There’s something pretty special about carryhing everything you need on your back and heading out into the bush for a night or two. Overnight hiking, or pack-carry hiking, can feel like a big step up from day walks, but it’s more accessible than most people think.
And here in Victoria, you’re spoilt for choice: well-marked tracks, stunning landscapes, and campsites that make easing into it all the more inviting.
If you’re new to it, the key is simple: start small and keep it manageable.
1. Start Smart: Pick the Right Track
You don’t need to dive straight into the deep end. Skip the multi-day challenges for now and choose a shorter, well-established hike with clear signage and reliable water.
Great beginner-friendly options include:
- Beeripmo Walk, Mount Cole State Forest
- Burchell Trail, Brisbane Ranges
- Mount Feathertop, Alpine National Park
- Wilson’s Prom Southern Circuit
Aim for 8–12 km per day; a sweet spot that feels achievable even with a heavier pack.
2. Pack Light, Pack Right
Overpacking is the classic beginner mistake. You don’t need to prepare for every possible scenario.
Stick to the essentials:
- Shelter (tent or bivvy)
- Warm sleeping bag (yes, even in summer)
- Sleeping mat
- Food + water
- Stove
- Weather-appropriate clothing. Victoria’s weather can turn quickly, so a rain jacket is non-negotiable.
See our blog post on what to pack for an overnight hike, including our handy PDF checklist.
3. Keep Food Simple (But Satisfying)
Food doesn’t need to be fancy—it just needs to be practical.
Think:
- Dehydrated meals
- Instant oats
- Wraps
- Trail mix and snacks
Lightweight, easy to prepare, and minimal clean-up is the goal. And don’t underestimate your appetite. You’ll burn more energy than you expect.
Check out our blog post on meal planning for overnight hikes.
4. Water: Plan Ahead, Stay Safe
Water is critical, especially in drier parts of Victoria.
- Check conditions before you go
- Don’t rely on creeks always flowing
- Carry enough for your needs
- Bring a filter or purification tablets if you plan to refill
Running out of water is one mistake you don’t want to make.
5. Don’t Rely on Your Phone
Navigation is a skill worth having.
Even on popular tracks:
- Carry a physical map. A paper map doesn’t rely on a battery or signal and shows the full landscape—tracks, contours, and key landmarks.
- Know how to read it. Basic map skills like understanding contour lines and scale help you stay oriented and notice when you’re drifting off course.
- Use apps as a backup—not your only plan. Digital maps are useful, but download offline versions and treat them as support rather than your primary tool.
Battery and reception can fail faster than you think.
6. Slow Down & Enjoy It
One thing that surprises most first-timers? The pace.
With a full pack, you’ll move more slowly, and that’s part of the experience.
Build in time for:
- Breaks
- Taking in the views
- Setting up camp before dark
There’s no rush. That’s the whole point.
7. Camp the Right Way
Good campsite habits make a big difference—for you and everyone else.
- Stick to established campsites
- Follow Leave No Trace principles
- Keep noise low
- Pack out all rubbish
- Respect the environment
Simple, but important.
8. Expect the Unexpected
Things might not go perfectly, and that’s okay.
Maybe:
- Your pack feels heavier than expected
- Your dinner is a bit average
- You forgot something small
- Weather and trail conditions were not as you expected
That’s all part of the learning curve. Every trip teaches you something new, and before long, you’ll find your rhythm.
Why It's Worth It!
Overnight hiking isn’t about having perfect gear or being the fittest person on the trail.
It’s about:
- Slowing down
- Embracing a little discomfort
- Waking up in the bush
…and feeling that quiet sense of satisfaction that’s hard to beat.
Disclaimer: This blog may feature a combination of photography and AI-generated imagery used for illustrative purposes.