New Zealand is a dream destination in the summer for photographers, hikers, and anyone who appreciates outstanding natural beauty. From epic hikes to beautiful ocean views to cute towns, there is plenty to see and do. However, you need the right gear to get the most out of your upcoming trip to NZ. You want to be prepared… but without overpacking. To help you out, I’ve put together a complete summer packing list that includes clothing, technology, and toiletries.
This NZ Packing List has got you covered:
Clothing
Even in the summer, New Zealand can experience several seasons in one day. It’s also rarely super hot, particularly on the South Island. Although temperatures can reach the mid-20s around Wanaka and Queenstown, I usually wore pants and brought a jacket, even in the height of summer. Here’s what I recommend bringing:
- 3-4 warm undershirts
- 2 pairs of leggings (1 in black for hiking, 1 in a bright color to pop in your photos!)
- 1 pair of shorts
- 3 tops (1 tank top for layering, 1 t-shirt, 1 long sleeve shirt)
- 1 nice dress for going to town (like this tunic dress or this flannel shirt dress)
- 1 pair of warm, comfy ski underwear to sleep in
- 1 pair of lightweight rain pants and/or water-wicking pants
- 1 thick rain jacket
- 1 super lightweight windbreaker to layer
- 1 lightweight insulated jacket
- 3 pairs of thick socks (just make sure they fit with your boots!)
- 1 pair of hiking boots
- 1 pair of Toms for going out
- 1 pair of flip flops
- Beanie and hat for the sun
- A couple of sports bras, and enough undies for a week
- Sunglasses
- Swimwear
- Microfiber towel
Keep in mind that I visited New Zealand in the summer. You will encounter snow in the winter or at higher elevations in the spring and autumn months, so come prepared for colder temperatures. If hiking, remember the importance of spikes for your shoes and specialized equipment depending on the conditions. Avalanche training is a must for many winter NZ hikes.
Bags
Picking the right backpack could make or break a trip. I almost always prefer using a backpack over a suitcase, as I never have to worry about walking through cobblestone walkways, along dirt roads, or climbing the staircases – it is just so much more convenient. If you do not own a backpack, go to a store that allows you to try the packs on with weight in them (I like REI in the US), or if that’s not available to you, order multiple bags online and return within the time window. Something like this bag is perfect for hiking and for traveling.
If you’ll be backpacking, check out this post for a comparison of the top women’s travel backpacks in the market.
Bring a day pack and a sling bag for daily use.
Hiking Gear
- Headlamp
- Hiking poles
- 2 liters of water storage (can do a Camelbak + Nalgene combo to be covered regardless of activity)
- Sleeping bag (opt for a colder rating if you’re tenting or slightly warmer if you’ll be staying in huts)
- Light tent (here is a complete backpacking checklist if you plan on backpacking New Zealand)
A quick note on bringing food: security checks at the airport are extremely strict. Almost all food items are banned unless they’re highly processed, so you are better off not bringing any and stocking up when you are in the city. Supermarkets and outdoor stores carry dehydrated backpacking food, although you will need some type of stove if you’re going that route. Just remember that you can’t fly with fuel.
For day hikes, I like to bring nuts and dried fruit, or a couple of energy bars.
Toiletries
Though everyone is different, my dry skin tends to need moisturizers that have lots of aloe. The sun is very intense in New Zealand and it’s extremely easy to burn, so ensure that you always wear SPF 30, at least. These are the products I’ve used for years:
- Your usual hair products
- Sunscreen
- Whatever deodorant you prefer. I love this one.
- Floss, 1 under 100ml toothpaste, toothbrush
- 1 DivaCup (it makes life easier for that special week each month)
- Tweezers
- Nail clippers
- Hairbrush
- 1 palette of eyeshadow, powder, bronzer, and eyeliner – or go natural!
Tech
I’m a photographer, so I can’t imagine going without a camera. But even if you’re fine taking pictures with your phone, there are still some pieces of technology that you should bring. Here’s what I always take with me:
- An unlocked smartphone if you want to use local SIM cards.
- Noise-cancelling headphones, which are a godsend on flights or in hostels.
- Computer if you are a digital nomad like me – check out this post for a digital nomad’s packing list
- Camera – check out this post for my camera equipment
- Powerbank
- Kindle
- Travel adapter so you can charge your devices. New Zealand uses the same outlets as Australia.
And that’s everything I brought along to New Zealand! I hope this list helps to make your trip more worry-free and easier to plan. Be sure to read my other guides for more on itineraries and how to make the most of your road trip:
Rachel says
These have always been my list while backpacking for travel…Thank you once again for adding and reminding the packing list!!