Trail Guides, Gear & Outdoor Adventures

The hike starts here.

Honest trail conditions, gear that actually holds up, and everything you need before you go. Mostly NSW, sometimes further.

693HIKES logged
4,750 kmWalked
177K mElevation gained
1,474 hrsOn the trail
Free download

What's in my pack?

The exact packing list I use for day hikes and overnighters in Australia. Nothing in here that I don't actually use.

  • Day hike essentials
  • Overnight and multi-day additions
  • Safety and navigation kit
  • Electronics and camera gear
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Blog

Hiking gear, tips & itineraries

Your go-to resource for hiking tips and gear recommendations. Explore the world of trails and discover essential equipment to enhance your outdoor adventures.

Gear
01 Jul 2026
PLB vs Garmin inReach vs iPhone SOS. After years carrying both a PLB and a satellite communicator, Garmin’s new subscription changes made me rethink what most hikers should actually carry. Here’s the honest breakdown.
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Gear
14 Jun 2026
A look at the hiking and photography gear I use, including the Sony A7IV, DJI Air 3, and my favourite editing tools.
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Experiences
13 Jun 2026
Lake Lyell sits just outside Lithgow, 2.5 hours from Sydney. Campfires allowed, lake views, and a quiet unreserved campground that doesn't require booking. Here's what it's actually like.
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Gear
05 May 2026
How I repaired my cork trekking pole handle after a cockatoo chewed through it, a quick and easy $10 fix.
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Sabrina Allam hiking in NSW
ABOUT ME

Hi, I'm Sabrina

I spend a lot of time exploring trails, testing gear, and researching places before I go.

This website is where I share honest reviews, practical information, and the things I wish someone had told me beforehand so you can spend less time researching and more time exploring.

More about me
Brands I've Worked With
Common questions

Things people always ask

The questions I get asked the most.

I'm new to hiking. Where do I start?

Filter by Easy on the hikes page. Start within 1.5 hours of Sydney, under 10 km, with clear signage. The Blue Mountains and Royal National Park both have good beginner options.

Is it safe to hike alone as a woman in NSW?

Yes, with the right preparation. Tell someone your plan, carry a PLB on remote trails, download offline maps, and trust your gut. I've written about this in detail on the blog.

What camera gear do you use?

My main setup is a Sony A7IV with a Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8, plus my iPhone on every hike. I'll also bring my DJI Air 3 for aerials or my Insta360 for a different perspective. Full gear breakdown on the blog. I have a breakdown on the gear I use on my blog.

What drone would you recommend for a beginner?

The DJI Mini 4 Pro or Mini 5 Pro are great for starting points: portable, beginner-friendly, and great image quality. If you want to step up, the DJI Air 3S is where I'd go next.

Is there parking at the trailhead?

Every trail review covers parking: whether there's a lot, how early you need to arrive on weekends, and whether it's free. Most Blue Mountains trailheads have free parking. Popular coastal walks don't.

Are these trails accessible by public transport from Sydney?

I drive to most hikes, but I note public transport options where it's possible. Train access works well for some Royal National Park, Blue Mountains, and coastal trails.

Follow my journey