The Travel Clothing and Gear You Need

Knowing what travel clothing and gear to pack isn’t always easy, especially if you’re trying to pack light. New Zealand poses special challenges due to changeable weather and the wide range of activities many people come to enjoy. Before you start packing everything from your swimsuit to your snow pants in your travel bag, get the low down on what you’re most likely to need.

New Zealand is a country where outdoor activities abound, and you’ll want to be prepared for any kind of weather. In the summer (remember, that’s the Northern Hemisphere winter), the temperatures are usually in the 70s and very pleasant. Layering your clothes is the best way to accommodate all the climates that you will encounter.

We traveled during NZ summer season and sometimes we had 3 layers of clothes and shed two of them while we were hiking/trekking/tramping.

• You’ll want to bring a waterproof (not resistant) breathable rain jacket. This is a must for traveling in NZ. Why? Because water vapor is able to pass through the fabric, it can be used for the widest range of activities and weather conditions. They are not 100 percent waterproof or perfectly breathable, although they do a great job of repelling water while allowing water vapor to escape as you work up a sweat. And you will sweat if you are going to really explore the amazing landscapes of New Zealand!

Truthfully, I never got wet wearing this type of jacket.

� Waterproof/breathable fabric are available in parkas for skiing and mountaineering and rainwear for hiking walking around town.

Waterproof/breathable layers provide you with protection for a wide range of weather conditions and activities. Because of their breathability and moisture protection you can purchase a single layer for everything from summer backpacking to backcountry skiing.

Although waterproof/breathable fabrics are more expensive than other types of outerwear, it is a great investment.

• One of the most useful and inexpensive items I brought with was a sarong. I used it on the beaches, in the parks, at the pools. It weighs just ozs and takes up hardly any room.�
• Take one sweater with you, especially if you’re planning to visit the Southern Alps, where the high altitudes mean much lower temperatures. Near the coasts, the winters tend to be mild with temperatures in the 50s, but strong winds can make it feel much colder. Naturally, in the mountains, be ready for lots of snow. Remember, cotton is not a great choice because it holds moisture. I found that out the hard way.

If you’re planning to do some tramping or camping, then you’re going to need special travel clothing and gear.

• Sleeping bags are a must, and be sure you get a high quality one that is rated to the lowest temperatures you can expect for the region you’ll be traveling in.
• Tents are not as essential as you might expect, as there are many back country huts along the major trails
• Purchase your hiking boots at least 3 months in advance and break them in so that you avoid excess blisters. And waterproof them.
• Other camping gear you will want to bring will be a water filter system, light food and cooking supplies as well as a sturdy, lightweight backpack.

If you’re planning to do some technical climbing, during your New Zealand vacation you will probably want to bring your own mountain gear, although in some areas rentals are available. If you’re in the mountains for ski travel, you should have no trouble finding rental equipment for downhill skiing or snowboarding.

One thing that must be mentioned about bringing used travel clothing and gear is the need to clean everything thoroughly before you arrive. In the past few years, invasive species have been found in waterways in NZ. Most likely these were accidentally introduced by travelers from Europe or North America.

In order to avoid adding to the problem, clean all fishing equipment, boots and boats before entering a river or lake, and then again before entering a different waterway. In fact, authorities check your boots before you enter New Zealand to make sure that they are clean of mud and other sources of contamination.

While there are plenty of outfitters selling high quality travel clothing and gear in New Zealand, you will probably be better off buying before you leave home. That will give you a chance to test everything out before you hit the road or trail. Without any worries about your travel clothing and gear, you will really be able to relax and enjoy your vacation.

To further assure safe travels, consider getting travel insurance to protect against the risks of certain New Zealand activities.