Overnight Packs
Overnight Hiking Packs for NZ Tramping
An overnight pack — typically 30 to 50 litres — hits the sweet spot for one to three night tramping trips where you need to carry tent or hut gear, sleeping kit, food and clothing without going overboard on volume. Getting the capacity right matters: too small and you're fighting to close it, too large and you're tempted to over-pack.
The most important factor in pack performance is fit. A well-fitting hip belt transfers most of the load to your hips rather than your shoulders, making a heavy pack significantly more comfortable over long days. Dwights recommends getting measured for a pack before buying, especially if you're carrying 10kg or more. Most overnight packs are adjustable across torso lengths, but getting close to your size is a good start.
Other features worth considering include top-lid accessibility for rain gear and snacks, side pockets for water bottles, and a hydration sleeve if you use a bladder. Dwights stocks overnight packs from specialist brands with proven track records on NZ trails.
- 30–50 litre capacity for one to three night trips
- Adjustable torso fit with load-transfer hip belts
- Hydration bladder sleeves and external water bottle pockets
- Rain cover included or available as an add-on