Packing List

No matter the season, New Zealand weather is unpredictable and along your road trip, you will cross into various environments such as plains, mountain peaks, fjords, rainforests, and more. The key is to pack layers and repeat outfits regularly.

Clothing

• Base layers for temperature swings

• Mid-layer fleece or puffer

• Waterproof shell jacket with real weatherproofing for rain

• Quick-dry hiking pants

• Hiking socks

• Down jacket for alpine zones

• Sun hat

Footwear

• Waterproof hiking boots or shoes with stable tread

• Sandals for river crossings and public showers

• Slippers or slip-on shoes for time in the camper van

Weather and sun protection

• Beanie and gloves year-round

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

Tech and navigation

• Offline maps preloaded

• Power bank (10k–20k mAh)

• Universal travel adapter

• Dry bag for electronics

• Camera or action cam with spare batteries

Daily function

• Daypack for hikes and excursions

• Quick-dry towel for showers

• Refillable bottle or hydration bladder

• Lightweight tote for groceries

• Insect repellent (the sandflies can be BRUTAL)

• Headlamp with spare batteries

Documents

• Passport

• NZ cash (mostly needed for DOC campsites or local shops)