kia ora, gals!! new zealand is the trip of dreams for nature lovers. glowworm caves in waitomo, hobbiton, a maori cultural evening in rotorua, sunset kayaking on lake taupΕ, the hooker valley track, the wanaka tree and a cruise through milford sound. every single view looks like a screensaver, we promise!!
the best new zealand packing list for solo female travellers <3
kia ora, gals!! new zealand is the trip of dreams for nature lovers. glowworm caves in waitomo, hobbiton, a maori cultural evening in rotorua, sunset kayaking on lake taupΕ, the hooker valley track, the wanaka tree and a cruise through milford sound. every single view looks like a screensaver, we promise!!
the golden rule for packing for new zealand? expect four seasons in one day. you can be in a t-shirt at lunch and reaching for your puffer by sunset, especially on the south island.whether you're joining our new zealand trip or heading out solo, here's our honest, gals who travel guide on exactly what to bring!
3 things you MUST know before packing for new zealand
- layers, layers, layers: the weather changes fast, especially around mount cook, wanaka and milford sound. pack layers you can add and remove all day!
- the sun is SO strong: the UV in new zealand is much higher than in the UK, even on cloudy days. SPF 50+ is non-negotiable!!
- there's a baggage limit: because of the internal flight and local buses, you're limited to one checked bag (around 20kg) plus a small backpack or handbag.
clothing: adventure, lakes & mountains!!
- 1β2x activewear sets (leggings + breathable tops): for the hooker valley track, wanaka bike ride and redwoods walks.
- 1x warm fleece or jumper: essential for evenings in tekapo, wanaka and queenstown.
- 1x packable puffer jacket: packs down tiny and saves you on chilly mornings and evenings!!
- 1x waterproof rain jacket: milford sound is one of the wettest places in the world (the waterfalls are even better in the rain!)
- 2x jeans or comfy trousers: for travel days and evenings out.
- 4β5x tees & long-sleeve tops: easy layering basics.
- 2x bikinis / swimsuits: for the otumuheke hot stream, lake taupΕ and lake wanaka dips. the lakes are chilly but SO refreshing!
- 2x cute evening outfits: for queenstown nights and our final night out as a group.
- 1x cosy loungewear set: for hostel nights and long travel days.
footwear: what do you ACTUALLY wear?
- 1x comfy walking shoes or trail trainers: for the hooker valley track, waitomo caves and huka falls.
- 1x everyday trainers: for exploring auckland, christchurch and queenstown.
- 1x sliders / flip-flops: for hostel showers and hot pools.
- 1 x evening shoes, whatever you feel comfiest in for dinners out and exploring the cities!!
DO NOT BRING: muddy hiking boots!! new zealand has strict biosecurity rules, so make sure any outdoor shoes are cleaned before you fly, or declare them at the airport.
toiletries & hostel essentials
- SPF 50+ sunscreen & lip balm with SPF: you'll be outdoors almost every day!
- quick-dry travel towel: handy for lake swims, hot pools and hostels.
- earplugs & eye mask: our dorms are female-only and private to the group, but these are always a good idea!
- padlock: for hostel lockers.
- insect repellent: sandflies are a thing around milford sound and the lakes!
- moisturiser & hair oil: the fresh mountain air can be drying.
electronics & travel essentials
- type I travel adapter: new zealand uses angled two-pin plugs (the same as australia), so UK plugs won't fit.
- power bank: for long road trips and full days out.
- your passport: you'll often need it as ID to get served in bars, as UK driving licences aren't always accepted!!
- downloads for the road: the drive from taupΕ back to auckland is a long one, so download netflix and podcasts before you go!
- reusable water bottle: the tap water is great and there are refill spots everywhere.
new zealand packing FAQs
what's the weather like in new zealand?
it changes quickly! summer (december to february) is warm during the day but can be cool at night, especially on the south island. spring and autumn are fresher, so pack a warm jacket whatever month you travel.
what's the baggage allowance on this trip?
one checked bag of around 20kg plus a small backpack or handbag, because of the internal flight from auckland to christchurch and local buses.
do i need hiking boots for new zealand?
not necessarily! the hooker valley track is mostly flat, so comfy trail trainers with good grip are perfect for our trip.
what ID do i need in new zealand?
bring your passport for nights out! new zealand bars often ask for ID and many won't accept a UK driving licence.
ready for new zealand?! check out our upcoming new zealand group trips or read our solo female travel safety hub <3
see you in nz gals!!
