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When you guys first started escarpment hikes, did you have all the equipment? It's rather pricey if you are pretty much starting from scratch. What did you guys do when first starting? Are there places from which you can hire equipment such as a big enough pack,a decent sleeping bag and a tent? I know that some hiking clubs hire out equipment, but I read on the MCSA website that this is only if you are going to use the equipment on one of their organised hikes i.e. you cannot hire equipment to use on your own hike. Any ideas or advice?

Hi john mark,

Interesting point.

I was lucky to start my escarpment hikes while at university and a member of the Natal U Mountain Club, where the first few hikes were done with equipment borrowed (not even hired) from the club and several mates. Slowly I built up my own essential equipment, pack, sleeping bag, mat, stove, pots, tent etc, and much to my modern hiking buddies amusement, most of this stuff is still serving me well, into it's third decade of use, although it gets well looked after.

I know the Durban based club I belong to now hires out equipment to members for a nominal fee for use on any hikes, but I see this isn't likely to be of much assistance to you as it's not your area. I know of guided hiking organisations that hire out equipment to clients using their services, but also don't think this is what you're after. I'm not sure of any other places that hire out escarpment type hiking equipment.

Mountain Backpackers Club hire out equipment, not sure of the terms but its on their website somewhere

It sure is. A standard Berg winter overnight escarpment pack with all the necessarily goodies are well over R10 000

I will in no way suggest you go out and risk your life but with very basic and cheap gear escarpment hikes is possible although it would be tough but so what it is part of the adventure. Look at the Basotho's, two blankets and gum boots!

The only thing I will recommend is to research every piece of gear thoroughly before buying anything. There are a lot of overpriced items out there and some very good quality "cheap" gear. Take super good care of your gear and it will last a very long time. I've heard of hiking boots lasting 13 years. (Karrimore Skye, I think)It is not only the big names that have suitable gear. I still hike with the same pack I got in 1995 for R300. A Big Foot Summit, I doubt anyone has ever heard of it. It has ripped, I repaired it, made some alterations and additions and it still does the job pretty good. I will not try a DGT with it and will only replace it because my heart is pumping chocolates every time I see the FA Jupiter.

On this topic the FA Jupiter backpack is on special at Outdoor warehouse for R1200. That is a real good price for a awesome backpack.

Don't forget to write Santa

Mountain Backpackers Club is the Durban based club I belong to mentioned in my previous post.

Thanks for the replies!

I know that this sounds stupid , but is Mountain Backpackers Club only in Durban or are their other branches? I did go onto their website but I couldn't find the answer.

Does anybody know if any clubs in Gauteng (Pretoria/ joberg) hire out equipment?