Backpacks and Climbing Harnesses

Backpacks

For multi-day alpine style trips your backpack should be 55-65 litres capacity. This is large enough to carry all your equipment, plus your share of the team's food and gear.

Your backpack needs:

• External carrying straps for ice axe, ice hammer, and crampons
• Compression straps
• An extendable lid

Bushwalking/tramping packs may not be suitable if they lack external attachment points.

You will NOT require a small day-pack in the mountains.

Harnesses

Your climbing harness should be lightweight with adjustable leg loops. Avoid heavily padded models specifically for rock climbing (especially with fixed leg loops).

Your harness needs to fit when you are wearing your storm gear (jacket and over-trousers). Choose a harness with plenty of gear loops.

Pre-trip Information

The details to help you prepare for your Alpine Guides mountain adventure.

Topics Include:

• Fitness for mountaineering ›
• Aircraft Use ›
• Walking out of the mountains ›
• Travel and Transport to Mt Cook ›

How "hard" will the course be?

Are you ready? How does Mt Cook compare to Mount Aspiring? Read about Trip Difficulty ›