Tips for Backpackers Headed to New Zealand

So you’ve decided to experience the trip of a lifetime backpacking your way around New Zealand. You’ll need to get your visa sorted and plan out your trip. The summer months are a great time to visit with some glorious weather but you can also expect crowds and higher prices. The shoulder season from May to September can be colder but presents some other opportunities for backpackers to take advantage of - spectacular snow scenery, fewer tourists and cheaper rates. No matter what season you decide on you’ll need to pack suitable gear for your trip and do some research and planning on where you’re going to stay.

Backpacking Accommodation options – where to sleep

Having a place to stay is going to be one of your biggest costs, so no matter what your budget you need to consider the options available and find what’s best for you. If you’re lucky you might have someone to stay with but most travelers end up staying in a hostel or ‘backpackers’, sharing a dorm room. A hostel is a great place to meet up with like-minded people from all over the world, socialize and gather lots of information on where to go and what to do in New Zealand. Other options include hotels and motels, Airbnb, renting a room in a ‘flat’ for longer stays, finding accommodation in exchange for work, or buying a campervan to hit the road.

Camping in Tents  

Camping out in a tent is another awesome option for backpackers and is a fantastic way to cut costs and enjoy the great outdoors. The time of year might determine how long you spend out camping but with the stunning nature on hand, it is a must to try out at some stage of your trip even if only a few nights. Tents can be used at Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites with facilities ranging from very basic to fully serviced, private holiday campsites which offer fully serviced sites and amenities and many hostels also offer sites for tents as well. Then there’s the opportunity to sleep out under the stars on many of the great walks and tracks New Zealand has to offer as well. Note that freedom camping is now strictly controlled and only available for self-contained camper vehicles only in restricted areas. 

Purchasing a Tent at a Tent Sale

If bringing a tent, hiking boots and camping gear into New Zealand you must declare them on entry and make sure that they are clean and free from dirt, grass and insects to protect the local flora and fauna. Another option is to purchase a tent suitable for local conditions at a tent sale in New Zealand where you’ll be able to get advice on what type of tent will suit the season and your specific needs. Ultralight tents are great for summer hikers, backpackers and cyclists, are light, compact and pack away easily for use whenever you might need a tent. In winter a more robust tent will be needed to handle the rain, wind and snow that you may encounter.      

Something to keep in mind if you are after maximum convenience is the option to purchase a tent and camping gear online in New Zealand and then have it sent to your hostel or accommodation for you to collect when you arrive. Online retailers with local knowledge will be able to answer any questions you might have and help you make the right choice for your backpacking trip. This will help you keep your baggage down and avoid some hassle at the airport.

Tents for Backpackers from Intents Outdoors

Intents Outdoors specializes in camping tents and has been selling camping tents and gear online in New Zealand since 2010. We have a range of quality tents suitable for backpackers and outdoors enthusiasts that meet the needs of the local New Zealand conditions and, as we import and sell directly to the public, at reasonable prices. We are more than happy to help with any questions you might have about camping tents, arranging viewing of tents on arrival in Auckland or having a tent sent to your place of stay to coincide with your arrival to start your New Zealand backpacking adventure of on the right foot.