Packing List for a Summer New Zealand Trip

I packed a carry-on bag and backpack to New Zealand.  Below is what I brought and what I would leave at home if I had a time machine.

  • 2 books because it was a long journey. 
    1 book would have been fine in retrospect.   The longer flights always have entertainment and it’s best to get some rest too. Hotels and hostels often have a book exchange when you’re ready for the next one.
  • Neck pillow.  I tried the Trtl Travel Pillow and it works better than the typical travel pillows.
  • 1 pair of jeans
  • 1 dress
    2 dresses would have been better. It’s nice to have a slightly more formal ensemble at the vineyards and lavender farms
  • 1 cover up dress for beach days
  • 4 shirts
  • 2 shorts
  • 3 leggings.  Most of the time you’re in athletic clothes and no one bats an eye!  
  • 3 athletic shirts
  • Weather proof jacket
  • Jean jacket – it does get chilly at night, even during the summer!
  • Sunscreen and OFF – probably should just have bought upon arrival
  • Face masks – I bought the cheapest pack I could find on amazon and did a quick mask every few days.  My skin had never been so clear and soft, which is NEVER the case when I’m traveling
  • Toiletries
  • Travel towel  – highly recommend something like this! It was helpful when we would stop at the beach, lake or for hiking.
  • Headlamp
    Didn’t need, but would be useful if you’re doing any camping
  • Power adapter
  • Portable and/or car charger 
  • Hiking shoes. In retrospect, I probably would have survived with my daily sneakers but I was still happy to have them for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. If you’re doing any major hikes, they are a must.
  • Sneakers
  • Flip flops
  • Sandals
  • Wedges
    I took the advice not to bring heels, but wedges weren’t needed either. The nights we went out I wore sandals, though sneakers or flip flops would have been completely acceptable too!

For men, it’s the same essentials as well as:

  • 1 Pair of solid hiking shoes or sneakers
  • 1 Pair of sandals
  • 2 Button down shirts
  • 4 T-shirts
  • 1 Sweater
  • 2 Pants
  • 2 Shorts
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Hat
  • Swimsuit

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