Bern & Paul's Tips and Resources

Pack weight is important for comfort, along with preparation. Take the gear that you need and get your body fit enough to carry this weight. Know your limitations.
Take only what you need rather than what you think you might need and leave room for the next item on our list.
Yeah, we know water is heavy. In Australia, there are no guarantees there will be drinkable water available, so put in the time to check what is required and plan for the days when it is not there where you expected it to be. There have been many times when our 'back-up' water has saved us.
Always searching for a great photo limits you to what you see through a camera lens, so enjoy the views as well.
Each step is the adventure - not just the destination.
Life is short, so extend your life by slowing down and living every moment.

Carry enough water. Other walkers may be risking their lives by giving you water from their packs.
The weather is unpredictable and can be dangerous. Your tent fly or raincoat may save your life on remote walks.
Wearing running shoes, super-light shoes or sandals instead of proper footwear is potentially a silly risk to take.
We have spoken to walkers who were exhausted probably due to excessive pack weight. Here are some items we were astounded to hear that some walkers had in their packs: laptop computer - a 3 Kg bag of oranges - 2 glass jars of pasta sauce - full loaves of bread - a wheeled hard-shell suitcase (it had shoulder straps) straight off their international flight
Not listening to good advice. If someone you suspect is experienced, goes as far as to say they think it is dangerous to continue - it probably is dangerous to you and the others who have to risk their lives to rescue you.