Not sure what to pack New Zealand November Packing List? Here’s your guide.
November in New Zealand is springtime, with mild temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities.
Pack layers, a light jacket, and comfortable hiking shoes. Casual clothes will also work well for city exploring.
This New Zealand November Packing List ensures you’re ready for both nature and city life.
🌡️ Weather Overview: What to Expect in New Zealand in November
November is late spring in New Zealand, with mild-to-warm temps and some rainfall. Expect temperatures between 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C) depending on the island and altitude. The North Island tends to be warmer and wetter; the South Island is cooler with crisp mornings. Layers are essential — it can go from sunny to windy to rainy in one day.
🎒 What to Wear in New Zealand in November (with Dressing Etiquette)
Packing smart will help you make the most of your trip. Here’s everything you need to bring for a comfortable and stylish adventure.
Carry-On Suitcase / Travel Bag Duffle / Portable Steamer / Packing cubes / Luggage scale / Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones / Speaker / Portable Charger / Universal Travel adapter / Compact Hair Dryer / Eye Mask / Waterproof Toiletry Bag Hanging / Zipper Pouch / Water BOTTLE / Liquid I.V. Hydration Vegan
Kiwis are relaxed, outdoorsy, and practical. Style is casual and sporty — think athleisure, layering pieces, sturdy shoes, and a waterproof jacket. If you’re heading into nature or wine country, pack gear that’s both functional and Instagram-friendly. For Māori cultural sites or churches, wear modest and respectful clothing.
🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools
If you want more options to have everything organized and well packed, take a look at these suggestions.
1. Rolling Backpack / 2. Luggage (large) / 3. Luggage (small) / 4. Toiletry Bag / 5. Beach Bag / 6. Backpack / 7. Packing Cubes
- 🧳 Carry-on or hiking backpack – Lightweight and mobile for domestic flights or campervans.
- 🎒 Daypack – For hikes, tours, and city exploring.
- 🧼 Packing cubes – Separate outdoor gear from casual wear.
- 👜 Hanging toiletry bag – Great for hostels, lodges, or camper bathrooms.
- 🔒 Lock – Useful for shared accommodations or van storage.
- 🧺 Laundry bag – Quick-dry fabrics are ideal for rewear.
- 🛏️ Sleep mask + earplugs – Sunrise is early and nights can be noisy.
👗 Clothes
- 🧥 Waterproof rain jacket – Non-negotiable for spring showers.
- 🧣 Lightweight scarf or neck gaiter – Adds warmth during chilly winds.
- 👕 T-shirts or long sleeves (3–4) – Quick-dry materials are ideal.
- 🧥 Fleece or merino wool mid-layer – Packable warmth.
- 👖 Activewear or hiking pants (2–3) – Especially for nature excursions.
- 👗 Casual dress or skirt – Optional for winery days or cities like Wellington or Queenstown.
- 🩳 Shorts (1–2) – Best for warmer North Island days.
- 🧦 Wool-blend or breathable socks (5–7 pairs)
- 🧤 Light gloves or beanie – Especially for alpine areas or early morning hikes.
- 🩲 Underwear + sports bras – Pack enough for outdoor activities.
- 👙 Swimsuit – For hot springs, beaches, or kayaking adventures.
💆 Skincare
- 🌞 Broad-spectrum SPF – NZ has strong UV rays, even on cloudy days.
- 🧴 Moisturizer – Air can be dry in the mountains.
- 💋 Lip balm with SPF – A spring essential for wind and sun.
- 🧼 Cleanser + toner – Refresh after dusty trails or long drives.
- 💦 Hydrating serum – Especially for flight recovery or alpine air.
💄 Makeup
- 🧴 Tinted SPF or BB cream – Simple and travel-friendly.
- 👁️ Waterproof mascara – Great for outdoor days or waterfalls.
- 💄 Lip tint – Adds a pop without overdoing it.
- 🎯 Concealer – For jet lag or long travel days.
- 💅 Compact brush kit – Optional, depending on your itinerary.
💇 Hair
- 🧴 Travel shampoo + conditioner – Hotels and hostels may not provide good quality.
- 🌬️ Dry shampoo – Ideal between camping or long drives.
- 🪮 Brush, ties, and headbands – Windproof your look.
- 🌀 Mini styling tool – Optional, if you plan on going out.
👠 Shoes & Accessories
- 🥾 Hiking boots or trail shoes – If you plan to explore NZ’s trails.
- 👟 Lightweight sneakers – For travel days or city strolls.
- 🩴 Flip-flops or sandals – Perfect for beach days or hostel showers.
- 🧢 Sun hat or cap – Essential for UV protection during hikes.
- 🧣 Beanie – Especially for alpine or early-morning trips.
- 👜 Crossbody bag or belt bag – Great for cities and small hikes.
🧾 Documents & Essentials
- 🪪 Passport + copies – Required for entry and ID purposes.
- 📄 Visa or NZeTA confirmation – Most travelers need this before arrival.
- 💳 Debit/credit cards – Widely accepted.
- 💵 Some NZD cash – For rural areas, farmers markets, or campgrounds.
- 📱 Offline maps + translator app – Handy if you lose signal.
📱 Tech & Electronics
- 📱 Phone + charger – With international roaming or local SIM.
- 🔌 Type I plug adapter – New Zealand uses 230V outlets.
- 🔋 Power bank – You’ll be out exploring all day.
- 📷 Camera or GoPro – NZ is one of the most photogenic countries on earth.
- 🎧 Headphones – For flights, long drives, or city exploring.
🎒 Extras
- 💧 Reusable water bottle – Tap water is safe and fresh.
- 🍫 Snacks or protein bars – Great for hikes or road trips.
- 🧼 Hand sanitizer + tissues – Some rest stops are basic.
- 🛍️ Foldable shopping bag – NZ is plastic-bag-free.
- 🧴 Insect repellent – Especially on hikes or near lakes.
✈️ Travel Tips
- ✅ Book campervan spots or ferries early — November kicks off travel season.
- ✅ Always bring a rain jacket — weather changes quickly.
- ✅ Sun protection is serious — the ozone is thinner in this region.
- ✅ Respect Māori culture — dress modestly and be mindful in cultural areas.
✅ Must-Haves for New Zealand in November
- 🧥 Waterproof jacket
- 🥾 Hiking boots + daypack
- 🌞 Sunscreen + lip balm with SPF
- 👖 Layers for variable weather
- 📱 Phone + adapter + power bank
- 👙 Swimsuit + quick-dry towel
- 🧢 Hat + sunglasses
✔️ You’re Ready for New Zealand in November!
With this New Zealand November packing list, you’ll be prepped for vineyards, volcanoes, coastlines, and culture. From Queenstown thrills to Hobbiton tours, you’re good to go — rain or shine. 🧳🌿🇳🇿
