Chantelle42 wrote:I really don't want to overload myself with unnecessary gear, but I'm not too sure exactly what will be deemed "necessary". ... Has anyone done this? Also what I will really NEED to take with me..
Many of the campsites have shelters, but some don't and there is always the possibility of not making it to a scheduled camp, or of wanting to camp elsewhere so you need some sort of shelter - a small, lightweight tent or, at the least, a tarp (& groundsheet) in case of rain (yes, it does sometimes rain there). Make sure you know how to set it up quickly.
Warm clothes for the evenings. It can get
very cold in the Centre at night. Merino thermals, down jacket (or vest) and a good fleece beanie.
Sleeping bag with a below zero comfort rating.
Sleeping mat with a decent R rating.
Stove, cookset and fuel. (campfires are banned on the Larapinta).
Rainjacket (also good as a windbreaker on some of the more exposed sections - if it isn't too hot).
Water carrying capacity of at least 3 litres, preferably 4.
If you aren't used to wild water, some sort of filtration or treatment system. The tank water is fine untreated, but sometimes you have to rely on other sources.
Maps (although the track is well marked and it's hard to get lost).
Food is a very personal thing, but take Staminade, Hydralite, or some other sort of electrolyte powder/gel. It makes a massive difference to how you handle walking in the heat.
Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat.
Some people insist that boots are necessary, but they aren't. You do however need strong, reliable walking shoes - normal runners will often not hack the rougher rockier country.
Shorts are adequate if you aren't going off track (there are some fantastic sidetrips possible from the track, but spinifex is not nice to bare skin). Gaiters not necessary (again, unless you're going off-track).
John & Monica Chapman's Larapinta Trail book is a good guide. When I did the walk back in 2013 they were in the process of collecting notes for a new edition, which I assume would be out soon if not already. Worth investing in. The official walker's pack from NTP&WS is also well worth the cost - the section maps & notes are very handy and very well done.
Camera isn't essential, but I reckon anyone who doesn't take one is short-changing themselves. It's beautiful country. Wish I could get back in there . . .