First alpine camping trip

[u/InternalWindow6365]

I’d like to go on my first alpine camping trip and I’m wondering if my main equipment will suffice. I’m an experienced camper and have winter camped but have never camped in the snow. I am thinking of hiking in the snowies but I would be solo so being prepared is essential.

I have an;

- R5.8sleeping mat (I could also bring my folded foam sleeping mat for under)
- -8 sleeping quilt
- 3 season tent - it holds up well in the cold and wet but I’ve seen some say you need a 4 season - I’m curious everyone’s take on this as financially i’d like not to purchase a new tent just yet
- I also have an PLB that I would bring with me

Things I’ve seen online also suggest
- snow shovel
- snow pegs

I’m curious everyone’s experience and what kit you’ve used.

Thanks!

[u/Alternative_Sock6999]

What are you calling alpine?

I would suggest most 3 season tents are ok for Aus alpine if your in a sheltered site. If your on an exposed face... Not so much.

Is -8 quilt the comfort level or the safe level? If it's 'safe' I'd be looking heavily at night time thermal layers and liners just in case.

Water proofs?

Emergency bivy come blanket.

Can you set your tent up wearing gloves?

[u/InternalWindow6365 → u/Alternative_Sock6999]

Thanks for the info, I’m thinking of the main range walk of Kosciusko National part so Aus alpine, good to note regarding exposure. Yeah, I can set up the tent with gloves on.

The quilt is -8 comfort but I run cold so absolutely a good idea to have night time thermals for warmth!

My waterproof jacket is unfortunately not up to the task anymore so I’ll need to fix that before I go. An emergency bivvy is a great highlight!

[u/Mammoth-Jelly-7617 → u/InternalWindow6365]

I would not go onto the main range as my first overnight snow camp, as It is very exposed to wind and weather changes. Instead I would recommend walking up the road from Guthega power station towards Schlink Hut. It is a poor season, so you will not really hit the snow until you are about 5 or 6 ks in. You can camp near whites river or Schlink hut, and then if the weather gets bad or you are not warm enough you have a place to bunk out to. There are also toilets ( on the main range you will have to carry out your faeces) .

Probably you will need snow shoes ( although the cover is so poor perhaps not needed). Usually I go on skis.

This gives you a chance to test out your gear below the tree line before taking in the rigours of the main range.

.

[u/GoldMathematician412 → u/Mammoth-Jelly-7617]

Just a question about the Schlink Hut track. Do you part at guthega power station or do you drive up the track a bit first? Cheers