Packing Your Backpack for New Zealand’s Great Walks: A Comprehensive Guide

New Zealand’s Great Walks are a collection of premier tracks showcasing the country’s stunning natural beauty. From lush rainforests to rugged coastlines and towering mountains, these multi-day hikes offer unforgettable experiences. However, to fully enjoy your adventure, careful planning and packing are essential. This guide provides a detailed overview of how to pack your backpack for a New Zealand Great Walk, ensuring you’re prepared for the challenges and rewards ahead.

1. Understanding the Essentials

Before diving into specific items, it’s crucial to understand the key principles of packing for a multi-day hike:

• Weight: Every ounce counts! Aim for a pack weight that’s no more than 20% of your body weight.
• Layering: Be prepared for changing weather conditions by packing versatile layers that can be added or removed as needed.
• Waterproof Protection: New Zealand weather can be unpredictable. Waterproof everything!
• Comfort: Ensure your backpack fits properly and that your hiking boots are well broken-in.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in and minimize your environmental impact.

2. Choosing the Right Backpack

Selecting the right backpack is fundamental. Consider these factors:

• Size: For most Great Walks (3-5 days), a 50-70 liter backpack is sufficient.
• Fit: Get professionally fitted at an outdoor store. A properly fitted pack distributes weight evenly and prevents discomfort.
• Features: Look for features like adjustable torso length, hip belt, sternum strap, multiple compartments, and external attachment points.
• Durability: Choose a backpack made from durable, water-resistant materials.

3. Clothing: Layering for All Conditions

New Zealand’s weather can change rapidly, so packing the right clothing is crucial.

Base Layers:

• Moisture-wicking shirts (2-3): Merino wool or synthetic fabrics are ideal for wicking away sweat and keeping you dry.
• Moisture-wicking underwear (2-3): Choose quick-drying fabrics for comfort.
• Hiking socks (3-4 pairs): Wool or synthetic blend socks provide cushioning and warmth. Consider liner socks to prevent blisters.

Mid Layers:

• Fleece jacket or insulated vest: Provides warmth in cooler conditions.
• Lightweight down or synthetic jacket: Packs down small and offers excellent insulation.

Outer Layers:

• Waterproof and windproof jacket: Essential for protection from rain and wind. Look for a jacket with a hood.
• Waterproof pants: Provides complete protection from the elements.

Other Clothing Items:

• Hiking pants or shorts: Choose quick-drying and durable fabrics.
• Warm hat and gloves: Even in summer, temperatures can drop at higher elevations.
• Sun hat: Protection from the sun is essential, even on cloudy days.
• Swimsuit (optional): For swimming in lakes or rivers (check water temperatures first!).

4. Footwear: Taking Care of Your Feet

Your feet are your most important asset on a Great Walk. Choose footwear wisely.

• Hiking boots or trail shoes: Ensure they are well broken-in before your hike. Choose footwear appropriate for the terrain. Boots offer more ankle support, while trail shoes are lighter and more flexible.
• Camp shoes or sandals: Provides relief for your feet after a long day of hiking.

5. Shelter and Sleeping Gear

Most Great Walks offer hut accommodation, but you’ll still need essential sleeping gear.

• Sleeping bag: Choose a sleeping bag with a temperature rating appropriate for the season. Consider a lightweight down or synthetic sleeping bag.
• Sleeping bag liner: Adds warmth and keeps your sleeping bag clean.
• Inflatable pillow (optional): Provides extra comfort for sleeping.

6. Cooking and Food Supplies

Huts on Great Walks typically provide cooking facilities (stoves, sinks, and tables), but you’ll need to bring your own food and cooking utensils.

• Lightweight stove and fuel: For boiling water and cooking meals.
• Cooking pot and utensils: Choose lightweight and durable options.
• Eating utensils: Spoon, fork, and knife.
• Food: Plan your meals carefully and choose lightweight, non-perishable options such as dehydrated meals, energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, and jerky.
• Water bottles or hydration reservoir: Carry at least 2-3 liters of water per day.
• Water filter or purification tablets: For treating water from streams and rivers.
• Food storage bags: To keep your food organized and protected from pests.

7. Navigation and Safety

Safety is paramount on any hike. Be prepared for emergencies and carry essential navigation tools.

• Map and compass: Learn how to use them before your hike.
• GPS device or smartphone with GPS: As a backup to your map and compass. Download offline maps before you go.
• Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger: For emergency communication.
• First-aid kit: Include essentials like blister treatment, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, bandages, and any personal medications.
• Headlamp or flashlight: With extra batteries.
• Whistle: For signaling for help.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent: Protection from the sun and insects.
• Knife or multi-tool: For various tasks.
• Fire starter: Waterproof matches or a lighter.
• Repair kit: For fixing gear in the field (e.g., duct tape, needle and thread).

8. Toiletries and Personal Items

Keep toiletries to a minimum to save weight.

• Toilet paper: Pack in a waterproof bag.
• Hand sanitizer: For maintaining hygiene.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste: Travel-sized versions.
• Biodegradable soap: For washing yourself and your dishes.
• Towel: Lightweight and quick-drying.
• Personal medications: In their original containers.
• Sunglasses: Protection from the sun.
• Camera: To capture your memories.
• Book or e-reader (optional): For entertainment in the evenings.

9. Packing Techniques

How you pack your backpack is just as important as what you pack.

• Distribute weight evenly: Place heavier items closer to your back and in the center of the pack.
• Use stuff sacks: To organize your gear and compress clothing.
• Keep frequently used items accessible: Store items like your rain jacket, snacks, and water bottle in easily accessible pockets.
• Waterproof everything: Use a backpack cover and line your pack with a waterproof liner or trash bag.
• Compress your sleeping bag: Use a compression sack to minimize its size.

10. Final Checklist

Before you leave, review this checklist to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything:

• Backpack
• Clothing (base layers, mid layers, outer layers)
• Hiking boots or trail shoes
• Sleeping bag and liner
• Stove and fuel
• Cooking pot and utensils
• Food and water
• Map and compass
• GPS device or smartphone
• First-aid kit
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Toiletries
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Knife or multi-tool
• PLB or satellite messenger
• Permits and booking confirmations

11. Before You Go: Important Considerations

• Bookings and Permits: Great Walks require advance bookings, especially during peak season. Obtain the necessary permits before you start your hike.
• Weather Forecast: Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changing conditions.
• Track Conditions: Check for any track closures or alerts before you start your hike.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in and minimize your environmental impact.
• Inform Someone of Your Plans: Tell someone your itinerary and expected return date.

By following these guidelines, you can pack your backpack effectively and enjoy a safe and memorable experience on New Zealand’s Great Walks. Happy hiking!