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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Queenstown And Wanaka, New Zealand

Seasonal Clothing

New Zealand's weather changes quickly. Dressing in layers is always the best strategy for Wanaka.

Layering Essentials

  • Merino wool or synthetic base layers work well for warmth and breathability.
  • Always bring a warm mid-layer (fleece or light puffy jacket) and a Waterproof rain jacket.
  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Pack light shorts, t-shirts, and quick-dry pants.

Cooler Weather Attire

For autumn, spring, and winter, add more insulating layers.

Cold Weather Gear

Footwear Choices

Hiking Boots

Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support for longer or challenging trails. Break them in before your trip.

For trails like Roy's Peak

Walking Shoes

Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers are perfect for town exploration and easy trails.

Town & easy trails

Water & Winter Footwear

Pack Sandals or Water shoes for lake activities. For winter, waterproof, insulated boots with good grip are needed for snow and ice.

For water & cold conditions

Useful Documents

Verify and Carry

Keep all travel documents accessible and secure, with digital backups.

  • Passport and Visa/NZeTA confirmation.
  • Travel insurance policy, with emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable).
  • Vaccination records and doctor's note for prescriptions.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations (flights, accommodation, car).
  • Emergency contact information for family, embassy, and insurance.
  • Student, senior, or press IDs for potential discounts.
  • Consider physical photocopies stored separately.

Tech & Electronics

Connectivity & Power

Stay connected and powered up with the right adapters and mobile options.

Details

Photography & Apps

Capture your Wanaka memories and navigate efficiently with recommended tools.

Suggestions

  • Camera Equipment: Digital camera, extra memory cards, spare batteries. A GoPro or similar Action camera works well. For camera gear, visit B&H Photo.
  • Recommended Apps: Google Maps (offline maps), NZ Topo Maps (hiking), MetService NZ (weather), CamperMate (campsites).
  • Backup Solutions: Cloud storage for photos (e.g., Google Photos, iCloud). Consider a physical backup to an External hard drive. Secure your connection with NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Digital Security

Cloud Storage

Use cloud services (Google Photos, iCloud) to prevent photo loss.

Physical Backups

If carrying a laptop, consider an External hard drive.

Secure Connection

Use a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for public Wi-Fi.

Health & Wellness

Medical Preparedness

A well-stocked first aid kit and personal medications are .

Checklist

  • Destination-specific First Aid Kit with pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, various sizes of plasters or Band-aids, blister treatment.
  • Prescription Medications: Keep in original packaging with a copy of your prescription and doctor's note.
  • Over-the-Counter Medications: Pack common remedies like antacids, Anti-diarrhea medication, and antihistamines.

Protection & Hydration

Protect yourself from the elements and maintain proper hydration.

Outdoor Safety

Special Health Concerns

Altitude Considerations

  • Wanaka itself is not at high altitude.
  • Scenic flights or winding mountain passes might cause motion sickness.
  • Pack appropriate remedies if you are prone to motion sickness.

Hypothermia Risk

  • Hypothermia remains a risk during hiking due to rapid weather changes.
  • Dress in layers and carry waterproof gear, even for day hikes.
  • Check weather forecasts before setting out.

Activity Gear

Hiking Gear

Prepare for trails with suitable equipment.

Ski & Snowboard Gear

Rent or bring personal items for winter sports.

Camping Gear

For non-powered sites, consider bringing your own camping essentials.

  • Lightweight tent
  • Sleeping bag rated for cooler temperatures
  • Portable cooking gear
  • Personal layers

Gear: Rent or Bring?

Rental Options

  • Ski or snowboard equipment, kayaks, paddleboards.
  • Mountain bikes and rock climbing gear.
  • Readily available for rent in Wanaka.
  • Saves on luggage space and weight.

Consider Bringing

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items contribute to your comfort and security during your travels.

Essentials

Specialized Items

Some items might be difficult or expensive to purchase locally.

Consider Bringing These

  • Specialized medications that you rely on.
  • Specific outdoor gear brands that might be more expensive or harder to find.
  • Any particular product you rely on; bring a sufficient supply.
  • Portable charger and power banks for device charging on the go.

Sustainable Travel

Reusable Water Bottle

Tap water is safe and delicious.

Reusable Shopping Bag

New Zealand has a plastic bag ban.

Eco-Friendly Toiletries

Minimizing environmental impact.

Walk or Cycle

Reduce carbon footprint locally.

Destination Specifics

Wanaka Specifics

  • Camera for stunning landscapes.
  • Swimwear for Lake Wanaka activities.
  • Action camera for adventure sports.

General NZ Travel

  • Good quality maps (digital and physical).
  • Basic first aid kit.
  • Reliable travel insurance.

Packing Smart

Pack lighter layers that can be combined for warmth. This approach handles unpredictable weather.

Roll clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes for organization.