What To Bring
Follow our list and you'll be ready for anything.
The following is a list of essential equipment that we recommend you bring on your walk. Many items can be purchased at reasonable prices from the Ultimate Hikes Centre in Queenstown to reduce the need for you to carry them throughout your holiday.
Items that can be supplied free of charge by Ultimate Hikes can
be collected at the pre-track briefing. You are welcome to bring
your own if you prefer.
There are plenty of backpacks for use so they do not need to be
reserved. It is important that you are prepared for any weather
conditions whilst on the track.
Fabrics - we suggest you wear fabrics that are lightweight but warm and quick drying such as merino wool, polypropylene, thermal, micro fleece and polar fleece.
|
Walking Equipment |
|
| We can supply | You will need to supply |
| 40 ltr Backpack (weighs approx. 2 kg) | Walking Boot or Sturdy Shoes (we do not sell walking
boots/shoes) |
| PVC Waterproof Raincoat with Hood (weighs approx.
500gms) |
Thermal base layer (top and bottom) |
| Waterproof Backpack Liner | Polar Fleece or Merino Wool Jacket |
| Micro Fleece or Merino Wool long-sleeved top | |
| T-shirt | |
| Sunhat, Warm Hat & Gloves | |
| Short/ Walking Trousers - fast drying NOT JEANS | |
| 2 pairs of Merino Wool or Thermal Socks | |
| Sunscreen, Insect Repellant, Water Bottle & Camera | |
| Water bottle (1 litre filled) | |
| Camera | |
| We advise you only take one set of clothing to walk in. The more that is taken, the more that must be carried. All lodges have hand washing and drying facilities so clothing can be washed and dried overnight. | |
|
Evening Equipment |
|
| We can supply | You will need to supply |
| Cotton Sleep Sheet (weighs approx. 500gms) |
shirt or long sleeved top |
| sweater/jersey | |
| Towel for the Grand Traverse and Routeburn Track (weighs approx. 250gms) |
Trousers or track pants |
| Lightweight shoes | |
| Nightwear | |
| Personal toiletries (we provide soap, shampoo and conditioner) |
|
|
A change of clothes is required for the lodges and for sleeping but remember that the more that is taken, the heavier the pack is to carry. Most of these items are available for purchase or hire from the Ultimate Hikes Centre. |
|
|
Optional Items |
|
| Walking Poles
|
We strongly advise all walkers use 2 walking poles, especially if you have difficulty walking up or down grandients. |
| Foot Fleece | Advised to prevent blisters |
| Gaiters | For extra foot protection during wet weather |
| Swim suit | For the brave! |
| Spare Laces | Just in case |
| Waterproof over trouser | |
| Lip balm | |
| Ear plugs | |
| Small torch | |
| Credit card & Cash | |
We do not recommend you walk in cotton garments, jeans or silk
thermals: perspiration means you are likely to feel damp and cold
even inside the best raincoat.
We suggest you put all your clothing in plastic bags inside your
pack liner for added rain protection. Keep your pack as light as
possible while still taking the essentials. Remember hand
laundry/drying facilities are available in the lodges and a lighter
pack will enhance your experience!
Equipment Checklist
Tick off the checklist as you pack to ensure you don't forget anything
