1. MSR Hubba Hubba NX Tent
Out in the wild, your new abode should be light, roomy and stay standing whether there’s a sandstorm or a South-Easter. This two-person shelter features a built-in rain gutter, two doors and a colour-coded huband- pole system for easy setup. It weighs just under 2kg and packs smartly into a well-designed sack. Pack this first. R5700, touratech.co.za
2. Osprey Aether 70L
Heading for the hills? This bag keeps things simple. With 70 litres of space, it practically swallows gear. Throw in adjustable straps that will help the Aether stick snugly to your body (eliminating sway and the fatigue that comes with it) and you have your new favourite travel companion – don’t tell your dog. The hood will keep your gear dry if the weather turns. R3800, takealot.co.za
3. Black Diamond Apollo Lantern
Don’t get caught in the dark. This lantern shines for 15 hours on full settings. Flick the dimmer switch to mood-lighting levels and you’ll get an extra 45 hours of juice out of it – perfect for, um, reading in your tent. Fold-down legs will let you increase the Apollo’s radius. Pro tip: pick up a set of NRG Rechargeable batteries and you’ll stay lit for the whole trip. R699, takealot.co.za
4. Leatherman Tread Bracelet
This isn’t bling, this is your answer to everything. Packing 29 tools into its wrist-fitting frame, it’s the first and only wearable multitool on the market. Strap up and you’ll have screwdrivers, cutting hooks and a bottle opener right at your fingertips. It’s less fiddly than the pocket variety and is made from stainless steel that will tough it out in the wild. R3 299, Cape Union Mart
5. First Ascent Ice Breaker Sleeping Bag
You don’t need to choose between packing light and staying warm anymore. Because even with layers and layers of Microtex material (that’s code for cosy as all hell) this down sleeping bag weighs less than 2kg. Face and chest baffles will shield your body from the elements and pockets sewn into the lining will let you safely stash away your valuables. R3 899, firstascent.co.za
