Planning & FAQs

What kind of food is provided on the program?
Please see the Expedition Menu Information

How does meal time work on program? 

Participants work together to prepare and cook meals using woks or outdoor camp stoves, under the guidance of their Group Leaders. It’s a great opportunity to learn outdoor cooking skills!

Will there be food drops on program? 
Food drops depend on the duration/nature of your program.

What about dietary requirements? 
Any dietaries will be accommodated if disclosed on your Medical Form. We regularly cater to Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegan, Vegetarian and Halal. Don’t worry, if you have complicated or specific dietary needs, we can develop a plan with you, just chat with your Client Manager. 

What about anaphylaxis and allergies?
We are a nut-aware program:

• No nuts are brought on programs, though trace ingredients may still be present.

• All Group Leaders are trained in anaphylaxis response and carry an EpiPen.

• If you have any allergies or medical conditions, please inform your client manager well in advance.

I’m a picky eater and don’t like the meals provided—what do I do?
No worries! Please contact your Client Manager as soon as possible. They’ll arrange a meeting to discuss your needs and make sure you’re looked after.

Our programs involve physical activity every day, so will likely introduce new challenges that will stretch your child’s physical capabilities in fun, unexpected ways. These may involve movements they’re not accustomed to, but that’s part of the adventure! Our experienced Group Leaders guide them through every step in a safe, encouraging environment where the focus is on trying, not on the outcome.

For journey-based programs, participants walk with their overnight equipment in their hiking bag. They should be confident to walk a minimum of 10km daily on uneven ground, while carrying around 12kg in an expedition-style backpack.

We ask that all participants follow our Participant Expectations– please take a look and chat through them with your child before their Outward Bound program.

Where will I sleep?
Participants sleep in tents or tarps, shared with 2-3 others. You’ll carry and set up your own tent or tarp at each campsite—with clear instructions from Group Leaders.

What gear do I need for sleeping?
You’ll need to bring:

• A sleeping bag (suitable for cold weather)

• Outward Bound provides Tent / Tarp
• Outward Bound provides sleeping mat (you are welcome to bring one however!)

Will it be warm enough at night?
We camp in outdoor environments, so temperatures can drop—especially in alpine or winter conditions. A good-quality, season-appropriate sleeping bag is essential. Group Leaders will also give tips for staying warm at night.

What if I’ve never camped before?
That’s okay! Many participants are new to camping. Our leaders will show you how to set up your tent, stay dry and warm, and have a comfortable sleep outdoors.

Will there be a toilet?
Toilet facilities vary depending on your program. You may encounter:

• Flushing toilets at established campsites

• Drop toilets in more remote areas

• An expedition toilet bucket

During hikes, groups will use a variety of toilet systems depending on the location and route. Each option ensures a hygienic sanitary option while maintaining environmental responsibility in remote areas.

What if I need to go to the toilet during the day while hiking?
While on expedition between campsites, participants may dig a small personal hole with a provided trowel. Group Leaders will give instructions on where and how to do properly.

What if I get my period on program?

You are not alone! Many people have managed their periods in the field before you, and many will after you. It is a very common experience in the field so please rest assured that you are not alone in this experience.

Please read our guide to Menstrual Hygiene here. This is our thorough guide on managing your period on program.

Privacy 
There will a designated private bathroom area at every campsite to change. Throughout the day, time and space can be made each 4 hours or as often as you need to change. A small garbage bag is used to then carry the waste in your backpack until the trash bin at camp.

Being with your students on an Outward Bound program offers a unique chance to see your group in a new and challenging environment. It allows you to develop a closer rapport with your students, gain deeper insights into their strengths and needs, and discover fresh ways to inspire and encourage them.

When joining an Outward Bound program, you are expected to supervise the group and assist the Group leader at given times.

Back Up Adult Information Pack (Coordinator who organises from base)

Accompanying Adult Information Pack (adult with the group in the field)

If your child is on a school camp, contact your school coordinator through your usual channels.

For School Holiday Adventures or Duke of Ed programs

For pre-program information, a client manager will be in contact and will send the program information pack to your email. During program, the Program Coordinator is accessible for immediate concerns or home emergencies. You can always call the Outward Bound phone line to get in touch.

Please rest assured that we will adjust routes and campsites as needed throughout program. If safety concerns arise, we will make the necessary decisions, including program modifications or cancellations. We’ll still hike if it rains, unless conditions become unsafe.

Our Group Leaders are highly trained in navigating changing weather scenarios and will adjust the program as needed to maintain the well-being of all participants. The group is equipped with appropriate gear, and we have contingency plans in place should conditions require any changes to the itinerary.

Please take into consideration the weather you experience at home may not be what the groups are experiencing in the field.

Bring lightweight, nutritious, and high-energy food for all meals and snacks. Since these are hiking-based expeditions, your diet should include more fats and sugars than usual to meet energy demands. Avoid heavy or breakable items like canned foods, glass jars, and bottles. A good place for inspo is the Duke of Ed website.

A few staff favourites are:

• Flavoured chickpea cans on wraps with hommus
• Mi Goreng with canned chicken added (dinner only)
• Tortelini and pre made sauce (dinner only)
• Salami sandwiches
• Muesli and milk powder
• Weetbix and oat milk
• Cliff bars and Oaty Bars, apples and oranges

Get creative, search the internet for inspo but remember to keep it light in weight, but filling for your belly! And remember – No nuts, please.

Outward Bound does not provide any gear for Duke of Ed programs. Please refer to the packing list closely to see exactly what you must bring. The Group Leader will carry emergency communication devices, a first aid kit and other safety items.

Here is your Duke of Ed Packing List

You can also refer to the generic Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award packing list here.  If you’re coming with friends, consider sharing a tent or cooking stove so you can reduce pack weight.

Should I wear hiking boots?
Hiking boots are recommended. Otherwise, try to find lace-up, fully enclosed shoes with rigid soles and good ankle support.

What about wet weather clothing?
Rain jackets are essential for warmth (especially against the wind) and rain protection. Programs continue in most weather conditions, so these items are an essential safety item. Rain pants are recommended but optional.

Will thermals be needed?
Thermals are required for programs running from May to September. For other times, thermals are optional but recommended as a lightweight jumper or pyjamas.

Can I bring my phone? 

Yes, you are allowed to bring your phone. However, please note that reception may be limited or unavailable in remote areas. We encourage all participants to unplug and put their phones on Airplane mode while in the bush to fully immerse in the program.

You need to sort your own transport to and from the start and end points of the hike. Please double-check your Journey information for exact locations and arrival times. It’s really important you’re not late on day 1, as you need time to meet everyone and get to camp before dark- learning to set up your tent in the dark is no fun!

If you’re group is faster or slower than expected, the Group Leader will ask everyone to contact their parents with the updated finishing time.

Most campsites will have access to rainwater tanks, creeks or dams. We recommend you purify all water before drinking (unless it comes from your tap!). You can use tablets like Aquatabs, chlorine drops like Micropur or Aquaprove, or straws like a LifeStraw. Ensure you pack enough for the duration of your hike.

Each day, you will need to carry your own water. We recommend 2–3 litres per day, plus an extra litre for evening cooking. So bring around 4L in total on day 1.