Overland Track Packing, Gear & Preparation Guide
Step-by-Step Planning, What to Pack & How to Prepare
Planning to hike the Overland Track? The key to a successful and enjoyable experience is getting the order of your planning right—from permits and transport to packing the right gear.
This guide walks you through exactly what to do first, what to book next, and what to pack, so nothing gets missed.
✅ Step 1: Book Your Overland Track Pass
Before anything else, you must secure your official Overland Track permit through
Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service.
👉 [BOOK YOUR OVERLAND TRACK PASS]
Important:
Required during peak season (Oct–May)
Strict daily walker limits
Book as early as possible
Without this, you cannot hike the track.
🗓 Step 2: Lock In Time Off Work
Once your permit is confirmed:
Request leave (allow 6–8 days total)
Include buffer days for travel and weather
The hike typically takes 5–6 days, but flexibility is important in Tasmania.
✈️ Step 3: Book Flights Early
Flights to Tasmania (via Launceston or Hobart) can vary significantly in price.
Tips to save money:
Book flights early
Travel mid-week where possible
Align flights with your hike dates
“Check Virgin Blue flights to Launceston here for your dates”
🏨 Step 4: Book Accommodation
You’ll likely need accommodation before and/or after your hike.
Popular Options:
Launceston – best for northern access -10% discount at Penny Royal for anyone travelling with Wild Island Adventures
Hobart – great for extended travel
Cradle Mountain – ideal pre-hike stay
Recommended Plan:
Stay the night before your hike
Book a recovery night after finishing
🚐 Step 5: Book Your Overland Track Transport with Wild Island Adventures
Transport is one of the most critical (and overlooked) parts of planning.
Because the track is one-way:
Start: Cradle Mountain
Finish: Lake St Clair
👉 [BOOK OVERLAND TRACK TRANSFER PACKAGE]
Why book early?
Limited seats during peak season
Aligns with your walking start date
Ensures stress-free logistics
Book Ferry From Echo Point to Lake St Clair
Many Hikers choose to catch the ferry from Echo Point to Lake St Clair visitor centre to meet the shuttle bus. Be sure to book in advance and even better….. Leave the hard work to us and allow the team at Wild Island Adventures to book the ferry for you. Simply send an email through upon booking and we will take care of the rest.
🎒 Step 7: Hire Gear (If Needed)
If you don’t own all required equipment, hiring is a great option.
Book in advance to secure all the hiking gear you will need for hire to ensure you are covered :)
🌦 Weather & Conditions
Tasmania is known for unpredictable weather.
Expect:
Rain anytime
Cold nights
Wind exposure
Preparation is critical for safety.
🥾 Footwear Guide
Choose:
Waterproof hiking boots
Strong grip
Broken-in footwear
Avoid:
New boots
Non-waterproof shoes
⚖️ Pack Weight Tips
Keep your pack:
Under 15–18 kg
Reduce weight by:
Sharing gear
Packing only essentials
Choosing lightweight equipment
🧠 Preparation Tips
Fitness
Train with a loaded pack
Practice long walks
Planning
Confirm bookings
Double-check transport
Review weather forecasts
Safety
Tell someone your itinerary
Carry emergency communication
🔁 After the Hike: Plan Your Exit
Finishing at Lake St Clair requires planning your next step.
Most hikers:
👉 [BOOK YOUR RETURN TRANSFER]