How to Pack a Multi-Day Backpack

Packing for a multi-day tramp is as important as the gear itself. A poorly organised pack can cause back strain, slow you down, and even put you off balance on steep terrain. A well-packed backpack, on the other hand, feels lighter, more stable, and lets you focus on the beauty of the track instead of the ache in your shoulders. Here’s a practical guide to getting it right for New Zealand conditions.

Step One: Lay Out Your Gear

Before loading your pack, spread everything out on the floor or bed. Group items into categories: sleeping gear, clothing, cooking kit, food, water, navigation, and safety equipment. This not only ensures you don’t forget anything but also helps you spot unnecessary extras that add weight.

Step Two: Use a Pack Liner

New Zealand’s weather is famously changeable. Rain and stream crossings are part of the deal. Line your pack with a waterproof liner (or heavy-duty bin bag) before putting anything inside. Then, place critical items like your sleeping bag and warm clothing inside smaller dry bags for double protection. Wet gear can cut a trip short faster than anything else.

Step Three: Heavy Items Close to Your Back

To stay balanced, place dense items such as food bags, stove, and fuel close to your spine in the middle of the pack. This keeps the centre of gravity close to your body, helping you walk more naturally and reducing strain on your shoulders.

Step Four: Lighter Gear at the Bottom and Sides

Bulky but lighter items, such as your sleeping bag, sleeping mat, or spare clothes, should go at the bottom or around the edges. Place softer things against your back to prevent hard edges digging into you. This way, your pack stays comfortable over long days on the track.

Step Five: Quick-Access Essentials

Keep items you’ll use during the day in easy-reach pockets: water bottles, snacks, rain jacket, map, compass, sunscreen, and first aid kit. Many hikers waste time unpacking half their gear just to find a muesli bar — smart packing avoids this frustration.

Step Six: Secure External Attachments

Some items inevitably ride outside the pack — tent, poles, or sleeping mat. Make sure they’re lashed tightly with compression straps so nothing swings or catches in bush. Flapping gear wastes energy and can even cause falls on narrow tracks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overpacking is the number-one error. Many beginners bring too many clothes, duplicate gear, or unnecessary extras. Stick to lightweight, versatile items. Another mistake is poor weight distribution — heavy gear at the top of your pack throws off balance. Finally, test your pack at home: walk a kilometre around the block fully loaded. If it feels wrong there, it will be far worse on the track.

Quick Checklist

• Waterproof liner and dry bags
• Heavy items in the centre, close to spine
• Lighter, bulky items at bottom/sides
• Quick-access essentials in side/top pockets
• External gear strapped down firmly

Pro Tip: Aim to carry no more than 20–25% of your body weight on a multi-day tramp. Smart packing and leaving luxuries at home is the key to comfort.

What’s your packing system? Share your tips and mistakes in the Wakahi Forum so the community can learn together.