Long White Gypsy uses affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my Privacy Policy for more information.

New Zealand tramping conditions can be unforgiving, so it’s important to ensure you’re carrying all the right gear to keep you safe and warm if something goes wrong.

In this post, we’ll be covering the ultimate overnight hiking gear list to help prepare you for your next NZ tramping adventure!

BEFORE YOU HEAD OUT THERE…

Make sure you’ve packed the 10 Essentials of Hiking Gear so you’re prepared and ready for your trip.

Before heading out on your next trip, make sure you have the 10 Essentials. These are the 10 most important items of gear for any hiking trip, regardless of duration or difficulty. We’ll cover all of them here, plus some extras that you need when you’re venturing out for an overnight or multi-day trip.

1 — Big 3

Pack

Try before you buy. Make sure your salesperson measures your back length and sells you a pack that suits your needs. If your pack doesn’t fit properly, you’ll not only be uncomfortable but you’ll also use more energy carrying your gear.

A 45-55L pack is sufficient for overnight trips (depending on how bulky your gear is). Beginners should opt for packs with a good harness system and a full frame which transfers weight efficiently to the hips.

Don’t be tempted by all the bells and whistles – less is often more. And don’t forget your pack liner! Most packs are water resistant, not waterproof, and the thicker durable pack materials will hold water (and get heavier) when wet.

Shelter

Although most beginner trampers will stay in huts, you should always carry an emergency shelter (like a lightweight bivvy or tarp) just in case.

If you’re not staying at bookable huts, seriously consider taking a tent as a backup in case huts are full. 1 person tents can be a little cramped unless you’re used to them, but there are lots of lightweight 2 person hiking tents on the market.

Look for tents which weigh around 1 – 1.5kg including poles and stakes. Double layer tents (usually made from Silnylon) will minimise condensation, but ultralight single layer options (usually made from composite materials like DCF) are becoming more popular.

In NZ, having a more durable (and higher waterproof rating) material on the floor of your tent will be a bonus but you can also purchase a separate groundsheet. If hiking with a partner, get them to carry the poles and stakes while you carry the main tent.

Sleeping Bag

For three season tramping, choose a sleeping bag (or quilt) with a comfort rating down to at least 0 degrees, but ideally -5 to -10C. If you only hike in summer, you could get away with a bag rated to 10C (depending on where you’re going).

Don’t be fooled by the ‘limit’ ratings – a sleeping bag will keep you alive at these temperatures, but not comfortable.

Decide if you want down or synthetic insulation. Down has a higher warmth to weight ratio (100g of down keeps you warmer than 100g of synthetic fill) and it’s more compressible (packs smaller). But if it gets wet you’re in trouble. Synthetic insulation will keep you warm even if wet (arguably better for NZ conditions). Plus it’s easier to wash and keep clean (especially if you get caught up in a bed bug infestation).

Your sleeping bag can save your life, so protect it with your life. I always pack mine into a waterproof dry bag, and inside my waterproof pack liner. Choose a ‘mummy’ style bag to trap more body heat and keep you warmer.

If you’re more experienced, consider a quilt as a lighter and more versatile option. In the shoulder season, a sleeping bag liner adds a bit more warmth, and some trampers even use a liner alone during the height of summer for hut stays.

Sleeping Pad

Most huts have pre-provided (plastic) mattresses to sleep on. But it’s always a good idea to carry a sleeping pad or mat just in case the bunks are full. If you’re tent camping, you’ll need something comfortable to sleep on which will insulate you from the cold ground.

There are plenty of options ranging from the less expensive (but also less comfortable) closed cell foam style to top of the line lightweight inflatable pads. Stay away from self inflating pads as these are often much heavier and bulkier.

Look for a pad with a good R value (at least 2 but ideally 4 for three season tent camping). Consider a pump sack for inflatable pads to prevent mold growth inside the pad. In my experience, closed cell foam pads are comfortable only for back and stomach sleepers, but insulated pads better for side sleepers.

2 — Camp Kitchen.

Water Filter

Despite the 100% clean & green propaganda, not all water sources in NZ are drinkable so you should always carry a means of treating water.

It’s possible for even ‘safe’ sources like rainwater tanks at huts and clear mountain streams to become contaminated with rotting carcasses and the like (especially with increased pest control measures).

A cheap and easy option for beginners is a screw-on filter which works as water is being poured or squeezed through it. But there are many other options which may suit you better such as water treatment tablets, UV sterilisation pens, and more traditional pump action or gravity fed filter systems.

Look for a filter with tiny pores (at least 0.1 microns) which can filter a quantity of water from a dirty water bottle as you hike or into a clean water bottle before you leave a water source.

Stove (+ Lighter & Fuel)

Think about what kind of hiking you’ll be doing. Do you need a stove at all? 

If you’re cold soaking your food  or only hiking Great Walks during the Great Walks season you may not need one. Stoves and gas will usually be available at Great Walks huts (but always check first). For backcountry hut trips and camping, you’ll need your own stove.

If you just need to boil water, an all in one system (such as a Jetboil) could be a good option (although heavy and bulky), but for simmering food a tripod stove with good temperature control may be a better option.

If you have more than one person in your group, you may need more than one stove (for convenience).

Some stoves struggle at higher elevations or in cold conditions so choose something suitable if you hike in these conditions a lot. More experienced hikers may opt for an alcohol (or other liquid fuel) or wood burning stove.

Whatever stove you choose, always carry plenty of fuel for your trip and something to ignite it (mini-BIC lighters are great for this)! Standard 230g gas canisters will last anywhere from 15 – 25 boils (of approx. 1 L).

Cooking Pot

Most trampers only need one 750ml – 1L pot on their trips. However if you’re hiking in a group you may need a pot each (or an assortment of sizes split between everyone). Opt for lightweight pots where possible, with titanium pots being a great option.

Stay away from nesting designs unless you have a use for all of the pots in the kit – most of the time these are overkill and you’ll never use them. Pack as much of your cooking gear (stove, fuel etc.) inside your pot wrapped in a lightweight cloth to maximise space in your pack.

Plates, Cups & Cutlery

Don’t go overkill. I hiked 1,700km on Te Araroa over 80 days with one pot, one long handled spoon and one collapsible mug. No plate. No fork. Only a lightweight sharp knife to cut cheese and open packets with. If you’re hiking in a group, you may need bowls to dish up a meal into. My luxury is to carry a separate collapsible cup so I can have a hot drink with my meal but many lightweight trampers drink out of their pot either before or after they eat.

Dish Soap & Towel

To clean up after your dinner, take a little bit of Dr Bronner’s liquid castile soap (or other biodegradable detergent) and a lightweight towel to dry your cooking gear with. Otherwise you’ll be doing your dishes with just your fingers and the freezing cold hut water.

3 — Toiletries.

Toothbrush & Toothpaste

A lightweight eco friendly toothbrush (such as the bamboo charcoal designs) are great options. Folding travel toothbrushes are easy to pack, and even come with caps to keep the brush clean and tidy. Or, cut the handle off your existing toothbrush.

Comb

For the ladies (and men with longer hair), a comb or lightweight folding hairbrush will keep the tangles at bay. NZ wind and rain will create dreadlocks faster than you can say… dreadlocks!

Toilet Paper & Trowel

Always carry an emergency supply of toilet paper. Although the Great Walk huts and campsites usually have a good supply, on rare occasions it can run out (and if you’re staying at backcountry facilities there usually won’t be any). If you’re waste conscious, a travel bidet could be a good option. Always use a loo when you come across one and make sure to read up on Leave No Trace toilet habits in case you get caught out. Many trampers carry a lightweight trowel so they can dig a hole in a hurry, but the end of a trekking pole or tent stake work well in a pinch.

Hand Sanitiser & Soap

Hand sanitiser is a must for after toileting and before meals. For more extensive ablutions I opt for a small chunk of soap cut from a larger bar. Dr Bronner’s castille soap is another favourite as it’s a great all-rounder, only requires a minimal amount and can be used for anything from personal needs to washing dishes and dirty clothes.

Sunscreen, Sunglasses & Sunhat

The New Zealand sun is harsh, not just for sunburn but also for sunstroke and heatstroke. Burn time can be as little as 10mins. Although the best course of action is to cover up with long layers, having a goof SPF 50+ sunscreen is a must. Protect your eyes from prolonged exposure to harmful UV with a good pair of sunglasses (polarising if possible) and keep the sun off your head with a hat (preferably a wide-brim for extra shade in particularly exposed territory, or else one with a flap which covers your ears and/or neck).

Towel

Although you can drip dry, a lightweight and quick drying towel just makes life that little bit easier and more comfortable, especially if you’re heading to a location with an awesome lake or river to swim in.

Tissues / Hankies

For those of us whose noses run at the first sign of a slight change in temperature. But also, because tissues and hankies always come in handy.

4 — Electronics.

Headlamp

You should always have a light source with you whenever you go out on a hiking trip, even if it’s just a day trip. A bright headlamp (or even just a bright torch) which shines at least 200 lumens will be sufficient for most trampers, but 250-300 lumens is best. Don’t rely on the flashlight function on your cellphone – not only will this drain your battery (which you may need in an emergency) but it doesn’t have a red light function to use at night (so you don’t wake other sleepers in the hut). Always carry a full set of spare batteries (or a battery bank with enough charge if it’s a rechargeable version).

PLB

A non-negotiable item for the NZ backcountry, to call for help if you get lost or hurt. Although these can be expensive to buy outright, they can be hired for a very reasonable fee from many places around the country.

Phone

For capturing memories (camera), entertainment, and/or navigation. Most trails won’t have good cellphone reception so don’t rely on your phone for emergency communication (always have a PLB as a backup). Consider purchasing a small (5,000maH) battery bank carrying an emergency charge just in case you get into trouble.

Batteries & Charging Cables

If you carry a lot of electronic devices (phone, GPS device, rechargeable headlamp, kindle) you may consider carrying a battery bank (10,000 + mAH) and charging cables with you depending on the length of your trip.

5 — First Aid, Repair & Survival.

Painkillers & Personal Medications

Ibuprofen (Vitamin I) and paracetamol are the painkilling drugs of choice for trampers all over the country. A small supply (one blister pack each) of these should serve you right for the aches and pains of an overnight trip. A small supply of immodium also goes a long way in case of emergency in the middle of the backcountry. And if you’re on any special medications FIRST talk to your doctor about whether it’s safe to embark on a backcountry trip, then make sure you have enough (plus extra in case of emergency) to get you through your trip.

Plasters

A selection of 6-10 plasters in varying sizes should suit most scenarios.

Antiseptic Cream / Wipes

A small tube of savlon or other antiseptic cream and a handful of alcohol wipes will take care of most cuts and abrasions.

Muscle Rub

For sore and aching muscles at the end of the day (unless you’re a glutton for pain like me). A good soak in a cold stream for 10-15 minutes also does wonders for muscle pain.

Safety Pins / Needle

A pin or needle is great for pricking and draining blisters (if you’re unfortunate enough to get them) and a safety pin is a quick repair for any gear failures.

Strapping Tape / Duct Tape

Perfect for its intended use (to take strain off of weak muscles and joints) but also great for last minute emergency gear repairs (or waterproofing / rodent-proofing holes in tents and food bags.

Survival Blanket / Emergency Shelter

Already covered briefly above, an essential emergency item for worst-case scenarios if you get lost or injured when on the trail and can’t make it to shelter.

Safety Whistle

Many modern packs come with whistles built into the buckles on their sternum straps, but just in case you can also purchase bright yellow emergency whistles for the same purpose. Use the rule of three: Three short (and loud) blasts lasting three seconds each is the universal signal for help.

Waterproof Matches

A failsafe just in case your other means of starting a fire fails, waterproof matches (or another waterproof means of starting a fire) can be a lifesaver.

6 — Clothing.

Hiking Top

Something lightweight, quick drying and moisture wicking if also being used as a next to skin layer. Merino or other synthetic quick drying fabrics are great choices.

Hiking Bottoms

A favourite of mine is a good pair of lightweight and quick drying shorts or else a comfortable pair of skintight leggings (in shoulder seasons where I know I won’t need shorts). I may even layer a pair of merino leggings underneath a pair of shorts for versatility. Pick heavy duty material… you’re likely to spend some time on your bum in the NZ backcountry!

Mid-Weight Warm Layer

Many kiwi trampers choose to hike in a fleece top or mid-weight merino layer during the shoulder seasons. Look for a lightweight three quarter zip fleece or else a 220gsm merino jersey.

Insulated Jacket

Come in many different types and styles. Usually either down or synthetic fill (see comments above re: sleeping bags and quilts for comparison). You shouldn’t be hiking in your insulated jacket, rather this is your warm layer for the end of the day. An attached hood is a bonus. If budget will stretch, an 800gsm lightweight down jacket will give you the best warmth to weight ratio. In the summer, you may consider a down vest instead of a full jacket.

Thermals

All kiwi trampers carry a full set of thermal base layers when tramping. This means a long sleeved thermal (usually merino or polypropylene) top and long leggings of the same material. These base layers will be worn underneath a top or shorts/leggings when hiking, or (if still dry) as hut/camp clothes at the end of the day.

Underwear & Socks

For an overnight trip, you’ll probably get away with just one pair of underwear (worn). But you could carry an extra pair just in case. Opt for merino or synthetic material rather than cotton. As far as socks go, the general rule of thumb is one pair to hike in, and at least one extra pair as a backup (and to sleep in). Again, merino or wool blend socks will dry faster and minimise odour.

Rain Jacket

A good rain jacket (which also acts as a windbreaker) is an essential item of tramping gear in NZ owing to the amount of time you’re likely to be hiking in the wind and rain. My preference is to opt for something with at least 15,000 mm hydrostatic head (20,000 is my preference) made from at least a dual layer fabric for breathability. Waterproof zips and velcroed cuffs will help keep water out, and zips at the underarms are great for added breathability. Extra reinforcing around the shoulders and upper back will prevent abrasion and wear from your pack. Kiwi trampers prefer longer rain jackets (mid-thigh) length worn over shorts and teamed with ankle or knee-length gaiters.

Rain Pants / Skirt

Rain pants are not as popular on New Zealand trails as elsewhere in the world, usually because summer and shoulder season rain showers can be too hot and humid to cover up in waterproof gear. Those who choose to wear something might opt for a rain skirt (even made from something as rudimentary as an old bin bag), or else protect their lower legs with gaiters.

Gaiters

Designed to keep small rocks and debris from entering shoes, but also protection from rain and wind at high and exposed elevations and lethal speargrass and other prickly plants often found on more advanced and overgrown tramping tracks. Although ankle gaiters are available, knee-length gaiters are the more popular option on NZ trails.

Beanie & Gloves

A warm beanie and insulated gloves are must-have items even for summer trips as nights can sometimes be cold and weather can close in (especially at higher elevations or in exposed terrain). If you prefer tent camping and/or use just a sleeping quilt (with no insulated hood) then you may also benefit from a bit of extra warmth.

Hut Shoes

Although not necessary, I find a pair of hut or camp shoes to be a very convenient item especially if on a multi-day trip. They provide good relief from the confines of restrictive hiking boots or shoes at the end of a long day of hiking, let the feet air out and are much easier for trips to the toilet.

Buff

If your hat doesn’t protect your neck, an easy fix is to wear something like a Buff, a lightweight merino or synthetic ‘neck gaiter’ which adds a layer of protection and also wicks moisture away from your skin. Also doubles as a hair tie, head wrap, flannel, towel, tourniquet, dish rag, eye mask…

7 — Miscellaneous.

Trekking Poles

There’s an entire subset of kiwi trampers that have never hiked with trekking poles, and never will. They swear by the natural build up of strength and stamina in muscles which comes from using one’s entire body to ascend or descend a mountain. However, many of them also complain later in life about aches and pains, and joint problems. There’s no doubt about it, trekking poles ease the load and make those gruelling ascents and descents much kinder on the body (especially if used properly). Plus these days trekking poles also have many other uses, from digging toilet holes in the ground, to acting as tent poles for ultralight tents.

Sitting Pad

One other item of gear which is fast becoming a non-negotiable for me is my sitting pad. This insulated smaller version of a closed cell foam sleeping mat is a welcome relief on rest breaks where it provides a warm, dry and comfortable place to sit. Especially appreciated on wet and cold days hiking.

Final Thoughts: Overnight Hiking Gear List.

This overnight hiking gear list NZ for tramping in New Zealand should set you up with everything you need for a safe and comfortable overnight or multi-day tramping adventure on New Zealand’s network of tracks and trails.

If you found this overnight hiking gear list NZ post helpful, please take a moment to help me spread the word to other trampers and hikers by sharing it on Pinterest (or on your social media).

Michelle Green is the founder of Long White Gypsy and Travel To NZ. She makes hiking videos on YouTube and has been featured in hiking magazines & podcasts. In 2019 she thru hiked 1,700 kilometres on Te Araroa's North Island, and is currently working her way through NZ's Great Walks.