New Zealand | Hiking Through Scenic New Zealand

Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Remember that New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, and seasons are reversed from those in the Northern Hemisphere.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program, and pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Weather conditions in New Zealand can change rapidly. Be prepared for cold, wet weather at any time of year. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost or you may hand-wash items.

• A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts that can be worn in layers
• Shorts/skirts
• A combination of light- and medium-weight pants/trousers
• Undergarments
• Sleepwear
• 1-2 jackets or sweater/sweatshirts
• 1-2 bathing suit(s) for the beach or hot springs, if applicable, plus many hotels have pools
• Socks – Bring extra pairs.
• Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. If you’re visiting the beach, you may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
• Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
• Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
• Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

• Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant, etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites (and to be considerate of your fellow travelers).
• Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel
• Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Most—but not all—hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, but you may wish to bring one from home.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Razor
• Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
• Personal hygiene products
• Insect repellent with an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – If you’ll be in the ocean, we recommend reef-safe sunscreen.
• A travel pack of tissues

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

• Passport, NZeTA, and photocopies of all travel documentation
• Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
• Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
• Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
• Sunglasses with strap
• Small day pack for hikes and excursions
• Flashlight and/or head lamp
• Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm
• A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
• Binoculars with lens cleaner
• Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
• Reusable water bottle
• Non-perishable snacks – Please make sure you have NO fresh food in your bag upon arrival in New Zealand. There is an instant fine of $400.00 if food is found. You may bring in dried food provided it is sealed. Please declare this food when you arrive.
• Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage.
• Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
• Notepad or travel journal and pen
• Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
• Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
• A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
• Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
• Money belt
• Voltage converter, plug adapter, and chargers for electronics