What to Pack for a 3-Day Hunting Hike: Essential Gear and Tips

A 3-day hunting hike in Australia’s wild bush—whether you’re chasing sambar in Victoria’s High Country, pigs in Queensland’s scrub, or rabbits in WA’s Wheatbelt—demands smart packing. The right gear means safety, comfort, and more success in the field. This guide breaks down everything Aussie hunters need for a ripper trip, from shelter and clothing to tools, safety, and state regs. Grab your pack and check out Venture Hunting for quality gear that'll make your adventure a cracker.

Hunting gear and equipment laid out

Why Smart Packing Matters

Whether you’re slogging through the Riverina or camped in Tassie’s rainforests, packing smart makes or breaks your trip.

  • Comfort: Keep your load under 20kg to avoid fatigue on long treks.
  • Safety: Pack emergency essentials like a PLB and first aid.
  • Preparedness: Weatherproof your gear to handle rain, heat, or wind.

Core Gear for a 3-Day Hunt

A solid pack covers all your bases. Stick to 15–20kg, prioritising survival, hunting, and comfort.

Shelter & Sleeping

  • Tent or Bivy: Lightweight tent (1–2kg) or bivvy sack for solo missions. Use a ground cloth or polycro sheet to protect the base.
  • Sleeping Bag: 0°C down bag for Tassie; synthetic for wet climates. Pair with a sleeping pad and liner for warmth and comfort.
Bush camp setup with tent

Navigation

  • Garmin GPS: Models like the GPSMAP 66i or inReach Mini offer offline maps, waypoints, and SOS capability. Essential for the outback or remote bush.
  • Backup Tools: Map, compass, and headlamp or PLB.
Hunter using Garmin GPS in bush

Clothing & Footwear

  • Layering: Merino base, fleece mid, waterproof shell. Add a down jacket for cold nights.
  • Boots & Socks: Waterproof, well-broken-in boots, 2–3 pairs of wool socks. Gaiters keep muck out.
  • Extras: Gloves, beanie, 2x undies, camo suited to your terrain (e.g. eucalyptus tones for bushland).

Cooking & Water

  • Food: Freeze-dried meals (Back Country Cuisine), nuts, bars—aim for 2–3kg total.
  • Stove: Jetboil or similar compact cooker with fuel canisters.
  • Water: 2L hydration bladder, Sawyer Squeeze filter, and optional backup tablets.

Hunting Tools

  • Weapon: Rifle (.308, around 3–4kg) or bow. Carry safely with scabbard or case.
  • Multi-tool & Knife: For game prep and camp tasks.

Essential Extras

  • First aid kit, fire starter, headlamp with spare batteries.
  • Dry bags for clothing and electronics, and a compact emergency shelter like a tarp or space blanket.

How to Pack for Maximum Efficiency

  • Weight Distribution: Heavier items close to your spine, lighter items at the top.
  • Quick Access: GPS, snacks, and water in hipbelt or side pockets.
  • Group Strategy: Share tent or stove with a mate to cut down on weight.
  • Dry Bag Organisation: Separate food, clothes, and tools into colour-coded or labelled bags.
  • Daypack: Consider a 10–20L daypack for short off-track missions.
Laid out hunting and camping gear

Clothing Tips by Terrain

  • Mountains (e.g. Vic Alps): Trekking poles, stiff-soled boots, warm layers.
  • Bush (e.g. QLD scrub): Lightweight clothes, breathable boots, insect protection.
  • Plains (e.g. SA outback): Wide-brim hat, sun sleeves, hydration focus.

Staying Safe & Comfortable

  • PLB or inReach: Vital for remote locations—don’t head out without one.
  • Blister Prevention: Use foot powder, wear good socks, and carry blister pads.
  • Camp Setup: Pitch away from riverbeds, use a ground mat inside tent for comfort.
  • Dry Gear: Use a pack cover and store sleeping gear in waterproof sacks.
  • Food Safety: Hang or store food 100m from camp in dry bags or canisters.
  • Energy Management: Eat every 2–3 hours and drink 2–3L water per day.

State Laws: Firearms & Knives

State Regulations for Firearms/Knives on Multi-Day Hunts
NSW Firearms require licence; knives unrestricted but must be securely carried.
Victoria Firearms licence mandatory; knives must be sheathed and visible.
Queensland Firearms need PTA; knives unrestricted, but store safely.
South Australia Firearms licence required; knives unrestricted, secure storage recommended.
Western Australia Firearms require licence and police notice for remote hunts; knives unrestricted.
Northern Territory Permit for firearms; knives unrestricted, safe carry expected.
Tasmania Firearms need licence; knives sheathed and secured.
ACT Firearms require permit and strict storage; knives unrestricted but safely stored.

Note: Check your local police or DPI site for the latest regulations.

Before You Leave: Final Checklist

  • Test your gear: tent, stove, Garmin, and boots.
  • Pack for the weather: extra insulation or sun protection as needed.
  • Share your route: let a mate know your plan and camp spots.
  • Emergency contacts: Know your nearest ranger station and carry a PLB.
  • Pack weight: Keep it between 15–18kg if possible for mobility and comfort.

Wrap Up

Whether you’re chasing pigs in Queensland or stalking deer in Tassie, a successful 3-day hunting hike comes down to preparation. Light, weatherproof gear, solid safety tools, and smart packing strategies give you the edge in Australia’s unpredictable outdoors. For the best kit to load up your pack, hit up Venture Hunting—your one-stop spot for serious outdoor gear built for Aussie conditions.

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