Socks, Salts And Suntans; What You Need For A Trip To Kakadu
Whilst the excitement of visiting Kakadu National Park is overwhelming to say the least, it is worth adding a few small necessities to your luggage before setting off on your tour.
Plenty of socks and undies
This has to be one of the most important preparations you are going to need. It is quite amazing how often you will need to change these whilst travelling round Kakadu. You would think two pairs of each a day would be enough but don’t be surprised if you end up needing three. Accidents happen (no pun intended) but water and mud get into crevices with some sort of magical artistry, so rather than being uncomfortable with dirty socks and soggy bottoms, pack as many durable pairs as you can fit in your bag, you will not regret it. Tip of the day do not wear white.
Bug spray
It is astonishing how many bugs and mosquitos inhabit this area. Some would call it an infestation, others nature at its wildest. However you choose to name it, make sure you pack a good bug repellent with you. I would recommend going for an organic natural spray if you can as the main ingredient in your most common bug spray, ‘deet’ can actually be quite harmful to your skin. Many report rubbing themselves in lavender before leaving in the mornings, however there are many other solutions available on the market. Australians are in fact responsible for the corked hat so if you can, try to pick up one of those on your way there.
Sun cream
This is a great idea to have on board when travelling around. Skin cancer is a huge issue in Australia, ask any native if they use protection from the sun and you will be hard pressed to find one that doesn’t. A high factor, perhaps 28-30 is a good number to aim for; don’t worry you’ll still get a tan. Some creams do contain some pretty toxic chemicals, so again if you can do a bit of research first and find one that is more friendly to your skin whilst at the same time keeping you safe, that’s probably the best idea.
Water and rehydration salts
You are going to bake your backside off in Kakadu. Most of your time will be spent in direct sunlight and in Oz, it is hot! Although most tour guides will have a good supply of water for their customers, there is no harm in bringing some extra fluids along. In fact, many choose to bring a sugary drink like a coke or Fanta as you will be losing a lot of energy due to the amount of perspiration you experience through the trip. After the day is over, it is advisable to neck a rehydration sachet aswell. These can bought from most pharmacies and contain salts and minerals needed to make you feel replenished and healthy. Always go for one that contains potassium and magnesium as these will aid any sunstroke symptoms you may feel.
A charged and well credited mobile phone
This may sound extreme but there is no harm in keeping one in your bag just in case. Most people have a whale of a time at Kakadu and accident is rare, normally only occurring through stupidity. However just in case the walkie-talkie doesn’t work or you get lost on a trail, then this precaution will come in handy.
A good camera
You are going to be witnessing some of the most fantastic scenery and wildlife in the whole wide world. Kangaroos, snakes, rare lizards, breath-taking gauges and fairytale waterfalls are just some of the delights Kakadu National park can proudly boast. Not only is the natural wonder of the park magnificent, the meanings and history behind many of the aboriginal ways is something your camera can help capture. Such places as ‘Ubirr’ and ‘Jim Jim’ are too jaw dropping for words, however a good shot from the right angle can spread their magic to whoever sees. Whatever you do make sure you bring extra memory and charge your battery whenever possible, as just when you thought you had seen it all, something else will appear.
Have an absolutely wonderful time at Kakadu!
This article was written by Misty Angel on behalf of Travel Wild, who offer the best Kakadu Tours. Misty is a travel enthusiast who enjoys Kakadu Tours and the great outdoors.
