What should I take to Kapooka that isn't on the packing list?
Many people ask if there are additional items that aren't on the packing list that they should take to Kapooka. We've asked recent Kapooka graduated if there is anything they wish they took once they enlisted into the Australian Army.
I WISH I TOOK THAT TO KAPOOKA
8/19/2019
7 Comments
- Portable phone charger
- Headphones (talk on the phone and check emails/social media at the same time).
- Permanent marker/nikko pen
- Black biros (you won't be allowed to use blue)
- Small note pads (they will be issued but you go through them fast)
- Bun nets (they break easily and you need a lot of them. Ensure they match your hair colour)
- Baby wipes (especially to keep clean out field and to remove camo cream)
- Cotton tips and shaving brush for cleaning weapons
- Travel size shampoo and conditioner. All of your toiletries will be rolled up in a towel that you carry to the bathroom and you will not use a toiletry bag. If you pack enough for the first 4 weeks of training then you will be well prepared. Otherwise you will need to purchase them from frontline for a significantly higher price than usual. After the 4 week mark you will be able to purchase things from a supermarket on local leave. You will be taught how to layout these items in your cupboard and will be required to keep them in ‘inspection order’ at all times. Bring along mini sized toiletry bottles. Fitting everything into your towel is difficult and if you drop things then it can be challenging to regather whilst under pressure and trying to move fast. Having travel size toiletries will help immensely. You can bring empty mini travel bottles and normal sized toiletries and just refill as needed. Avoid glass bottles where possible to avoid breakages.
- Hand Sanitiser.
- Lighter (to burn threads off your uniform).
- Wooden Coat Hangers x 10. Wooden Pant Hangers x 3. You can have plastic however ALL coat hangers need to match. Recent Kapooka graduates recommend wooden hangers as they are sturdy.
- At least 4 weeks worth of toiletries and accessories such as deodorant, hairspray, toothpaste, bobby pins, hairnets and hair ties as you’ll go through these fast.
- Face wash and Moisturiser that you’re familiar with to avoid skin issues.
- Band Aids. Thicker so that they don’t fall off when wet from the rain or sweat.
- Chapstick. You will get this issued to you however you may want your own specific brand.
- Field Gear. You will get an opportunity to purchase this whilst on local leave, however the price is often higher than if you were to purchase them at home. If you do choose to purchase these prior to Kapooka then suggested items are tent pegs (black plastic or non flimsy metal), occy straps, elastic cord, head torch with a red light, lighter. These will take up room in your bag so you may choose to purchase these once you are down at Kapooka.
- Zip Lock bags
- Black backpack as carry on luggage. You can use a backpack once on IETs but it must be black.
- Active Wear for IETs. You won’t get to wear this a Kapooka but once you leave you are allowed to wear your own gear on IETs. No singlets.
what field gear do you have to purchase at kapooka .
Hello, I was wondering if I can bring pre workout drink, magnesium or any red bull drinks with at basic training. ?
Hey Helen, As far as we are aware absolutely not!
Can I bring my laptop with at training? Also does hair colour allowed as part of toiletries?
Is there a certain bag size and weight we're not supposed to exceed? Also Cab we pack more than one bag?
Hey Charmaine. That's something to take up with your enlistment coordinator to ensure you get the accurate info.
How do you travel on local leave days?