Queenstown, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Queenstown, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to Queenstown, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Queenstown, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in Queenstown, New Zealand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Queenstown, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Queenstown, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Queenstown, New Zealand by month

January

If you are traveling to Queenstown in January, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Queenstown. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Queenstown Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you vacation in Queenstown during February, you will probably find that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Queenstown. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you go to Queenstown Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

If you are traveling to Queenstown in March, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Queenstown. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to Queenstown Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Queenstown is cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Queenstown. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you go to Queenstown Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you visit Queenstown during May, you will probably notice that it is brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time. There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Queenstown. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

If you go to Queenstown Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in Queenstown is brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about a third of the time. It also snows sometimes. There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Queenstown. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Queenstown Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you vacation in Queenstown during July, you are likely to find that it can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time. There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Queenstown. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Queenstown Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you visit Queenstown during August, you are likely to see that it can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. There is frost 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Queenstown. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to find the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Queenstown Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you vacation in Queenstown during September, you will probably find that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Queenstown. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Queenstown Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

Traveling to Queenstown in October, you will notice that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Queenstown. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Queenstown Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you are traveling to Queenstown in November, you will notice that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Queenstown. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Queenstown Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Queenstown is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Queenstown. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to choose the right kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you go to Queenstown Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is a true gem in the crown of New Zealand's tourism industry. This picturesque town is nestled amidst the stunning mountains of the South Island and provides visitors with an array of exciting activities and sights to explore. From breathtaking natural vistas to adrenaline-pumping adventures, Queenstown has something for everyone. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Queenstown that you should not miss:

1. Skyline Gondola: The Skyline Gondola is a must-visit attraction in Queenstown. This scenic ride takes you to the top of Bob's Peak, where you can take in panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Once you're there, you can indulge in some delicious food at the Skyline Restaurant or take a thrilling luge ride down to the bottom.

2. Milford Sound: Milford Sound is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that should be on every tourist's bucket list. This fjord is situated in the heart of Fiordland National Park and can be accessed by a scenic flight, coach, or boat ride. The beauty of Milford Sound is simply breathtaking, with cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests, and majestic mountains.

3. Queenstown Hill: Queenstown Hill is the perfect place to get a bird's eye view of the town and its surroundings. The hike up to the summit takes around three hours, but it is well worth the effort. Once you reach the top, you can see towering peaks, the crystal clear waters of Lake Wakatipu, and the Queenstown skyline.

4. Shotover Jet: Shotover Jet is the ultimate adrenaline rush in Queenstown. This thrilling jet boat ride takes you down the Shotover River at high speeds, twisting and turning through narrow canyons. It's an exhilarating experience that will leave you breathless and begging for more.

5. Lake Wakatipu: Lake Wakatipu is one of the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand, and it surrounds the town of Queenstown. You can take a scenic cruise on the lake, go fishing or enjoy a relaxing stroll along the shores. For adventure enthusiasts, there are plenty of water sports activities available, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking.

6. The Remarkables: The Remarkables are a range of majestic mountains that are a must-visit for exploring New Zealand's natural beauty. Located just a short drive from Queenstown, The Remarkables offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.

In conclusion, Queenstown is a destination that should be on every traveler's list. With its scenic beauty, adrenaline-fueled activities, and a vast array of other attractions, one visit is never enough. So plan your trip to Queenstown and let yourself be captivated by the stunning scenery and unforgettable experiences it has to offer.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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