Bushwalk Australia

So looking for new gear and as always the US market has far more options and at a competitive price.
My issue especially looking at lightweight packs is how can it cost US$50+ to post to Australia for something weighting >1Kg.

Are there any drop shippers you guys recommend or a way around this?

Cheers

Australia post have a service that seems competitive and everyone seems happy with: shopmate.

I'd suggest trying to gather a few things then using a drop shipper to combine postage. I'm not familiar with shopmate have been using Shipito for years. They offer auspost, usually the cheapest option. If you use their Oregon branch for west coast purchases you can save Ca sales tax.

Incidentally, for others traveling and otherwise using public transport/ shanks "s pony, their $2 processing fee applies to pickup as well. This (going to their warehouses ) & using their 90 day free holding can be used in creative ways to (get stuff that can't be shipped &) have parcels meet you or the storage of gear etc not immediately needed but ready for quick delivery.

A second vote here for Shipito. I have used them many times and the service has always been fast & efficient. They offer a huge number of shipping options & the prices are far better than I have ever been able to get myself. It is especially good when you buy from a company that does free shipping within the US.

Shipito fan as well, but still works best to consolidate and send something between 2-5kg usually. 1kg is around $30-35 via AU Post (aggregating, but still fast) or TNT (direct courier). Cheaper if you want their less reliable and slower Economy service.

BTW, sending a parcel from here to the US , under 1 kg , signature required, is $54 (up to 26.5x37.5 cm)
Over that size it starts at $70.
Most cottage manufacturers and the like don't take the risk of sending parcels without a signature at the customer end.

This is why it isn't necessarily cheap to buy from the USA.