Our NZ packlist
“Hiking is fun… until your backpack feels like a small car.”
Ultimate Pack List for a Backpacking & Rafting Adventure
After three weeks of hiking, rafting, and occasionally questioning our life choices in New Zealand’s South Island, we can confirm: good gear = a good time. The weather here is a wild card—blue skies one minute, sideways rain the next—so the trick is packing smart, not hauling a suitcase on your back.
Rule #1: Pack light. Your knees will thank you. Every extra gram is just another thing you’ll regret halfway up a climb. So here’s our ultimate packing list—battle-tested and guaranteed to keep you comfy, dry, and stoked for the next adventure.
Clothing
- Base layers (top & bottom) – Merino wool or moisture-wicking
- Lightweight fleece or jacket – For warmth
- Waterproof jacket – Windproof & breathable
- Insulated Jacket - Protection from cold & wind
- Hiking pants – Lightweight and quick-dry
- T-shirts (1-2) – Merino wool or synthetic
- Shorts – Lightweight and comfortable
- Beanie & gloves – For colder conditions
- Sun hat – Wide-brimmed for sun protection
- Socks (1-2 pairs) – Merino wool or synthetic, no cotton
- Buff or neck gaiter – To protect from wind and sun
Footwear
- Trail running shoes or hiking boots – Comfortable and waterproof if possible
- Camp shoes / Sandals – Lightweight flip-flops or sandals
Camping Gear (If camping)
- Tent – Lightweight and compact
- Sleeping bag – Appropriate for the season (3-season is usually fine)
- Sleeping mat – Lightweight foam or inflatable
- Pillow - Lightweight & compact
- Lightweight stove – Gas or multi-fuel, plus fuel
- Cookware – Compact pot & spork
- Cup - Because: camp coffees!
- Food – Dehydrated meals, snacks, energy bars, trail mix
- Water filter – Or purification tablets
- Headlamp – With extra batteries
- Multi-tool – Compact and practical
Navigation & Tools
- AllTrails App (with downloaded hikes) – For offline use
- Power bank – To charge devices on the go
- Whistle – For emergency situations
Personal Items
- Sunscreen & lip balm – SPF 30+ recommended
- Insect repellent – Sandflies can be fierce
- Toiletries – Toothbrush, biodegradable soap, and wet wipes
- First aid kit – Including blister pads, antiseptic, and pain relievers
- Towel – Quick-dry travel towel
- Camera or smartphone – To capture stunning views
Extras
- Sunglasses – UV protection
- Trekking poles – For stability, especially on steep terrain
- Dry bags – To keep electronics and valuables dry
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Passport!
Rafting Gear
✅ MRS Microraft with Spraydeck – Your adventure vessel 4kg total weight
✅ WRSI Current Helmet – Protects your head while navigating rough waters.
✅ ASTRAL E-LINDA PFD – My go-to for comfort and safety.
✅ ASTRAL V-Eight PFD – Yours for a breathable, secure fit.
✅ Moray Fiberglass 4-Part Packraft Paddle – Lightweight and packable.
Safety & Repair Essentials
✅ GearAid Tenacious Tape (50cm) – Quick fixes for unexpected rips or punctures.
✅ NRS Compact Rescue Throw Bag (70') – A must-have for swiftwater safety.
Storage & Packing
✅ MRS Dry Bags (included with packraft) – For internal storage, keeping gear dry.
✅ MRS TIZIP Internal Storage System – Extra space inside the raft for secure packing.
Everything was sourced from this website – where we found all our rafting essentials.
