SMALL CHANGES TO HELP MAKE A BIG IMPACT ON OUR PLANET
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY FOR A SPRING SHOWING
THE BEST TINY HOUSES FOR YOUR WEEKEND GETAWAY
A stunning, fully renovated, four- bedroom, 205 square meter home that offers the perfect combination of modern sophistication and comfortable living on a huge 989 square meter parcel of private land. The outside of the home is just as impressive, with a selfmaintaining pool that’s gas heated and surrounded by travertine pavers. Whether you want to take a dip in the pool or relax in the irrigated landscaped gardens, this home has everything you need to enjoy the great outdoors.
Sold Autumn 2023
1 Boronia Drive, O’connor
Jessica
CREATIVE
Jessica
CONTRIBUTORS
Amy
Belinda
COVER
Murphstone
Welcome
Welcome to the Spring 2024 issue of the Inspired Living Magazine. Brought to our community by Blackshaw to showcase and provide readers with the current trends and topics related to homes, from the nation’s capital to the south coast region of Batemans Bay.
Inspired Living is all about discovering possibilities. Being inspired in life and in your home, and gaining insights into local causes and topics that matter. Providing our readers with a unique perspective from property enthusiasts and local talents. We are always on the lookout to showcase collections from local designers, artists and more.
Our Spring issue is brimming with ideas and inspiration to elevate your home and lifestyle this season. Discover the art of tastefully incorporating vintage and antique pieces into your decor, adding character and charm to your space. Learn about small changes you can implement that make a big impact on our planet, and If you’re planning some family adventures, we share exciting road trip options that promise fun and lasting memories for everyone. For landlords, we provide essential tips on how to prepare your rental property for a spring showing, ensuring it captivates prospective tenants. If a cozy getaway is on your horizon, don’t miss our curated list of the best tiny houses that offer the perfect escape. Additionally, we offer ten practical tips for reducing allergens at home. Finally, if you’re eager to explore the great outdoors, our Hiking 101 guide will equip beginners with everything they need to start their own adventures.
Enjoy this complimentary magazine, continue to feel inspired to find endless possibilities to enhance your own living.
Belinda Chamberlain, Corporate Director Blackshaw Real Estate
How to tastefully include vintage and antique pieces in your home
Buying antique and vintage furniture has gained huge popularity in recent years and for good reason. Investing in high-quality, stylish second-hand furniture can add tonnes of character, charm and a sense of history to your home, transforming it into a space that tells a story. However, integrating older pieces into a modern home can be a delicate balance. The aim is to create a look that feels curated and cohesive, not cluttered.
Photography by Dmitrij Paskevic
MAKE A STATEMENT
One of the most effective ways to introduce vintage furniture into your home is by making it the focal point within a room. A timeless, quality item can act as a centrepiece that will attract the eye, while also influencing a style or colour palette across your entire home. To do this well, opt for larger pieces like a vintage sofa or dining table, an antique mirror or chandelier, or a beautifully carved wooden buffet or freestanding wardrobe.
MIX AND MATCH
Open your mind to the idea of mixing and matching furniture from different styles and eras as it can make your home look dynamic and visually interesting. Vintage and antique furniture often comes in a variety of rich materials and textures from wood and metal to fabric, which can add layers and depth to your decor. For example, place a vintage rug or antique side table next to a sleek, contemporary sofa or armchair. The key is to find common elements, such as colour, texture or material that tie the different pieces together. By carefully balancing these pieces with modern elements and respecting their original character, you can create a space that is both timeless and unique.
STAY TRUE
By choosing to buy second-hand furniture, you are not only making a sustainable choice but also preserving its craftsmanship and history. Each piece of antique furniture carries a story and a sense of nostalgia that mass-produced, lower-quality items often lack, so try to honour the authentic design as much as you can, even if you’re restoring a piece back to its original glory. Remember, stripping away any original finishes will remove character and reduce the item’s value. Instead, embrace any imperfections like minor scratches or worn areas.
Photography by Johnny Briggs
Photography by Freddie Martyn
Photography by Denise Jans
ACCESSORISE
If you’re hesitant to invest in large pieces of vintage or antique furniture, then why don’t you try to accessorise with smaller pieces and soft furnishings. Consider items such as a small mirror, a lamp, a mid-century side table, an intricately carved wooden picture frame, or a striking vase. Each piece will add a touch of history and elegance without dominating a room. Any pieces you buy can easily be replaced over time as your taste evolves, making these purchases a low-risk way to experiment with vintage elements in your home.
WHERE TO SHOP
Instead of buying brand-new furniture designed in an antique or vintage style – and often at a hefty price, instead visit your local charity store or look online for bargains, including community marketplaces and auction sites. You might be lucky enough to find items in pristine condition or vintage pieces you can restore. Ultimately, trust your instincts when shopping for second-hand furniture, as it will be more likely to fit into your home in a way that feels natural and authentic. The key is to let your personal style and creativity guide you through the process.
Photography by Lina Castaneda
Photography by Mick Haupt
Small changes to help make a big impact on our planet
Being sustainable and looking after our planet doesn’t have to be difficult or come at a high cost. Here are six things that you can do today that will make a difference to our tomorrow.
Photography by Jonathan Chng
PLANT A GARDEN
With spring finally here and much more inviting weather on the way, now is the ideal time to start growing your own fruits and vegetables. There are many well-known benefits to starting your own garden, from adding value to your home to improving your mental health, but it’s also great for the environment. Put simply, the more produce you grow for yourself, the less you buy, meaning fewer carbon emissions and less environmental impact. Before you grow or plant anything, be sure to do your research to check the food, sun and water requirements. You’ll get the best advice from your local garden store or nursery, or head online for articles, blogs and videos.
BUY LOCAL
If gardening isn’t for you, then the next best way to improve your carbon footprint when it comes to food is to buy locally sourced produce. This is as easy as visiting your local farmers market rather than shopping at a large supermarket chain. In Canberra, you’ll find the Capital Region Farmers Market at Exhibition Park. Expect to find over 100 stalls showcasing the region’s freshest produce including fruit, vegetables, seafood, meat, baked goods, wine, cheese, and more. At the South Coast, the award-winning Sage Farmers Market in Moruya is where you’ll find locally grown and harvested food from the region’s farmers and producers, including fresh meat, fish, vegetables, bread, honey and milk.
Photography by David Clode
Photography by Somi Jaiswal
Photography by Alexander Schimmeck
AVOID FAST FASHION
Did you know the fashion industry is responsible for about 10% of annual global greenhouse gas emissions? Unfortunately, the world’s love of fast fashion comes at the detriment of the environment, so if we want to help the planet and contribute to an ecologically and socially responsible clothing supply chain, then we need to get more life out of our wardrobe. Before you go and buy something new, consider second-hand or vintage clothes, or clothes made from natural fibres, or rent or borrow clothes for special occasions. If you can, repair clothes where possible and always donate old wares to charity to keep the cycle going.
REDUCE ELECTRICITY
There are many ways to be smarter and more sustainable with your household energy in order to help the planet. One of the easiest ways to make a change is by switching off appliances at the wall when they’re not in use, as they will still use energy even if the switch is turned on. Although we can’t completely avoid using electricity, we can make sure our appliances are energy efficient, so opt for electricals and lighting with a high energy efficiency rating, and be smart when using large appliances, such as turning on the cold cycle when washing clothes and drying clothes on the line instead of in the dryer.
Photography by Ethan Bodnar
Photography by Vladimir Mokry
Photography by Artem Beliaikin
SAY NO TO PLASTIC
According to WWF, less than 13% of plastic is recycled in Australia, and while this number is improving slightly year on year, there is still a lot of work to do. While our governments implement new rules around plastic use, we must do our part too. Be sure to avoid single-use plastics including bags, straws, plates, cups, bottles, cling wrap, razors and toothbrushes, and buy long lasting and biodegradable options instead. There are so many sustainable alternatives available at good prices, so there’s no excuse not to do the right thing by the planet.
REUSE AND RECYCLE
We all know that recycling is important for the environment and it couldn’t be easier to do when we have our very own household waste and recycling bins, as well as regular collection services. When it comes to broken electronic items and whitegoods, try to prolong their life by getting them repaired before throwing them away. Some charities, private recyclers and retailers will repair and recycle your items, or sell them for parts, so search for one in your local area. Likewise, some manufacturers of coffee pods, batteries, computers and ink cartridges have their own recycling and trade-in programs.
Photography by Naja Bertolt Jensen
Photography by Phi
Photography by Nareeta Martin
Fun and family friendly road trips to enjoy
This spring break, take your pick from these fun and family friendly road trip destinations, from picturesque national parks, scenic coastal locations, thrilling theme parks and more.
Photography by LesterLost
MURRAMARANG NATIONAL PARK
Spanning 44km of coastline, the Murramarang National Park is home to some of the most beautiful cliffs, headlands and beaches across the South Coast. If you want to immerse yourself in nature this spring, try some or all of the spectacular 3-day Murramarang South Coast Walk, which starts at Pretty Beach and winds its way along the stunning coastline to Maloneys Beach. The national park is full of native wildlife, with peregrine falcons and sea eagles a common sight, so don’t forget your binoculars! If you love the water, then head to the ever popular Durras for some swimming at one its beaches, or do some canoeing or kayaking at Durras Lake. If you’re able to stay longer than a day, then the accommodation options here are abundant, with many great caravan sites, campgrounds and holiday cabins to choose from.
TIDBINBILLA NATURE RESERVE
The Namadgi National Park spans over 100,000 hectares of bushland and one of its highlights is the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, home to a wildlife sanctuary full of kangaroos, koalas and emus. While you’re here, explore the 17-hectare Eucalyptus Forest, then go for a stroll along the Koala Path or the longer 1.8km Peppermint Trail. Facilities here include an adventure playground, visitors centre, interpretive signage and fantastic views. There’s also a rich Indigenous history to explore, including the Aboriginal rock art at Yankee Hat, as well as the Hanging Rock and Birrigai Rock shelters.
Photography by S Group Official
Photography by Annie Spratt
CORIN FOREST
Also located within the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is the popular Corin Forest Mountain Resort and recreation area, an outdoor adventure playground with loads of space for family fun. This spring, be sure to ride on the 1.2km alpine slide through the Alpine Ash Forest, do the 9km return hike up to the breathtaking Square Rock, then finish with a picnic surrounded by beautiful bushlands. If you can spare another day, then stay the night and set up camp at Woods Reserve just 6km away on Corin Road.
LUNA PARK
The heritage-listed Luna Park amusement site is one of the best places in Sydney for a day of wholesome fun and entertainment, plus its location just next to Sydney Harbour Bridge offers some of the most commanding views in the city. Here you can enjoy a huge range of thrill rides, rollercoasters, sideshow games, and the famous Coney Island with its giant slides and quirky rides. Luna Park and the surrounding area is full of great shopping, hospitality and accommodation options, so you won’t go without whether you’re here for a day or several.
KOSCIUSZKO NATIONAL PARK
Kosciuszko National Park offers endless activities to enjoy on a sunny spring day. From walking up to Australia’s highest peak – Mount Kosciuszko, to mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, cycling, rock climbing, and soaking up the picturesque views on a relaxing picnic. While you’re here, be sure to visit the charming Thredbo Village, enjoy the scenery around Mount Selwyn, Charlotte Pass and Perisher, and stop by the family friendly Lake Crackenback Resort for great food, outdoor activities and accommodation options.
YARRANGOBILLY CAVES
A spot within the Kosciuszko National Park that‘s worth its own mention is the Yarrangobilly Caves site. It’s not only famous for the South Glory Cave, but also its 20m-long, 2.5m-deep thermal pool fed by a natural spring. The pool is heated to 27ºC all year round and overflows into a children’s wading area, so it’s perfect for everyone at any time of year. This spot is also surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush flora – the ideal location to picnic, spot local wildlife or go on a bushwalk.
Photography by Hand Luggage Only
Photography by The Kid Bucket List
Photography by Corin.com
SOUTH COAST LOOKOUTS
If you want to keep your road trip simple this spring with a stunning view, the perfect picnic spot, or a relaxing stroll along the coastline, then look no further than these breathtaking South Coast lookout spots.
- North Head: At this great lookout you might just be lucky enough to spot a pod of dolphins or one of the 90 bird species that call the area home.
- Folders Hill: Just a short drive from Batemans Bay, you’ll be spoiled with excellent views of the Clyde River, Batemans Bay town and Budawang Ranges.
- Observation Head: A super scenic lookout above the mouth of the Clyde River with views over to Snapper and Tollgate islands. Its high vista makes it a popular spot to watch the sunrise.
- Melville Point: Located between Tomakin Cove and Barlings Beach, this is a terrific spot to explore rocky platforms, cliffs, caves and rock pools, all which form part of a recognised geological site.
“Try hiking, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, cycling, rock climbing, and soaking up the picturesque views on a relaxing picnic.”
Photography by NSW National Parks
Photography by Visit NSW
Photography by Visit NSW
Photography by Visit NSW
How to prepare your rental property for a spring showing
If you’re looking to sell or let your rental property this spring, then there’s no doubt you want it looking its very best. Here’s how to maximise your home’s appeal for viewings this season.
Photography by Blackshaw
CREATE A FOCAL POINT
Highlight unique architectural features or spaces in your home to create a focal point, which might be a fireplace, a breakfast nook, or a window seat. Whatever it is, some smart styling and decor can help to draw the eye there. Sometimes, there might not be an obvious design or structural feature that you can accentuate, so use furniture, art or accessories to create your own. You could position a stylish armchair in the corner of a room, turning the space into an inviting reading nook, or hang an abstract painting or lean an oversized mirror against a blank, empty wall. These choices will also show potential buyers or tenants what they could do with the space when it’s their own.
LET THERE BE LIGHT
Take advantage of sunny spring days and open curtains, blinds and internal doors, especially on north-facing windows, to let the sunshine stream in. The natural light will help to brighten up dark spaces and make the home feel inviting. If it’s a warm day, open the windows and let the springtime breeze circulate through your rooms. The fresh air will help to remove any stale, musty smells that might be lingering after a long, cold winter. Be sure to turn on every light in the house and light a scented candle or diffuser to make the house feel more like a home.
Photography by Blackshaw
Photography by Ioann Mark
DEFINE SPACES
Planning the spaces in your home can make a big difference in the feel of each room and the home as a whole. In open plan homes use furniture, such as couches, bookcases and dining tables to add definition between different spaces. Small rooms can be made to look larger with the right furniture and proper arrangement, as can the right use of mirrors and natural light. Rugs can be equally effective at defining two spaces, such as positioned under a dining table or in the centre of your lounge room. A rug will also add depth, texture and interest on top of dull or dated carpet, tiles and floorboards.
EMBRACE NATURE
Begin with introducing some vibrant houseplants and colourful springtime blooms in and around your property. This will give your rental an instant facelift and help make the interior feel bright, fresh and homely. If there’s a garden, plant new flowers to add some colour and contrast to your outdoor space. If you have a balcony or patio, add some pots, planters or hanging baskets for extra interest, or introduce new outdoor furniture and accessories to create a stylish and inviting area for spring entertaining.
SOFT FURNISHINGS
One of the cheapest and most effective ways to give your home a springtime look is by introducing new soft furnishings in every room, like bedding, window treatments and accessories. Think colourful or patterned cushion covers, vibrant throw blankets, a statement lamp, a bright vase, or new curtains. Don’t be afraid to layer or mix and match patterns and textures to bring your interior decor to life and show people the true potential of each room.
Photography by S Group Official
Photography by Annie Spratt
The best tiny houses for your weekend getaway
Looking to unplug, unwind, and get back to nature? Then look no further than a tiny home for your next spring getaway. Here are some of the best off-grid mini-retreats that will guarantee you pure rest and relaxation this season.
Photography by Tiny Away
RIDGEWAY RETREAT
Ridgeway Retreat is located just 20 minutes out of Canberra in the quiet outskirts of Queanbeyan. This tiny home is the perfect escape from the urban sprawl, offering a modern bathroom and kitchenette, double bed and floor-to-ceiling windows providing stunning views of the surrounding bushland. Outside, there’s a fire pit for you to sit around and enjoy the scenery. Don’t forget the marshmallows! tinyaway.com
TINY FREYA
@10MINUTESSOUTH
Set in a secluded field with mountain views, Tiny Freya is a cute and cosy retreat situated only 10 minutes from Kingston in Canberra’s inner south. This tiny house has two lofts, one with a queen bed and the other with a single, a well-equipped kitchen with coffee machine, modern bathroom, gas heating and air conditioning. Outside, you’ll find outdoor seating, a campfire and a barbecue. MTB enthusiasts will be thrilled with the flow trail built exclusively for guests. airbnb.com.au
WEEREEWA
Located on the same property as Red Gum, the cosy 139-square-foot Blue Gum tiny home boasts a kitchenette and excellent bathroom facilities including an eco-friendly cassette toilet with a removable wasteholding tank, hand basin, and gas-heated shower. The property is home to many animals such as chickens, sheep, alpacas, wild kangaroos, wild deer and peacocks. tinyaway.com
Located at Mystic Ridge Estate at Lake George, Weereewa tiny house offers some of the most beautiful and panoramic views of the local area. This serene retreat offers up to three guests a comfortable stay complete with a well-equipped kitchenette, air conditioning, heating, queen-sized bed in the loft and a single-person sofa bed on the ground floor. If you’re looking for a memorable off-grid getaway full of bushwalks, wildlife spotting and amazing sunsets, then be sure to book Weereewa this spring. tinyaway.com
RED GUM AT ARANYA ACRES
Red Gum is a charming 170-square-foot tiny house situated on 101 acres just 8 minutes from Bungendore. This pet-friendly farm stay is the perfect home away from home and has everything you need for a short getaway for two. It offers a queen bed, kitchenette with cooking equipment, modern bathroom, and split air conditioning. Outdoors, there’s a barbecue and spa tub for guests to enjoy while admiring the beautiful bushland views. tinyaway.com
BERTIE
Bertie is a tiny house set in a tranquil location in Wallaroo, only 10 minutes from Canberra’s north. This pet-friendly holiday getaway sits in a vineyard spanning over 350 acres with a nearby lake where you can swim and kayak. During your stay you can walk to the beautiful local waterfall, or enjoy the sunset over the Brindabella Hills. This well-appointed holiday escape also offers a convertible king bed, a loft double bed, kitchenette, toilet with an easy-to-use composting toilet, wooden deck and a fire pit. riparide.com
Photography by Tiny Away
Photography by AirBNB
Photography by Tiny Away
Photography by Tiny Away
BLUE GUM AT ARANYA ACRES
Photography by Tiny Away
Photography by RipAride
EDGAR AT LAKE GEORGE WINERY
Edgar is located at Lake George Winery, one of the oldest wineries in the Canberra district. This 139-square-foot tiny house is set high overlooking the Shiraz with views of Lake George. It’s furnished with a queen-sized bed and has air conditioning, a kitchenette and a bathroom with a gas heated shower and waterless eco-friendly compost toilet. This fantastic retreat is perfect for those who love wine-tasting, admiring the local wildlife and watching the sunset. There’s also a hiking trail on the property that heads up to the mountain ridge, offering fantastic views. tinyaway.com
TINY TOWRANG
Immerse yourself in nature at Tiny Towrang this spring, a pet-friendly farm stay in the Southern Tablelands, just an hour from Canberra. Nestled on 40 acres of hobby farmland, this tiny home is around 139 square feet and has everything you need for some R&R – a bedroom for two, air conditioning, as well as a contemporary kitchenette and great bathroom facilities. Tiny Towrang is surrounded by lush bushland, which you can soak up and enjoy around the outdoor fire pit.
tinyaway.com
SADDLE CAMP
Escape the hustle and bustle and spend your spring staycation at Saddle Camp, just an hour drive from Canberra and 50 minutes from Batemans Bay. This 168-acre bushland retreat is home to two tiny houses, each offering their own privacy, or perfect for a larger group to enjoy together. Both houses are equipped with a kitchenette, bathroom, air conditioning, a queen-sized bed in the loft and a couch on the ground floor, which can be converted into a double bed. Horse riding, spa services, breakfast hampers and room service are available upon request.
tinyaway.com
Photography by Tiny Away
Photography by Tiny Away
Photography by Tiny Away
10 tips for reducing allergens at home
Spring has finally sprung, but despite the beautiful bright flowers and warmer weather, the season is often a dreaded time of year for hayfever, asthma and allergy sufferers. In fact, while the pollen count is often highest in spring, the hayfever season can last for several months, starting as early as July and extending through to February.
Photography by Okeykat Dwdgekk
HERE ARE 10 HELPFUL TIPS TO REDUCE HOUSEHOLD ALLERGENS AND ALLEVIATE HAYFEVER SYMPTOMS THIS SPRING AND ALL YEAR ROUND.
1. Keep your windows closed as much as possible, especially in the early morning and late evening when pollen levels are highest.
2. Dust regularly, especially in areas where pollen can accumulate, like shelves and windowsills. Try to avoid stirring up allergens into the air, so use a damp cloth instead of a traditional duster.
3. Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to trap pollen and other allergens. Position the air purifier in the rooms you spend the most time in, such as the bedroom or living room.
4. Vacuum your home with a HEPA filter to reduce allergens in carpets, rugs, and upholstery.
5. When cleaning your home, watch out for hazardous fumes from cleaning products as airborne particles will likely aggravate symptoms.
Photography by akelly Sikkema
Photography by Rafly Alfaridzy
Photography by Crysral De Passille
6. If you’ve been outside, remove your shoes at your front door, get out of your clothes and put them in the wash. Shower as soon as possible after coming home, but especially before bed to remove pollen from your skin and hair and prevent it from getting into your bedding.
7. Buy hypoallergenic covers for your pillows and mattresses. Avoid allergens in your bedding such as feathers, synthetic materials and dyes.
8. If you have pets, don’t let them on the couch or in the bedroom. If your pets spend time outdoors, consider washing them more regularly, along with their bedding.
9. Wash your bedding once or twice a week. Wash everything in hot water to kill dust mites and remove pollen.
10. Try aromatherapy. Peppermint oil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, can help open up airways and relieve nasal congestion. Add a few drops to a diffuser or inhale it directly from the bottle. Lavender is said to be a natural antihistamine and can be used to reduce inflammation. It can be diffused, or a few drops can be added to a warm bath. Eucalyptus oil is excellent for clearing sinuses and easing breathing. Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water mixed with a few drops of the oil, or use it in a diffuser.
Photography by Asmaa Sardar
Photography by Socialcut
Essential elements when marketing your property
SOCIAL MEDIA
PRINT ADS
A highly targeted, visual presentation of your property.
Print publications with large audience reach and a glossy finish.
MAIL FLYERS
Tailored insights for specific markets and communities.
ONLINE LISTING
A detailed resource for those who like their research.
LOOKING TO SELL OR LEASE YOUR PROPERTY?
There are a range of advertising platforms and tools to consider when showcasing your property’s finest features, to ensure it makes the right impact in the real estate market. Experience our professional perspective and see what we do to ensure a successful property marketing campaign.
Hiking 101: A guide for beginners
New to hiking but not sure where to start? Here are some essential hiking tips to help you hit the trails with confidence.
Photography by Alberto Casetta
PLAN AHEAD
Like any road trip or holiday, planning is key, and the same applies to hiking. Start by choosing a trail suitable for a beginner. While you might think your fitness levels are above average, you shouldn’t underestimate an ‘easy’ hiking trail, so opt for a route that’s less challenging with little elevation, then work your way up to a ‘moderate’ or ‘hard’ trail over time as you build confidence. Sometimes there can be multiple routes heading to the same mountain peak or destination, identified by colour or name, so familiarise yourself with your chosen trail as you don’t want to accidentally take the wrong turn and end up on a harder route! While maps to the most established walking trails will be available online, you shouldn’t rely on mobile reception or your phone’s battery to navigate your way, so always take a printed map as a backup. Remember, if you do get lost, just turn around and go back the way you came. Finally, before you set off, always check the weather forecast and tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to be back.
CLOTHING
When it comes to hiking clothes, the key to comfort is layering – it’s all about adding and removing pieces of clothing as and when your body temperature changes. Good hiking layers are moisture-wicking, typically polyester, nylon, or wool. Avoid cotton and other heavy fabrics. For cooler days, your base layer should be a good quality long-sleeve thermal top, then add more layers – a non-thermal long-sleeve top, a fleece, and finally a light waterproof jacket that acts like a shell and stops wind and rain from penetrating through. If it’s winter, you should always take a beanie and some gloves too. In the peak of summer, start with a hat and a t-shirt, but put a jumper and a thin waterproof jacket in your backpack. In the fringe seasons like spring and autumn, always take an extra layer or two to keep you warm in case of a turn in the weather. If you’re hiking in the mountains, the weather can change very quickly, so always plan for the worst.
Photography by Austin Ban
“The most important rule of hiking is to leave no trace. Take your rubbish home with you and stick to the designated trails to avoid damaging the environment.”
FOOTWEAR
When shopping for good quality hiking shoes, aim for comfort, protection and durability. A good hiking shoe needs to keep your feet dry, supported, and protected from the elements, especially terrain that is uneven and rocky, so opt for a shoe with a thick sole. Before you go hiking, try to wear your new shoes once or twice at home to avoid blisters on your first hike. Always take a spare pair of socks in your backpack in case your socks get wet or if you need an extra layer to prevent rubbing or discomfort.
FOOD AND WATER
When going out on a hike, whether it’s for an hour or a full day, take sufficient water to keep yourself hydrated. If you’re out hiking for a couple of hours, it’s worth packing yourself some high-energy snacks in case you get hungry, and if you’re out for a full day, then pack lunch as well. Remember, you’ll be burning more energy than usual, even if it’s a short walk, so you should stop for a drink and snack regularly. Be sure to have spare snacks in case of an emergency.
Photography by Daiga Ellaby
Photography by Kitera Dent
IMPORTANT EXTRAS
When you go hiking you’ll also need a backpack to hold the important items you’ll need to take with you. When buying a pack, look for something with thick, comfortable straps and a hip belt that will transfer the weight off your shoulders. As well as the food, clothing and navigation tools that will go into your pack, you should also take a first aid kit, sun protection, tissues or toilet paper in case you need to go to the bathroom, and a torch or headlamp with spare batteries.
TRAIL ETIQUETTE
The most important rule of hiking is to leave no trace. Take your rubbish home with you and stick to the designated trails to avoid damaging the environment. The only time you should leave the trail is if you need to go to the bathroom – the best practice is to go 50-100 metres away from any trail, campsite, or water source. Finally, be friendly to other hikers, be kind to the wildlife, and have a great time in nature!
Photography by Ethan Sykes
Photography by Florida Guidebook
Photography by Andrew Ly
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