Packing List for Winter in New Zealand

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Winter Clothes for New Zealand

The key here is to pack versatile outfits so that you pack less but are prepared for anything. We recommend packing enough clothes for almost a week. If you’re staying in New Zealand longer, use the laundry facilities, which are available at most accommodations.

The below list is per person, applying to every member of your group (or just yourself if travelling solo), including men, women and kids.

• 1 Leggings/sweatpants
• 1 Hiking pants
• 1 Sweater/hoody/fleece/mid-layer
• 1 Thermal underlayer (top and/or bottoms)
• 1 Warm, waterproof and windproof jacket
• 6 Tops/T-shirts
• 6 Socks (preferably woollen)
• 6 Underwear
• 2 Bras (if applicable)
• 1 Hiking shoes
• 1 Flip-flops
• 1 Swimwear (hot pools, baby!)
• 1 Beenie
• 1 Scarf/neck warmer
• 1 Sunglasses

The above list is the bare essentials for a winter trip in New Zealand. However, some travellers might prefer to take extra pairs of thermal underlayers and mid-layers if they have room. Pyjamas were not included on this list, as you can always sleep in your sweatpants/leggings and tops or underlayers. However, feel free to add them if you prefer.

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Toiletries to Pack

We all have our own toiletry requirements and beauty regimes (or lack of one). Below are good things to remember but they won’t apply to everyone.

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Deodorant
• Hairbrush/comb
• Hair bobbles/bands
• Feminine hygiene products
• Razor
• Moisturiser
• Make-up
• Q-tips
• Tissues
• Contact lenses/glasses
• Sunscreen (yes, really)

You may have noticed that we didn’t include soap in this list because it’s usually included in most accommodations except hostel dorms or campsites, so take some if you are staying in one of those.

In Your First Ait Kit

Accidents can happen, so be prepared with a small travel first-aid kit. Take it in your day pack.

• Prescription medication
• Plasters/bandaids
• Disinfectant wipes
• Gauzes with clips/tape
• Tweezers
• Hand sanitiser
• Paracetamol/ibuprofen
• Antiseptic cream
• Hydrocortisone cream

For more stuff to stuff in your first aid kit, see our Health Tips For Travelling in New Zealand.

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Miscellaneous

And for all those annoying things that don’t fit into a category, here are some other items to pack for New Zealand in winter.

• New Zealand travel adapter
• Camera
• Phone
• Electronic device chargers (extra batteries are a good idea)
• Passport
• Driving license + IDP (if driving)
• Flight ticket + return ticket (or sufficient funds)
• Visa + supporting evidence (if required)
• Credit/debit card
• New Zealand dollars (enough for the first few days)
• Reusable water bottle/water bladder (tap water is safe)
• Food containers (if self-catering)
• Shopping bags (if self-catering)
• Travel towel (if camping or staying in hostel dorms)
• Travel games/entertainment (especially if travelling with kids)

If Camping or Staying in Huts

If you plan on camping in a tent:

• Lightweight tent
• Sleeping mat

and/or staying in huts:

• 4-Season sleeping bag
• Torch/flashlight
• Camping stove (get gas canisters in New Zealand)
• Camping cooking utensils.

For more tips on camping in winter, see How to Stay Warm When Camping in New Zealand and Camping Essentials Checklist for New Zealand.

Day Pack and Backpack/Suitcase

Finally, you need to pack it all in a suitable backpack or suitcase and day pack. Whether you choose to travel with a backpack or suitcase depends on what style of travel you are doing in New Zealand. Make your day pack one that’s suitable for hiking, if that’s what you plan to do. Otherwise, a casual day pack will do just fine.