The Ultimate Trail Kit for You and Your Dog

Pack Smart, Explore More

There's nothing worse than being halfway up a trail and realising you've forgotten something important. A well-packed kit means you can focus on the adventure — not the "should haves".

Here's what we recommend for any trail outing with your dog in SEQ:

💧 Water — more than you think Dogs need roughly 60ml of water per kilogram of body weight during exercise. On a warm Queensland day, pack even more. A collapsible bowl and a dedicated dog water bottle are worth every gram.

🦮 A well-fitted harness Harnesses give you better control on tricky terrain and reduce strain on your dog's neck. Look for one with a top handle for those steeper sections where a helping hand (literally) comes in handy.

🩹 A basic doggy first aid kit Include tick tweezers, antiseptic wipes, a bandage or two, and any regular medication. Paralysis ticks are a real risk in SEQ bush — check your dog thoroughly during and after every walk.

🔦 A clip-on light for early starts If you're hitting the trail at dawn (the best time in summer), a small clip-on LED light for your dog's collar means you can always spot them in low light.

🍖 High-value trail treats Save the good stuff — real meat treats, cheese, whatever your dog goes wild for — for the trail. It keeps their recall sharp and makes the whole experience more rewarding for them.

🛏️ A packable mat or towel Great for rest stops, creek crossings, and the car ride home. A wet, muddy dog on your car seat is a very preventable problem.

🏷️ An up-to-date ID tag Before every trail, do a quick check that your dog's tag is legible and contact details are current. Microchip registration too — it takes two minutes to check and could save a lot of heartache.

SEQ-Specific Tips

• Tick check everything — run your fingers through your dog's coat, paying attention to around the collar, between toes, under the chin and inside the ears
• Watch for snakes — stick to the middle of the path and keep your dog from sniffing in long grass or under logs
• Know your off-leash rules — most SEQ trails require dogs on lead. Check the listing before you go!
• Start early — Queensland heat is no joke. Most trails are best tackled before 9am in summer

A little preparation goes a long way. Pack well, start early, and enjoy every step. 🐾