Overnight & multi-day hike gear list

I’m often asked what gear to bring on multi-day hikes. This is my beginner-to-intermediate New Zealand hiking gear list, drawn from many seasons of tramping where four seasons in one day is the norm.

It’s designed for 2–7 day trips without resupply, typically staying in Department of Conservation (DOC) huts, with overnight temperatures around 0–10 °C and daytime temperatures between 10–30 °C.

Lightweight and ultralight gear improves comfort and reduces fatigue, but safety and weather protection should never be compromised. Optional items are marked with an asterisk (*).

Pack

• Backpack (30–50 L)
• Pack liner (such as Nylofume)
• Dry bags, stuff sacks, or ziplock bags *

Clothing

Worn while hiking

• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Long sleeve hiking shirt or sun hoody
• Shorts or hiking pants
• Socks
• Trail runners or hiking boots *1

Carried in pack

• Rain jacket (waterproof shell)
• Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
• Fleece or active midlayer
• Thermal top
• Thermal bottoms
• Sleep socks
• Neck gaiter or buff
• Beanie
• Gloves (seasonal)
• Camp shoes or sandals *

Sleep

Staying in huts

• Sleeping bag or quilt
• Sleeping bag liner *2 *

Camping

• Sleeping bag or quilt
• Sleeping bag liner *
• Sleeping pad
• Pillow (inflatable or clothing bag) *

Shelter (if not staying in huts)

• Tent or tarp
• Tent stakes
• Groundsheet *

Cooking

• Stove
• Fuel
• Pot
• Mug or cup *
• Spoon
• Lighter
• Food bag or dry bag
• Food for trip duration

Water

• Water bottles or soft flasks (2 L capacity)
• Water bladder *
• Water treatment (filter, tablets, or both)

Electronics

• Personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite communicator *3 – options and why you should take one
• Phone with offline maps
• Headlamp (with spare batteries or rechargeable)
• Power bank (5,000–10,000 mAh)
• Charging cables
• Watch *

Personal

• First aid and repair kit
• Paper map and compass – how to navigate using map and compass
• Trekking poles *
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Headnet *
• Anti-chafe balm
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Hand sanitiser
• Toilet paper
• Trowel – how to dig a hole for toilet waste
• Cloth or small towel *
• Earplugs (for huts) *
• Candles *
• Wallet (ID, cards, cash)
• Hut pass, tickets or booking confirmation

Common beginner mistakes

• Bringing too many spare clothes

  Merino and synthetic fabrics can be worn multiple days without issue. Two or three tops and one spare bottom is usually plenty.

• Not carrying proper rain gear

  A lightweight rain jacket takes up minimal space and is non-negotiable in New Zealand. Conditions can turn fast with no warning.

• Relying only on phone navigation

  Batteries die, screens crack, and cell coverage is often nonexistent in the backcountry. Always carry a paper Topo50 map and know how to use it with a compass.

• Carrying unnecessary luxuries

  Every extra kilogram adds fatigue over a full day’s walking. Question whether each item is truly essential for safety, shelter, or basic comfort.

Adapting the list for your trip

• Bring a water filter when water sources are streams rather than tanks
• Remove down jacket and thermals if temperatures stay above 15 °C
• Switch to a 20,000 mAh power bank for trips longer than 5 days
• Bring a sun umbrella if conditions are hot with little wind
• Increase water capacity for dry sections or hot weather
• Remove trowel and toilet paper if toilets are available

Always check DOC requirements, book huts in advance, and review weather forecasts before departure. Adjust this list based on your specific trip, terrain, and personal preferences.

Notes

1. Trail runners are lighter and dry faster; hiking boots offer more ankle support on rough or wet terrain. Either can work well in New Zealand. The right choice depends on the track and your preference. Most experienced trampers prefer trail runners for their versatility and comfort on multi-day trips. ^

2. A sleeping bag liner adds warmth (typically 5–10 °C), keeps your sleeping bag cleaner, and can be used alone in warm conditions. Silk liners are lightest; synthetic liners are more durable and easier to wash. Worth carrying even when staying in huts. ^

3. A PLB or satellite communicator is essential safety equipment for backcountry travel. Cell coverage is unreliable or nonexistent in most New Zealand wilderness areas. In an emergency, a PLB can be the difference between rescue and tragedy. Always register your beacon and test it before each trip. ^