Southern Alps, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.
Ready to pack for Southern Alps, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to Southern Alps, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Southern Alps
- Important essentials for Southern Alps
- Activities for Southern Alps
- Southern Alps in January: weather and what to pack
- Southern Alps in February: weather and what to pack
- Southern Alps in March: weather and what to pack
- Southern Alps in April: weather and what to pack
- Southern Alps in May: weather and what to pack
- Southern Alps in June: weather and what to pack
- Southern Alps in July: weather and what to pack
- Southern Alps in August: weather and what to pack
- Southern Alps in September: weather and what to pack
- Southern Alps in October: weather and what to pack
- Southern Alps in November: weather and what to pack
- Southern Alps in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Southern Alps, New Zealand
Based on the climate and weather in Southern Alps, New Zealand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Southern Alps, New Zealand
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Southern Alps, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Southern Alps, New Zealand by month
January
Traveling to Southern Alps in January, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little 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 Southern Alps. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
February
If you visit Southern Alps during February, you will probably notice that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s 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 about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Alps. 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money 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
March
If you visit Southern Alps during March, you may find that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s 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
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Alps. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
April
If you go to Southern Alps in April, you will notice that it is cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Alps. 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 stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money 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 pillow
What we like is this one
May
If you vacation in Southern Alps during May, you might 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 low 40s 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
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Alps. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
June
In June, Southern Alps is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Southern Alps, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
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 Southern Alps. 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 stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A versatile choice 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
July
July in Southern Alps is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Alps. 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 things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to get the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
August
August in Southern Alps is brisk and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Alps. 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
September
If you go to Southern Alps in September, you will notice that it is crisp and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Alps. 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you pick the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
October
October is chilly and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
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 Southern Alps. 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 on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to choose the right kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
November
Traveling to Southern Alps in November, you will notice that it is chilly and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
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 Southern Alps. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the correct kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
December
In December, Southern Alps is cool and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Southern Alps, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Alps. 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.
Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
What to do in Southern Alps, New Zealand
New Zealand's Southern Alps offer breathtaking scenery and memorable experiences for anyone traveling to the region. From adrenaline-pumping adventures to serene natural marvels, the Southern Alps have it all. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to explore in the region.
1. Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park offers an unforgettable natural experience. Home to New Zealand's largest national park, Fiordland attracts millions of visitors every year. It is a place of exceptional beauty and scale, with more than 14 fiords, countless waterfalls and majestic mountains. Take a cruise through Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound or Dusky Sound and marvel at the natural wonders of the park.
2. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is the home of New Zealand's highest peak, Mount Cook, and offers some of the most stunning scenery in the Southern Alps. The park boasts over 140 peaks and glaciers, making it a playground for mountaineers and hikers. You can explore the trails, take a scenic flight or enjoy stargazing at the nearby observatory.
3. Wanaka
Wanaka is a charming resort town located on the edge of Lake Wanaka. The town is surrounded by stunning mountains, including the famous Mount Aspiring National Park. Visitors can take a scenic flight over the area, go hiking or rock climbing, or do some of New Zealand's best skiing.
4. Franz Josef and Fox Glacier
The Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are two of the most accessible glaciers in the world, and they are both located in the Southern Alps. Visitors can take guided tours and get up close and personal with these natural wonders. You can also hike around the glaciers or take a scenic flight for a unique perspective.
5. Queenstown
Queenstown is a bustling resort town that offers plenty of activities and attractions for visitors. From bungee jumping to skydiving and jet boat tours, there's something for everyone. The town is also surrounded by beautiful mountains and lakes, making it the perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts.
6. Otago Rail Trail
The Otago Rail Trail is a must-do for anyone visiting the Southern Alps. This 150-kilometer trail takes you through beautiful and historic landscapes, including abandoned gold fields and scenic valleys. The trail is suitable for all levels of cyclists, and you can rent bicycles from nearby towns like Alexandra and Clyde.
In conclusion, New Zealand's Southern Alps offer a plethora of unique and unforgettable experiences. From natural wonders to adrenaline-pumping activities, there's something for everyone. Make sure to give yourself enough time to discover all the hidden gems in the area and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this stunning region.
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.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Bintang, Gambia, Monguí, Colombia, Shawnee National Forest, Illinois, United States of America, Periche, Nepal, Sobral, Ceará, Brazil, Bowling Green, Florida, United States of America, Taipei, Taiwan, Mallaig, Scotland, United Kingdom, Orange County, Florida, United States of America, Kidwelly, Wales, United Kingdom, and Marsaxlokk, Malta.