short and sweet, while others could be a bit more in-depth. My goal is to pack each one with useful tips, travel stories, and intriguing tidbits I come across. If you're new, welcome aboard! And for those who've been patiently waiting, thanks for sticking around – it's great to be back!

WHY YOU NEED A PACK LINER

Why Dry Gear Matters When Hiking in Wet Weather

Hiking in the rain can be tough and uncomfortable. Wet gear can lead to all sorts of problems, from soggy clothes to wet sleeping bags. That’s where a pack liner comes in handy. This one piece of essential gear comes with me on each and every trip. A pack liner is a waterproof barrier that fits inside your backpack, keeping your stuff dry even in heavy rain or when crossing rivers. Take the Overland Track in Tasmania, for example. I was hiking down the Overland again recently in the middle of winter and was reminded all too well why a pack liner is important. Known for its wet weather, this track provided a perfect reminder of why keeping your gear dry is so important. Understanding the value of pack liners can make your hiking trips much more enjoyable and keep you ready for any weather.

What’s a Pack Liner and How Does It Work?

A pack liner is a waterproof bag that goes inside your backpack, adding an extra layer of protection against moisture. Unlike pack covers that only protect the outside, pack liners keep water from getting into the gear inside your pack. They’re usually made from materials like nylon or polyethylene, which are lightweight but great at keeping water out. These materials create a seal that blocks moisture while still letting you easily access your gear. When choosing a pack liner, go for one that’s a bit bigger than your backpack to ensure a good seal and enough room for all your stuff.

Why Use a Pack Liner for Wet Weather Hiking?

Using a pack liner has several perks for hikers dealing with wet conditions:

• Reliable Protection: They keep your essentials, like electronics, safe even in heavy rain or river crossings.

• Lightweight and Compact: Pack liners are easier to carry and store compared to bulky dry bags or covers.

• Versatile: They protect all kinds of gear in your backpack without necessarily needing separate dry bags for each item (Although I always store my sleeping bag and clothing in separate dry bags).

• Cost-Effective: One good pack liner is often cheaper than buying heaps of separate dry bags. Plus a good pack liner will last you for years.

• Easy to Use: They allow quick access to your gear without dealing with multiple closures or compartments.

How to Pick the Right Pack Liner

When choosing a pack liner, consider these factors:

• Size: Make sure it fits well in your backpack; a slightly larger size can help with sealing. for my 65 and 70 Litre packs, I use a 90L dry bag. That way i have heaps of space and can really get a good rolltop closure on the liner.

• Material: Look for durable options like nylon or polyethylene that offer good waterproofing without being too heavy. But, if you’re on a budget you can purchase thick plastic pack liners or use a thick plastic bag.

• Durability: Check how well the material holds up over time. Budget options like rubbish and trash compactor bags can work but might not last as long as purpose-built liners.

• Weight: Lightweight options may be better for long hikes where every gram matters.

Different types of pack liners include trash compactor bags (affordable but less durable), purpose-built liners (more reliable), and dry bags (better for organization). Each has its pros and cons depending on your hiking needs.

How to Use a Pack Liner Effectively

To get the most out of your pack liner:

1. Line your backpack with the pack liner before packing anything.

2. Organise your gear inside the liner by grouping similar items together for easy access. I recently did a video on how I pack my pack which you can see here.

3. Seal the top by rolling it down several times and securing it—this creates an airtight barrier against moisture. If you are using plastic options, roll it down and try to get the roll tucked in on the section of the pack that will be against your back, that way it shouldn’t open up.

4. Place frequently used items at the top of the liner for easy access without unpacking everything.

These tips will help you stay organised and keep your gear dry in wet weather.

Alternatives to Pack Liners

While pack liners are definitely my preferred water proofing option, there are other options:

Pack Covers: These protect the outside but might not keep water out completely in heavy rain. While I did used to use pack covers, I haven’t for years. I found they would always come off and were pretty useless. Even if I did use a pack cover, I think a liner is still mandatory.

Individual Dry Bags: Good for organising specific items but can add bulk if you use too many. I still do use these within my pack liner to keep things organised. Lightweight dyneema options these days do make these much lighter. I use a variety but recently discovered some from the Australian company Ultralight Hiker, which I absolutely love.

Waterproof Backpacks: These offer built-in protection but might not be as versatile as using a pack liner. Even though I do use a Hyperlite Porter backpack, I still do use a pack liner with it.

Each alternative has its place depending on your preferences for weight and organisation. Personally, I will always use a liner no matter how waterproof a pack claims to be.

Taking Care of Your Pack Liner

To make your pack liner last:

• Clean it after each use by rinsing off dirt and letting it air dry completely to prevent mold.

• Store it away from direct sunlight to avoid material degradation.

• Repair small tears with adhesive patches like ‘Tenacious Tape’ designed for outdoor fabrics.

• Replace it when it shows significant wear to ensure it stays waterproof.

By following these care tips, you’ll keep your pack liner in top shape for many adventures to come.

Conclusion

In summary, a quality pack liner can greatly improve your hiking experience in unpredictable weather. Keeping your gear dry allows you to enjoy your hike more, no matter the conditions. So, next time you plan an adventure - especially here in Tasmania where we often see four seasons in one day - make sure to include a pack liner in your gear list. Happy hiking!