new zealand travel packing list

The perfect New Zealand packing list

Having travelled all around New Zealand (and the world) with a 40L pack and day bag each, we’ve learnt exactly what’s essential and what’s better left at home.  This no-fuss guide will help you to pack for your travels in New Zealand too – whether you want to travel light or be prepared for every eventuality.

Table of contents

Pack for New Zealand Year-Round

Packing light for different seasons in Aotearoa is one of the biggest challenges you’ll face.  There is some gear you’ll need regardless of the season though. We just suggest you amend this list slightly depending on your own requirements.

If you’re only travelling over the course of summer, for example, you’ll probably have a little more room in your bag. Try to resist the temptation to ft extras in just because you have the room though as it will make your travels much easier. Changes are, you really don’t need as much as you think you do.

Travel Light

The truth is, in my day-to-day life, I’m a bit of a hoarder.  Get me out on the road though, and I’ll gladly preach the benefits of packing and travelling light.

With less gear to cart around, you’ll have much more freedom in your travels (and you’ll save on pesky baggage fees if your gear falls within carry-on limits).  

Whilst travelling in New Zealand, we’d recommend travelling light – it just makes life easier.

If there’s anything you forget at home, or that you desperately need on the road, we’re equipped with lots of wonderful shops. Second-hand stores can also be a great place to pick up items that you need at affordable prices.

Pro Tip: If travelling light doesn’t interest you, this packing list can easily be adapted – just throw a few more of each item in and won’t worry about leaving your bulkier items at home.

Consider the Season

If you’re travelling outside of the summer season we suggest you include at least some items from the ‘winter’ packing list we’ve included in this article.

The weather here can be very changeable so it’s always a good idea to have a jumper or raincoat handy.

Choose Easy-Wear Clothes That You Can Layer

If you’re aiming to keep your bag light, packing multi-purpose, easy-wear clothing is essential.

Choose clothing that doesn’t easily crease (and definitely doesn’t need ironing). Ensure that all of your colours and items work together, creating a capsule wardrobe. If there’s one item of clothing that will only work with one other, leave it at home – you want to be able to mix and match all of your gear.

By packing clothes that can be worn in layers, it’s easy to add another layer or remove one as the weather changes. This is the perfect way to dress in New Zealand, particularly during spring, autumn and winter .

Planning your first visit to New Zealand? 🇳🇿 Start here or check out these must-read articles:

Your New Zealand Packing List

Year-around packing, essentials: clothing and shoes.

We use this list for our core pack. We’ll then add in items from the ‘summer’ and/or ‘winter’ list depending on the weather we’re expecting.

Keep in mind that New Zealand is known for its changeable weather, so it’s best to have a range of items regardless of the season. For example, even in the summertime, I would have a pair of jeans and a hoodie/jersey to hand for evenings and rainy days.

• 4-6 pairs of socks .
• 4-6 pairs of underwear  (+ 1 bra and 1 sports bra for women)
• (For women), a pair of  exercise tights .
• 1 zip-up hoodie .
• A pair of jeans . 
• A pair of light-weight running shoes .  I love Nike Freeruns as they squash down small when not being worn.
• A pair of jandals/flip-flops .  Particularly if you’re staying in hostels, to wear in the shower.
• A cotton  neck buff .  These beauties take up no space in your packs but help keep you warm in winter and the sun off your neck in the summer.
• Sunglasses .

Essentials: Bathroom/Laundry

• A lightweight towel .  Some prefer sports towels but they’ve only ever shifted water around on us!  We prefer  Turkish cotton towels .
• Mini bottles of shampoo/conditioner/body wash  and any other shower products you use (eg. moisturiser, cleanser).  I love hair oil as it’s a lifesaver if I’m in and out of the ocean.
• (For women),  hair ties ,  tampons  etc.
• A bar of clothes-washing soap  for handwashing in the shower/sink.
• Ziplock bags  to keep everything dry and organised.
• First-aid gear .  Painkillers, plasters, sleeping pills, cotton buds etc.
• Insect repellant .

Essentials: Electronics and Entertainment

• A smartphone .  You can set your phone to roam, or pick up a local sim card. Even if you just use your phone for the apps though (currency conversion, translation, maps and more) it’s a great help.
• Your  Netflix subscription .  With the ability to download series and movies onto your phone/iPad, it’s a subscription that really does pay for itself on long bus/plane rides.
• Travel power adaptors . Find out about the power plugs we use in New Zealand .
• Headphones .

Essentials: Packing

• An amazing pack  to put everything in!  We love our  Osprey Farpoint 40L  packs – they’re hands-down the best bags out there if you ask us (and also come in a women’s fit if you prefer).  Some may even prefer a slightly larger carry-on bag like the  Osprey Porter 46L  – we wouldn’t suggest going any larger though, unless you’re really giving up on the pack-light mentality. We love the hand’s free nature of a pack, but wheeled suitcases work well too.
• Packing cubes .  These are invaluable if you’re planning to be in New Zealand for a longer period or for multi-season travel.  #1, they allow you to fit more into your pack by compacting your gear down and #2, you can pack anything you don’t need for a while into specific cubes and hide them down the bottom of your pack.
• A day bag  so you’re not left carting everything around on day trips.  Again we love Osprey for this; we have a  Tempest 20  and a  Talon 22 . 

Essentials: Travel Gear

• Your passport  and an understanding of  visa requirements . 
• A small  wallet .
• Two different credit cards or travel cards . Most shops in New Zealand will happily accept cards, but we also suggest you get some cash out of the ATM when you arrive.

Optional Extras

• An  eReader  or old-fashioned book.
• Better quality  camera gear .  Your average traveller might be happy with a cell phone camera but unsurprisingly, we wanted more.  We took our  Fuji X-T20  (which we adore) and also our DJI Mavic drone (which we sent home about three months in).
• A laptop .  For us, these were essential (as we were working and blogging on the road) but probably wouldn’t be for many.
• Cutlery  and a  drink bottle .
• Snacks for the plane. Be mindful of what is and isn’t allowed when it comes to food though.
• If you’re planning on lots of hiking,  hiking poles .
• Hiking boots .

Summer Add-Ons

Summer really is the best season to test out your carry-on only skills.  With warm weather, light clothing and the ability to get things dried quickly, challenge yourself to leave excess clothing behind.  As long as you can wash your clothes in the shower or basin as you go, you really won’t need as much as you’d think.

• 2-3 t-shirts .  We prefer the quick-dry sports tops as they tend to stay looking nice for longer, are easy to wash, quick to dry and take up very little space.
• 1 pair of cotton shorts .
• 1 pair of quick-dry nylon shorts .  Great for aquatic activities and to wear on washing days.
• Swimming togs .
• A cap  or hat.
• Sunscreen .
• A long-sleeve rash top .  Ones that zip open at the front are ideal, as they offer more flexibility in different temperatures.
• Keens  or water shoes/sandals.  These are great for rafting , canyoning and general water adventures.

Winter Packing for New Zealand

With cold weather comes a few more pack-light challenges.  There’s no doubt, winter gear takes up more room and quality items are often expensive to replace (so you probably won’t want to buy them as you go).

With a few quality pieces though, it is possible to keep your weight down and your winter clothing to a minimum.  Layers are key so don’t be afraid to put your summer gear to use to help keep yourself warm.

• 1-2  merino /thermal long-sleeve  tops .
• 1-2 pairs of merino /thermal  long-johns .
• 1 pair of track pants  or hiking pants.
• A packable jacket  that is both waterproof and warm.  We love the  Kathmandu XT driFILL down jacket .
• A snuggly beanie .
• 2 pairs of merino hiking socks .
• Gloves .  If you feel the cold, lightweight gloves can be a great addition to your pack.
• A thick scarf .  If you’ve got room, a square one will double as an extra blanket in a squeeze.

How Easy is it to Travel Light?

All in all, you’ll probably be surprised by how easy it is it pack a capsule wardrobe and cut down on the amount you pack.

It’s really important that packing light works  for  you, not  against .

If you fall in love with something, don’t be afraid to buy it.  If it doesn’t fit into our pack, it’s easy enough to pick up a cheap duffle bag.

Is that ideal?  No.

Would we do it anyway?  Absolutely!

As we look around our home, we have all sorts of awesome reminders of our travels that just wouldn’t have been possible had we held firm to our ‘pack light’ ideals.

After all, travel’s meant to be a pleasure, not a chore.

Happy packing!

Do you have more questions about packing for New Zealand? Join the conversation and get feedback from our members today!

Founder of one of Aotearoa's most popular and helpful Facebook travel planning groups, Sarah shares reliable information and discounts around New Zealand. As an experienced tour guide, travel writer and airline reservations consultant, she enjoys bringing you the best of New Zealand.

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Home » Oceania » New Zealand » Packing List

New Zealand Packing List • 23 Items you NEED (2024)

New Zealand has been a favourite tourism destination ever since the epic Lord of The Rings film series cast it as the “real life” Middle Earth. The tiny Kiwi nation is indeed fantastically stunning.

If you are visiting planning to New Zealand and wondering what you need to bring with you, then you’ve come to the right place.

New Zealand’s conditions vary greatly, and the country spans different climatic zones – so figuring out what your New Zealand packing essentials are can be challenging.

Once you get through this guide you’ll have this what to pack for New Zealand thing in the bag! So, take a deep breath, sit back and read on – and soon enough you’ll be on your way to adventures of a lifetime. Doesn’t get much better than that!

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The Ultimate New Zealand Packing List

What to pack for new zealand checklist: personal gear, final thoughts on what to pack for new zealand.

Nomatic Travel Bag

• Capacity > 30L
• Price > $289.99

Nomatic Navigator Carry On

• Capacity > 37L
• Price > $549.99

GoPro Hero 11

• Resolution > 5k
• Price > $349.99

Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket

• Price > $600

Insurance From World Nomads

• Price > Click For a Quote

Packing for New Zealand is made easier than ever thanks to our list. We’ll help you choose what to bring to New Zealand and offer up some choice picks on what to wear too,

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Best Backpack For New Zealand:  Nomatic Travel Bag

Before you even take on the task of figuring out what to pack for New Zealand, you’ll need an amazing backpack to pack it all into. For all types of travelers and destinations, our number one recommendation is the  Nomatic Travel Bag .

The Nomatic travel bag covers every detail to make backpacking travel the best experience. Because of its smart design, it manages to provide loads of packing space in a convenient, carry-on size package! Its handy built-in pockets make plenty of room for all the necessities on your what to pack for New Zealand checklist – you’ll find separate compartments for important items like shoes, water bottle, electronics, underwear and tough hiking socks . As an added bonus, there’s also an RFID-safe and cord management pocket.

You have a choice between backpack or duffel bag carry, and extra carrying comfort for your back thanks to its innovative strap system and detachable sternum strap. And its black, waterproof material is every bit sleek and modern as it is durable and tough. There is a reason why most Broke Backpacker staff swear by this backpack. 

Best Suitcase For New Zealand:  Nomatic Carry-On Pro

Backpacks not your thing? That’s ok. Our friends at Nomatic are back again with a great alternative to their badass Travel Bag; the Nomatic Carry-On Pro.

This suitcase is ultra-durable, sleek, and comes with a handy tech compartment for transporting your laptop and other electronic bits. Nomatic has been an industry leader when it comes to travel gear and that reputation is reflected in the quality build design and functionality of the Carry-On Pro suitcase.  However, this may not be big enough to pack all you need for your New Zealand adventure so is more one for short trips to the cities.

Check out our  Nomatic Carry-On Pro review  to learn more about this epic suitcase. 

Best Camera For New Zealand:  GoPro Hero9 Black

For most of us, our smartphones now feature cameras with stunning photo capabilities.

But… if you are an aspiring photographer who wants to take next-level photos and video beyond iPhone selfies, I recommend going with an action camera like the  GoPro Hero9 Black . It does deliver pro-quality video and gives you a bunch of a different angle options and shooting speeds to work with for photos (including a selfie-mode).

Think of a camera purchase like this as a long term investment that will have you capturing epic shots well beyond your time exploring here. If you are looking for something cheaper for video specifically, check out these epic  GoPro Alternatives .

Packing Cubes For New Zealand – Wandrd Packing Cubes

In case you have never used them, packing cubes are little compression cubes that allow you to neatly pack clothes in in order to help facilitate better packing. They allow you to pack more stuff, and to keep it all better organised.

For the longest time, I thought that packing cubes were a superfluous indulgence, but boy was I wrong. Now I never travel without a few. These ones from WANDRD are great quality and excellent value for money. Get them on your Australia packing list now!

Best Sim For New Zealand – HolaFly eSim

The good news about NZ is that there is extensive 4g and 5g Internet coverage offering ready access to taxi apps and food delivery apps. The bad news is that your native SIM card will most probably not work and so you will not be able to access any of this online goodness until you rectify that particular situation.

You can waste time hanging around phone shops queuing to get a plastic sim or you can simply install a eSim onto your phone before you leave home. You just access the HolaFly site, choose the relevant package, download it and off you go – you are online the moment you land at the airport. eSims are easier to set up and better than the environment than plastic sims. The downside is that not all phones are eSim ready.

Best Travel Towel For New Zealand – Matador Packable Towel

Towels are essential backpacking gear as a lot of hostels don’t provide them or if they do, they may not really be all that clean. However don’t bring a ‘normal’ towel on your backpacking journeys, they are big and take up loads of room in your pack and they take ages to dry.

Travel pros like use micro-fibre dry towels that roll up into tiny, space saving proportions AND they dry unbelievably quick. Granted, they are not quite as comforting as a cotton towel but its a trade of that travellers need to make. A good micro-fibre travel towers is essential travel gear on any ultimate backpacking gear list.

There is a lot to think about when packing for New Zealand. Firstly, the country does get proper seasons and can be hot in the summer and snowy in the winter. Then you need to factor in what kinds of activities you will doing whether it will be trekking & camping, surfing or camper-vanning.

And of course, New Zealand is an outdoorsy kind of place so you may also need to pack in some proper terrain and camping gear too.

This checklist is not intended to micro manage your packing and we are not going to tell you exactly what to wear in New Zealand. However, we are going to make some choice suggestions about some some top notch adventure gear.

Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero

Your New Zealand trip will probably involve a hell of a lot of walking. Therefore it is important to make sure you have some good quality footwear.

I admit that most shoes that are also good for hiking are not the most attractive pieces of footwear. But they are some of the most comfortable and deliver good ankle support for a long day of walking about town.

If you plan to do some serious hiking in New Zealand , then you may wish to consider getting some boots instead.

Check out the  women’s Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero . 

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots

If you are visiting during the winter or simply doing some hardcore treks, then the above mentioned shoes may not cut it. If it snows or rains a lot, (which it probably will) then you will much better off in good quality boots.

These ones are awesome being warm, comfy, and enduring. They are suitable both for day hikes, the golden circle and for checking out the museums and bars in Wellington.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Another backpacker/traveler favorite for staying organized is a  hanging toiletry bag . It’s extremely helpful to have all of your accessories neatly gathered in one bag that you can hang for easy accessibility, especially when counter space isn’t plentiful or even available. A well-organized bag is worth having whether you’re tree whilst camping or a hook in the wall – it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

Historically, I have been the guy who has my stuff all over the bathroom, so getting one of these things really changed the toiletry game for me. Plus they are not too expensive either. A no-brainer essential when packing for Australia.

Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody

Even in summer months, New Zealand can get pretty cool especially at night It is therefore essential to bring a little something to keep you warm. This is especially true if you’re going to be camping or heading out in nature overnight.

This is our top pick for summer wear it weighs just under a pound and provides an excellent weight to warmth ratio. If you don’t go for one of the super bright colors, it is pretty stylish and city-worthy also. 

If visiting New Zealand in the winter, then you should check out the next item instead.

Check out our  best travel jackets  article for more inspiration. 

Arcteryx Beta AR

Did you know that the surface of the earth is over 70% covered in water? And you know how that water got there? Yep because it tends to here rain here on planet earth quite a lot! New Zealand can get seriously drizzly especially in autumn and winter.

There is no such thing as bad weather, only the wing gear for it. Don’t let a bit (of a lot) of rain ruin your trip and make sure you are ready with some top notch rain gear.

This is our pick of the many rain jackets we have tried. It’s reliable & stylish and looks good worn out in the mountains or in city bars.

Planner/Travel Journal

Keeping a journal is one of the best things to do when traveling. The Drifter Leather Journal by Kodiak is our favorite, it works great for digital nomads and organized backpackers and can be used as planner or a dream diary – whatever you want! 

Keep on track with your goals, travels and save those precious memories, especially the ones you do not want to share online. This one is bound in beautiful leather so it looks beautiful and will withstand life on the road.

Abaco Sunglasses

A reliable pair of sunglasses is undoubtedly one of your New Zealand packing essentials. Our favorites are Abaco Polarized Sunglasses because they deliver on quality and style. 

They’re built tough with triple-layer scratch-resistant lenses and trademarked Adventure-proof Frame Material. You can also customize them with your choice of lens and frame colors to reflect your own style. 

Money Belt By Pacsafe

Whilst New Zealand is not particularly dangerous, crime can still happen and tourists are sometimes targeted.

Therefore it is always a good idea to use a money belt to hide your cash just in case something does go wrong.

MSR Hubba Hubba 2p

New Zealand presents some of the best camping ops you will ever come across and it would be a real shame not to take full advantage. Don’t miss out and pack yourself a tent so you can get sleeping under the stars.

This is a high quality, and LIGHT tent. Granted it may not quite make the cut as ultralight backpacking gear but think of what you’re getting! The MSR Hubba Hubba 2p  is mega-roomy and has multiple of pockets for keeping your self organized when settling in for the night.As far as budget backpacking tents go, this is one of the best. It’s a happy medium between the ‘prepared for anything’ mode and the ‘I wanted to go for a trek so I bought this for 2000 rupees’ afterthought.

Nemo Disco 15

At some point in your trip to New Zealand, you will probably go camping. Whilst you can probably buy or rent over there, it makes more sense to invest your pennies in a good peace of gear that will serve you for many a trip to come. Therefore bringing a sleeping bag is often a great investment.

There are a LOT of sleeping bags on the market today and we have tried a lot of them. The quality and standards varies and not always in correlation with the price – pricey does not always mean better. The Nemo Disco 15 is a great all rounder sleeping bag packing in warmth, durability and a reasonable price tag.

Hydroflask Vacuum Bottle 32 oz. 

Packing a reusable water bottle is probably the best thing you can personally do to combat single-use plastic bottle use whilst traveling. There is simply zero need to buy plastic water bottles. The tap water in New Zealand is good to drink so you can fill it up each morning before you head out.

We love the Hydroflask Vacum Bottle for its quality and because it keeps cold water  cold  for many hours and vice versa for hot beverages. This bottle is the ideal water bottle to get not just for your New Zealand trip but for daily use. Please don’t be that person buying plastic water bottles. We are all judging you…especially mother earth. 

If you go with the Hydroflask, you’ll probably never need to buy another waterbottle again. 

Osprey Daylite Plus

If you intend on doing any hiking then you will need a daypack. They are great for carrying water, hat’s and gloves and for packing sandwiches for lunch. We love Osprey products and this daypack is our personal pick.

The Osprey Daylite Plus has a mesh-covered panel to keep your back cool and fresh by minimizing contact with the back of the pack itself and allowing air to get between you and the pack.

Check out our   full review of the Osprey Daylite plus  for more details.

Additionally, you can attach it to other Osprey packs in case you want to add more capacity and carry just one piece of luggage… but the reviews on this feature are mixed.

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There it is, mates! You’re now equipped with all you need to know on what to pack for New Zealand with our complete New Zealand survival guide. Remember to refer back to the top-23 needs packing list, our tips on what to wear and how to dress in New Zealand, a detailed look at Kiwi seasons and how to pack accordingly for varying weather conditions. You also have our recommendations for women and men for their own packing lists – plus, what NOT to pack for New Zealand.

We hope all of this information has sparked your fire for your travels and eased your mind about the preparation part. Just think – the next phase is all the fun stuff! You’ll soon be submerged in all of New Zealand’s splendor and living it up Kiwi-style. You’re in for a magical ride!

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How to Pack for New Zealand: My Detailed Packing List

There is perhaps no country in the world that I know better than New Zealand.

Back in 2011, when I decided to quit my job to travel the world, I knew I’d eventually get to New Zealand: it was a country that was high on my travel wish list, and as someone in their twenties, I planned take advantage of their working holiday visa. I thought I’d travel around Southeast Asia until my money ran out, then head south to work and live at the bottom of the world.

I certainly didn’t expect to fall in love with a New Zealander when I was just four months into my adventure!

But that’s exactly what happened and I now find myself with permanent residency for one of my favourite countries in the world. I’ve been fortunate to have visited New Zealand practically every single year over the past decade, and I’ve even spent seven months road tripping from the very top of the North Island to the bottom of Stewart Island.

In short, I’ve seen a hell of a lot of New Zealand over the past ten years.

I’ve visited over sixty different spots across the Land of the Long White Cloud , tackled three of the Great Walks so far, and every time I return, I fall more in love with this spectacular country. I’ve also learned a hell of a lot about how to pack.

Today, I want to share that knowledge with you guys. I want you to be able to make the most of your trip in New Zealand, and your packing decisions can make or break a trip.

Trust me: I know. There was that time when I ended up frozen and soaked because I believed I didn’t need wet-weather gear on a hike in the middle of New Zealand’s summer. Oh, and that time I tried to undertake a short hike in flip-flops and ended up with a sprained ankle. There was also that hike where I forgot to bring insect repellent and was devoured by the country’s infamous sand flies.

Let me make the mistakes so you don’t have to — it’s basically the slogan of my travel blog at this point.

My Luggage Recommendations for New Zealand

When it comes to travel in New Zealand, the amount you’ll bring with you will depend a hell of a lot on the time of year you’ll be visiting as well as the activities you’ll be doing while you’re there.

Travelling outside of summer? You’ll want to bring a lot of warm clothes and wet weather gear. Visiting in summer? Yeah, you’ll probably want to bring just as many. It doesn’t have the name The Land of the Long White Cloud for nothing — even in the height of summer, you’ll most likely be chilly more days than not.

Planning on doing a lot of hiking? You’ll want to make sure you have proper hiking shoes, a decent backpack, and clothes for every weather condition.

Yes, in case you haven’t realised, the weather in New Zealand can be more than a little variable, and it’s one of those countries where you can experience all four seasons in a single afternoon.

In general, the west coast is wetter than the east coast, the North Island is warmer than the South Island, and inland parts of the country experience more extreme weather than the coast. In the Central Otago region, for example, located inland on the South Island, temperatures can soar to 40°C in summer and plummet to -6°C in winter.

I’m a huge fan of travelling with a carry-on-sized backpack, as I appreciate the lack of back pain, the added ease of moving through the crowds, and not having to worry about lost luggage. For New Zealand, though, there’s no real reason to really battle to keep the size of your luggage down. The streets are paved, so don’t pose a problem for suitcases, and because public transportation isn’t amazing, most people opt to travel by car, campervan, or backpacker bus.

I travel with the Osprey Farpoint 40l backpack and take it on all of my adventures, whether I’m spending two weeks in Japan or six months in the South Pacific . It’s super-comfortable to wear, easy to pack, and has plenty of compartments to help keep your belongings organised. Osprey also offers a lifetime guarantee for all of their backpacks, which makes opting for one a no-brainer — if it breaks or falls apart, you can just get a new one!

If you’re not a fan of backpacks, I recommend the  Osprey Sojourn , which is a combined backpack and suitcase in one. You’ll be able to comfortably wheel your suitcase around the country, then wear it as a backpack when you come across a series of steps or a steep hill.

What about a day pack? 

You’re not going to want to take your main backpack/suitcase out with you while you’re exploring the streets of Wellington or the glowworms of Waitomo, so that’s why I recommend bringing a daypack with you on your trip.

Enter  this teeny-tiny backpack  that packs up to the size of an apple.

Despite its tiny size, this daypack is still surprisingly strong, holding a two-litre bottle of water, two SLR cameras, two phones, and a guidebook when I was exploring all over Oceania last year. And it doesn’t look cheap and crinkly, either, as so many packable bags often do. I take this bad boy on every single one of my trips — I’ve had it for over four years now — and appreciate that it doesn’t take up much space or weight in my luggage.

And hiking packs? 

I’m a huge fan of the Osprey Tempest 20l backpack for day hikes and multi-day treks. It’s lightweight, has a great hip belt, and easily fits enough water, sunscreen, clothing, and snacks for a long walk.

No, you own too many Osprey Backpacks. What can I say? I’m an Osprey fangirl for life.

Clothing for New Zealand

When it comes to spending time in New Zealand, you’ll probably be aiming to split an equal amount of time between the mountains and the sea. While it can be tempting to spend your entire trip in typical backpacker gear, you won’t want to forget warm options for mornings and evenings when the temperature drops, and if you get sunburnt, you’ll definitely want something to cover up with. If you’re planning on hiking around the country, you’ll want to bring plenty of hiking gear, too.

What to wear in New Zealand in summer

Summer in New Zealand (December – February) isn’t as hot as you might expect, with maximum temperatures ranging between 20 and 30 degrees across the country. I recently spent from November to April road-tripping around New Zealand, and I ended up wearing jeans and a sweatshirt more often that not. As always with New Zealand, prepare for bad weather and hope to be pleasantly surprised. Here’s what I recommend wearing during summer:

• Two strap tops:  New Zealand can get hot, so you’re going to want to wear lightweight, thin tops to stay as cool as possible. I pack a couple of spaghetti strap tops for those days where I can’t bear the thought of wearing anything larger.
• Three tank tops:  For much the same reasons as why I bring strap tops, I pack a handful of tank tops to give me some variety with my clothes.
• Three t-shirts:  T-shirts are also good for cloudy days or if you feel uncomfortable showing any more skin.
• One dressy top:  New Zealand is more about dressing casual than fancy, so don’t expect to be dressing up every evening. Bring one nice top for your evenings out.
• Three dresses:  I like to spend most of my time in dresses to stay cool. Three is the right amount for me.
• One kaftan:  I like the selection they have on  Free People . This is good for covering up and protecting yourself from the sun on beach days.
• Two bikinis:  If you plan on hitting up the New Zealand beaches, you’ll want to bring some swimwear with you!
• One pair of denim shorts and a pair of bike shorts:  I give myself two options, bringing some denim shorts and a pair of longer bike shorts. I usually use the latter for hiking in.
• A poncho/rain jacket:  The rain in New Zealand can be a pain, especially on the west coast of the South Island so I usually pack a thin, breathable rain jacket for any unexpected showers.
• One outfit to keep you warm:  Lows in the summer months are usually around 10-15 degrees, so you’ll want to have a warm outfit for any chilly nights. I usually bring a pair of jeans and fleece for any late-night wandering.
• Hiking pants:  If you plan on doing some hiking (and you really should), bring a pair of leggings or hiking pants for any colder hikes you might be doing at altitude. I usually pack some yoga pants for hiking in New Zealand.
• Enough underwear for the length of the trip : For me, this is two bras, five pairs of socks, and seven pairs of underwear. If I’m travelling for longer than a week, I’ll either pay to get laundry done or use my  travel laundry bar and stain remover  to wash my clothes in the sink.

New Zealand is all about the hiking, so shoes with fantastic grip are a must. I’m a big fan of multi-tasking when it comes to shoes, so I’d recommend limiting the amount you bring to three.

• Flip-flops:  I travel with  these tropical-themed Havianas  and love how comfortable they are. I use flip-flops on beach days and short wanders through the local towns in the evenings.
• Hiking shoes:  I’m absolutely in love with my  Merrell Accentor  hiking shoes and think they’re the best I’ve ever owned. I’ve used these shoes to hike the 120 mile South Downs Way in the U.K. and plan on taking them on the Camino de Santiago with me later this month. My big tip for hiking in New Zealand is to buy shoes that are a size larger than you normally wear. Your feet will expand as you spend all day on them, so that extra room will prevent blisters from forming. They feel weird at the start of the day, but will be so comfortable at the end!
• Something for evening meals:  I really like taking tennis shoes, like  these low-top Converse sneakers  in pastel shades to wear for dressing up, especially as they’ll give me a little more grip on the streets than strappy sandals. If you plan on hitting up high-end restaurants and dressing up while you’re in New Zealand, take something you know you’ll be happy wearing. You know your style better than I do!

Accessories

Sunglasses:  This is fairly self-explanatory! If you’re planning a summer trip to New Zealand, you can expect to need sunglasses while you’re out exploring.

Quick-dry travel towel:  I absolutely adore mine! My  Sea to Summit towel  in extra large has been the perfect travel companion for the past eight years. It’s the size of a satsuma, weighs next to nothing, dries within minutes, and lasts for years. 

Medications to Pack for New Zealand

In general, I don’t recommend travelling with a hefty first aid kit unless you’re planning on venturing well and truly off the beaten track. You’ll be able to get all of the same medicines as you can back home while you’re in New Zealand, so don’t worry about bringing absolutely everything with you for every eventuality.

Still, there are certain medicines that it’s useful to have on hand at all times. Here’s what I keep in my limited first aid kit:

• Dramamine : I suffer from motion sickness, so always make sure to have some motion-sickness tablets on hand, especially if I’m going to be venturing out on the water. I struggled when taking the ferry between Wellington and Picton before, as well as dolphin-spotting at Marlborough Sound. I was fine at both Milford and Doubtful Sound.
• Painkillers : There’s nothing worse than having to venture out in the hot sun in search of a pharmacy when you’re dealing with an agonising headache. That’s why I always travel with a dozen painkillers when I travel, usually half a dozen  acetaminophen tablets  and half a dozen  ibuprofen .
• Imodium : Unfortunately, travel isn’t always incredible for our stomachs, and travellers’ diarrhoea can sometimes threaten to ruin your vacation, even in a country like New Zealand. I always keep Imodium on hand for any times when the local food doesn’t agree with me. It’s been a life-saver on days when I’ve needed to get on a bus and wouldn’t have otherwise been able to leave the bathroom. I also recommend packing some  DripDrop rehydration sachets  in case you get felled by food poisoning or sun stroke.
• Anti-histamines : I’m a very reactive person, so anti-histamines are a must for me! I always bring half a dozen tablets with me in case I break out in hives or start sneezing all over the country.
• Insect repellent : New Zealand has a ton of sand flies and they can be vicious with foreigners. My kiwi boyfriend doesn’t react to their bites, but I break out in huge itching welts whenever I’m struck by them. DEET helps repel them, so I always back a small bottle of insect repellent with as high a percentage of DEET as I can find.
• Band-aids : You don’t want to get an infection while travelling in New Zealand, so you’ll want to bring a couple of bandaids and a small tube of  antiseptic cream  for any cuts or grazes you may get. The last thing you want is for a cut or blister to get infected while travelling.

Essential Travel Technology for New Zealand

Let’s be honest: no technology is truly essential when it comes to travel, but whether we like it or not, it sure does help make our trips easier.

• A smartphone:  I travel with an iPhone XS, but there’s no real need to upgrade your phone for your trip to New Zealand — just take whatever you normally use at home. Ensure your phone is unlocked and pick up a local SIM card once you arrive — I usually buy one from Spark.
• A camera:  My main camera these days is the  Sony A7ii with a 28-70mm lens , along with a couple of  32 GB SanDisk SD cards . At $2,000 for the full set-up, this is pricey as hell, and I bought it as an investment in this site. I’m incredibly happy with the quality of the camera and lens, though, and would highly recommend it if you have the cash and are looking to invest in a mirrorless system. If you’re not into photography, just bring whatever camera you usually use on holiday, or use your smartphone to take photos.
• A GoPro:  GoPros are fantastic for travel, because they’re small, lightweight, and come with an underwater casing. I used mine with the  GoPro 3-Way Grip , because it’s great for taking selfies in beautiful places.
• A Kindle Paperwhite : Now  this  is something I won’t consider travelling without. I’m a voracious reader when I travel, and a Kindle allows me to power through a travel memoir a day without adding weight to my luggage.
• A laptop/tablet:  Most of you won’t need to bring your laptop with you. I work online as I travel, so this is an essential for me, but if you don’t think you’ll have a use for it, save on weight and space and leave it at home.
• Various chargers/adapters:  Make sure you bring a  travel adapter  with you! I’ve tried out so many travel adapters over the years, but the one from Saunorch is easily my favourite. It looks great, works perfectly, and doesn’t fall out of power sockets, like so many others do.

Toiletries for a Trip to New Zealand

If you’re going to be travelling with carry-on luggage, you’ll need to be cautious here, as you’ll have to make sure any liquids you travel with are under 100ml. Regardless, I’m always trying to reduce my environmental impact, so plenty of these suggestions will help you, too.

• Bamboo toothbrush and toothpaste : I invested in a bamboo toothbrush recently to cut down on my plastic consumption, and I’m obsessed with the offerings from  B-Earthly . Their toothbrushes are biodegradable, comfortable to use, great for sensitive teeth, come with a travel case, and have a built-in tongue-cleaner. I combine mine with  Crush&Brush toothpaste tablets , which come in zero-waste packaging, and  biodegradable dental floss .
• A razor:  I usually pack one reusable razor for each trip.
• Deodorant:  This is a travel essential if you plan on travelling in New Zealand through the hot and sweaty summer months! I love the  Organic Island solid deodorant bar . It’s plastic-free, biodegradable, and works just as well as traditional deodorants. The fact that it’s not a liquid will please all of my fellow carry-on travellers out there!
• Sunscreen:  You’ll get through a hell of a lot of sunscreen if you’re planning on visiting New Zealand in summer — fun fact: I managed to land myself with the worst sunburn of my life after just a couple of hours outside when first arriving! Sun protection and hydration is going to be so important. To be honest, you’ll get through so much sunscreen in New Zealand that I’d recommend picking some up after you arrive so that you can travel with a bigger bottle.
• Solid shampoo and conditioner:  I love  LUSH’s solid shampoo bars  — they leave my hair feeling soft and shiny, are super-lightweight and small, and last me over six months when using them continuously! Because they’re so small, I’d definitely recommend picking up  some solid conditioner , too. The cork pots  that are sold by LUSH are perfect for storing your bars as you travel.
• A small bar of soap:  I usually grab a bar of  soap from LUSH  before a trip, too. I love their products and the fact that they’re packaging-free. A bar of soap will last me for an entire trip and also means I don’t add to my liquid limit with shower gels.
• Tangle Teezer:  I’ve been traveling with a  Tangle Teezer  since I first started traveling, and it was a lifesaver in New Zealand! It’s the only hairbrush I’ve found that can get rid of all of all of the knots in my crazy, curly hair.

Miscellaneous Items for a Trip to New Zealand

A dry bag:  An essential for spending time out on the water. It meant I could put my camera in my dry bag, get some air in it so it floats, and swim off to a little beach with my camera and take some great photos. The extra air helped it to float, which was useful. I’ll only use  Sea to Summit products  when it comes to dry bags — I’ve been using mine for seven years and it’s still going strong.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

And fun fact! My partner scraped up our rental car in New Zealand while parking in a narrow driveway of an Airbnb. The total cost of the damage? $1,500! We were so glad we had travel insurance then, as it covered the full cost.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to New Zealand. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re way cheaper than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

What  Not  to Pack for a Trip to New Zealand

A money belt:  There’s no travel item I despise more than a money belt, and I very much recommend leaving yours at home. Why? Because they don’t work! Thieves know what money belts are and they know to look for them. When a friend was mugged while travelling, the first thing the attacker did was lift up her shirt and check for a money belt.

So not are they uncomfortable and weird and make it look like you store your valuables in your underwear, but they don’t even protect you from being robbed.

Instead of travelling with a money belt, I recommend splitting up your money and credit cards before you travel. Keep an emergency $20 in your shoe, put some of your money in your wallet, keep a card in your daypack, and some extra cash in a pocket. You’ll be a lot safer by doing this.

High heels:  New Zealand is a country that’s all about getting outdoors. Leave the heels behind and opt for some sandals with a good grip.

Too much make-up:  I’m all about that beauty life, but I’ll hold my hands up here and confess that I  always  pack far too much make-up on my trips. For some reason, I always assume I’m going to want to put on a full face of primer, foundation, concealer, eyeliner, lashes… when the reality is that it’s often so hot in New Zealand that the last thing I want is products on my face. Instead, keep your products to a minimum: I like to pack some bronzer, mascara, a quad of neutral eyeshadows (I like  the Flirt palette  from Tarte), some highlighter, and lip gloss. I’ll throw a couple of vibrant nail polishes in there, too, and that’s about it for my beauty bag.

And that’s about it for my New Zealand packing list! I hope you found this guide useful and have a fantastic trip to the islands! :-)

Lauren juliff.

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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13 comments.

I was holding my breath while looking at your pictures. They’re amazingly beautiful. I want to be there now ! Oh wait, I don’t even have a hiking shoes :(

Awww, thank you Debby! Don’t worry about the hiking shoes — I saw someone walking in high heels! Yes, really. I judged her a lot.

Stark beauty. Great photos.

Thank you, Lane! :-)

Awesome shots Lauren – wish I’d had time to check out some of NZs walks, look forward to doing some on my return now though!

These are great photos, wonderful photos, and you should be proud of yourself, on several counts.

Amazing views. Really want to go to New Zealand now, it looks incredible :)

I love volcanoes and crater lakes! We have a LOT of them here in Japan. :) I guess I have to travel to New Zealand soon! *g*

Such stunning photos! So much colour!

What camera did you use for these shots?? They are amazing! I think a post on your photography, tips and what equipment you use would be very interesting! It looks like you had an amazing time in New Zealand!!

Ohhh, this hike looks so gorgeous. I love the different colours of the stones. When I did Everest Base Camp a dutch guy in my group raved about hiking in NZ. I didn’t expect it to be that pretty!

Great photos. Doesn’t look like there are a lot of trees to get out of the sun though! Hope you were wearing plenty of sunscreen.

Damn gorgeous photos Lauren. When I head to SE Asia this fall I’ll definitely have to hop back over to NZ to do this hike finally!

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Essential New Zealand Packing List for Travel in All Seasons

The ultimate packing list for a New Zealand Holiday

Packing for a trip to New Zealand can be exciting and stressful all at once. You’ve made all the arrangements for your trip and chosen your itinerary. You might feel like you don’t have time to pack for your holiday, much less have time to think about what you need in New Zealand. 

Don’t worry! This packing list walks you through all the New Zealand travel essentials! 

When planning a trip to beautiful New Zealand, the land of the long white cloud, it’s important to pack smart and pack light. With its varied climates and diverse activities, knowing what to pack can be a challenge.

But fear not! After traveling around New Zealand, I’ve learned a thing or two about what to bring (and what not to bring) to make the most of your trip.

In this post, I’ll share my ultimate packing list to help you prepare for all types of weather and activities, whether you’re hiking in the mountains, lounging on beautiful beaches, or exploring the cities.

So grab your suitcase, and let’s talk about New Zealand travel essentials!

Top tips for packing for New Zealand

1. Bring great shoes. From day hikes through New Zealand’s rain forests to long strolls around Auckland, you’ll do lots of walking. 

2. Bring rain gear. New Zealand gets lots of rain. Weather can change from sunny to cloudy in a minute, and it’s best to be prepared. 

3. Pack a mix-and-match wardrobe and dress in layers. You’ll need warmer layers in the morning and at night, or all day in some locations. If everything goes well together, you’ll have an easier time getting by with fewer clothing items. 

4. Prioritize casual and functional pieces. Dress to be in nature, taking in New Zealand’s amazing landscapes, and you’ll be set. You don’t need tons of makeup or high heels in NZ. 

5. Don’t be afraid to underpack. It’s easy to find a place to do laundry in New Zealand. And if there’s something you’ve forgotten, you’ll be able to get it there. 

What Luggage to take to New Zealand

Let’s start with the thing that holds it all together—your luggage.  

Personal Item

If you’re flying Air New Zealand, you can bring one small personal item. This could be a purse, shoulder bag, duty-free bag, or laptop sleeve. 

Carry-on bag

You can also bring one carry-on bag. The weight limit for carry-on luggage for most international flights to New Zealand is 7 kg (15 lbs). The length plus height plus width of a carry-on bag on a flight to New Zealand must add up to 118 cm (46.5 in) or less. 

Your carry-on bag could be:

• A small suitcase
• A travel backpack
• A large tote bag
• A duty-free bag
• A laptop bag
• A camera bag

If you’re traveling light, a carry-on might be all you need!

Checked baggage

How much baggage allowance you’ll have depends on your ticket and the airline.

On an Air New Zealand flight, a checked bag can weigh up to 23 kg (50 lbs). Its length, width, and height must add up to no more than 158 cm (62 inches). 

Choose to right luggage to take to New Zealand

First, do you want to take a backpack or a suitcase to New Zealand? It really depends on the type of trip you’re taking and how you prefer to travel.

If you are planning to backpack New Zealand, from the Coromandel Peninsula to the Franz Josef Glacier, then, yes, a backpack is the obvious choice. 

And if you are planning on luxury travel in New Zealand, taking wine tours near Auckland or in Central Otago and relaxing at the Hanmer Springs hot pools and day spa, a suitcase is the way to go. 

However, if you’re somewhere in the middle, you might want to consider both options fully before deciding. 

Should you take a backpack to New Zealand?

Why you should take a backpack to new zealand.

You will need a backpack if you plan to hike and camp. A travel pack can hold a sleeping bag as well as all your camping gear. It will also have straps for a tent and sleeping pad. 

You have a lot more mobility with a backpack than with a suitcase. While you’ll find a lot fewer cobblestone streets in New Zealand than anywhere in Europe, there are still plenty of uneven, unpaved surfaces where dragging a suitcase with wheels isn’t easy. 

If you’re planning an extended visit to New Zealand, where you’ll be traveling by bus and hiking extensively, a backpack will give you the portability you’ll need. 

Why you (maybe) shouldn’t take a backpack to New Zealand

You should be pretty fit before planning to carry a massive backpack. If you’re not in great shape already, practice hiking with a fully packed backpack before you leave home. Otherwise, you’re likely to spend your vacation sore or even nursing an injured back. 

If your backpack isn’t the right fit for your body shape and size, you’ll be uncomfortable. Try several backpacks on before you buy.

Even better, load a backpack up with gear, then try it on. Wear it around the store for a while. What feels great empty might not be the best fit when it’s full of hiking boots, clothing, and camping gear. 

If you’re only doing day hikes, a full-sized backpack may be overkill. You might find it easier to bring a suitcase with a small carry-on backpack that you could then use for hiking. 

Should you take a suitcase to New Zealand?

Why you should take a suitcase to new zealand.

Wheeled suitcases are easier to handle than a backpack, especially if you’re not used to carrying a heavy pack. 

Most people travel by car or campervan in New Zealand. So a suitcase works perfectly fine. 

Suitcases stack more efficiently. This is handy if you’re travelling with a group. 

A hardshell suitcase provides protection for fragile items, like camera equipment or toiletries. 

Why you (maybe) shouldn’t take a suitcase to New Zealand

You can’t hike with a suitcase. However, if you’re only planning on day hikes, just pack a small daypack-sized backpack and you’ll be all set. 

If the wheels break, you’ll have to carry it anyway. That, obviously, is no fun. 

The ultimate New Zealand packing list

When we traveled in New Zealand, we tried to think about all the things we’d need. Lucky for you, we put together a complete packing list of what you need for your New Zealand trip.

• Rain jacket
• Coat or jacket
• Long sleeve shirts
• Light sweater
• Heavy sweater or fleece jacket
• Jeans or long pants
• Hiking pants
• Shorts (bike shorts are great for hiking in)
• Swimsuit (togs in New Zealand)
• Swim coverup or kaftan
• Bras (go for support and comfort)
• Hiking socks (I prefer wool socks for warmth and comfort)
• Socks for casual/dress shoes
• Hiking boots (wear these on the plane or pack at the top of your suitcase, because customs will want to inspect them)
• Flipflops (they’re called jandals in New Zealand!)
• Casual shoes or sneakers
• Flats or dress shoes (skip these if your casual shoes work with your nicer outfit)

Toiletries 

• Toothbrush/toothpaste/floss
• Hair straightener/curling iron/product
• Razor/shaving cream
• Shampoo/Conditioner
• Face cleanser
• Soap/body wash
• Contact solution
• Extra contacts/glasses
• Sunscreen (very important as the NZ ozone layer is quite thin)
• Other personal toiletries you will need

Medications/First Aid

• Acetaminophen/ibuprofen
• Antihistamines
• Antibiotic cream
• Insect repellent
• Prescription medications
• Hand sanitizer
• Phone charger
• Car charger for phone
• Auxiliary cable 
• Portable battery/power bank/portable charger
• Camera 
• Camera gear
• Underwater camera
• Phone underwater camera sleeve
• New Zealand travel adapter               
• GPS ( We found this to be essential for our New Zealand road trip. )
• GPS car mount
• Laptop and charger
• Surge protector
• Podcasts, playlists, and audiobooks (You don’t exactly need to “pack” these, but plan ahead and download them when you have plenty of free Wi-Fi.)

Accessories & Extras

• Packing cubes (Perfect for packing your clothes to keep your suitcase organized. Smaller ones are great for holding your miscellaneous travel gear.)
• Backpack/day pack
• Reusable water bottle
• Travel towel
• Buff neckware (Works as a scarf, protects your neck from the sun, doubles as a headband or scrunchy, can even be an eye mask when sleeping. Super versatile and lightweight.)
• Guidebook (I love having an old-fashioned paper travel guide that provides information about a region’s history and culture, as well as advice on what to see and do.)
• Waterproof bags
• Canvas shopper bag
• Small travel umbrella
• Dry sack (This will protect your gear from rain when you’re hiking or from getting wet when you’re doing water activities.) 
• Number padlock (Super handy if you will need to store your bag in a locker, either while you’re off on a multi-day hike, or just when you’re staying in a hostel.) 

Official stuff

• Photocopy of passport
• Driver’s license
• Driver’s license translation (if license isn’t in English or International Driver’s Permit)
• Evidence of sufficient funds
• Return ticket
• Visa and/or NZeTA and IVL
• Credit cards and/or a debit card
• New Zealand dollars 
• Travel insurance
• Copies of your travel documents

Pack according to where you’re going in New Zealand

Weather conditions in New Zealand vary by what region of the country you’re in. The South Island is colder than the North Island. The west coast gets more rain than the east coast.

Inland regions of New Zealand experience more extreme weather than the coastal areas do. You’ll find more wintery weather in higher elevations. 

You’ll find that New Zealand’s weather and different climates vary considerably.

If you’re going to the South Island in the winter, you’ll need lots of warm clothing. But you’ll probably still want that swimsuit to soak in natural hot pools. 

If you’re going to the North Island in the summer, you’ll be mostly wearing shorts and T-shirts, but you’ll still need rain gear and a sweater or fleece for cooler days. 

For urban adventures or day trips, you’ll want comfortable walking shoes with a good grip. New Zealand is fairly casual, so wear what you’re comfortable in, whether that’s jeans and a T-shirt or a cute dress. 

If you’re packing for outdoor activities or adventure sports in New Zealand, you’ll want plenty of quick-dry clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. You can rent any outdoor equipment you need (like skis), so no need to pack that.

What to wear in New Zealand at different times of the year

In New Zealand, the weather can change in minutes. You can experience all four seasons in one day! That means you need to pack for sun, rain, wind, and possibly snow, whether you are visiting New Zealand in August or April, July or January. 

When planning for a day in New Zealand, expect rainy weather and anticipate temperature swings. Wear shoes that can hold up to wet weather. Always dress in layers and keep a rain jacket handy. Expect variable weather and be prepared for it. 

No matter what time of year you visit New Zealand, your basic packing list will remain the same. But for each season, you’ll need to add a few extra items to be prepared for the weather. 

What to pack for New Zealand in summer 

In addition to the list above, add a few extra tank tops and T-shirts, plus an extra swimsuit if you’ll be on the North Island.

Depending on where you’re going, it’s a good idea to take a mid-weight jacket or coat, even though it’s summer. The summer months might be cooler than you expect.

Remember, NZ summer is December, January, February. These are New Zealand’s warmer months.

What to pack for New Zealand in Autumn 

Make sure you have a heavy jacket or a medium-weight coat. Depending on when and where you’re going, you might even need gloves and a heavy coat. 

If you’ll be outdoors, use common sense and bring an extra layer. Remember that sunny days can quickly become rainy or overcast

New Zealand autumn is March, April, and May. 

What to Pack for New Zealand in Winte r

I’d recommend adding an infinity scarf and gloves to your packing list. Winter is going to require a heavy coat. Swap out shorts for an extra pair of pants or cozy hiking leggings.

June, July, and August are the winter months in New Zealand .

What to pack for New Zealand in Spring 

As in autumn, be sure your jacket will be warm enough. Depending on which month you’re traveling to NZ and what your destination is, you might even need gloves and a heavy coat. 

Spring in New Zealand is September, October, and November. 

NZ travel essentials for different activities

New zealand hiking packing list .

Incredible opportunities for hiking in New Zealand abound on the North and South Islands. Hiking is a great way to explore the country, and you’re missing out if you don’t hike in New Zealand!

Hiking gear you need in New Zealand is basically the same as what you’d need elsewhere.

• Comfortable hiking shoes (Take the time to break these in before you get to New Zealand.) 
• Wool hiking socks (I’m a big fan of merino wool socks. )
• Rain pants  ( These rain pants are lightweight and don’t take up much room in your backpack. You’ll be glad to have the when you’re halfway through your hike and it starts to pour rain.)
• Sturdy daypack-sized backpack 
• First aid kit
• Sunscreen (You need this for any activity in New Zealand, but if you’ll be out hiking in the sun all day, you’ll need to reapply frequently. Do not underestimate the power of the sun in New Zealand.)
• Lip balm with sunscreen (Between the wind and the sun, you’ll want this accessible.)
• Trekking poles (Optional, but very handy on rough terrain.)

When hiking, always take a rain jacket and an extra warm layer with you in case temperatures drop. Even in the summer it can be quite chilly. 

New Zealand Camping Packing List

If you plan to camp in New Zealand for an extended period of time, you’ll want to bring your own gear, including:

• sleeping bag
• sleeping mat
• Flashlight/Torch (A headlight version is the easiest.)
• Thermal underwear (Nights can get really cold!)

Bringing your own camping gear is probably worth it if you’re in New Zealand on a working holiday visa.

However, if you just want to spend a few days camping in New Zealand, you will find it easier to just rent gear from a New Zealand outdoors store.

Local outdoors shops offer gear hire all over the North Island and South Island for a relatively small extra cost. You can also arrange transportation and meals through them as well. 

New Zealand Campervan packing list

Campervans are a classic of budget travel in NZ. They come pretty well kitted out with the essentials, so you won’t have to buy too many extras. 

Double check with your rental company for exactly what’s included with your camper van rental. You should be provided with linens, towels, cooking gear, plates, and cutlery. You will have to buy things like food, garbage bags, and dishsoap.

If you’re going on a campervan road trip, you’ll want to add a few extra things to your list:

• Flashlight (a torch in New Zealand) and extra batteries. Super handy if you need to leave the campervan in the night. I highly recommend a headlamp over a handheld flashlight.
• Beach towels. You’re likely to get one towel per person with your rental, and having a beach towel will keep your shower towel from getting sandy. 
• Motion sickness medication. New Zealand roads are windy, and you might feel that motion more in a campervan than a regular car. If anyone in your group is at all prone to motion sickness, I recommend bringing this. 
• Pack of cards or easy to pack games.   Just something to keep you entertained in the evening hours. 
• Dry shampoo and baby wipes. Not all campsites have showers, so you can use these to freshen up as needed. 

Family packing list for New Zealand

New Zealand is very family friendly, and our NZ family holiday was probably our favorite family vacation ever. 

If you’re taking a family road trip around New Zealand, I’d just add a few things to the lists above, based on the ages of your children. 

Babies packing list for New Zealand

• Extra diapers (nappies in New Zealand).Take more than you think you will need in your carry-on, just in case your kid gets a bad case of diarrhea on the plane!
• Baby carrier or sling

Toddlers Packing List for New Zealand

• Waterproof boots. This may mean waterproof hiking boots if your kid is a little hiker. If not, pack rainboots (Wellies) to keep your little one’s feet dry on daytrips. 
• A nightlight. Your accommodations probably won’t provide this, but if your toddler is used to sleeping with a nightlight, take one with you—along with an extra adaptor. 

Older kids/teens Packing list for New Zealand

• Notebook or journal with some cool pens
• Coloring books
• Map.   Let kids mark off where you’ve been and track where you’re planning to go.
• Tablets/phones. If your kids use tablets or devices while you travel, you’ll wantcool apps like Merlin Bird ID or Sky Guide .
• Headphones for each child
• A splitter so two can listen from one device on their headphones

Still having trouble packing for New Zealand?

If you’ve studied all these packing lists and are still having trouble deciding what to take, lay out everything you’re considering packing.

Narrow down the items based on comfort and function . Choose items that layer well and will mix-and-match together.

Think about where you’re going and what you’ll be doing. Check the weather forecast and average temperatures for that general time of year.

Be sure you’ve got enough clothes for cold weather and enough for warm weather. “Enough” doesn’t mean a new outfit each day—just that you’ll have something appropriate when you need it. 

Whether you’re going to New Zealand for one week, two weeks, or a month, you really only need the same amount of clothing and gear. You can always wash your clothes along the way. 

To help you plan your trip to New Zealand:

Tips for Planning a Holiday in New Zealand

The Best Beaches on the Coromandel Peninsula

How to See Cathedral Cove

The Best Wine Tour Day Trips from Auckland

What to See and Do in Wellington, NZ

Experiencing Hot Water Beach

Should You Visit Hobbiton?

What to Know About Driving in New Zealand

Renting a Car in New Zealand

Winter in New Zealand

What to Buy in New Zealand: Souvenirs & Gifts

Final thoughts on things you need for a trip to New Zealand

We consider our camera and a GPS to be our top New Zealand travel essentials.

For shoes and clothing, focus on comfort and practicality. Pack for all types of weather . Bring lots of layers and mix-and match individual pieces. 

Don’t skimp on sun protection . Bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen.

Worried you’ll forget something? Don’t be!

There are plenty of shops in New Zealand where you can buy whatever it is you’ve forgotten . You can stop at an outdoor adventure supply store for sporty hiking gear, shop at a boutique for something lovely to wear, or visit an “opp shop” (that’s Kiwi-speak for a thrift store) to get what you need on the cheap. 

Bring your sense of adventure and sense of humor, and you’re well on your way to having everything you need for a New Zealand vacation! Get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

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15 Essentials to Pack for New Zealand

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, the items you can’t miss when packing for new zealand.

It’s getting real, you’re about to go to New Zealand! Things get quite exciting yet stressful when packing for travelling in New Zealand. Let this list of essentials to pack for New Zealand ease the stress a little bit.

Apart from the obvious “don’t forget your toothbrush”, we have listed all the items that are essential to take on a trip around New Zealand. These items will not only make life on the road easier, but more comfortable and stress-free. Of course, these are only the essentials. Clothing, toiletries and electronic items are more of a personal choice, but be sure to follow our advice on those in What Clothes to Pack to Travel in New Zealand and you will find some cool things in 12 Genius Travel Gadgets for New Zealand .

1. A Good Backpack

First things first, you need a good quality backpack to pack all these essential travel items in! As this backpack is going to be your companion for your entire trip (maybe for a whole year for you working holidaymakers), you are going to want to invest in a decent backpack. It’s important to have a backpack that is the right size for you, as well as being durable enough to last the whole trip. Follow our tips in How to Choose a Good Backpack .

Maybe lose the stuffed toy, though.

2. A Day Pack

For those glorious times when you don’t have to carry your big backpack around, get yourself a day pack to carry just the essentials for day trips and day hikes. A 20-30l backpack should do the trick, which can usually fit in a water bottle, wallet, keys, phone, a couple of extra layers and then some. There are so many backpacks out there, but a practical outdoors backpack is the most versatile for urban and wilderness exploration, such as this 22l Osprey backpack . Alternatively, if you want a good-looking backpack just for exploring cities and doing day trips, check out the 25l Little America backpack or 19.5l Retreat Backpack by Herschel Supply Co. – see the full review of these eco-friendly backpacks .

3. Hiking Boots

Whether you prefer boots or shoes, sturdy footwear for hiking is an essential thing to pack for backpacking New Zealand! If you are coming to New Zealand, we’re guessing you are going to want to see the famous New Zealand landscapes while staying on a budget. Hiking is the best way to do this and there is no lack of hiking tracks in New Zealand. You hiking shoes are going to end up being your feet’s best friend by the end of your trip. To help you find a good pair of hiking footwear, we have put together How to Choose a Good Pair of Hiking Boots and 10 Tips for Picking the Perfect Hiking Boots for New Zealand .

4. Fast-drying Travel Towel

When you are on the road a lot, there is nothing more annoying than a constantly wet towel. Instead of packing a fluffy cotton bat towel, pack a microfiber travel towel, like this Relefree Premium Microfiber Towel . Not only do they fold up extremely small, but they dry much more quickly than a cotton towel. A fast-drying travel towel is an absolute essential for backpacking New Zealand!

Whatever season you are arriving in New Zealand, make sure you pack some layers! By that we mean, a thermal under layer, a jacket and some mid-layers (sweaters, long-sleeved hoodies, etc.) The weather is unpredictable in New Zealand so to be prepared for the change in temperature is a wonderful idea. If you plan on doing any outdoor activities while you’re in New Zealand, many New Zealander’s swear by merino wool as a breathable yet warm material. You can get merino under layers for men and for women .

6. A New Zealand Adapter Plug

To connect to power while you’re in New Zealand, you’re going to need a New Zealand adapter plug. This is a three-pin adapter. Although it’s tempting to get the cheapest one out there, we recommend getting an adapter with surge protection like this travel adapter on Amazon . What’s more, you don’t want a travel adapter that is way to bulky to plug anything in the outlet next to it – you don’t want to be “that guy” in the hostel…

7. Multi-plug

On the subject of power, if you have a lot of items to charge/connect to power then it might be worth packing a multi-plug. This way you only need the one New Zealand plug adapter, then the rest of your electrical items can plug into a multi-plug from your home country. Power outlets are often minimal in hostels or inside your campervan, so a multi-plug which doesn’t take too much space in your backpack is likely to come in handy.

8. Some Cash

You know how the world works, right? You pay for stuff. It’s the same in New Zealand. The New Zealand currency is the New Zealand Dollar. Bring enough cash for your first couple of weeks in New Zealand, just in case something goes wrong with accessing money from home or opening your New Zealand bank account. You can find some advice on payment methods while you are backpacking in New Zealand at New Zealand Currency: The New Zealand Dollar . If you are in New Zealand for more than a couple of months, we recommend opening a New Zealand bank account .

9. Insect Repellent

During the summer months, there are annoying little bugs called sandflies that will bite you. Although not found everywhere in New Zealand, they are particularly abundant in the South Island and especially the West Coast. Get yourself a little bottle of insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay. There are alternative methods for avoiding sandfly bites too, which we mention in 7 Ways to Stop Sandfly Bites .

10. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is an absolute essential item to pack for backpacking New Zealand. Because of the hole in the O-zone layer between New Zealand and Australia, the sun is intense and can burn you within seven minutes of exposure even in winter. New Zealand has the world’s highest rate of melanoma skin cancer due to not enough people wearing sunscreen. It’s not a joke. Always have sunscreen with you!

11. Your Passport (and Copies)

It’s obvious but it’s still worth mentioning, right? Make sure that your passport is valid at least up to three months after you plan to leave New Zealand. It’s also worth making a copy of your passport, whether it’s a paper copy in a separate place to where you keep your original passport or a digital copy on whatever cloud you use. This will make it easier to keep a record of your passport details should you lose your passport. To reduce the chances of that nightmare happening, check out Don’t Use Your Passport for ID in NZ: There’s a Much Better Way!

12. Your Driving License (and IDP)

If you want to drive at any point during your time in New Zealand, you will need your driving license. Your driving license will be accepted in New Zealand if it is written in English. Any other language driving license needs to be accompanied by an approved translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP). The latter is the best one to get because you can get a hold of an IDP before you leave home. Then you will be able to drive in New Zealand as soon as you like. Find out more in Why You Need an International Driving Permit for New Zealand .

13. Prescription Medication

If you are on any prescription medication, then make sure you have a sufficient supply of them for your backpacking trip in New Zealand. You can bring up to three-months-worth of prescription medication through New Zealand customs. Any more will need to be accompanied by a letter from your doctor. If you need to get any prescription medication while you are in New Zealand, follow our advice in How to Get a Medical Prescription in New Zealand .

14. Visa and Paperwork

Upon entering New Zealand, you may be asked to provide evidence at the Immigration desk to make sure you are not breaking the conditions of your visa – short-term visitors, take a look at Do You Need a Visa to Visit New Zealand? for advice on the visitor visa and NZeTA. If you are on a working holiday visa , have a copy of the visa printed out which looks like this , as well as evidence that you have your “sufficient funds”, a return travel ticket or funds for one, and a copy of your travel insurance certificate. More information can be found at Arrival Advice: Biosecurity and Customs in New Zealand .

15. Your “Togs”

There are plenty of reasons to throw your togs, otherwise known as swimwear, on in New Zealand, whether it’s for swimming, scuba diving or relaxing in one of the natural hot pools. One pair of togs is one of the essential items to pack for backpacking New Zealand!

If You Liked This Article, Then You Might Like…

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Plus, find more essential travel advice in the  31 Tips for Travelling in New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Customs Service (Customs and Biosecurity - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD online platform - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Stats NZ (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and approved by Robin, who is the co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. With more than 15 years of experience in the New Zealand tourism industry, Robin has co-founded three influential tourism businesses and five additional travel guides for South Pacific nations. He is an expert in New Zealand travel and has tested over 600 activities and 300+ accommodations across the country.

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The Ultimate New Zealand Packing List

We're big fans of travelling light. It makes everything easier - getting to or from the airport, into your accommodation and around New Zealand. When planning for your New Zealand trip, be sure you don't overpack, and only bring the essentials. 

Over on the  What to Bring page , we detail a bit more about what you should be considering when packing for your once in a lifetime New Zealand adventure.

This Ultimate New Zealand Packing List isn't designed to be an entire and complete list of things you need for your trip. Rather, they're 7 specific items relevant to a New Zealand holiday that we think you shouldn't leave home without. 

1) Layers of Merino Wool

As you're coming to New Zealand, the home of millions of sheep that produce tons and tons of wool, it's only right that you'd come with some Merino - one of our finest exports. When a lot of people think wool, they think of the itchy, scratchy sweaters they had to wear when growing up. Merino is different. 

It's an ultrafine and consequently ultrasoft wool. Merino fibers are extremely fine, which enables them to bend far more than traditional, coarser wool fibers. This makes Merino wool feel soft and luxuriously gentle next to your skin. 

This is important, but equally important (and especially if you're packing light!) is merino wool can absorb moisture vapor which means less sweat on your body. Merino wool even absorbs the odors from sweat, which are then released during washing. This results in an odor free shirt, or sweatshirt(or underwear!) that can be worn for days before it starts to smell. 

It's also super breathable, so you can wear it on hot or cold days and be very comfortable. Perfect for New Zealand, as it's common to see four seasons in a day, regardless of the time of year. 

We love Icebreaker Merino , made from New Zealand sourced Merino sheep. 

2) Lightweight Down Jacket

As we've just mentioned you can see many seasons in one day, you should be prepared for any type of weather. Even in the middle of summer, it can get cold overnight, and especially on the South Island . 

As a result, we suggest brining a lightweight down jacket you can stuff in your suitcase or backpack for cold days or cool nights. We wear the Montane Featherlite Down Jacket when we're out exploring our backyard in Queenstown. 

3) GoPro to Capture Your Adventures

Even if you're not planning on doing a bungy jump or a skydive (and you should, New Zealand is the home of adventure tourism after all), having a waterproof action camera will be great for capturing memories from your New Zealand adventure. Even if you don't fancy yourself a photographer, the GoPro Hero 5 is the perfect choice for your trip. You can capture videos from your adventure sports, or even if you don't jump off any bridges or out of any planes, the GoPro takes incredible photographs. And most importantly, it's super small and super light. 

4) Sunscreen

You'll want to pack some high SPF sunscreen as the sun is extremely strong in New Zealand as a result of a hole in the ozone layer. You'll want to lather up even on cloudy days (really). Odds favor it being cheaper in your home country, so if you're checking your bag bring some from home. 

5) Universal Travel Adapter 

If you're a seasoned world traveller, odds favor you having an adapter to allow you to plug your electronics into various power points around the world. If not, you'll want to be sure you invest in one before setting off on your trip to New Zealand. 

There's nothing worse than arriving at your hotel on the first evening, only to find you can't recharge your phone, or iPod or Kindle. The Skross Pro + USB adapter can be used in over 150 countries around the world, including New Zealand. It also has a couple USB ports so you can charge up multiple devices at one time. 

6) Raincoat 

Being an island nation, New Zealand has a maritime climate and with this comes a pretty good likelihood you'll encounter some rain whilst on your vacation. Don't let this ruin your plans, and be sure you bring a lightweight and breathable rain jacket for your adventures around the North or South Island. We love the North Face Venture Jacket , great for windy Wellington days. 

7) Hiking Boots or Shoes

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, you'll want to arrive in New Zealand with a comfortable pair of sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots. Even if you don't plan on walking the Routeburn Track, you'll almost inevitably be doing quite a bit of walking in New Zealand.

Whether that's along the waterfront in Wellington, up Bob's Peak in Queenstown or on one of our miles and miles of pristine hiking trails, you're bound to be on your feet a lot. There's nothing more important than a comfortable pair of shoes on your feet, so be sure you arrive with some worn in and ready for your adventure. We wear Scarpa on our New Zealand adventures . 

Questions about what to pack, or planning your New Zealand trip in general? Check out our Free New Zealand Travel Planning Service or drop us a message here .

Let Us Help You Plan Your Dream New Zealand Trip

Get help creating the perfect self-drive itinerary, finding the best deal on a car or campervan rental or booking the perfect tour. We offer personalized support prior to your trip. Contact us or fill out our FREE Travel Planning Service form below.

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• The Ultimate New Zealand Packing List

By Orla O Muiri

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Get hold of your free New Zealand Trails brochure here

Your mind is made up. Your flights are booked. The countdown has begun. Soon, you’ll be tucking into your lunch on a wild and rustic New Zealand trail, cooling your feet at the base of a waterfall or sipping on an Otago pinot noir while watching the sun dip below the horizon. You’re about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, filled with glorious hikes, invigorating activities and a seemingly never-ending supply of food. The trouble is figuring out what to pack for New Zealand. By popular demand, we’ve developed the ultimate New Zealand packing list . Check out our easy-to-follow packing list for New Zealand here or better yet, we’ve attached a downloadable version for you to print and tick off as you pack! After reading our advice on what to pack for New Zealand, you can rest assured that you’ll have everything you need to embrace this once in a lifetime experience in true comfort and style.

What to pack for New Zealand hiking

New Zealand Trails super-guide Kim explains everything you'll need to pack for your New Zealand hiking adventure. From boots and clothing, to your backpack and what to pack inside it.

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Let’s talk – we’d love to hear what you think. Pop your details in below and have your say.

This is super helpful! Great to know what to pack for my hiking trip in NZ

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The Ultimate New Zealand Packing List

As I pack my bags to venture back to New Zealand this weekend, I realised I have never written a New Zealand packing list on worldofwanderlust.com! And considering New Zealand is one of the most popular destinations on my travel blog, I figured now would be as good a time as any to share my top tips for packing for a trip to New Zealand.

Over the years, New Zealand has been good to me. Whether it’s a ski trip down South or living in a van for two weeks , I’ve always made the best memories here. Some of my trips have been in warmer months ( like my time in Marlborough’s wine country ), but most of them have been in winter like this one. So, here we go, I’m sharing my ultimate packing list to make sure you don’t miss any of the important pieces!

Trekking boots

For me, there are no better trekking boots than Merrell . A few years back I was an ambassador for the brand and as part of my work with the company, got to try (and keep!) all of their best selling hiking shoes. I was shocked at how long I had been torturing my feet with other brands and since then, despite no longer being affiliated with the brand, will still only wear their hiking boots. Some of my best recommendations include the Siren Traveller Walking Shoes (shop here on Amazon.com.au , Amazon.com ) and for a more every day walking shoe, try the staple walking shoe (shop here on Amazon.com.au , Amazon.com ).

Regardless of the season you’re visiting, New Zealand’s sun can be harsh and unforgiving. I would always recommend using at least a face sunscreen, especially if you’re hitting the slopes in winter – when most people forget to apply a sheer face sunscreen (shop my favourite budget brand here on Amazon.com.au ).

Camera backpack

If you’re spending all that money and going all that way, you’d better be taking your camera! For me, travel and photography go hand in hand. For the last ten years I have been capturing my travels and sharing them here on my blog and without it, I wouldn’t have seen half the places I have. But travelling with expensive camera gear can be stressful. I always travel with a camera backpack ( shop here on Amazon.com.au ) to ensure all of my lenses, cameras and drone are safe and sound.

Waterproof Jacket

It’s no secret New Zealand experiences some pretty harsh winters. And for me, winter is the best time of year to visit the country (hello, ski trip!) With that said, I always pack a waterproof jacket for my travels in New Zealand and my favourite brand of travel jackets is Barbour (shop here on Amazon.com.au ).

Ever since I spent a week hiking in Ethiopia, I’ve counted a head torch as an absolute necessity in my travel bag. In fact, there aren’t many places I travel without it! In New Zealand a head torch will come in handy on your sunrise and sunset hiking missions, as you’ll never be left worried about losing light. Plus they also come in handy during van life – when cooking dinner at dusk or making a nature call in the middle of the night (shop here on Amazon.com.au ).

Regardless of the season, I always pack a swimsuit. It doesn’t matter if I’m visiting a tropical island or venturing into the depths of winter on a ski trip, I never forget my swim suit and a trip to New Zealand is no exception!

A GoPro (shop here on Amazon.com.au ) has been a travel essential for me ever since I started travel blogging. I was invited to work with the brand in Hawaii and shown how to get the most out of my camera, and since then have always used it to capture adventurous pursuits like skiing, kayaking and surfing.

Portable charger

If you are travelling around New Zealand in a van or plan to spend a lot of time outdoors in nature, a portable charger is a game changer. These days we use our phones for almost everything – including a weather check, time check, camera, calculator and emergency torch. We’d be lost without them! A portable charger (shop here on Amazon.com.au ) is the best way to ensure your device stays charged at all times.

Stanley Steel Thermos

It was actually on my first trip to New Zealand a few years ago when I purchased my Stanley thermos ( shop here on Amazon.com.au ). Since then, I’ve sworn by packing this in my travel essentials. This is a great way to ensure you have enough caffeine for the day or to heat up a hot lunch and take it on your day hike. They always come in handy and I’d be lost without mine!

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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New zealand packing list: tips from my personal experience.

If you don’t know where to start with your New Zealand packing list, then you’re in the right place.

A couple of months before my working holiday , I remembered thinking to myself, how on earth do I start packing for New Zealand if I don’t know how long I’m going to be on the road? 

Should I only bring the travel essentials to NZ? Or should I pack more in case I can’t get them while on the road?

Then there was the issue of different seasons because the New Zealand packing list for summer would be totally different from that of a winter NZ packing list, right?

Right, and wrong. 

You can do up a packing list for New Zealand that will take you from summer to winter easily if you remember the basic principle behind New Zealand’s weather – you can experience up to four seasons in a day in NZ . 

The other principle I follow is to pack for as long as you can go without washing your clothes , which can vary from one week to two weeks, and then pack accordingly. 

As long as you have a one-week packing list, you’ll easily have a 2-week packing list, and so on. 

Keen to know what was on my packing list for New Zealand? 

It’s going to be extensive but you can definitely use it as a reference as you do up your own New Zealand packing list! 

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links and I may get a small commission if you purchase through my links below, at no additional cost to you.

What To Bring For Your New Zealand Packing List

This is my New Zealand summer packing list as a female with the consideration that I will also be travelling into the winter season. 

I pack for hikes and for exercising as I enjoy working out while on the road. 

You can omit those if you don’t need them. 

You will also notice I don’t bring as many winter clothes because I opt to layer and I pick up winter clothes from sales or op shops as winter draws closer. (I share a few more such tips later!) 

• Underwear x 7 – One for every day of the week, plus you never know when there could be an emergency! 
• Sleeveless tops or T-shirts x 3
• Long-sleeved shirts or button-up shirts x 3
• Long pants including one quick-dry for hiking x 2
• Lightweight shorts x 2
• Long flowy skirt or wrap dress x 1 – For those dressier evenings out and for that nice outfit shot!
• Lightweight sleeping outfit x 1
• Microfibre towel x 1
• Sports bra x 2 
• Activewear leggings x 1

Packing For The Weather 

• Swimsuit x 1
• Wide-brimmed sun hat x 1
• Water-resistant rain jacket with wind protection x 1
• Fleece jacket x 1
• Lightweight puffer jacket x 1 – I swear by my Uniqlo one , but if that’s not available in your country, just get a lightweight down jacket and use a compression bag. 
• Scarf x 1 – I love this scarf which doubles up as a blanket and has hidden pockets for my belongings. 

For Your Feet

• Socks x 5 pairs
• Hiking shoes x 1 pair – You can buy this in New Zealand as they have many well-known hiking brands with frequent sales. But you can also bring your own if you’re a seasoned hiker.
• Sandals or flip-flops x 1 pair – Great for light hikes that have water elements like streams, use in public showers or the beach! I love my Teva sandals for this.  
• Dressy shoes x 1 pair – Again, for those nights out or special places! These ones are foldable, lightweight and great for travelling.
• Sneakers x 1 pair – Optional if you’re open to wearing your hiking shoes and sandals out! 

Other Miscellaneous Items

• Bandana or neck gaiter – To protect your neck from the sun and on dustier trails. 
• Collapsible hiking sticks – Optional but useful if you’re hiking a lot. 
• Sunglasses with UV protection  
• Sunblock with at least SPF 50 
• Insect repellent 
• Outlet adaptor for New Zealand 
• Waterproof day pack – For shorter hikes and for going out during the day
• Drivers’ license – You can use your country’s driver’s license for up to 12 months after you enter NZ. If your license is not in English , you need to carry an official translated version or an international driving permit. 
• Luggage lock
• Refillable water bottle – It’s alright to drink water from the tap in NZ, and most places would fill your bottle for you if you ask. Opt for a collapsible one to save space in your luggage or backpack. 

Remember also to include your own toiletries, electronics, medication and personal documents, like copies of your passport and travel bookings! 

What Not To Bring In Your New Zealand Packing List

• Money belt – Nothing screams a newbie traveller more than a money belt.  I prefer hiding cash and cards in different compartments of my luggage (with my underwear, make-up, and inside of shoes) so it’s less conspicuous and predictable.
• Merino – You can easily buy merino wool items in New Zealand at affordable prices. Don’t worry too much about finding these items in your home country before you arrive. 
• Camping and adventure gear – You can easily get this on sale at shops like Kathmandu or in a second-hand shop (known as an op shop).  If you have time, you can even buy them off leaving travellers from Facebook Marketplace (yes, this is very popular in NZ!), and TradeMe.  You can even rent from adventure companies as most companies are aware that travellers don’t often have the right gear or the space to bring them along in their backpacks. 

How To Choose A Good Backpack 

While it is important to know what to pack for New Zealand, it’s equally important to know WHAT you want to pack it IN. 

I’ve personally travelled both with a backpack and luggage.

I feel that ultimately backpacks provide the most travel flexibility.

Especially in a country like New Zealand where you’ll often have to walk quite a bit to your accommodation from the last bus or transport stop. Particularly in the South. 

I use an Osprey Farpoint 40l for anything below a 2-week holiday packing list, and a combination of that and a duffel or the Osprey Renn 50l for something longer. 

Here are the points of consideration I use when choosing a good backpack:

• Capacity – It’s tempting to get a bigger backpack but I almost always regret bringing too much! 
• Comfort – Does it feel okay on me? I always test it out first, which is why I try to go in-store to try it and then get it online ! 
• Cushioning – The presence of padded straps to cushion my skin when the bag weighs down on me 
• Core – Does it protect my back? Does it have a back panel for back protection?
• Complements – Does the backpack allow me to add on a day pack or components if I need to increase its capacity?
• Cover – Always, always, always get a bag with a rain cover or buy a separate rain cover if it doesn’t have one. Don’t risk it with the weather when you’re in NZ. 

Weather In New Zealand 

New Zealand’s weather varies widely, from warm subtropical temperatures up in the far north to colder temperatures in the deep south, as low as -10°C (14°F) . 

There are four seasons in New Zealand and it bears remembering that the seasons work differently there compared to what you might be used to:

• Summer: December to February
• Fall: March to May
• Winter: June to August
• Spring: September to November 

However, because most of the country is close to the coast, temperatures don’t swing that wildly.

There’s also a common saying that you can experience up to four seasons in a day when in New Zealand. The sun can be up and you can be expecting a warm day, but all it takes is a cool, icy gust to change things up. 

That’s why it’s important to have wind-resistant jackets in your New Zealand travel checklist while packing for New Zealand, no matter the season! 

New Zealand Packing List: Tips & Tricks 

These are tried and tested tricks from my time spent living out both a suitcase and a backpack (on separate trips) to New Zealand:

• Don’t Stuff Your Bags – You want to always make sure you have space to pack souvenirs, food, or more clothes you might buy on the way.  And trust me, trying to stuff an already-full backpack when you’re running late for a flight is NEVER a good idea.
• Less Is More – I have never regretted bringing too few clothes. 100% of the time, however, I have always regretted bringing too many clothes.  You won’t need that extra pair of pants, and no, you are not gonna need ten pairs of underwear. Put them all back. 
• Go With Rolling, Not Folding – This is a personal preference, but rolling has saved me a lot more space than folding and it’s always a lot neater to pick out clothes from my backpack or luggage when it is rolled. You can always choose to organise your rolled clothes in packing cubes. I never go without them. Better yet, get the compressible packing cubes ! 
• Always Bring And Apply Sunblock – I don’t care if you’re only out in the sun for 15 minutes and it doesn’t look sunny. You need sunblock as long as you’re out in the day in NZ.  Take this from someone who has worked 8-hour days in the NZ sun. Even 15 minutes out on a seemingly cloudy day can get you a tan or worse a burn.  I use this one for my body and this sunblock for my face so it stays one even when I sweat.
• Go To An Op Shop – Op shops are the local term for secondhand shops in New Zealand and they sell almost everything.  Forgot to bring a cap? Need an extra hoodie? Or finding it too chilly and could use a scarf? Your nearest op shop probably has one for a few bucks. Or even just a dollar. 

FAQs for New Zealand Packing List

What should i prepare for a trip to new zealand.

Considering how the weather changes quickly in New Zealand, regardless of season, you should make sure you have these New Zealand travel essentials:

• Warm outerwear like a puffer jacket 
• Waterproof and windproof raincoat
• A hat or cap 
• Waterproof boots or shoes 

What Should I Wear To New Zealand?

You don’t have to worry too much about what should you wear to New Zealand – kiwis can be quite relaxed and chill when it comes to dress codes.

If you find yourself heading to a fancy restaurant, aim for smart casual at least. For ladies – a dress, or a blouse with pants and a skirt. And for men, a collared shirt with long pants. Covered shoes would be best in these instances. 

How Much Cash Can I Carry Into NZ?

You can bring as much cash as you’d like to carry into NZ, including NZ dollars or foreign currency. 

The only caveat is that if you carry more than NZ$10,000 or its equivalent into the country, you will need to declare it to Customs at the airport. 

Save yourself the hassle of carrying too much cash and use multi-currency accounts or cards like Wise . 

How Much Do You Need For 3 Weeks In NZ?

For 3 weeks in New Zealand, you’ll need approximately $3,000 or less if you are willing to rough it out on a budget. 

New Zealand is undoubtedly expensive and your accommodation, food and petrol (if you are driving) add up. But it is not impossible to travel on a budget. 

Are Clothes Expensive In New Zealand?

Clothes can be expensive in New Zealand. You can easily find global brands like H&M, Zara and COS if you prefer shopping from known brands.

Or if you’d like to shop local and budget, I personally shop at Glassons, Cotton On or my local op-shop (thrift store) to get around clothes being expensive! 

Can You Wear Shorts In New Zealand?

A hundred per cent yes, you can wear shorts in New Zealand! 

Being a country known for its great outdoors and hiking, you’ll often see many travellers and even locals wear shorts regularly (even in winter!). 

However, some fancy places and night spots might require you to wear long pants so always make sure you have at least a pair in your luggage. 

Do You Have To Wear Shoes In New Zealand?

The surprising response to this is, no you do not have to wear shoes in New Zealand if you don’t want to! It’s not uncommon to see Kiwis barefoot while out and about.

Some sources say it stems from Maori culture where being barefoot provides a sense of connectedness to the ground while others say NZ weather is great for going shoeless.

I say, if you want to go shoeless, just go for it – really, no one’s going to care! 

I hope this entry has helped you as you decide what should go on your New Zealand packing list for your upcoming trip! 

It’s definitely nerve-wracking packing for somewhere you’ve never been to before, not knowing what to expect. 

Personally, I like to apply the method of putting aside items I want to pack about a week before. And when the week goes on, I remove one item a day. 

Packing ahead helps prevent me from throwing in random things in a frenzy, and also helps me think about whether I really need that extra pair of shoes, for example. 

Whatever you decide to pack, or how you’re going to pack it, just remember you’ll need to lug it around and back eventually, so only pack what you need, or else you might find yourself offloading as you go along. 

Good luck with the packing and let me know if my tips helped! 

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• What to Pack for a New Zealand Holiday

• Planning a Trip to New Zealand

We know that many of you will be coming to New Zealand for a variety of experiences, so therefore your clothing and equipment needs will vary accordingly. We have compiled a list that tries to accommodate various requirements. We hope the information provided helps you make the right decisions, ensuring you have a trouble free holiday.

Tips & Tricks when packing for your New Zealand Holiday.

Some Advice on Packing

General Guideline 

Clothing should be lightweight, hard-wearing and easily washed. Almost everyone brings too many clothes, so try to travel as light as possible. If you are travelling in high summer months (January to March) we recommend that you take loose fitting clothing, preferably made of cotton, as this will help you to keep cool. Bear in mind in New Zealand you can experience 4 seasons in 1 day!

Packing not Stuffing

When packing for your holiday, don’t pack your bags too full. Not only do over-packed bags place undue stress on locking mechanisms, they are also difficult to re-pack throughout your holiday, not to mention the fact that you’ll have nowhere to put any souvenirs that you buy along the way.

Cross-packing

When travelling with a companion we recommend “cross-packing”, i.e. pack 2 outfits of your clothing in your companion’s luggage and vice-versa, in case one bag is delayed or lost.

Roll, don't fold

Tried-and-tested by our team, rolling saves more space than folding and prevents creasing. Anything seriously fragile should go in a garment bag and laid flat on top. If you can, leave it on the hanger (preferably a slim, plastic one) - then you can just hang it up as soon as you arrive.

Keeping Warm

 If you are visiting our alpine regions, on the water or here over winter - the best way to beat the cold is by wearing two or three thin layers of clothing, rather than one thick layer. Air trapped between layers becomes warmed by the body and instant insulation from the effects of cold is created. Keeping dry also plays an important role in beating back the effects of cold. Finally, it is important to have the proper covering for head, hands and feet. As a general rule, wool, silk and synthetic fabrics are recommended as they trap air better than cotton. These items are available in a wide range of clothing articles in soft, stretchy, water- and windresistant fabrics. Jerseys, camisoles and underwear help "wick" moisture away from your body and can act as your first layer. For your second layer, you might want a sweater. A third layer, if necessary, may be a cardigan-type jacket made of waterproof synthetic or a lightweight down vest.

Just 15 minutes in the New Zealand summer sun can cook you. Temperatures can be low but the ultra-violet rays are vicious due to the hole in the ozone layer. Wear a hat, sunglasses and a high SPF sunscreen. Footwear 

 It is important to bring footwear that is suitable and also comfortable. If you are planning any hiking we recommend you wear sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots If you decide to take hiking boots, it is vital that you wear them in before you travel (one suggested method is to put them on, submerge them in water and then take a brisk 5 mile walk at least twice). You should also bring spare laces. Sport sandals, boating shoes or beach footwear—may be useful in some locations.

Stuff shoes

Use every inch of space and prevent shoes from getting damaged by stuffing them with socks and underwear. Then place each pair of shoes inside a dust bag This also forces you to be brutal - how many pairs of shoes do you actually need?

Stock up on basic meds

When your body relaxes, it often lets down its defences. Don't let a cold ruin your holiday - pack a cold remedy for the flight and stock up on tissues and painkillers at the airport. Please read our blog Bringing Medication into New Zealand

New Zealand Dress Code 

New Zealand is typically an informal place, so bring plenty of comfortable, casual clothes. Most bars and restaurants do have a dress code, but, again, this is commonly just smart casual. Men are generally not expected to wear suits and ties, except in a few of the top formal bars and restaurants in major cities.

If you read a sign saying: "No thongs" don't panic - it's another word for flip-flops, jandals, pita-patas etc, depending where you are from.

Suggested Packing List

General clothing.

• 1 pair jeans
• 2 pair light-weight trousers
• 2 pairs shorts (or a skirt)
• 3-4 Shirts (think layering for colder days; quick-dry clothes are best)
• 2 button up front long sleeve shirt
• 1 sleep shirt & sleep shorts (or whatever you sleep in)
• 1 light sweat shirt or long-sleeve t-shirt
• 1 swimming suit
• underwear and sleepwear
• 4-5 pairs socks both thin and thick
• 1 pair walking boots or comfortable walking shoes
• 1 pair sport sandals (like Teva's)
• 1 Polar Tec or similar fleece Jacket (preferably water resistant/windproof jacket)
• warm rain jacket or lined windbreaker with hood
• 1 pair "hiking" boots or good walking shoes
• 1 or 2 changes of smart casual clothing for restaurant dining

Outdoor Clothing

• non-cotton base layers (top and bottom); choose fabrics such as polypropylene, Capilene or Thermax
• rain jacket and pants (preferably water and wind proof or resistant)
• heavier socks
• sandals (preferably waterproof)
• collapsible walking staff
• scarf or bandanna
• 1-3 long pants (help to ward off sand flies in remote/mountainous areas of the South Island)

Documentation

• travel Insurance
• travel documents – flight tickets/vouchers and Itinerary
• dive certification cards
• dive log book
• drivers license

Other Items

• motion sickness tablets (if you require them)
• Insect repellent (with Deet)
• sunscreen lotion
• sun glasses
• brimmed sunhat
• medications and copies of prescriptions
• sunscreen and lip ointment
• current converter and outlet adapter
• travel alarm clock or watch with alarm

Documents to bring with you...

Scuba Diving All persons wishing to scuba dive must take their certification cards with them as well as their dive log book as these will be examined. You will be required by each dive centre to complete a medical questionnaire. If we are in anyway unsure of your fitness, you may be required to undergo a medical examination at your expense to prove you are fit to dive. This may result in considerable extra cost. No refunds will be given if you are refused medical clearance to dive. You are strongly advised to undergo a full medical examination before booking your holiday. We also require you to sign a Standard Safe Diving Statement of Understanding. Also bring any of your equipment that you do not feel comfortable hiring, i.e. a regulator, BCD, mask or fins, etc. However, there is a full range of equipment available for hire at a nominal fee.

Driving licence If you plan to drive a vehicle while in New Zealand you should bring your licence with you. You can legally drive in New Zealand if you have a current driver's licence from your home country(if not in English this needs to be shown in combination with either an official translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP). The law here requires all drivers carry their licence or permit when driving. You will only be able to drive the same types of vehicles you are licensed to drive in your home country. Drivers with a non-English language licence must carry an accurate English translation of their licence or an International Driving Permit while driving.

Travel Documents & Vouchers When you book a tour you will be issued with a Confirmation Itinerary. Please ensure that all the services which you have booked and paid for are shown on your travel documents and that all names have been spelled correctly. If you have booked additional services like extra nights' accommodation, transfers or excursions, please make sure that these are shown and that you have been issued with a voucher for these services. (Vouchers are generally sent out one month prior to departure). Don’t forget to bring your valid passport and if required a visa for your journey.

Make a Copy It is highly recommended that you make a note of your passport details (passport number, visa number and place and date of issue of both), in the old days we would say take a photocopy but now you can just take a photo from your phone and store it in the cloud. This makes live so much easier if you do happen to lose your passport etc. If you lose your passport you must report it at once to the local police and the nearest embassy or consulate of your country.

and finally, a word to the brave…

Before you leave for your holiday, Take everything out of your bag/case lay it all out, the clothes and the ‘things’ you plan to take. Take a long look then only put half back.

Take only the ‘Bare Necessities’ :)  - as it’s so much more comfortable to travel light. Have you ever been on a trip only to find you took something with you that you never even used?  If you can answer ‘yes’ to that question, then it’s likely you could be taking a lot less with you. Take clothing that can serve multiple purposes and remember you can always get items laundered as you travel should you need. Remember New Zealand is a modern country and if you really need that item you left behind, you will be able to purchase one locally.

More articles to help you plan your trip to New Zealand

Getting to New Zealand New Zealand Passport and Visa Requirements Smooth as possible on arrival to New Zealand Travel Insurance for New Zealand Doubtful Sound or Milford Sound? Which New Zealand Glacier to Visit? Driving in New Zealand Safety in New Zealand's Great Outdoors What is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand? New Zealand Accommodation Guide New Zealand's Need to Know Facts What do things cost in New Zealand

Since 2001 we’ve been helping visitors plan their dream New Zealand holiday. We aim to make visiting our beautiful land effortless. Let our expert holiday planners put together an itinerary for you, no obligation FREE of charge, or get some friendly advice on what small group tour would suit - Just follow the link and answer a few brief questions .  

Pricing terms

The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price

Travelfornoobs

The Ultimate New Zealand Packing List

New zealand packing list – all the things you should not forget, what to take in your bag for new zealand.

You’ve booked your plane ticket and the time of departure is fast approaching? After the joys of such a decision, comes the question of knowing what to put in your suitcase to go to New Zealand. No need to panic, we have prepared a very complete list of the essential things to bring to make sure you don’t miss anything once you are there.

In order to leave no room for unforeseen events, it’s of course preferable to go through this list a few days before leaving rather than the day before departure, as you might miss some items.

Take the time to read and download it in order to identify the things that you absolutely must pack and that you might miss and that could make you lose time and money if you forget them.

You will also need to think about packing according to the type of accommodation you will be staying in, the different modes of transportation you will use during your trip, the climate and the season, as well as the activities you plan to do.

In order to help you prepare your suitcase, this checklist of the essential things to bring in New Zealand gathers several categories: clothes, accessories, various objects… It will allow you to have a concrete vision of a typical suitcase for New Zealand.

An advice, think of keeping some space in your luggage if you wish to bring back souvenirs or to make some clothing shopping on the spot.

Thanks to this travel list, preparing your bag for New Zealand will be a real child’s play and you will just have to enjoy your adventure!

Note : This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.

• Important hings to do before you go
• Essential documents
• Transport essentials
• Backpack & luggage
• Clothing and shoes
• Hygiene & Toiletries
• Photo, Video & High Tech
• Useful accessories
• Medication and first aid kit
• Activities and Useful Links (+ Printable checklist PDF)

1/ Important things to do before you go

 Prepare your travel itinerary  Apply for a visa (if necessary)  Make your vaccinations (if necessary)  Check-up at the doctor / dentist  Take out a travel insurance  Photocopy or scan important documents (passport)  Write down e-mail and useful phone numbers in your address book  Warn your bank about your trip abroad (if necessary)  Book accomodation for your first night ( Do it now before everything is fully booked! Check the best hotels on Booking )  Download offline applications and maps for Maps.me  Download movies offline   Prepare your favorite music playlist  Turn off or turn down the heat of your house  Empty garbage cans  Water the plants   Give a copy of your house/car keys to a family member or friend  Close doors and windows

2/ Essential documents

Even before you buy your plane ticket, remember to check the validity of your passport : it must be valid for at least six months after your return date (for some countries) and have a blank page. Another tip: send your important documents to a secondary email in case you lose them.

   Passport   ID card    Plane or train ticket (have a paper copy just in case)   Reservation documents (e-ticket, train ticket, hotel reservation)   Visa (if necessary)   International driver’s license, if you wish to rent a car   Health insurance card   Travel insurance   Credit card   Cash   Useful numbers in case of emergency   Itinerary and address of your accommodation (hotel / AirBnB / camping)   Vaccination certificate   Diving license, sailing license, etc.   Some business cards with your contact information, email, blog, website

3/ Transport essentials

The little things to have with you at all times during the flight or the trip by train or bus:

 Phone and charger  Book / Magazine / Kindle / Travel Guide  MP3 player   Chewing gum   Pen + notepad  Travel pillow ( my favorite )  Sleep mask ( my favorite )   Earplugs   Snacks / sandwich   Small water bottle  Nasal ointment for dry nose  Sunglasses   Glasses case   Watch   Hand sanitizer   Disposable face mask   Tissues   Motion sickness medication

4/ Backpack & luggage

 Waterproof dry bag ( my favorite )  Handbag   Travel laundry bag ( my favorite )  Carry-on suitcase ( my favorite )  Travel bag ( my favorite )   Luggage tag ( my favorite )   Travel Packing Organizers ( my favorite )   Rain cover for backpack ( my favorite )   Zippered carry-on bag   Shoe bag ( my favorite )   Fanny pack   Lightweight foldable backpack ( my favorite )

5/ Clothing and shoes

  Socks  Underwear (panties, thongs, bras, briefs, boxers…)  Tank tops  Skirt ♀  Dress ♀  Pajamas  T-shirts  Long sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Short sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Polo shirt ( for her , for him )   Sweatshirt / pullover ( for her , for him )   Jeans   Lightweight pants ( for her , for him )   Money belt ( my favorite )   Shorts   Jogging suit   Jacket / coat   K-way ( for her , for him )   Windbreaker ( for her , for him )  Hat / cap / beanie   Scarf / bandana   Swimsuit   Buff scarf ( my favorite )

For shoes, you will have to choose according to the activities you plan to do:

 Comfortable walking shoes   Shoes for going out (restaurants, bars, clubs…)  Flip-flops (for the beach, showers…) ( for her , for him )  Hiking shoes ( for her , for him )  Sandals ( for her , for him )   Water shoes for walking in water (beaches, waterfalls, rivers…) ( for her , for him )  Light trekking shoes ( for her , for him )  Crocs

6/ Hygiene & Toiletries

 Microfiber towel ( my favorite )   Toilet bag   Portable Travel Bottles ( my favorite )  Toothbrush & toothpaste  Dental floss  Soap   Shampoo   Facial cleanser   Nail clippers   Cotton buds (biodegradable)   Tweezers   Make-up   Deodorant   Comb / Hairbrush   Razor & shaving foam ♂   Biodegradable wipes ( my favorite )   Toilet paper roll   Perfume   Makeup ♀   Contact Lenses   Contact lens product   Pocket mirror

7/ Photo, Video & High Tech

For photographers and videographers:

 Camera  Lens  Memory card  Polarizing filters   ND filter   Extra battery   Charger + cable + plug adapter   Cleaning kit   External hard drive   USB key   Stabilizer   Drone ( my favorite )    Waterproof phone case   Flash   Solar charger ( my favorite )    Gopro ( my favorite )   Waterproof case   Selfie Pole  External battery / Powerbank ( my favorite ) 

Don’t forget:

 Portable speaker  Ipad / Tablet  Laptop PC  External battery  Headphones or noise cancelling headphones ( my favorite )

Useful apps to download before you go to New Zealand:

 AirBnB  Booking  Couchsurfing  Flush – Public Toilet Finder (Useful for finding toilets!)  Google Maps  Google Translator  Google Trips  Lonely Planet Guide  LoungeBuddy  Maps.me  Meetup  Tripadvisor  Uber  Whatsapp  XE Currency

8/ Useful accessories

The accessories you will take in your bag for New Zealand will depend on your travel style:

  TSA lock ( my favorite )  Headlamp ( my favorite )  Sleeping bag ( my favorite )  Sheets ( my favorite )  Swiss Army knife (not in the hand luggage!) ( my favorite )  Travel clothesline ( my favorite )  Powdered or liquid detergent  Clothes pegs  Spork ( my favorite )  Ziploc bags  Lighter  Folding umbrella ( my favorite )  Toilet paper  Mosquito repellent ( my favorite )   Mosquito net ( my favorite )   Sunscreen cream  Aloe vera gel   Waterproof pouch for smartphone    For hikers : GPS, map, compass, water bottle   Walking stick ( my favorite )   Anti-sweat talcum powder ( my favorite )   Beach towel ( my favorite )   Sawyer water filter ( must-have !)  Pills to purify non-drinking water   Mask, snorkel, fins   Diving accessories (gloves, dive computer, lamp, knife…)

9/ Medication and first aid kit

I suggest that you consult your doctor and dentist before leaving. Beware of unauthorized medication and remember to keep your vaccinations up to date!

If you have a treatment don’t forget to take your personal medication and your prescription if necessary (or medical certificate).

You can buy a first aid kit already prepared ( my favorite ).

  Cotton buds   Tweezers   Round-tipped scissors   Pairs of single-use latex gloves  Bandages   Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain   Sterile compresses   Disinfectant spray for wounds   Physiological saline solution in pods (wound cleaning)   Condoms and other contraceptives

For longer trips and higher risk locations, we can also add:

  Sterile adhesive skin sutures (steristrips)   Rehydration solutions (in case of dehydration)   Water purification tablets   Water decontamination tablets (Aquatabs or Micropur)   Medication for altitude   Medication for sore throat    Anti-malarial medication   Survival blanket   Tick tweezers   Ointment against itching (antihistamine)   Probiotics for the stomach   Corticosteroid pills and cream   Analgesics (painkillers)   Survival blanket   Cold medicine (decongestant)   Biafine (in case of burns or sunburns)   Broad-spectrum antibiotics without a prescription   Anti-diarrhea tablets (immodium, smecta)

10/ Activities and Useful Links + Printable checklist

You can download the complete travel list in PDF format and print it by clicking here.

Book your hotel in New Zealand now on Booking.com

AirBnb : Get a discount for your first booking!

Book now your activities in New Zealand on Getyourguide:

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New Zealand Healthy Travel Packing List

Pack items for your health and safety.

• You may not be able to purchase and pack all of these items, and some may not be relevant to you and your travel plans. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
• This list is general and may not include all the items you need. Check our Traveler Information Center for more information if you are a traveler with specific health needs, such as travelers who are pregnant, immune compromised, or traveling for a specific purpose like humanitarian aid work.
• Remember to pack extras of important health supplies in case of travel delays.

Prescription medicines

• Your prescriptions
• Travelers' diarrhea antibiotic
• Suture/syringe kit Kit is for use by local health care provider & requires a letter from your doctor on letterhead stationery
• Altitude sickness medicine

Medical supplies

• Glasses Consider packing spare glasses in case yours are damaged
• Contact lenses Consider packing spare contacts in case yours are damaged
• Needles or syringes (for diabetes, for example) Requires a letter from your doctor on letterhead stationery
• Suture kit Kit is for use by local health care provider & requires a letter from your doctor on letterhead stationery
• Diabetes testing supplies
• Epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPens)
• Medical alert bracelet or necklace

Over-the-counter medicines

• Antihistamine
• Motion sickness medicine
• Cough drops
• Cough suppression/expectorant
• Decongestant
• Medicine for pain and fever Examples: acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen
• Mild laxative
• Mild sedative or other sleep aid
• Saline nose spray

Supplies to prevent illness or injury

• Hand sanitizer or wipes Alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol or antibacterial hand wipes
• Water purification tablets May be needed if camping or visiting remote areas
• Insect repellent Select an insect repellent based on CDC recommendations: Avoid Bug Bites
• Permethrin Permethrin is insect repellent for clothing. It may be needed if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Clothing can also be treated at home in advance.
• Sunscreen (SPF 15 or greater) with UVA and UVB protection. See Sun Exposure .
• Sunglasses and hat Wear for additional sun protection. A wide brim hat is preferred.
• Personal safety equipment Examples: child safety seats, bicycle helmets
• Latex condoms

First-aid kit

• 1% hydrocortisone cream
• Antifungal ointments
• Antibacterial ointments
• Antiseptic wound cleanser
• Aloe gel For sunburns
• Insect bite treatment Anti-itch gel or cream
• Bandages Multiple sizes, gauze, and adhesive tape
• Moleskin or molefoam for blisters
• Elastic/compression bandage wrap For sprains and strains
• Disposable gloves
• Digital thermometer
• Scissors and safety pins
• Cotton swabs (Q-Tips)
• Health insurance documents Health insurance card (your regular plan and/or supplemental travel health insurance plan) and copies of claim forms
• Copies of all prescriptions Make sure prescriptions include generic names. Bring prescriptions for medicines, eye glasses/contacts, and other medical supplies.
• Family member or close contact remaining in the United States
• Health care provider(s) at home
• Lodging at your destination
• Hospitals or clinics (including emergency services) in your destination
• US embassy or consulate in the destination country or countries

Other Destinations

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Her Packing List

Packing Lists

Ultimate female travel packing list for new zealand (in winter).

See all packing list posts here .

When it comes to packing, I’m definitely no expert. As a reformed chronic over-packer , I’ve recently been trying different approaches to what I take with me when I travel.

I’ve tried to streamline my luggage and greatly reduce the amount of unneeded stuff that I cram into my bags. Do I still slip up? Sure. Even though I only took a 36L backpack and a big purse with me on my last 2-week trip to New Zealand, I’m sure I still “overpacked” according to most frugal backpacking standards. But that’s okay. Because now I can pass some of my NZ packing tips on to you.

I have only really ever traveled to New Zealand during chilly months – winter months that are often comfortable in the North, and frigid in the South. So packing, then, becomes a bit complicated. Yes, NZ is an island in the South Pacific. But it couldn’t be more different from fellow Pacific locales like Fiji and Hawaii …

>>Going in warmer months? Check this packing list for New Zealand in the summer .

So what should you pack for a trip to New Zealand?

I’ll share with you my packing list from my most recent trip there, which I took in May 2011. I went for only 2 weeks, but my packing list would easily suffice for a longer stay, assuming you can do some laundry along the way.

Here’s what was in my backpack:

2 pairs of jeans . I know many travelers abhor jeans. But, when you’re going somewhere cold , jeans are ideal. And bringing 2 pairs ensured that I would always have 1 extra set in case the ones I was wearing got wet.

1 pair of lighter, non-denim pants. The black cargo pants I took were perfect for Wellington’s warmer climate, and also were required for the glacier trekking I did in Franz Josef. They won’t let you wear denim on the ice, so keep that in mind if you plan to do a glacier hike.

6 solid-color T-shirts that could be layered.

2 tank tops (one black and one white) for layering.

2 zip-up jackets (one fleece) for layering.

1 black cardigan in case I needed to look a bit nicer.

(Clearly there’s a theme here – bring clothing that you can layer ! The New Zealand climate can change from sun to snow from one town to the next.)

A sufficient amount of underwear , warm socks and bras .

Slipper socks both for the plane, and to keep my toes warm on those cold NZ nights – this country does not believe in central heating!

Windproof, semi-waterproof jacket. Since I wasn’t planning on taking part in any snow sports, I didn’t want to be wearing a bulky winter coat as I traveled around the country. So my windproof North Face jacket was perfect for the South Island’s chilly autumn temperatures, but still light enough for the North Island’s milder ones.

Good walking shoes. New Zealand has some fantastic hiking trails (arguably some of the best in the world, in fact), and you want to make sure to have a good pair of shoes if you want to tackle any of them. I also knew I planned to do a lot of walking in cities like Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, so comfy shoes were a must.

Flip-flops for hostels and in case the walking shoes get wet. Pretty self-explanatory, really. I was glad I had these in Franz Josef, as my shoes got soaked walking from the bus drop-off to my hostel.

(And let me just say I was REALLY proud of myself for traveling with only 2 pairs of shoes!)

Swimsuit for the hot pools. While it might seem odd to pack a swimsuit to travel to a country that’s nearing its winter months, don’t forget it when you go to New Zealand . The islands were formed by volcanic eruptions, and thus the country is riddled with geothermal activity. Many cities take advantage of this, and offer natural hot pools for you to soak in year-round.

Hat, scarf and gloves. I was really glad I had all of these on some of the cruises I went on, as well as for jet boating in Queenstown. Even though it wasn’t quite wintertime yet, the wind on the South Island can be freezing in May! (Probably because a lot of that air comes straight up from Antarctica .)

Leave behind: The fancy dresses and stiletto heels. Yes, there are clubs and upscale bars in the larger New Zealand cities. But, if it’s your first time visiting this country, you probably aren’t visiting it for its martinis and art galas. You’re probably visiting it for its stunning scenery, crazy adventure sports, and all the other young backpackers who are also there looking to have a good time. Most places you visit will have a “come as you are” dress code.

Beauty products:

Moisturizer for that cool, dry air.

Hair ties and headbands so your hair doesn’t get tangled in the wind.

Sunblock! Even in the winter, the sun in New Zealand can do some damage. The ozone layer is thinner over this part of the world, so those UV rays are even more dangerous.

Sunglasses. Because when the sun shines in New Zealand, it really can be quite dazzling!

Tampons. Yes, I was lucky enough to have it be “that time of the month” during this trip, and I know from past experience that it’s hard to find tampons that aren’t made of cardboard in NZ. I brought along a little box of U by Kotex plastic tampons .

>> This is one place where stock packing your own tampons might be the better option.

Leave behind: The hair dryer . Just as you won’t find many backpackers in New Zealand wearing high heels out to dinner, you also won’t find many people caring whether you’re perfectly made up in the morning.

iPhone for music, photos, and to use to pick up wi-fi. (Though, note that New Zealand is about 15 years behind the rest of the world when it comes to Internet access. The ‘net is often slow, and don’t expect to find free wi-fi anywhere. Even in hotels and hostels, you’ll have to pay for it.)

Camera . New Zealand is just as amazing in real life as in all the photos you’ve ever seen of it. This is one part of the world that requires no Photoshopping to make it look amazing. Make sure you have plenty of memory, as well, because you’ll probably be snapping photos literally around every corner.

Video camera. I wanted to capture some of my NZ memories on video this time around, and so carried with me a little waterproof Kodak Playsport camera. It came in great handy during my Franz Josef Glacier hike, when it was pouring down rain half the time and I couldn’t use my regular camera for photos.

Leave behind: The umbrella . People in NZ just don’t seem to use them much, and, in some cities (like Wellington), the rain is often accompanied by such strong winds that it’s useless to even try.

So was there anything I brought with me on this trip that I wish I would have left behind? Not really. I probably could have gotten by with fewer T-shirts, but I’m a girl who likes to have options when she gets dressed in the morning.

And the number 1 thing I’d suggest you pack for a trip to NZ? A sense of adventure, of course! This is one country where you’ll definitely need it.

Book a Viator Tour for Your Trip to New Zealand in Winter

Hamilton gardens highlights tour ↗.

Enjoy on a morning guided tour of Hamilton Gardens, a 133-acre (54-hectare) site located along the Waikato River.

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland ↗

Visit a pair of New Zealand’s must-see attractions with this combo tour from Auckland to the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves. 

Book a Viator Tour Before You Go

Private Tour: Half-Day Queenstown and Beyond Photography Tour – $216.14

This half-day private photography tour will take you to the iconic locations you see in brochures as well as those special spots only a local would know, to explore and capture the beauty and splendor for yourself. Your guide is a passionate landscape photographer, with years of local knowledge. Enjoy 4-5 hours of visiting some of the most interesting and beautiful destinations close to Queenstown. Your expert guide will help you with creative advice and show you how to get the most from your camera.

About the author: Amanda Williams is a 20-something, small-town Ohio girl with a journalism degree under her belt and an unquenchable lust for travel. After studying abroad in New Zealand, Amanda has decided she’d love to move there one day so she can wear jandals, eat hokey pokey ice cream, and continue pretending she understands the rules of rugby. When not working or blogging, Amanda can usually be found dreaming of her next travel adventure, whether around the globe or around the corner. She blogs at A Dangerous Business , and can be found on Twitter @DangerousBiz and also on Facebook .

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Gear we use.

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Tom Bihn 3D Organizer Cube

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Travel resources, hpl learnables.

H PL Packing Method – Learn to pack your lightest bag ever in this revolutionary packing course by HPL founder, Brooke.

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Viator – Enhance your trip experience by booking from thousands of tours across the globe.

Booking.com – Search for hotels, hostels, and apartments using this one resource. Use it for flights, car rentals, and airport taxis as well.

Trusted Housesitters – Save money on travel accommodation by becoming a housesitter. Housesitters often have extra duties, like caring for pets and gardens.

Reader Interactions

February 28, 2013 at 11:49 pm

Good list! After living on the South Island for 6 months I learned that it can both be damp and cold. We learned fast why NZ farmers wear wool! Wool and polar fleece are really good for layering. Cotton just soaks up the damp and keeps you cold, so light layers that are not cotton are handy to have. I agree about not worrying about the hair dryer. Powerful ones can blow breakers even with a converter

March 12, 2013 at 2:14 am

As a Kiwi. I can say one thing – Layers are your friend!

If you can pack items you can layer on top of one another (while wearing them) you’ll be more likely to be able to use/ wear everything you bring.

Comfortable shoes outdo the heels every time!

Cosmetics and other toiletries can be picked up pretty much everywhere. – From corner dairies to supermarkets.

April 13, 2013 at 5:18 am

This guide was so helpful! I just have to know what kind of windbreaker you have? Would you recommend a windbreaker or rain jacket?

February 23, 2014 at 5:28 pm

Hi! Thank you for this list. Especially the encouragement for jeans- I know they are heavy and take forever to dry….but I live in them, and I wear them all winter long! I am moving to NZ in March for a year, and starting off in the Queenstown area. I’m from the northeast, so I think I’m pretty acclimated to frigid winters. To be fair, I am bringing one cute dress that doesn’t wrinkle, can be worn during the day or night with any type of shoes. I think it’ll come in handy for vineyards during the warmer months. Question: I was planning on bringing Nike running shoes, converses, flip flops (for showers) and 1 pair of flats. I’m also having a little stress because I know I’ll be working, but have no idea what kind of work I’ll end up doing, and I’ll be travelling to south east Asia and Australia after NZ, where it’ll be hot, hot, hot. I have a feeling I’ll end up having to ditch/buy things in the end so I can avoid lugging around clothes for freezing winters on the south island and summer in thailand…..packing requires a lot of brain power!

April 30, 2014 at 12:12 pm

Morgan, What an adventure you’re undertaking! NZ, Aus and Asia – you’r bound to love it.

My advice is to keep the jeans at least for Australia – we have a huge country here and the weather is diverse from one region to another and from season to season. If you can give us more of an idea of where you’ll be spending most of your time (and when) that will help when deciding on the gear to wear.

April 10, 2015 at 12:42 am

Great list, however you can definitely get rid of the tampon comment! Certainly doesn’t apply! Also, now most places you stay at offer free wifi and NZ is undergoing the installation of Fibre network everywhere – so that means speed! I don’t think I would have ever said we are 15 years behind with internet…lol

August 24, 2015 at 10:42 pm

I found a hairdryer an essential! I was freezing when I arrived in NZ (arriving in July, just after spending 8 months in Asia and Aus) so having wet hair when its cold, windy and rainy, just made me even colder! I bought a $5 second hand travel hairdryer and I use it all of the time, seeing as many of the houses I’ve stayed in don’t have any heating in the bedrooms so I’ve been pretty cold.

April 28, 2016 at 9:59 pm

This list is extremely helpful! I’m going to NZ at the end of July, early August, and i’m worried that i’m still not prepped for the cold after living in Tropical and hot climates for the last 8 years. Is there at any point that you think a traveler would need something like snow pants or super thick boots? Where would you suggest purchasing affordable water/windproof items now that summer is approaching? Also, I have about 9 days on NZ, and I really want to get things in… but I know a lot of things are far apart. I’ve rented a car, but what are your top MUST DO’s in NZ? Building an itinerary for NZ has been such a mind boggling things for me- so unlike planning for any other country I’ve been to!

July 13, 2016 at 9:25 pm

Great article, exactly what I needed, thanks. I’m taking layers, layers, layers with me, but I’m really hoping to buy some really nice, high quality wool sweaters while I’m there, hopefully at a good price, since I’ll be at the source. Is there a really good place to look for these, or will I even find them, since all the clothing is actually made elsewhere now, even though this is where the wool comes from? Bad grammar, but you probably understand the question, anyway. Thanks.

October 3, 2021 at 9:02 pm

I wasn’t sure if your packing list changed significantly after your first trip to NZ or if you worked out that it’s over 1300 miles south of Fiji before you traveled. Of course the next 1000+ miles from north to south and the Southern Alps add another layer , so to speak. It looks like a versatile but still manageable list. Love the slippers!

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The ultimate travel checklist: what to pack for the perfect vacation

You’ve booked your dream getaway, your flights are secured, and you’re feeling excited for the adventure ahead. But then – you realise you need to pack! Yikes! What do you need in your suitcase, and what can you leave behind? Should you plan everything meticulously with a list in advance, or just vibe it out and throw all your clothes in a huge bag the night before (or morning of!). Whatever your packing style, there’s always room for improvement. It’s why we’ve created this ultimate travel checklist – to help you pack for your next Trafalgar vacation with packing success. 

Below we’ll cover everything from essential clothes and travel-sized toiletries to keeping your electronics charged and your credit cards safe. No more scrambling for passports at the last minute, or wondering if you packed enough pairs of shoes. This guide and checklist will ensure you have everything you need for a smooth, stress-free adventure. Then you can focus on what matters – enjoying every moment of that dream vacay!

First, consider the destination and trip duration

Every vacation is different, so before diving into crafting your ultimate travel checklist, it pays to step back and tailor your packing list to the specifics of your trip. 

Grand European

Start with the destination specifics.

Picture yourself on vacation: are you asking on a sun-drenched beach or exploring a busy city? Are you visiting Italy in summer or Switzerland in spring? Both call for very different clothing choices. Climate and weather are key – pack for the average temperatures and expected rainfall at your destination. If it includes some adventure or hiking, make sure you have sturdy walking shoes. If you’re in a city, pack versatile layers. Of course, a beach vacation means you’ll need swimwear! Will you be attending a fancy dinner? You might need something chic to slip into.

Then consider the trip duration

 A weekend getaway requires a much lighter packing list compared to a multi-week adventure. Think about how long you’ll be away, and when you’ll have time to wash clothes. Going away for one week or three weeks can have the exact same list, granted you can wash your clothes. Think about how many outfits you’ll need, and make sure you can mix and match tops and bottoms to avoid overpacking and maximise your suitcase space. You need to save space for souvenirs!

RELATED BLOG: 5 top packing tips from our trusty travellers

Next, plan your Ultimate Travel Checklist

Use our checklists below as a starting point for your own travel packing checklist. Depending on the climate and duration of your trip, you might need one T-shirt, or you might need to pack seven!

Consider these a starting point, and add or delete items based on what you need.

Clothing checklist

• Tops or T-shirts
• Long-sleeve shirts and layers
• Sweater or jumper
• Long trousers or pants
• Comfy plane outfit
• Walking shoes – like sneakers
• Dressy shoes
• Swimwear 
• Foldable tote
• Umbrella or rainjacket

One great tip for packing when you are light on space is if (beyond the daily essentials) you can access the item within 20 minutes, then you don’t need to pack it.

• Conditioner
• Moisturiser
• Makeup (if applicable)
• Medications and first-aid kit
• Insect repellent
• Pain relievers
• Prescription medication
• Menstrual items

Travel documents, electronics & misc.

• Visa (if required)
• Digital or printed tickets and reservations
• Phone 
• Phone charger
• Camera (with charger)
• Adapters, if needed
• Copy of passport
• Emergency contacts list

Splendours of Japan

Extras for comfort & entertainment – your carry-on bag.

Here are some travel checklist extras that you might like to squeeze in your carry-on bag for comfort on the journey to your destination, and to help you feel more comfortable as you wake up in different beds each night!

• Travel pillow 
• Books, magazines, or downloaded entertainment
• Reusable water bottle
• Hand sanitizer (and wipes)
• Space clothes (for plane)
• Everything in the “Travel documents, electronics & misc.” list
• Anything valuable (jewelry, cash, credit cards, passport)
• Chewing gum

RELATED BLOG: 7 packing hacks that will transform your travel

Packing tips and tricks

Think of packing a suitcase like a real-life game of Tetris. You have to get everything to fit into the space, but then your bag has to be light enough to avoid any airline baggage fees. Yes, it’s complex – but follow the rules and use these space-saving tricks.

• Roll ‘em up! Ditch folding! Rolling clothes is a space-saving superpower. Rolled clothes take up less space and wrinkle less than folded ones.
• Packing cubes: Make packing cubes your new besties. Order a set of these lightweight organizers to help compress your clothes, keep your belongings categorized, and maximize your suitcase. If you are moving around a lot, they help keep yoru suitcase organized and make re-packing a breeze.
• Pack a versatile capsule wardrobe: Choose clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. The easiest way to do this is come up with a color palette – neutral colors plus an accent or two that can be mixed and matched. It might mean bringing 2x fun patterned skirts and only plain white or black T-shirts, and a sweater than goes with everything. 
• Stuff your shoes: Shoes take up a lot of space. Try to bring three or four pairs at most – sneakers, dress shoes, and sandals or flip flips are a great trio. If you must bring lots of shoes, stuff them with socks or clothing.

Carry-on vs. checked luggage

Every airline is different, and every country is different – so it pays to read up on the rules for each airline before you fly. Did you know that in Australia the airlines are strict on carry-on weight and only allow 7kg? While in Europe it’s rare to have your carry-on weighed, but they might pull you up on the size of your bag.

If you love the convenience of avoiding baggage claim (and potential lost luggage woes) then traveling with carry-on only is ideal. This is best for shorter trips or minimalist packers who can manage with just a small wheelie. Just remember to check airline size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage.

For longer trips or holidays that require bulky gear (hello ski trips!), purchasing checked luggage is essential for space, flexibility and peace of mind. Of course, this slows you down at the airport when you need to collect bags.

RELATED BLOG: Folding vs Rolling: Which packing technique wins?

How big of a bag do I need for a 5 day trip?

For a five-day trip, you can easily get away with just a large backpack or small suitcase (like a cabin bag). Something in the 40-70 liter range is a good general recommendation. At the lower end, you may need to re-wear clothes or only have one outfit per day. If you struggle to pack lightly, you may need to book a medium sized suitcase to place under the plane. 

London Explorer

Visiting somewhere in winter means you will need bulkier clothing – a pair of jeans takes more space than shorts, and you’ll need a jacket and potentially a scarf, gloves and beanie too. If you plan to hike, you might need specific gear too. 

How big of a bag do I need for a 10 day trip?

A 10-day trip can be a tricky length. For a one-week trip you won’t do washing, for a two-week trip you probably will. For 10 days? Well, it depends. You’ll likely need a medium sized suitcase, around the 50-75 liter range is a good starting point. 

This size allows you to pack more clothes, toiletries, and essentials. As with any trip, you’ll need to consider the climate, the activities, and your own packing style. If you plan to wear two outfits every day, that’s 20 outfits – you’ll need a big bag! If you’re happy to rewear items or do a wash partway, you can get away with much less.

Planning a trip to one of the following destinations? Check out more expert travel checklist and packing guides below:

• USA & Canada packing guide
• Australia & New Zealand packing guide
• Tanzania packing guide
• Morocco packing guide
• Asia packing guide
• Africa packing guide
• Japan packing guide
• India packing guide
• Paris packing guide

That’s our ultimate travel checklist guide . Do you have any tips to add? Leave us a comment….

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27 Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

P acking your carry-on bag for a flight is exciting – but it can also be overwhelming. With a little planning and a concise list of airport and in-flight essentials, you can maximize space and be prepared for your journey.

To help you decide what to pack in your carry-on bag, our team compiled this list of must-have items. Download the packing list here to use while you prep for your next trip, then read on to learn more about what to pack.

Carry-on packing list

Travel wallet, passport holder, toiletry bag, tsa-approved liquids bag and compliant containers, prescription medications, glasses case, travel pillow, packing cubes, tech organizer, luggage tracker, zippered pouches and reusable silicone bags, mini clip bag, hand sanitizer, bluetooth wireless adapter, wired earbuds or headphones, e-reader or a great book, travel adapter/converter, travel first-aid kit, reusable water bottle, activities or games, light jacket, change of clothing.

Protect your credit cards and cash with an RFID wallet like the Travelon RFID Blocking Single Zip Wallet , which prevents scammers from wirelessly stealing your personal information. This travel wallet is especially useful since it can also hold most smartphones.

If you're traveling internationally, an option like the TIGARI Passport Holder can protect your travel document and make it easy to locate in your carry-on bag. You'll need access to your passport at airport security, when you board the plane and when you're filling out entry forms, so keep the passport holder as well as a pen within reach. Once you arrive at your destination, put the passport wallet somewhere safe at your lodging or – if you feel inclined to keep it with you – stow it in your travel purse, belt bag or backpack to ensure it's safe while you explore.

Pack your toiletry bag in your carry-on so you can easily freshen up and so that you'll have essentials like toothpaste and deodorant in the event your checked luggage is lost in transit. Also consider packing toiletries that are useful for travel (particularly the dry air on planes), even if they're not part of your daily routine at home.

U.S. News senior travel editor Marisa Méndez recommends including a facial moisturizer and a body lotion in your toiletry bag. "My skin always dries out on flights and it's nice to have something to soothe my skin," she says.

"I always love having facial spray to freshen up after the flight," says Elizabeth Von Tersch , also a senior travel editor at U.S. News. She always keeps one in her purse. " Mario Badescu and Evian are great." These facial sprays help to moisturize your skin after the drying environment on a plane or give you a little midday pick-me-up.

When packing your carry-on bag for a flight, you'll want to have a clear quart-sized bag that meets Transportation Security Administration guidelines for liquids and gels. Some Dopp kits or toiletry bags include a removable bag for travel-size liquids, or you can buy this reusable TSA-approved clear bag on Amazon . Put any liquids or gels you're traveling with in this bag, including shampoo, lotion, liquid makeup items and hand sanitizer.

Keep in mind that all liquids and gels must be in travel-size bottles or containers measuring 3.4 ounces or less. Remember: You'll need to remove this clear quart-sized bag from your carry-on bag at security, so consider packing it in an external pocket or an easy-to-find spot in your carry-on suitcase. To learn more about TSA regulations, consult our article about what is allowed in a carry-on .

Never stow prescription medications in checked baggage : If luggage is lost or delayed, replacing these medications while traveling can be extremely challenging or even impossible. If you take multiple medications, consider a travel pill sorter like the EZY Dose Pill Organizer , available for about $5 on Amazon.

Whether you wear glasses for vision correction or you're packing your favorite pair of sunglasses, keeping them protected while stowed in your carry-on is essential. If you're bringing multiple pairs, a case like the foldable Dagne Dover Remi Glasses Case can hold up to three pairs, or the Lug Eyeglass Holder & Mini Pill Case works well for eyeglasses and contacts.

Resting throughout your journey can help you feel refreshed when you reach your destination and make the time pass a little quicker. But nothing can (literally) cramp your style like a stiff neck from sleeping wrong. Choose a comfortable neck pillow for travel like the top-rated Cabeau Evolution S3 or the MLVOC Travel Pillow (less than $30 on Amazon). For a travel pillow that doubles as a packing cube, consider the Tube pillow , which holds up to three days' worth of clothing.

Packing cubes aren't just for organizing clothing and shoes. Maximize space in your carry-on bag with these handy travel compartments . While Eagle Creek's PACK-IT line features the top-rated compression packing cubes on the market, many travelers also swear by the Veken Packing Cubes , which are usually available for $20 or less on Amazon. To maximize space even more, consider Lug's compression packing cubes .

If you're planning to travel with jewelry, watches or items that would be difficult to replace, be sure to put these in your carry-on bag, as checked items run the risk of being misplaced. For jewelry, a compact case that is easy to spot like the Lug Mini Swizzle is ideal for rings, cufflinks or earrings.

It's easy to let your charging cords get lost at the bottom of your bag or get your headphones tangled somewhere in your tote. A handy tech organizer such as the CALPAK Tech Organizer or the BAGSMART Tech Organizer , with zippered compartments and sections for specific cords, can help reduce tangled messes (and the need for you to search for your essentials in a tight airplane cabin).

Even though you'll have your carry-on bag with you, it's still a good idea to have a luggage tracker like an Apple AirTag or a Tile Pro securely attached to your bag. In the event you and your bag get separated, you'll be able to track down where you parted ways (because when you're jet-lagged it's easy to be a bit absent-minded).

Smaller than packing cubes, zippered pouches and silicone bags like the Stasher Silicone Reusable Storage Bags are perfect for storing everything from snacks to scrunchies. If traveling with family, consider different colored pouches for each traveler's items so you can easily tell them apart without removing everything from the bag.

Get a handy little bag with a carabiner clip, such as the CALPAK Luka Key Pouch , to securely attach to the outside of your bag for quick-grab items like gum, hand sanitizer or individual travel wipes . Once you're at your destination, you can clip it on a belt loop or use the elastic band to slide it on your wrist for your room key, lip gloss and other small essentials.

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Let's face it – traveling can introduce your body to a host of unwanted germs. Carrying a bottle of travel hand sanitizer will keep your hands clean on the go, even if there's not a bathroom nearby. To disinfect surfaces like airplane tray tables, arm rests or tables, consider having a pack of disinfecting wipes at your disposal as well.

During a flight, the low humidity and high altitude can have a drying effect on your skin and lips. To combat the dry air, consider packing a hydrating lip balm like this new stick option by Aquaphor . What's more, if you choose a balm over a liquid moisturizer, you won't need to store this product in your clear TSA-approved liquids bag.

In-flight entertainment can help your travel day go faster, but being tethered to the seatback with wired headphones can feel a bit constricting. Plus, you may have to unplug to let your seat mates in or out. Avoid those troubles and connect your wireless headphones to the in-flight system with Twelve South's AirFly ($35 or less on Amazon), which wirelessly transmits audio via Bluetooth.

If you'd prefer to connect directly to the in-flight entertainment to watch a movie (or maybe just tune out your seatmates), buy some inexpensive wired earbuds like this well-rated set by Jogteg . You can keep them in your carry-on so you're always ready, even on flights where they don't pass out complimentary headsets.

Having a book or magazine in your carry-on bag is always a good idea. Whether you encounter a delayed flight, a long layover or a plane with less than stellar in-flight entertainment, a good book will help pass the time.

On everything from red-eye flights to international jaunts, a good eye mask can block out light from overhead, the seatback screens and plane windows. The Nodpod Sleep Mask is especially relaxing since it's weighted.

"Even if you plan to grab a bite at the airport or on the plane (if that's an option), pack some snacks," says Amanda Norcross , content and SEO strategist for travel at U.S. News. "Flying is unpredictable and stressful for many travelers, and 'hanger' only makes things worse." Trail mix, granola bars, crackers, pretzels, dried fruit and popcorn are some good snack options you may want to throw in your carry-on. Also put chewing gum in your carry-on to freshen breath and help with ear popping.

It's not always easy to find a charging station at the airport, and there are restrictions when it comes to packing batteries in your carry-on baggage for any flight. One option that meets Federal Aviation Administration guidelines is the Anker 537 Power Bank (PowerCore 26K for Laptop) . This device can charge a laptop, smartphone or tablet quickly, to keep your devices running even on a long flight.

For international travel – since different countries use different plug shapes – packing a universal adapter or converter will enable you to charge your devices and other electronics. Before purchasing, consider what your needs will be, especially regarding the shape of the wall outlet plugs and the voltage of the countries you'll be visiting.

A travel adapter such as the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter on Amazon makes plugs from the U.S. fit into electrical outlets around the world, whereas a travel converter like the ALLWEI International Travel Adapter converts the electricity voltage. If you're traveling overseas from the U.S., you'll need both of these devices to use electronics like laptops, curling irons and hair straighteners (unless your device is dual voltage, like the BaBylissPRO Nano Mini Straightening Iron ).

For minor injuries like blisters from new shoes or unexpected cuts and scrapes, pack a first-aid kit with Band-Aids and triple antibiotic ointment like Neosporin in your bag.

Staying hydrated while traveling is a must. Pack a reusable water bottle like the Corkcicle Canteen Triple Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle to fill up at the airport before your flight and refill throughout your travels. Even better – an insulated bottle will stay cold for hours.

Whether it's a long flight or layover (or maybe you just need a good distraction), having some activities like a miniature coloring book and mini colored pencils or small packable games can be really useful.

"I took a small coloring book and a small set of pencils on a flight once and it was life-changing," Méndez says. U.S. News senior digital producer for travel Leilani Osmundson says she and her husband love to bring a deck of cards and portable two-player games to pass the time.

"I typically wear a lightweight jacket on the plane to free up space in my carry-on," says Norcross. "If the plane is too warm, I can easily stuff it under the seat in front of me with my backpack." If you're in need of a simple yet effective packable jacket , check out the Amazon Essentials Puffer Jacket .

Whether your coffee spills off your tray table or you lose your checked baggage, an extra outfit is handy to have. Pack a versatile outfit (including socks and underwear) into your carry-on bag so you have a backup option, or perhaps have your swimwear and flip-flops ready to head directly to the beach the moment you arrive. For tired or swollen feet, having a pair of compression socks and a change of walking shoes can make your travel day much more comfortable.

What not to pack in a carry-on bag

When packing a carry-on bag or suitcase, it's important to note that some items are prohibited on all flights, due to Federal Aviation Administration regulations. The prohibited list includes aerosol products (such as anti-static spray or pepper spray), lithium or lithium-ion batteries, firearms and ammunition, flammables, and explosives. For more details on what you can and can't pack in your carry-on, visit the TSA's What Can I Bring? and the FAA's Pack Safe websites.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves to see how much she can fit in her carry-on bag. She always brings a few snacks, a good read and little luxuries to make the journey comfortable. Hood used her personal travel experience, along with her retail background and research expertise, to curate this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• The Top Luggage Brands
• Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline
• What to Do If Your Flight Is Canceled
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

Here's Our 2024 Vacation Packing List

Sponsor Content Created With Net-a-Porter

Instead of trying to avoid the pre-travel scramble, we recommend embracing it. Remember that the endless checklists, weather forecasting, and last-minute buys are just part of the process. And we're always here to help take the load off. Our 2024 packing list includes every fashion find to take on your next summer excursion, and we couldn't think of a better retailer to fulfill all our vacation needs than Net-a-Porter . Colorful swimwear by Hunza G, the chicest linen matching set, and Sensi Studio's wondrous tote are just some of the standouts we love. (Trust us—one quick scroll will have you reaching for your suitcase.) Take a look at our edit below.

Stay In The Know

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Raina Mendonça is an associate fashion editor on the branded content team at sister titles Who What Wear and Marie Claire. Previously, Raina was an editorial assistant at goop.com. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her crafting new playlist s, exploring Los Angeles, or making a cup of English breakfast tea.

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Amazon Just Released Hundreds of New Travel Essentials for June — Shop the 12 Best Deals From $9

Shop durable luggage, comfy shoes, Stanley coolers, and more.

Travel + Leisure / Francesca Fasciglione

One of the best things about shopping at Amazon is that you can always expect a fresh selection of products to choose from as the retail giant continuously drops new offerings by the day. With summer travel heating up, you’re likely on the hunt for the best accessories to make packing and long travel days easier and more enjoyable — and there’s no shortage of options to pick from right now.

With June officially underway, we’ve combed through the seemingly endless pages of new releases at Amazon to uncover the 12 best offerings on the site right now, and from spacious carry-on luggage to the best cooler for your next beach vacation , you won’t be disappointed with what we’ve found. And, considering prices start at just $9, your travel budget will remain firmly intact for when you’re actually on your trip. 

Jealkip 2-pack Waterproof Waist Pouches

A handy waist pouch is one of the most valuable accessories to pack for travel, and now that we’ve entered the summer months, a waterproof option should also be in your bag. Whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure and want to keep your valuables close to the chest while taking a dip in the water, or you’re headed out on a kayaking trip with a group, this set of two waterproof pouches will certainly come in handy — and they’ve even earned the title of No. 1 new release in Marine Dry Bags at Amazon as well.

Stanley All Day Julienne Mini Soft Cooler Bag

You probably know the brand Stanley for its perpetually viral water bottles and tumblers, but the brand also offers a wide selection of outdoor gear as well. The newest release? The All Day Cooler Bag which just dropped at Amazon and quickly became a No. 1 new release in Camping Coolers. This vibrant and functional bag is spacious enough to hold up to 10 cans, while the interior is insulated with recycled polyester which will keep your food and drinks cold for up to 12 hours with an ice pack. Best of all, the compact mini cooler is equipped with top- and shoulder-carry straps for maximum versatility this summer.

Flyhugz Memory Foam Travel Neck Pillow

Sleeping on flights can be notoriously uncomfortable, especially if your head is prone to bobbing around. Thankfully, Amazon just released an ultra-supportive, memory foam neck pillow from Flyhugz to combat this problem at the source, propping up your head from multiple angles for more restful sleep on the go. It’s adjustable and provides 360 degree support, plus, it can easily be tucked into your personal item thanks to the compact memory foam that it’s made of.

Goewy Mini Nylon Crescent Crossbody Bag

Packable, stylish, and versatile, this sleek crescent bag is about to become a staple on your summer packing list, especially considering it’s available for just $10 at Amazon. It can be worn as a crossbody or shoulder bag, and it’s constructed from a water-resistant nylon fabric that makes it easy to pack down into your suitcase when not in use. While the black colorway is certainly the most wearable, this fashion-forward purse is also available in five other sleek and understated shades that will level-up every outfit in your luggage.

Casual Capri Pants for Women

For better or worse, capris are back in a big way this year , which is exactly why you’ll want to snag this best-selling pair for a mere $9 at Amazon. The elastic waistband provides impressive comfort during longhaul flights and sightseeing days, while the cropped style can be paired with anything from sneakers to dainty sandals, ensuring that they’re some of the most versatile pants in your wardrobe. And seeing as there are 29 color options to choose from, we won’t be surprised if you happen to snag more than one pair to style throughout the coming months.

Mapambo European Power Converter

Having a compact travel converter on hand is essential for properly preparing for any international getaway, and Amazon just dropped the new top choice in this handy converter that can charge up to six devices at once. It’s smartly designed to not overheat or blow a fuse in your hotel room, plus, it’s compatible with laptops, cell phones, e-readers, and more. It is worth noting that while this converter can be used throughout Europe, you’ll need a different option if you’re traveling to the UK, Ireland, or Scotland.

Goosecret Women’s Platform Sandals with Arch Support

Trade in your uncomfortable and rigid sandals this summer for this affordable and supremely supportive pair that just dropped at Amazon and has already become the No. 1 new release in Women’s slides. Currently on sale for a mere $14 thanks to an on-site coupon, these slip-on sandals are the best selection from the beach to the city streets — and they’re lightweight enough to hardly make a dent in your suitcase. Significant arch support will keep you comfortable even after a lengthy walking tour on cobblestone streets, and adjustable straps promise the perfect fit. To top it all off, they’re waterproof and easy to wipe down after your trip. 

Lucdnc 10-piece Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are the absolute best way to keep the interior of your suitcase organized while still bringing along everything you might need for your trip, which is exactly why you’ll want to shop this new set of 10 bags while they’re on sale at Amazon for $19. The mesh exterior of these pouches ensure that your clothes remain fresh throughout your trip, and tear-resistant fabric will stay in pristine condition for years to come. Plus, the set even comes with a convenient hanging toiletry bag and shoe pouch, as well as a dirty laundry tote that will make unpacking at the end of your vacation easier than ever before.

Bagparkk Travel Laptop Backpack

Traveling with a backpack is a surefire way to make your adventures significantly smoother without sacrificing space for your essentials, and this roomy clam-shell bag from Bagparkk is an excellent choice while it’s double discounted to $34 just in time for summer. Not only does it boast a spacious interior that still fits the size requirement to squeeze under an airplane seat, but it’s also designed to be expanded if you need even more room to pack. The bag unzips from the side like a suitcase to maximize your space while staying organized — plus, it even comes with three additional packing cubes and a handy shoe bag that are designed to fit neatly inside.

Automet Women’s Mini Tennis Skort

Skirts will never cease to be a staple for the summer, but if you’re hoping to maintain slightly more coverage with the same amount of breathability, perhaps a skort should make it into your shopping cart this season. This sleek and flattering option from Automet recently dropped on Amazon and has quickly become a top new release, likely due to the built in shorts, convenient interior pockets, and overall versatile nature of the piece. And if you’re still not sold, it’s worth noting that you’ll be able to wave farewell to wrinkly clothing for good since this skort is made from a smooth and stretchy blend of nylon and spandex.

Horshod Carry-on Hardshell Luggage 

This hardside rolling suitcase may have just been released at Amazon, but it’s already a top choice for summer travel — and currently on sale for just $40 for a limited time. Four smooth rolling wheels allow for an easy commute through the airport and to your destination without being weighed down by a heavy bag, while a built-in TSA-approved lock creates an additional layer of security for your belongings. As an added bonus, this carry-on suitcase even expands up to an inch, providing extra space for your clothing, shoes, and other must-haves. 

Lvdeer Mesh Beach Bag

Take on the beach in style this summer with this handy mesh bag that not only offers ample space for your towel, book, and sunblock, but even boasts an insulated base to keep your beverages cold throughout the day, too. The incredibly roomy bag is designed with one large primary compartment as well as several other thoughtfully placed pockets to keep your belongings easily accessible, while the interior zippered pocket will leave your phone sand-free and protected from the water all day long. However, the highlight of this bag is really the insulated cooler base that keeps food and drinks cold for up to four hours — all while remaining leak-proof.

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Accredited Employer Work Visa

Apply for this temporary visa if you have a job offer from an accredited employer, the skills and qualifications for the job, and a link to the visa application form.

Length of stay

Processing time, with this visa you can.

• Work in New Zealand for an accredited employer who has offered you at least 30 hours work a week.
• Study for up to 3 months in any 12 month period, or do any study required as part of your employment.
• If you are eligible, apply for a Straight to Residence Visa, Work to Residence Visa, Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa or Transport Work to Residence Visa.
• If you are eligible, use skilled work experience in New Zealand to claim points towards the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. New Zealand skilled residence pathways

Things to note

• Most AEWV holders can stay in New Zealand for a total of 5 years. If you are paid less than the median wage or are employed in an ANZSCO level 4 or 5 job your total stay may be less than 5 years.  How long you can stay on an AEWV Wage rate requirements for visas
• This visa links you with the employer who offered you the visa application for the length of your visa. If your situation changes, you must apply to vary the conditions of your visa or apply for a Job Change or apply for a new visa. Changing the conditions of a work visa or applying for a Job Change
• You may be able to support a work visa for your partner and visitor or student visas for your dependent children. You can only support your dependent child's visitor or student visa if you earn at least NZD $43,322.76 each year.  Bringing family if you have a work visa
• New Zealand employers or agents cannot charge you fees for a job or make you pay any of their recruitment costs.  Protect yourself from immigration scams

Use the filters below to display relevant tips as well as detailed fees and receiving centre information

What you need to apply

Check if you are eligible to apply for this visa and what supporting documents and information you need to provide.

View All Evidence

You must provide proof of your identity

Prove your identity by providing:

• 1 acceptable photo, and
• a scan of the personal details page of your passport or certificate of identity .

Acceptable photos for a visa or NZeTA

After you apply, we let you know if we need to see your original passport.

Providing your passport for online applications

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after you plan to leave New Zealand.

You must also provide your Kartu Keluarga .

If you are not a French national, you must provide a copy of your carte d’assuré.

You must also provide a copy of your livret de famille.

If you are a Filipino citizen leaving the Philippines, your passport must be valid for 6 months after the date you plan to leave. This is a departure requirement in the Philippines.

If you are a citizen of China and you submit a paper application form in China, you must also complete a supplementary form.

Supplementary form for Chinese citizens (INZ 1027) PDF 338KB

If you are submitting a paper application form, you must provide a supplementary form for Hong Kong and Macao visitors, workers and students.

Supplementary form for Hong Kong and Macao visitors, workers and students (INZ 1220) PDF 240KB

Also provide a copy of your Identity card.

Also provide your:

• Hukou (household registration book)
• Chinese identity card.

You must be of good character

If you have a criminal conviction or are a security risk to New Zealand we may not be able to grant you a visa.

Good character for temporary visas

You must provide police certificates if your total time in New Zealand will be 24 months or longer across all visits. This includes any time you have spent in New Zealand in the past on other visas, even if you have been out of the country since then.

You also must provide police certificates if we ask for them.

If you are 16 years old or younger you do not need to provide police certificates.

Providing police certificates

How to get a police certificate

If you have already sent us Police Certificates with a previous visa application and they are less than 24 months old, you do not need to send them again.

Police certificates must be less than 6 months old when you submit your application. They must be from any country you are a citizen of, or have spent more than 5 years in since you turned 17.

If you provide a police certificate that is not in English, you must provide an English translation .

This includes police certificates that record no convictions.

The acceptable character certificate for the Philippines is the NBI clearance.

You must be in good health

After you submit your application we will check any medical information you have previously submitted and contact you if we need new medical information.

You must provide a chest x-ray completed in the last 3 months, even if you've provided one to us previously, if:

• you have spent 6 consecutive months in China since the last x-ray certificate was issued, and
• you are now coming to NZ for more than 6 months.

Genuine intentions

You must genuinely intend to meet the conditions of your visa

When we decide if your intentions are genuine, we consider all the information:

• you provide to support your application
• we have about your personal circumstances, and
• you provided in any previous applications.

Genuine intentions to visit, study or work in NZ

New Zealand job offer

You must have an offer of full-time work from an accredited employer

Your job offer must be:

• current at the time you apply for your visa
• for at least 30 hours of work a week
• from an employer who is accredited to hire migrants for the Accredited Employer Work Visa and has an approved job check for your role.

The accreditation process

In your visa application you must include:

• a copy of the employment agreement and job description
• a signed copy of the job offer.

The employment agreement must include:

• your employer’s name, address and phone number
• your name and address
• your job title
• the address for your place of work
• the kind of work you will be doing and your responsibilities at work
• details of any necessary qualifications or work experience
• information about whether you need New Zealand registration to do the work
• what hours you will work and how long the work will be for
• how long you have to take up the job offer
• pay and work conditions that comply with New Zealand employment law.

Your employment agreement must be with an accredited employer who has a history of compliance with immigration and employment law.

Check if an employer is accredited

List of non-compliant employers | Employment New Zealand

Job offer scams are common in India and South Asia, ensure your job offer is genuine.

How to determine how realistic the job offer is

Your employer must pay you at least the February 2023 median wage rate unless your job is on an exemption list.

AEWV roles exempt from paying the February 2023 median wage rate

Your job offer cannot be for:

• work planting, maintaining, harvesting or packing crops in the horticulture or viticulture industries
• foreign crew of fishing vessels, or
• self-employed work.

ANZSCO Skill Level

There may be additional requirements, depending on the ANZSCO level of your job

If your role is at ANZSCO level 4 or 5:

• you must show that you can speak and understand English
• you may have a shorter total time you can stay in New Zealand of 3 years instead of 5 years
• your employer will need to advertise a role for a longer period of time before offering it to you.

Minimum skill requirements

You must show you meet the AEWV skill requirements we set

You must have either:

• 3 years or more of relevant work experience, or
• a qualification at Level 4 or higher on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF) .

Your qualification or work experience must be in the same field or industry as the job you have been offered. If you have a Bachelor's degree or higher your qualification can be in any field or industry.

Work experience evidence

Evidence of work experience must be from someone other than yourself, and can include:

• letters of reference from a former employer
• certificates of employment
• pay slips, or
• tax certificates.

Qualifications evidence

You must provide copies of your qualifications with your application.

You also must provide an International Qualification Assessment (IQA) from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) if your qualification is:

• below a Bachelor's degree, and
• from outside of New Zealand.

This is so we can check if your qualification is comparable to a level 4 New Zealand qualification or higher.

Apply for an International Qualification Assessment (IQA) – NZQA website

If your job token  is expiring before 30 June 2024 we will also accept evidence that you have applied for an IQA, such as your receipt from NZQA, when you submit your application. We will hold your application for a reasonable period of time, until your IQA can be provided. We will complete an assessment on the rest of your application while we wait for your IQA.

You do not need to provide any additional evidence to show you meet our minimum skill requirements if:

• your role is on the Green List, and you provide evidence that you meet the Green List requirements for that role
• you have occupational registration for your role, which required evidence of work experience or qualifications to get, and you provide this evidence to us
• you are paid 2 times the February 2023 median wage or more (NZD$59.32 an hour), or
• you have already given us evidence of your Level 4 or higher qualification, or 3 or more years of work experience with a previous visa application.

Green List roles

Occupational registration

Employer's requirements for the job

You must show you have the skills and experience your employer has specified

These requirements may include evidence of your work experience, qualifications or occupational registration.

You may need to provide this evidence for other AEWV criteria, such as

• minimum skill requirements, and
• occupational registration.

If you provide this evidence for another AEWV criteria, you do not need to provide it again.

You may need New Zealand registration

If registration is required to work in your occupation in New Zealand, you must provide either:

• a certified copy  of your full or provisional New Zealand registration
• confirmation from the appropriate registration body that you’re eligible for New Zealand registration.

Time required outside New Zealand

You must have spent the required time outside New Zealand to be eligible for another AEWV.

There is a total time you can stay in New Zealand (also called maximum continuous stay ) for everyone with an AEWV. If you reach your maximum continuous stay, you must spend the required time outside New Zealand for your role before you are eligible for a further AEWV.

If you are paid less than the February 2023 median wage, or if your role is at ANZSCO level 4 or 5 your total time you can stay may be less than 5 years.

If you have an existing AEWV and you are eligible for a further AEWV, you may be able to apply for your visa balance.

How long you can stay on an AEWV

English language

If your role is at ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 you must show that you can speak and understand English

There are 2 ways to show us you speak and understand English – through:

• your citizenship, where you studied and the qualifications you gained
• English language tests.

The results of your English language test must:

• meet the minimum score we set
• be no more than 2 years old when you apply.

If your job token  is expiring before 30 June 2024 we will accept evidence of your English language test booking when you submit your application. We will hold your application for a reasonable period of time, until your test results can be provided. We will complete an assessment on the rest of your application while we wait for your results.

Find out about the citizenship requirements, the evidence needed for study and qualifications, or the test results required:

English language requirements for AEWV skill level 4 and 5 roles

When we assess your application, we may ask for more evidence of your ability to speak and understand English. If we do, you may have to sit a test and send us the results.

Process and costs

The information below will help you understand the process, timeframes and costs involved in applying for this visa, so you can plan ahead and have the best chance of submitting a complete application.

We cannot display any process or costs information until you have provided your country details. Enter your country details in the panel above to view information relevant to your situation.

How to submit

Payment methods and receiving centre details if applicable.

We cannot display any receiving centre or payment method information until you have provided your country details. Enter your country details in the panel above to view information relevant to your situation.

These are the conditions that you must meet once you have your visa.

Entry permission

You must apply for entry permission when you arrive in New Zealand. You can do this by completing a digital New Zealand traveller declaration (NZTD), or an NZTD paper declaration.

New Zealand Customs and Biosecurity also check that you meet their entry requirements.

Arriving in New Zealand

You can be refused entry permission if:

• you don’t meet our character requirements
• your circumstances have changed since you were granted a visa
• you refuse to let us to take your photo, or provide us with your fingerprints or an iris scan, if we ask you for them.

If you want to travel in and out of New Zealand, you must have valid multiple entry travel conditions to return to New Zealand.

Varying the conditions of a work visa

If applying from inside New Zealand, we will normally give multiple entry travel conditions when we grant a visa.

If there are no multiple entry travel conditions and you leave New Zealand the visa will expire.

The travel conditions will be listed on the visa label or in a visa letter.

Your employer must offer you at least 30 of hours of work per week. You may work only in the specific occupation, for the employer and in the location specified on your visa. If these conditions change, you must apply to vary the conditions of your visa or apply for a Job Change. You cannot work a second job while on an AEWV.

Changing the conditions of a work visa or applying for a Job Change

To be accredited your employer has committed to:

• give you specific work-related settlement information and support
• allow you time to complete study modules about working in New Zealand
• not pass on their accreditation, recruitment or operational costs to you, and
• comply with New Zealand employment and immigration laws.

Migrant workers have the same rights as New Zealand workers. If you think your employer is mistreating you or your workplace is unsafe, report them. Reporting them will not affect your visa.

Your employer's commitments to hire you on an AEWV

They must also pay you at least NZD$29.66 an hour (the February 2023 median wage rate) unless your occupation is on an exemption list.

You can study for up to 3 months in any 12-month period.

You may be able to do other study if it is required by your employer as part of your employment. Your employer must pay for any work-related study you need to do.

Visa expiry

You must leave New Zealand before your visa expires.

You can stay for up to 5 years on this visa if you are paid at or above NZD$29.66 an hour (the February 2023 median wage rate).

New Zealand Legislation

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The Parliament of New Zealand enacts as follows:

This Act is the Child Protection (Child Sex Offender Government Agency Registration) (Overseas Travel Reporting) Amendment Act 2024.

2 Commencement

This Act comes into force 3 months after Royal assent.

3 Principal Act

This Act amends the Child Protection (Child Sex Offender Government Agency Registration) Act 2016 .

Part 1 Amendments relating to overseas travel reporting

4 section 21 amended (travel plans to be reported).

In section 21(1) , after “travel away from his or her registered residential address” , insert “( see subsection (6))” .

Replace section 21(4)(a) to (c) with:

Date offender intends to travel out of New Zealand

the date on which the offender intends to travel out of New Zealand:

Offender intends to return to New Zealand

if the offender intends to return to New Zealand,—

the date on which the offender intends to return; and

the name of each country that the offender intends to travel to, and remain in for more than 48 hours; and

for each of those countries, the specified details ( see subsection (6)):

Offender does not intend to return to New Zealand

if the offender does not intend to return to New Zealand,—

a statement of that intention; and

the name of the country that the offender intends to generally reside in after leaving New Zealand.

Replace section 21(6) with:

In this section,—

specified details , for the purposes of subsection (4)(b)(iii), in relation to a registrable offender, means—

each address at which the registrable offender intends to stay; and

the date on which the offender intends to arrive in the country; and

the date on which the offender intends to travel out of the country

travel away from his or her registered residential address , for the purposes of subsection (1), in relation to a registrable offender, includes travel between registered residential addresses.

5 Section 43 amended (Information sharing between government agencies in interest of public safety)

Replace section 43(1) with:

A specified agency may disclose personal information about a registrable offender or a corresponding registrable offender (whether or not that information is in the register) to another specified agency for 1 or more of the purposes listed in subsection (1A).

The purposes are the following:

monitoring the whereabouts of the offender:

verifying personal information reported by the offender:

managing the risk that the offender may commit further sexual offences against children:

managing any risk or threat to public safety.

Part 2 Amendment to Schedule 1

6 schedule 1 amended.

In Schedule 1 ,—

insert the Part set out in the Schedule of this Act as the last Part; and

make all necessary consequential amendments.

Schedule New Part 2 of Schedule 1 inserted

Part 2 provisions relating to child protection (child sex offender government agency registration) (overseas travel reporting) amendment act 2024, 13 interpretation.

In this Part,—

amendment Act means the Child Protection (Child Sex Offender Government Agency Registration) (Overseas Travel Reporting) Amendment Act 2024

commencement means the commencement of the amendment Act

specified registrable offender means a person—

Offending before 14 October 2016

to whom clause 1 or 5 applies in respect of a qualifying offence, or a corresponding offence in a foreign jurisdiction, committed before 14 October 2016; or

Offending on or after 14 October 2016 and before commencement

who is a registrable offender, or a corresponding registrable offender, in respect of a qualifying offence, or a corresponding offence in a foreign jurisdiction, committed on or after 14 October 2016 and before commencement; or

Offending on or after commencement

who is a registrable offender, or a corresponding registrable offender, in respect of a qualifying offence, or a corresponding offence in a foreign jurisdiction, committed on or after commencement.

14 Application of amendments about overseas travel reporting requirements

On or after commencement, section 21(4) (as amended by the amendment Act) applies only to a specified registrable offender who intends to travel out of New Zealand for more than 48 hours.

15 Application of amendments about information sharing between government agencies in interest of public safety

On or after commencement, section 43(1) and (1A) (as inserted by the amendment Act) only authorises a specified agency to disclose personal information about a specified registrable offender (whether or not that information is in the register) to another specified agency.

16 Clauses 14 and 15 override any inconsistent other law

The following clauses have effect, despite any other law if, or to the extent that, the other law is inconsistent with them:

In particular, any other law , for the purposes of subclause (1), includes any law in all or any of the following:

section 6(1) and (2) of the Sentencing Act 2002:

sections 25(g) and 26(2) of the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990:

D (SC 31/2019) v New Zealand Police [2021] NZSC 2.

Legislative history

This Act is administered by the New Zealand Police .

• The Parliamentary Counsel Office
• www.govt.nz