Expedition Adventure Races – Mandatory Gear & Logistics

This page outlines the mandatory gear requirements and high-level logistics principles that apply to Wild&Co Expedition Adventure Races. It is the final source of truth for mandatory equipment.

Mandatory Gear

Expedition adventure races use an extensive mandatory gear list appropriate for multi-day, expedition-length racing.

The final mandatory gear requirements for all Wild&Co expedition events are contained in the following document:

Expedition Adventure Race Mandatory Gear List (ARWS)

All teams must comply with the mandatory gear requirements outlined in this document for the entire duration of the race.

Any additional race-specific mandatory items will be clearly identified in the Race Information Kit (available one week prior to the event) and are in addition to, not in place of, the items listed above.

Logistics

Expedition adventure races are fully unsupported and require a high level of planning, self-sufficiency and team organisation.

Teams must plan, pack and manage all equipment, food and supplies required for multiple days of racing across remote terrain.

Race Boxes

Teams are required to supply between one (1) and four (4) plastic boxes.

2-person teams: up to 50 L per box
4-person teams: up to 100 L per box
Maximum packed weight: 25 kg per box
Boxes must be clearly labelled with team name and box identifier (A, B, C, D)
Boxes are packed prior to the race and submitted to race officials for transport to designated Transition Areas on the course

What you pack in each box is what you will receive later on the course. Secure lids with tape if required.

The number of boxes required and the location of each box on the course will be outlined in the Race Information Kit (available one week prior to the event).

Bike Boxes

Each team member must provide a standard airline-size bike box.

Maximum dimensions: 140 cm × 80 cm × 30 cm
Maximum packed weight: 30 kg

Corflute (fluted plastic) bike boxes are the standard style used by most teams and are strongly recommended. They are significantly more durable, particularly in wet or muddy conditions, and provide better protection during repeated handling.

Cardboard bike boxes are permitted but not recommended.

Bike travel bags (soft cases) are not permitted.

Bike boxes must be clearly labelled with team name and competitor name.

The location of bike boxes on the course will be outlined in the Race Information Kit (available one week prior to the event).

Kayak Gear & Paddle Bag

Kayaks are provided as part of the race entry for expedition events. Paddles and personal flotation devices (PFDs) are not provided as standard.

Teams must supply their own paddles and PFDs or may hire them through Wild&Co via the hire link included in the Race Information Kit released in the week leading up to the race.

Teams bringing their own paddling equipment (paddles, PFDs, kayak seating) must provide a labelled paddle bag.

Only mandatory kayaking equipment may be included:

Paddles
Personal flotation devices (PFDs)
Kayak seating
Maximum packed weight: 20 kg
Paddle bags must be clearly labelled with team name
Bags must be easy for the logistics team to pick up and carry

In some events, paddle bags or bundles are transported by teams during one-way paddling legs. Teams should plan their packing and strapping accordingly.

The location of paddle bags on the course will be outlined in the Race Information Kit (available one week prior to the event).

Bikes

Expedition courses are designed around the use of a mountain bike and typically include extended distances, remote terrain and may include prolonged technical riding.

Other bike types (such as tandem, gravel or hybrid bikes) may be used but are often less suitable given terrain, load carrying and duration. Teams choosing non-mountain bikes do so at their own discretion.

E-bikes are not permitted in any Wild&Co adventure races.

Water

Water is supplied at most Transition Areas; however teams must be capable of self-sufficient hydration throughout the race. Water availability may vary significantly and should not be relied upon unless explicitly stated.

Teams should plan to source and treat water on course for extended periods between resupply opportunities.

Weather Conditions

Expedition races may encounter a wide range of weather conditions across multiple days.

Teams should be prepared for all weather conditions and are strongly encouraged to research the local climate once the event location is announced.

Equipment Checks

Mandatory equipment checks will be conducted throughout the race. Teams must ensure all mandatory items listed in the mandatory gear document (and any race-specific additions) are carried and accessible as required.

Penalties for missing or deficient items may be severe and may include disqualification.