Kokoda help

I stumbled across this forum about 8 months ago when I was preparing to do the Kokoda Track.
In general I was struggling to get information or advice and I don't like asking too many questions. I just thought I'd put a few things down which might help someone else with questions you have, or things you may not think about.

Clothing - TextLong pants/shorts; I decided to take long shorts (knee length) for walking in and long pants for around camp at night. I was going to buy a pair of the long pants which zip off into shorts. Some in my group did have these but I think I would advise against them. Because the massive amounts of mud & water, it soaks through from the bottom of the pants right up. However if you have shorts & gaiters (I recommend the long gaiters), it makes it much easier to take the gaiters off over your boots, and also the water doesn't soak all the way from top to bottom. Don't get me wrong your pants will get wet, but maybe not as bad.

To help with mosquitos, I would recommend long pants & long sleeved shirt for the evenings around camp. Some nights it was actually quite cool, and the water is freezing cold anyway, so after your "bath" you will probably want some long clothes to put on.

It may sound disgusting, but I managed to survive with 3 pairs of undies & socks and 2 bras along with, one set of "walking clothes" and one set of clothes I kept dry for around camp & sleeping in (although in the tent I normally stripped down to my underwear during the night because it got quite warm with body heat - if only my tent buddy knew!!!)

One more thing regarding shorts, I took a pair of board shorts (which were good because they sort of dried) but make sure you have a zipper or buttons because I had velcro which didnt last very long - with all the stepping, bending & streching, it's not a good feeling when you hear it rip & wondering if the safety pin will hold this time!!!

Shoes - Make sure you have some comfortable shoes to wear around camp. Apparently there is the risk of worms so you shouldn't walk around bare foot, but the first thing you'll want to do is take off your boots (and hope most of your skin doesn't come off with it!!). I took a pair of "crocs" which were ok but sometimes it was a little sore getting my feet in & out when they were tender. At least I could wear them whilst I was washing the rivers & I didn't have to worry about them floating off my feet like "flip flops". You definately want an open style shoe so your feet can get a bit of air to them, but you may also want something that you can wear socks with. This helps when it's a little cold and also helps with the mosquito situation (less skin to worry about putting repellant on).

First Aid Kit/Toilletries - There were some things I didn't need & others I wish I'd taken. If you are going with someone you know it might be best to work together in this regards. I would definately recommend taking some baby powder. I wish I'd thought of it when I'd smell people getting dressed in the morning with fresh smell of powder which would also help dry your skin (because nothing ever really dries once it's wet). As far as bandaids go, without being ridiculous I don't think you can take too many. Make sure you get the fabrics ones because the plastic ones don't hold up too well with moisture & rubbing.
Ummmmmm.... I think that might be all for the moment but if I think of anything else I'll add it.
Sorry I've rambled on so much but I hope this might help someone.

I really hope I haven't scared anyone by what I've said. YOU HAVE TO DO IT!!! It is the best experience and I would recommend it highly.

Thanks for that very practical advice. This is what we need to know - what works and what doesn't. I am planning on doing the track next year, so I have printed your post for future reference.

Again - thanks!

Thanks knieush. Great. I am planning to do the trek in August. Which company did you travel with and would you recommend them?

I can recommend Murray JONES who runs tours to PNG underthe name of Team Kokoda Australia
Web: www.teamkokoda.com.au

TEAM KOKODA QUEENSLAND TKQ EXPEDITION KIT
Contents
1 X 65 – 75 litre fully adjustable well padded top loading backpack – Black Wolf
1 X 2 litre hydration system – without harness (needs to be secured inside the backpack)
1 X ¾ or full length THERMAREST self inflating mattress
1 X 0 – 5 degrees sleeping bag – smallest available
1 X backpack waterproof cover
1 X lightweight non porous durable groundsheet
1 X meal set – consisting plastic plate, plastic cup, knife / fork / spoon set – stainless steel
1 X LED Headlamp – TIKKA style with spare AAA batteries
TOTAL COST FOR TKQ EXPEDITION KIT: $ 685.00 (roughly bc this is 06 pricing)

All the gear that you will need for the Kokoda Expedition
(Except personal gear and other items of a personal nature)

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