Choosing the right gear for NZ Conditions
Because New Zealand is an isolated group of islands, the weather can be very changeable year round. The equipment you choose to go camping, tramping or mountain biking with in New Zealand will need to be rugged enough to handle a wide range of weather conditions.
For help on what to look for in a Sleeping Bag, click here.
If you’d like more information on what to look for in a Tent, click here.
To find out more about choosing the right Tramping Pack, click here.
For information about selecting appropriate Outdoor Clothing, click here.
Things to consider
To help make the right decision about outdoor equipment for your New Zealand holiday, you could also start by asking yourself these questions:
How long will I be travelling in New Zealand?
These factors will be more or less important depending on the length of your camping, tramping and mountain biking trip:
Ease of use: if you’re touring New Zealand and planning to stay in many different places, you’ll need camping equipment and bikes that are easy to assemble and pack down. Look for equipment that’s simple to use and easily managed by the number of people traveling with you.
Comfort: roughing it is fine for a few days, but can become tiresome after a short time for even the toughest traveler. The key to making the most of your camping, hiking or mountain biking holiday is to be prepared. Don’t forget to check the size of the tent, tramping pack and sleeping bag you’re considering – will they give you the kind of room you need to feel comfortable?
How will you be traveling around New Zealand?
If you’re planning on traveling by bus, train or on foot, you’ll have different needs to someone traveling by car:
Weight: Make sure you check the weight of the equipment you’re considering – will it be easy for you to travel with? Don’t be fooled by tent minimum weights – this only includes the essentials for getting the tent erected and can exclude the fly, carry bag and guy ropes. On a camping tour of New Zealand you should travel with all componentry so always refer to the packed weight. Weight is also a crucial factor often overlooked by inexperienced trampers – the 5kg weight saving you’ll make by choosing modern, quality tramping equipment will make all the difference to your hiking experience. The same can be said for mountain bikes.
Size: How easy will it be for you to handle the gear you’re considering? Remember that sleeping bags, sleeping mats and tents can be difficult to cram back into their original carry sacs until you get used to packing them down. Don’t choose equipment that’ll be too big and bulky for you to travel with, especially if you’re considering an extended tour of New Zealand by bus or on foot.
How important is cost
Price: How much you can afford will be a key factor in what you decide to buy. Of course, it always pays to consider value for money rather than just total price. You’ll find that bit extra you spend up front to get a better quality tent, tramping pack and sleeping bag will make all the difference during your New Zealand camping tour and hiking or biking trips. Remember, your tent is your protection against the elements and should be able to handle a range of weather conditions, including rain, hot sun and wind. If it can’t, you could find yourself spending rainy, windy nights in a Tourist Cabin, which of course, could cost you more money in the long run than spending more to get better quality camping equipment.
For information on what to look for in a tent, click here and for help choosing a sleeping bag, click here.
To find out more about choosing the right Tramping Pack, click here, or for more information about selecting Outdoor Clothing, click here.