A rogaining we will go ... an easy guide to packing for novices.

I recently participated in the 6 Hour Rogaine held by the Victorian Rogaining Association as part of the Victorian Championships. I always like to be well-prepared for outdoor events, and my initial packing list was not too bad, but I was able to do a little but of 'tweaking' after the experience to improve it. I offer the latest version below in case it is of assistance to anyone else.

Packing list for 6 Hour Rogaine

Clothing:

• Cap or wide-brimmed hat 
• Shell jacket (or rain poncho). 
• Overpants 
• Layers depending on weather e.g., 
• *singlet/camisole 
• *T-shirt/polo short with collar (short or long-sleeved) 
• Polar fleece top/other warm jacket 
• Durable trousers 
• Compression tights for legs 
• Socks - woollen blend 
• Hiking boots (waterproof depending on weather) 
• Gaiters (depending on weather/conditions) 
• Change of clothes (for afterwards) in a second bag to leave in the car. 

Equipment:

• Compass 
• Map holder case 
• Pencil/pen 
• Notepaper 
• Reading glasses if needed 
• Sunglasses 
• Sunscreen 
• First aid kit 
• Analgesia 
• Antiseptic hand gel 
• Hairbrush/comb/elastics (if needed) 
• Whistle 
• Telephone 
• ?Emergency GPS (leave inside bag unless needed to transmit coordinates in an emergency). 
• Torch 
• Velcro ties to attach jackets etc. to outside of pack. 
• Small amount of money and ID. 

Food and water:

• Adequate water - bottles or Camel-Bak type bladder. 
• Lunch if not supplied. 
• Thermos for hot drink of preference 
• Muesli bars/dried fruit/nuts 
• Fresh fruit if preferred. 
• Chocolate bars (if normal personal practice). 

For afterwards:

• Folding chair 
• Plate/bowl/cup/cutlery/tea towel/serviette