Tramping in a big group of people isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but it has its benefits. Someone else may even carry the billy and stove.

The mere thought of walking with a big group likely appals some readers.  

What could possibly be pleasant about continual chatter, decision-making by committee, crowded huts and guaranteed snoring?  

However, as a battle-hardened tramping groupie, I can tell you there are some wonderful aspects to tramping with others. I’m not going to try and convince you that tramping with a group is better than going solo or with a tight team, but, to my mind, it is just as good.

By ‘big group’ I’m talking six to ten people, a number I’ve walked with often. More than that is a different kettle of fish.

One thing that deters many people from organising a big tramping group is the mere thought of having to organise a big tramping group. People can be difficult, right? Herding hyperactive kittens comes to mind.

Well, believe it or not, the organisational part can be easy. Delegation is key. For example, Chris plans and purchases everything for evening meals, Geoff sorts breakfasts, Jane deals with transport logistics, Helen books accommodation, Sean is on hot drinks. A few WhatsApp messages and we are done. Suddenly I have less than usual on my organisational plate. Nice.

That’s all very well, I hear you say, but isn’t walking in a noisy group going to suck?

No. 

Walking with a group needn’t mean walking in a group. People meander along at different speeds. A tramping group soon spreads out along the trail. With just 20 seconds between you and the person in front, you may as well be on your own, especially when you are in the bush. In a big group you can have lots of solitary time to let your mind drift off into the wilderness, down the valley and beyond.

I particularly enjoy the shared energy of group tramping. Those who have done a fun run or are regular park runners will know what I mean. Running or walking with a group sweeps you along. You’re sharing a goal. You feel empowered by the determination of others and often achieve more than you would be capable of alone.  

It’s similar with group tramping. The group generates energy, a mutual excitement and joy that needn’t be spoken to be shared. It pulls you along when you are tired and inspires others when you are not.

Energy isn’t the only thing shared on the track. Standing at the top of a hard-won pass, breathing in the rarefied air and gazing at the epic vista, is a moment magnified when shared with friends. Pointing out a delicate purple toadstool hidden in ferns beside the track is like giving a gift to your fellow walkers – their chance to enjoy the amazing diversity and natural wonder, so easily missed.

Safety is always a vital consideration when tramping, and although it’s true that a big group has a higher chance of an injury or mishap, it also can be better resourced to respond to any incident. 

Finally, an enjoyable advantage of a group is that ‘many hands make light work’. In the case of tramping, many backpacks make light work. All those shared items like cookers, billies, first aid kits, ropes, shelters and PLBs can be distributed within the group, resulting in less being carried by everyone.

Tramping in a group comes with many benefits and few downsides. I have special memories of huddling in a cosy hut with a big group of friends. Sharing laughter, insights, experiences, disappointments, plans and triumphs – these are times I will always treasure.