Gear List - Discovering Lord Howe Island

For an unforgettable holiday adventure to a seemingly lost part of the world, it’s hard to go past the peace and tranquillity of Lord Howe Island. Renowned for its incredible natural beauty and relaxed island vibe, it is a hidden jewel in the Tasman Sea, some two hours off the eastern coastline of Australia. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve compiled a gear list to ensure you are well equipped for a journey to this amazing destination.

The Island

Lord Howe Island is a tiny, remote island off the east coast of Australia in the Tasman Sea. It is a volcanic remnant, 11 kilometres long and 2.8 kilometres wide, with just 300 permanent residents to call it home, and only 400 visitors allowed to join them at any one time. An unspoiled eco-wonderland, it has sparkling clear waters, white sandy beaches and lush green rainforests to maintain the abundance of tropical marine life and bird life that can be found there. In 1982 it was World Heritage listed for its natural ecological significance. For a more in-depth look at what Lord Howe Island has to offer, check out our Journey To The Lost World – Lord Howe Island.

The Activities

There is much to do on the island, with most activities connecting participants to the natural surroundings, or diversity of flora and fauna. Hiking and trail walking are exceptional, as are the water sports on offer. Snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking and paddle boarding take you into the epic underwater world, while surfing, fishing and kite-surfing will get the adrenaline pumping. The main form of transport on Lord Howe Island is cycling, there are plenty of dining options, you can visit a day spa for some relaxation and indulgence, and the local museum offers an insight into the rich history of the island.

The Gear

The climate on Lord Howe Island is humid sub-tropical, so having the right gear for this weather will go a long way to helping you enjoy your stay. Rainfall is typically heavier in summer, winds are frequent and salt-laden, and temperatures reach around 25°C in summer (average high) and drop to about 13°C in the colder months (average minimum). Depending on what activities you choose to do, you’ll also need clothing and equipment to suit.

Personal Gear Checklist

Check out our gear list below for advice on what Mountain Designs gear will best equip you for your Lord Howe Island adventure:

Clothing & Footwear

• Long sleeve hiking shirt (ideally quick dry)
  Shop Men’s – Hancock Long Sleeve Shirt
  Shop Women’s – Florentine Long Sleeve Shirt

• T-Shirt
  Shop Men’s & Women’s – Heritage Tees
  Shop Men's & Women's - Banksia Tees

• Hiking shorts/pants (ideally quick dry)
  Shop Men’s – Stirling Cargo Pant, Convertible Pant, or Short
  Shop Women’s – Bellarine Cargo Pant, Convertible Pant, or Short

• Wicking underwear
• Rain jacket
  Shop Men’s – Wallaman Hooded Rain Jacket
  Shop Women’s – Ellenborough Hooded Rain Jacket

• Socks
• Neck gaiter
• Hiking boots/shoes
  Shop Men’s – Hiking Boots & Shoes
  Shop Women’s – Hiking Boots & Shoes

• Walking shoes
• Sandals
  Shop Men’s – Sandals
  Shop Women’s – Sandals  

• Swimwear
• Evening clothes
• Sleepwear
• Gaiters
• Sun hat
  Shop Deni Wide-Brim Sun Hat

If it’s cold, add in…

• Fleece or down jacket
  Shop Men’s – Advance 600 Down Jacket
  Shop Women’s – Ascend 600 Down Jacket

• Fleece pants

Personal Items

• Toiletry bag
  Shop Short Haul Toiletry Bag

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Cosmetics
• Brush or comb
• Lip balm with SPF
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Hand sanitiser
• Basic first-aid kit
• Travel towel
• Sunglasses

Hiking Essentials

• Map & compass
  Shop Suunto M-3 Global Compass
  Shop Garmin eTrex® 10 Handheld GPS

• Headlamp with spare batteries
  Shop Black Diamond Storm 375 Headlamp

• Waterproof matches or lighter
• Waterproof container
• Multi-tool or pocket knife
• Snacks
• Whistle & signalling mirror
• Water bottles
  Shop Flip 1000 Bottle

Other Gear

• Binoculars
• Camera, case & charger
• Trekking poles
  Shop Tread Pro Trekking Poles

• Mobile phone or PLB
• Watch with altimeter
  Shop Suunto Core Watch

• Route description or guide book

Documents

• Trip itinerary

Packs & Bags

• Roller bag or travel pack
  Shop Voyager 60L Roller Bag

• Day pack
  Shop Escape Multi 30L Day Pack
  Shop Escape Hike 30L Day Pack

• Dry bag (for wet/soiled clothes)
  Shop Sea to Summit Dry Bags

• Luggage locks
• Luggage tags
• Pack rain cover

Download/Print Gear List

Note: Download/print off this gear list and check it off as you pack. However, this gear list should be used as a guide only and is not exhaustive. It is important you do your own research based on your chosen destination, planned activities, weather conditions, time of year and experience.