Your Family-Friendly Packing List for Visiting New Zealand

There’s nothing quite like the buzz you and the family feel a couple of hours before a trip. But last-minute thoughts about all the things you forgot to pack can quickly turn that excitement into dread.

Trust us, we’ve planned many a trip with our kids and made plenty of mistakes along the way. Having spent 7 weeks exploring the beauty of New Zealand with the family, we know what we did right, what we missed, and how you can have the best possible experience.

From kids’ entertainment for long-haul trips to staying connected during your journey, this guide will cover all the essentials you need to tick off your packing list. Say goodbye to last-minute panic and a stressful flight and say hello to a relaxed, smooth family adventure.

Surviving the Long Haul: 10 Carry-on Essentials

No matter where you’re traveling from, getting to New Zealand is a long process. The shortest possible trip to New Zealand is from Australia, which is still a 3-hour journey. And most European or American travelers can expect longer flights and hefty layovers if they want to save on tickets.

Drawing on our personal 18-hour flight experience, packing the right in-flight kit is a must to keep things relaxed and manageable. Here’s a quick breakdown of everything you’ll need for your family’s carry-on luggage.

Non-Negotiable Essentials:

1. NZeTA or Visa: Most visitors will need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority or a visa. You can apply for a NZeTA up to 72 hours before departure.
2. NZ Traveler Declaration: You’ll need this digital form for every member of your family, including your kids. Complete them 24 hours before your flight. Access the form here
3. Passport: Make sure everyone has a valid passport ready.
4. Proof of Onward Travel: Depending on your reason for visiting or your citizenship status, you may need to provide proof of onward travel.
5. High-Protein Snacks: Get some duty-free high-protein snacks suitable for your kids’ age to help prevent hangry moments.
6. Travel Pillow or Flat-Bed: Will help when your kids get tired and need to sleep. A real game changer is the flat-bed, an inflatable bed suitable for kids 7 years old and under.

Entertainment & Comfort:

7. Coloring Books: These are creative, fun activities your kids can do to help break up screen time.
8. Noise-Canceling Headphones: Help your kids reduce plane noise and focus on what they are watching/listening to.
9. Download games/movies: To help keep your kids entertained. While there are often in-flight touchscreens with entertainment, it’s sometimes better to have control over what they watch and play.
10. Small Surprise Toys: Your kids will love them, and they will be a welcome distraction for you and everyone else. Aim to get small, non-noisy toys.

How to Stay Connected: The Smart eSIM Strategy

Most people think international roaming or local SIMs are the only ways to stay connected during a trip to New Zealand, but that’s not true. To make your trip easier and more comfortable from the moment you land, we recommend skipping the physical SIM card kiosks or astronomical roaming fees by opting for a smart eSIM.

Why a Travel eSIM Is a Must-Have:

• Avoid the Kiosks: Waiting in long lines at airport kiosks with tired children is a recipe for stress. You can set up an eSIM before you leave, so you can connect instantly.
• Cost-Effective: It saves you money in the long run compared to international roaming fees.
• Seamless Transition: Having data available immediately helps with navigation, shows digital arrival cards, and lets you check into your accommodation without delay.

Our Recommendation: We use WonderConnect for traveling with the family – it’s straightforward to set up and works reliably throughout New Zealand.

Clothing: Layering for the “Four Seasons in One Day”

New Zealand is one of those unique places on Earth where you can experience all four seasons in one day. This means you need to pack for every possibility.

1. Base Layers: Merino wool is king due to its lightweight, durability, and warmth. We recommend packing singlets or long-sleeve tops for everyone.
2. Mid-Layer: Aim to pack at least one high-quality fleece or wool jumper for everyone.
3. Outer Layer: If there’s one thing you’ll learn about New Zealand, it’s that rain often comes without warning. Pack a 100% waterproof jacket for everyone (not just a water-resistant one).
4. Bottoms: Pack your usual mix of long pants, jeans, and shorts. Make sure you bring some quick-dry pants for days you decide to go hiking or exploring the outdoors.
5. Swimwear: Locally known as “togs”, swimwear is essential in New Zealand, as the country has some truly magnificent beaches. Pack a swimsuit for everyone.
6. Footwear: Bring casual, comfortable walking shoes for city exploration, quality hiking boots for outdoor adventures, and sandals or flip-flops for beach days.

Note: Biosecurity when entering New Zealand is strict about dirt and seeds. Make sure you scrub all your shoes before entering to avoid them being confiscated.

Family Essentials That Often Get Forgotten

These are the items that families often completely overlook (we have done it as well sometimes).

1. Daypack: You’ll want a comfortable, high-quality bag to carry your daily essentials when you expect to be away from your hotel for a long time. Make sure it has a 20-30 liter capacity, ensuring you can carry water bottles, toys, a change of clothes, and anything your kids may actually need.
2. Reusable Bottles: New Zealand’s tap water is safe to drink and, actually, really delicious.
3. Kid-Friendly Binoculars: You’ll see some cool wildlife during your trip, and packing binoculars that are easy for your kids to use is a win.
4. Insect Repellent: It’s not well known, but New Zealand has loads of mosquitoes, flies, and sandflies. A good insect repellent will keep the bugs away.
5. Reusable Shopping Bags: Most New Zealand supermarkets no longer provide plastic bags. Bring an eco-friendly reusable bag to carry groceries or souvenirs.
6. Lightweight Stroller/Carrier: Most city sidewalks, parks, and hiking trails in New Zealand are stroller-friendly. Having a stroller comes in handy when the little ones are tired of walking or when you need a break from carrying them.

Tip: You can rent a stroller locally, which could lighten your luggage quite a bit.

Conclusion: Ready for Your Next Adventure?

While the travel itch starts early, having the right packing strategy will help streamline your entire adventure. This means you can focus on making lasting family memories rather than worrying about logistics.

We are curious about your tips! Let us know on Instagram what your must-haves are for a family trip to New Zealand.

This article is written in collaboration with a partner