An overnight trip into the bush does not need to involve a ridiculous amount of gear, but it does require a bit more planning than a day walk.
Whether you are heading into the backblocks to hunt, staying in a DOC hut or camping somewhere remote, the essentials are much the same: stay warm, stay dry, carry enough food and water, know where you are going and be prepared if plans change.
Here is a simple overnight tramping checklist to help you pack.
Clothing
Conditions can change quickly in the New Zealand bush, so pack for more than the forecast.
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Warm base or insulating layers
- Waterproof jacket and overtrousers
- Comfortable, suitable footwear
- Warm hat and gloves
- Spare socks
Avoid relying on cotton for warmth. Layers that continue to insulate when damp are a much better choice.
Shelter and sleeping gear
If you are not staying in a hut, you will need suitable shelter for the conditions.
- Lightweight tent, bivvy or tarp
- Sleeping bag rated for expected temperatures
- Sleeping mat for comfort and insulation
- Emergency shelter as a backup
Even in summer, nights can be surprisingly cold once you get away from populated areas.
Food and cooking
Keep meals simple and make sure you carry enough food for your planned trip, plus a little extra in case you are delayed.
- Lightweight camp stove
- Fuel
- Pot or cookware
- Eating utensils
- Meals and high-energy snacks
- Lighter or waterproof matches
Check any local fire restrictions before relying on an open fire.
Water and hydration
Water can quickly become one of the heaviest things in your pack, so it pays to plan where you can refill.
A portable water filter lets you treat suitable backcountry water sources rather than carrying everything from the start.
Flexible water storage is another useful option. Products such as HydraPak Seeker reservoirs pack down small when empty but give you extra capacity when you reach camp or need to carry water between sources.
Always research water availability on your route before leaving.
Navigation and communication
Do not rely entirely on mobile reception in the backcountry.
Carry:
- Map and compass
- GPS or offline mapping if you use it
- Personal locator beacon or suitable satellite communication device
- Fully charged phone
- Backup battery if needed
Make sure someone knows where you are going, your planned route and when you expect to return.
Safety and first aid
A few small items can make a very big difference if something goes wrong.
- First aid kit
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Emergency shelter
- Fire-starting equipment
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Any personal medication
Personal gear
You will also need the everyday essentials that make camp a little easier.
- Backpack
- Knife or multitool
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Toilet paper
- Rubbish bags
- Hand sanitiser
- Small repair kit
Pack out everything you take in.
Hunting gear
If you are hunting, add the equipment required for the type of hunt and area you are entering.
Make sure firearms and hunting equipment are legal, maintained appropriately and transported safely. Check any permits or access requirements before leaving.
If you intend to recover game, make sure you also have the equipment and carrying capacity to handle meat safely and responsibly.
Before you head out
The most important part of any overnight trip happens before you leave home.
Check the weather, research your route, understand where water is available and tell someone exactly where you are going.
A simple plan and the right gear make it much easier to enjoy the bush without carrying half the garage on your back.
FAQ
What should I pack for an overnight tramp in NZ?
At minimum, pack suitable clothing, waterproof layers, shelter or hut gear, a sleeping bag, food, water or filtration, navigation equipment, a headlamp, first aid supplies and emergency communication.
How much water should I carry on an overnight tramp?
It depends on the route, weather and available water sources. Research your route first and carry enough water to safely reach your next reliable source.
Do I need a water filter for tramping in New Zealand?
A water filter can be extremely useful on overnight trips, particularly when you plan to refill from streams or other untreated sources.
Do I need a personal locator beacon for an overnight tramp?
For remote trips, carrying a personal locator beacon or another reliable emergency communication device is a sensible safety measure.
What extra food should I take on an overnight trip?
Carry enough food for the planned trip plus some extra high-energy food in case weather, injury or route changes delay your return.
