So you’re planning your first ever camping trip in New Zealand; as first time campers you may struggle decided what you need to take. But don’t panic; as you become a more seasoned camper, packing will become easier and your trips will become even smoother.

New Zealand is a fantastic place to camp with its breathtaking national parks, majestic snowy capped mountains, idyllic beaches and stunning lakes. With no shortage of camping locations you can check suss out where to camp by using the Travellers Autobarn road trip app.

Tent and Sleeping Bags

A tent is a must for your camping trip (unless of course you’re travelling in a campervan!). When purchasing your first tent, be sure to have an experienced salesperson help you. Let the salesperson know you are a novice camper. You want to get one that will meet your needs and that you are comfortable with. You will need to be able to pitch the tent easily.

You will definitely need sleeping bags. If you are purchasing new ones, be sure to consult as to which are best suited to the climate. You may want to bring along an air mattress as well, as you know having a comfy night sleep is essential.

Even if you’re in a campervan, they do still get chilly at night and it’s worth taking extra blankets with you and/or taking a heater that you can plug in with you.

People laying in back of campervan in sleeping bags

Camping Stove 

You will want a portable camping stove, pots and pans, coffee pot, and other cooking utensils. If you are going to a campground, you can check ahead of time to see if they have picnic tables and benches, if not you should plan to bring a folding table and chairs as well.

If your campervan has a stove, then you’ll need to make sure you’ve got enough gas. You can also consider hiring an outdoor table and chairs if you fancy a bit of al fresco dining!

First Aid Kit

When compiling your first aid kit, you will want to include things such as:

  • Bandages, gauze pads, first aid tape, ace bandage wrap
  • Antiseptic for cuts, scrape, or burns
  • Allergy medications including an EpiPen if anyone in your party requires one
  • Mosquito and bug repellent

Take your first aid kit with you when you go on hikes or other journeys away from your campsite.

Person using a first aid kit

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is something you must have on your camping trip no matter what time of year. Even those with tanned skin should apply sunscreen when outside for prolonged periods of time; sun damage is a souvenir none of us want to take home. Hiking in the snow or skiing makes you even more prone to sunburn as the sunlight reflects off the snow, and no one looks good with a goggle burn!

Extra Snacks and Water

There’s something about the great outdoors that sparks one’s appetite and thirst, so make sure you’re not shy with your snacks and water packing. These essentials may be all you need to hike Franz Josef or kayak along Milford Sound.

Flashlights and Lanterns

Whether you’ve got a solar, LED powered or battery flashlight, or even a flame lantern, make sure you don’t forget it on your ultimate camping experience.

Person using a flashlight while camping

Matches

Have plenty of matches on hand and keep them in an airtight, waterproof container. If you are going to start a fire, make sure it’s in a safe zone where fires are permitted.

Maps

If you are camping at a campground, they may supply local maps. If not, be sure to pick some up along the way.

Waterproof Jacket

You never know when the weather will take a turn. If you have a lightweight waterproof jacket, you can roll it up and carry it in your backpack when going on your hikes.

Multipurpose Pocket Knife

Carrying a knife has long been a tradition throughout history, when the Romans invented the first folding pocket knife that we still use today. We’d recommend taking one of these on your camping trip, as your pocket knife serves as a multipurpose tool and can be very useful in many situations.

This list of must-have items will get you started on your first camping venture. As it gets closer to your departure date, be sure to add your other must-haves items to this list. One major piece of advice we always give though, try to pack as light as possible, you’ll be the one carrying your gear! Believe us, your trip will be much more enjoyable without a 100 kilo backpack!

Planning your Australian Road Trip – check out our latest deals on campervan hire in New Zealand.

If you are looking for more campervan travel tips check out our Campervan Travel tips section…

About the Author

Bastian Graf

Bastian is the Sales & Marketing Manager here at Travellers Autobarn. He holds a Master of Commerce in Marketing and International Business Management, and 20+ years experience in campervan hire, road trips and travel.

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