Supplies

Make sure you have enough food, equipment and emergency rations for the worst-case scenario.

If you ask any New Zealand adventurer they’ll tell you what should be in your pack, here’s a simple list of things we recommend you take. Of course, this list will change depending on where you might be going, how long you’re going for and the weather forecast, but use this as a minimum guide.

Watch and learn what basics to take

 

 


Clothing

  • Good quality solid footwear –our tracks can be rough so wear closed toe sturdy footwear that you find comfortable – jandals/thongs/slippers aren’t a good idea on New Zealand tracks.
  • Layer your clothing, but don’t wear cotton – thermals/fleece are a great idea because they stay warm when wet. Leave your cotton and denim behind as it won’t keep you warm when it's wet. Expect to get wet while in New Zealand's outdoors.
  • A waterproof layer is essential the weather in New Zealand is changeable.
  • Warm hat and gloves – even in summer, Kiwi trampers never leave home without these.

Watch how to layer clothing for the outdoors


Food and water

  • Plenty of water unless you find a stream or walk past a hut you won’t find water so take enough for a full day out. At least 2L per person is a good place to start.
  • Enough food to last an extra night out or an emergency situation. Read our blog on spare meals via Backcountry Cuisine.
Watch how to pack food an water

Equipment

No matter how short your intended adventure is, you should always carry basic equipment to help you if something goes wrong. A basic overview of the kinds of items you need to consider for any trip in the outdoors is covered in our video

Take the basics to keep you comfortable and safe

What you take with you will make all the difference if something were to go wrong such as getting lost, delayed or injured.

Multiday Tramping Essentials:
  • Waterproof Jacket
  • Headtorch
  • Emergency Communications Device (Beacon)
  • Warm Clothing (Not Cotton)
  • Hat and Gloves
  • Sturdy Footwear
  • Water and Food
  • Emergency Shelter
  • First Aid Kit
  • Map and Compass or GPS
  • Packliner + Pack
  • Sun protection
  • Whistle
  • Walking Poles
  • Cooker, Fuel, Utensils
  • Toiletries and personal medication
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Tent
  • Hut / Campsite Booking

  pdf Basic Gear List for outdoors pdf – 207 KB


What to do next

Continue your preparation with our online resources, there is still plenty to learn to ensure for a safe and enjoyable trip!

Explore our resources