Outdoor Climbing: Your guide to getting out there

Outdoor climbing is a whole new beast, with epic views, fresh air, and a vibe you just can’t get inside. But it’s a big step that comes with new skills, gear, and a whole lot of planning.

Our friends from the Australian School of Mountaineering (ASM) have helped us put together a guide to get you stoked and ready for your first outdoor adventure.

Let’s break it down....

1. Selecting the perfect crag
2. When to climb
3. Example Backwards timeline of a day out
4. What to pack - gear and food/water
5. What to wear
6. Safety
7. Respect the land
8. Guidebooks
9. Grades

Why Go Outdoors?

This is where the magic happens. You’re not just climbing—you’re exploring nature, navigating wild terrain, and soaking in epic landscapes. That said, it’s a bit more involved than rocking up to the gym. You’ll need to think about navigation, weather, gear, and respecting the environment.

It can feel like a lot, so here’s the golden rule: start simple. Team up with an experienced climber, pick an easy-to-access crag, and keep your ego in check. Overestimating your skills can lead to sketchy situations, so stay humble and have fun.

1. Selecting the perfect crag:

Not all crags are created equal, especially for your first outdoor climb. You want a spot that’s beginner-friendly, well-maintained, and easy to get to. Australia’s got heaps of options, from suburban crags to remote national park gems. 

Here’s what to look for:

• Accessibility: Choose a crag with a short, straightforward hike from the car park. 
• Established routes: Stick to well-known crags with clear guidebook info. Volunteers in the climbing community maintain these spots, so they’re usually safer and better documented.
• Land permissions: Always check if climbing is allowed. Some areas have restrictions due to cultural significance, nesting birds, or land management rules. Check guidebooks, websites like theCrag or National Parks for the latest info.

2. When to Climb: Timing Is Everything

Australia’s climate is as diverse as its crags, so timing your climb is key. Spring and autumn are prime seasons for most spots—mild temps and less extreme weather make for happy climbing. Summer can be a scorcher, especially on sun-exposed cliffs, while winter might leave you shivering or even dodging snow in places like Tasmania.

• Sun and shade: South-west-facing crags stay shaded in summer, while north-facing ones soak up winter sun. 
• Rain check: Some crags dry quickly after rain, but others stay wet for weeks. Caves are great for rainy days but often have tougher routes.
• Seasonal restrictions: Avoid crags during bird nesting or flora blooming seasons. Check local climbing websites or National Parks for updates.

Weather tip: Download a weather app like the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and check it a week out, then again on the morning of your trip. 

3. Example timeline of a day out: the backwards timeline

To make sure you get home safe , plan your day backwards. This is a game changer (thanks ASM) - and I’ll be using this method to plan hike days too. 

Start with your desired return time and work out the steps to get there.

Why plan backwards? It helps you budget time for hiking, climbing, and unexpected delays, ensuring you’re not stuck navigating in the dark (or worse, still on the wall).

Example Backwards timeline - a day with about 6 hours of climbing.

4. Gear Up: What to Pack

Outdoor climbing means you’re on your own - here’s your essential packing list, tailored for a day at the crag:

Must-Have Gear

• Backpack: A 20-litre day pack for basics or a 35-litre alpine pack if you’re hauling climbing gear.
• First aid kit: Stocked and checked for missing items. A wilderness first aid course is a smart move.
• Water: 2–3 litres per person, depending on the weather. Use a water bladder for easy sipping on the go.
• Food: Pack snacks (nuts, energy bars, fruit) and lunch in a sturdy container to avoid squashing.
• Clothing: Layers are key—think hat, long-sleeve UPF shirt, durable pants, and sturdy shoes. Avoid loose clothing that could snag on gear.
• Guidebook: Bring a physical guidebook or a downloaded PDF for offline access.
• Toilet paper: Pack it in a zip-lock bag. Nobody wants a shredded roll at the bottom of their pack.

Climbing Essentials

• 1 helmet per person
• 1 harness per person
• 1 personal lanyard with locking carabiner
• 1 pair of climbing shoes
• 1 belay device with locking carabiner
• 1 dynamic rope
• 12 quickdraws
• 12 bolt plates
• 3 locking carabiners
• 1 120cm anchor sling
• For trad climbing: 1 full rack of gear and extra slings

This list is a good starting point, and if you're climbing with some more experienced people, they're likely to have additional items.

Nice-to-Haves

• Headlamp: With fresh or rechargeable batteries. Lock it to avoid accidental draining.
• Whistle: For emergencies—choose one without a pea for reliability.
• Phone and power bank: Keep your phone charged for navigation or emergencies.
• Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): Rent one from local police or National Parks for remote areas.
• Camera: With a strap or drop-proof case to capture the views.

Planning a day out Bouldering? 

Some of the required gear will be a little different - check out this Beginners Guide to Outdoor Bouldering video to make sure you're across it.

Fueling Your Climb

Climbing burns serious energy, so pack enough food and water to keep you going. Here’s the deal:

• Food: Load up on low-GI carbs (like pasta or rice) the night before. On the day, bring energy bars, nuts, fruit, and a solid lunch. Avoid soft foods unless they’re in a hard container. Check out some of our favourite climbing snacks HERE
• Water: Mentioned above, aim for 2–3 litres per person. 

Pro tip: Sip water regularly to stay hydrated. Dehydration sneaks up fast and tanks your performance.

5. What to wear to the crag

Outdoor climbing means battling sun, wind, rocks, and maybe even a sneaky snake. Your gym leggings might not cut it. Here’s how to dress smart:

• Long-sleeve shirt: Pick one with UPF protection, breathable mesh, and a collar to shield your neck.
• Pants: Go for durable, stretchy pants with reinforced knees and hems. Look for UPF and quick-dry features.
• Footwear: Skip the thongs. Trail runners or approach shoes work for short hikes and easy routes. For longer or wet approaches, ankle-high boots offer extra support.

Why it matters: Fitted clothing prevents snags in gear, and sturdy shoes save your ankles on rough terrain. Plus, you’ll want protection from sunburn and scratches.

6. Safety First: Be Prepared

Accidents happen, and outdoor climbing isn’t the gym—help could be hours away. Here’s how to stay safe:

• First aid know-how: Take a wilderness first aid course to learn how to handle falls, cuts, or shock. Discuss emergency scenarios with your crew and check your first aid kit.
• Emergency gear: A PLB, whistle, and headlamp can be lifesavers if things go south.
• Know your limits: Stick to routes that match your skill level. Star-rated routes (1–3 stars) are often more fun and beginner-friendly. Avoid R or X-rated routes—they’re riskier with less protection.

7. Respecting the Land

Climbing lets you explore some of Australia’s most epic spots, but it’s on us to keep them pristine. Here’s how to be a good steward:

• Stick to trails: Avoid trampling vegetation or creating new paths.
• Pack out everything: Food scraps, chalk, toilet paper—leave no trace.
• Respect closures: Some crags are off-limits due to cultural or environmental reasons, like parts of the Grampians. Check before you go.
• Keep noise down: Wildlife and locals will thank you.

Community vibes: Join a crag clean-up or trail maintenance day to give back. It’s a great way to connect with other climbers and keep access open. Check out Crag Care here.

8. Guidebooks and Apps

Guidebooks are your bible for outdoor climbing. They’ve got everything from crag access to route grades and local history. Modern ones are packed with photos and detailed maps, but even basic ones get the job done. If you’d rather go digital, apps or PDF guides are handy—just make sure your phone’s charged and maps are downloaded.

Why guidebooks rock:

• Detailed route info, including grades, lengths, and gear needs.
• Access notes to avoid trespassing or restricted areas.
• Tips on weather, sun exposure, and local ethics.

Digital tip: Check mobile reception at the crag beforehand. A dead battery or no signal can leave you stranded without a guide.

9. Understanding Climbing Grades

Australia’s climbing grades use the Ewbank system, pioneered by John Ewbank in the 1960s. It’s a numerical scale with no upper limit, factoring in technical difficulty, safety, and commitment. For example, a grade 16 might be easy for some but feel tougher if it’s “reachy” or has worn holds.

Key points:

• Grades are subjective and based on the first ascensionist’s experience.
• Online platforms let climbers share feedback, refining grades over time.
• Watch for “sandbagged” routes that feel harder than their grade.

Beginner tip: Start with single-pitch routes (10–30m) graded 14–18 for a fun, manageable day. Check star ratings for quality climbs.

Climb Smart, Have Fun

Outdoor climbing is a game-changer, but it’s not just about sending routes. It’s about planning smart, respecting nature, and climbing within your limits. Team up with an experienced buddy, pack the right gear, and check the weather and access rules. With a bit of prep, you’ll be ready to crush it at the crag and come home with stories to tell.

If you’d like to spend a day with an experienced guide, we often team up with the Australian School of Mountaineering for our outdoor adventures. You can sign up for a beginner day in the Blue Mountains, try a canyon in Summer or even an alpine climbing course in Winter.

Check out all their courses here

The ASM also run indoor Learn to Lead and Anchors courses here at Climb Fit in Sydney.