Planning your trip to the adventure capital of the world? You won’t want to miss this packing list for your New Zealand getaway.
When I was packing for my open-ended trip to New Zealand last year, I had a one-way ticket and a work visa good for a year’s stay. I knew I’d be living out of a travel pack for some time and wanted to take only the essentials to travel light. The problem is, New Zealand is the adventure capital of the world, and I planned on having plenty of adventures. That requires a certain amount of gear on top of the usual backpacker’s scant wardrobe, so I needed to plan carefully.
This was a fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants journey with a healthy dose of the unknown. But a few things I did know. I’d be WWOOFing on organic farms [work attire], backpacking in the mountains [camping equipment and warm hiking attire], playing in the ocean [swim wear], and occasionally dipping into civilization [presentable dinner/pub attire]. And I’d be documenting it all, which meant a few electronics and some old-fashioned pen and paper.
The action-based approach was the right way to go in a country like New Zealand that demands movement and adaptability. I knew I could come by some things–like a surfboard and wetsuit or fly rod, plus certain toiletries–after I arrived. But, as an avid backpacker and camper, I didn’t want to take a chance with my wilderness essentials. In the end, I opted out of any bulky standard luggage (it’s best to be able to carry your loads on your back in New Zealand) and went with an ample 90-litre travel pack for gear and clothing with a smaller daypack for personal items like books, camera, and an extra layer. Luckily, I also had a travel companion, so a few things, like computer and cameras, could be shared between us.
Here is the perfect packing list I was able to compile based on my own travel experience in the great country of New Zealand:
Clothes (Layers are key)
- Jeans (one pair)
- Shorts (one pair)
- Wool socks
- T-shirts and button-ups
- Zip-off quick-dry hiking pants
- Quick-dry shirts for outdoor activities
- Fleece jacket
- Lightweight down pullover
- Base layers (top and bottom)
- Swimsuit
- Rain jacket
Footwear
- Tennis shoes
- Flip flops
- High-cut waterproof hiking boots (wear these on the plane to save room in your luggage)
- Water shoes/sandals (with buckles or straps to stay on your feet)
Accessories
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Bandana
- Watch (water-resistant)
- Wool beanie
- Lightweight insulated gloves
Gear and Extra (This might seem like a big list, but is most important for New Zealand travel.)
- Lightweight 2-person backpacking tent
- Down sleeping bag (15 degrees or warmer)
- Ultra-light inflatable sleeping pad
- Pots and backpacking stove (buy fuel after you arrive because it’s not allowed on the plane)
- Trekking poles
- 3-liter water bladder (such as CamelBak)
- Water filter/iodine tablets
- Lighter and matches
- Small med kit (ibuprofen, bandages, gauze, tape, etc.)
- Knife/multi-tool
- Headlamp
- Batteries
Toiletries (You can buy most items locally, but bring any of your preferred items)
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Extra contacts and solution
- Bar of soap & Deodorant
- Toiletry Kit
- Razor and shaving cream (or just grow a beard!)
Electronics
- Digital camera
- Mini HD video camera
- iPod/Music Player
- Laptop (This is optional. I needed it to document my trip for a story, but it can add extra weight if you don’t absolutely need it.)
- Tablet/Kindle (optional)
- Electronic chargers and adapters
Paperwork
- Passport and driver’s license (plus copies of both)
- Credit cards
- Cash
- Pens and notebook/journal
- Books and guide book
Luggage
- Travel Pack (with chest strap and waistbelt for heavy loads)
- Daypack
- Camera bag
- Packing Cubes & Sacs
Related Links:
Off-the-Beaten-Path Checklist: http://www.eaglecreek.com/travel-tips-packing-lists/beaten-path-checklist
Multi-Activity or Sport Checklist: http://www.eaglecreek.com/travel-tips-packing-lists/multi-activity-or-sport-checklist
City Sightseeing Checklist: http://www.eaglecreek.com/travel-tips-packing-lists/city-sightseeing-checklist
