Tramping & Hiking Gear

Whether you're walking the Abel Tasman Coast Track, tackling the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, or heading into the Fiordland backcountry for a multi-day route, the right gear makes the difference between a miserable slog and an unforgettable adventure. New Zealand's tramping conditions demand equipment that handles four-seasons-in-one-day weather, steep alpine terrain, river crossings, and long days on your feet. Backwoods stocks the essential tramping and hiking gear you need to stay safe, comfortable, and prepared on New Zealand tracks — from day walks to week-long expeditions.

Tramping Backpacks — Your Load-Carrying Foundation

A properly fitted tramping backpack is the single most important piece of gear you'll own. For New Zealand's Great Walks and multi-day hut-to-hut routes, a 40–50L backpack is the sweet spot — large enough to carry food, clothing, and a sleeping bag, but not so big you're tempted to overpack. Look for packs with adjustable torso lengths, padded hip belts that transfer weight onto your hips rather than your shoulders, and breathable back panels to manage sweat on steep climbs.

We stock backpacks from Gregory Packs, Osprey, and other trusted brands with proven suspension systems designed for all-day comfort under load. If you're carrying more gear for camping trips or alpine routes, 55–70L expedition packs provide the volume and support needed for heavier loads. Choose a pack with external attachment points for trekking poles, a rain cover pocket, and a hydration sleeve for on-the-go water access.

Hiking Boots — Traction, Support & Durability

New Zealand tracks range from well-maintained gravel paths to muddy, root-tangled bush trails and exposed alpine scree. Your hiking boots need to handle all of it. For most Great Walks and day hikes on formed tracks, mid-cut hiking boots or trail shoes with good ankle support and aggressive tread are ideal. For rougher backcountry routes, alpine environments, or tracks with river crossings, full-height waterproof boots with GORE-TEX membranes and Vibram soles provide maximum protection and grip.

Key boot features for NZ tramping: waterproof/breathable construction (you will get wet), deep lugs for traction in mud, reinforced toe caps for rock protection, and proper arch support for loaded descents. Break boots in before hitting the trail — blisters on day one of a five-day tramp are nobody's idea of fun.

Trekking Poles — Stability, Balance & Knee Relief

Trekking poles are essential for New Zealand's steep, uneven terrain. They reduce impact on knees during descents (critical on tracks like the Routeburn or Kepler), improve balance on river crossings and muddy sections, and provide extra propulsion on climbs. Adjustable poles let you shorten them for uphill sections and extend them for downhill stability.

Look for lightweight aluminum or carbon fiber poles with comfortable grips, anti-shock mechanisms, and carbide or tungsten tips for traction on rock and ice. Collapsible or folding poles pack down small when not in use — handy for sections where you're scrambling or using your hands for balance.

Hydration Gear — Water Access on the Move

Staying hydrated on multi-hour climbs and exposed ridgelines is non-negotiable. New Zealand's hydration systems range from simple water bottles to reservoir-equipped hydration packs and bladders that let you drink hands-free without stopping. For day hikes, 1.5–2L bladders are sufficient. For longer routes where water sources are spread out, 3L capacity gives you the buffer you need.

Hydration bladders fit inside your backpack and route a drink tube over your shoulder for easy access. Hydrogen water bottles and insulated flasks are also available for those who prefer traditional bottle hydration or want temperature control for hot or cold drinks at huts.

Gaiters & Crampons — Protection from Elements

New Zealand's tracks throw mud, water, snow, and scree at your boots. Gaiters seal the gap between your boots and trousers, keeping mud, water, and debris out while protecting your lower legs from scratches in the bush. Lightweight gaiters work for summer tramping, while waterproof full-length gaiters are essential for alpine routes and winter conditions.

Crampons provide traction on ice and hard-packed snow — critical for alpine crossings, winter Great Walks, and any route where you might encounter frozen conditions. Microspikes and traction devices slip over your boots for instant grip on icy trails, while full mountaineering crampons are needed for serious alpine terrain and glacier travel.

Essential Gear for New Zealand's Great Walks

New Zealand's ten official Great Walks — Milford Track, Routeburn Track, Kepler Track, Abel Tasman Coast Track, Heaphy Track, Tongariro Northern Circuit, Lake Waikaremoana Track, Whanganui Journey, Rakiura Track, and Paparoa Track — are bucket-list tramping experiences. Each requires proper preparation and gear suited to the specific conditions.

DOC (Department of Conservation) huts provide shelter and bunks, but you still need to carry your own food, cooking gear, sleeping bag, clothing, and safety equipment. A typical Great Walks kit includes: a 40–50L backpack, sleeping bag rated for the season, sleeping mat, waterproof jacket and trousers, warm layers (merino or synthetic), cooking gear and fuel, headlamp, first aid kit, navigation tools, sunscreen, insect repellent, and enough food for the duration plus one extra day.

Weather in New Zealand changes fast — especially in alpine and coastal environments. Pack for cold, wind, and rain even if the forecast looks perfect. Layering systems are your friend: base layers for moisture management, mid layers for warmth, and waterproof shells for protection.

Day Hiking vs Multi-Day Tramping Gear

Day hikes (under 8 hours) require less gear than overnight tramps, but you still need the Ten Essentials: navigation tools, sun protection, insulation, illumination (headlamp), first aid, fire starter, repair kit, nutrition, hydration, and emergency shelter. A smaller 20–30L daypack carries everything comfortably.

Multi-day tramps demand more: sleeping systems, cooking equipment, extra clothing, food for the duration, and backup gear. Your pack gets heavier, so fit and comfort become even more critical. Prioritize lightweight, packable gear that performs reliably across multiple days and changing conditions.

Shop Tramping & Hiking Gear at Backwoods

Browse our full tramping and hiking range above. Pair your pack with tents, sleeping bags, outdoor clothing, and trail food for a complete backcountry setup, or explore our camping gear range for car camping and base camp setups.

Free shipping on orders over $100 throughout New Zealand.