Packing for your Bronze Duke of Ed

Embarking on your Bronze Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award Expedition is an exciting challenge! But before you set off on your adventure, it's crucial to pack wisely. Carrying the right gear will make your journey more comfortable and help you complete the expedition successfully. This guide will take you through all the essentials you need to bring, with recommendations for gear specific to NZ conditions. 

1. The Right Pack

Consider a pack designed for youth, like the Akela from Tatonka, or a smaller fitting women's pack for a lighter-framed young person. Make sure to pack a rain cover, because New Zealand. 

2. Clothing Essentials

For the hike:

• Thermal Baselayer – Quick-drying, breathable top and bottoms 
• Walking boots – Sturdy, waterproof, and well broken-in
• Walking socks – Avoid blisters by bringing moisture-wicking socks, alternatively, waterproof socks can be a real game-changer! 
  
• Mid-layer – Lightweight fleece or jumper
• Packable waterproof jacket and trousers – Essential for rain protection
• Walking trousers – Think lightweight, quick-dry materials. Not jeans! 
• Beanie and gloves – Weather-dependent, but useful for cold mornings. 
• Puffer Jacket - For sudden temperature drops
• Sunhat - for UV protection 

Spare Clothing (Packed in a Waterproof Bag):

• Extra base layer
• Spare socks and underwear
• Extra mid-layer (fleece or jumper)
• Comfortable dry clothes for camp

3. Sleeping and Camping Gear

• The best tent (split the parts to share the weight between your team)
• Sleeping bag (3 or 4 season)
• Sleeping bag liner 
• Sleeping mat (for insulation and comfort)
• Lightweight pillow, or just a pillowcase with rolled-up clothes for head support

4. Cooking and Food

• Lightweight camping stove 
• Fuel 
• Lighter/matches (waterproof if possible)
• Cooking pot/pan
• Cutlery (spork is a great option!)
• Food: High-energy meals such as pasta, rice, instant porridge, nuts, and chocolate bars
• Water bottle with instant filter (at least 2L total capacity)

5. Navigation and Safety

• Map (provided by leader) and compass
• Whistle (for emergency signalling)
• Rechargeable head torch
• Lantern for camp  
• First aid kit (blister plasters, bandages, pain relief, antiseptic wipes)
• Emergency contact details and DofE card

6. Personal Hygiene and Extras

• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Toiletries (biodegradable soap, toothbrush, small towel)
• Toilet paper and trowel (if no toilets are available)
• Plastic bags (for rubbish and wet clothes)
• Notebook and pen (for expedition notes)
• Chocolate (you’ll thank us later) 

Packing Tips:

• ✔ Keep everything lightweight – Only bring what you truly need 
• ✔ Waterproof everything – Use dry bags or plastic bags inside your rucksack 
• ✔ Distribute group kit fairly – Share the load with your teammates 
• ✔ Test your gear beforehand – Avoid surprises by making sure everything works and you know how to set up the tent. 
• ✔ Pack smartly – Keep frequently used items easily accessible
• ✔ Break in boots prior - They need to be comfortable before you set out. 

Final Thoughts

Packing well for your Bronze Duke of Ed Expedition can make all the difference between an enjoyable trip and a tough one. Get your gear together early so you can start training with your pack with everything you plan on taking. Local practice hikes will help train and condition you for the challenge ahead.

Most importantly – enjoy the adventure!

Good luck, happy hiking, and good luck with your Duke of Ed award! 🏕️🥾