What to take
Find out what to take on your Queen Charlotte Track hike.

Queen Charlotte Sound is generally warm and dry in summer but it is a coastal environment and the weather can change quickly. Be prepared for rain, cold and windy conditions and a muddy track.

Day visitors should take:

  • Q.C.T.L.C. Pass if crossing private land between Kenepuru Saddle, Torea Saddle, Te Mahia Saddle and Anakiwa
  • food and water (some nearby lodges do meals and snacks; check opening hours)
  • download the QCTLC or Great Rides App for mobile mapping and information
  • sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • stout footwear
  • warm layer of clothes and hat
  • windproof rain jacket
  • first aid kit: insect repellent, personal medication (e.g. antihistamine for allergy to wasp stings)
  • camera (optional)

Summer campers should take everything suggested for day visitors plus the list below:

  • evidence of your DOC online campsite booking for DOC campsites
  • at least one set of clothes to walk in and another dry set to change into at night
  • pack with large waterproof/plastic liner
  • sleeping bag
  • tent and sleeping mat
  • torch and spare batteries
  • cooking stove, lighter and spare fuel
  • cooking utensils: pot/pan/billy, pot scrubber
  • eating utensils: knife, fork, spoon, plate, cup
  • toilet gear: toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, small towel, soap, hand-sanitising lotion
  • earplugs (optional—you may be sharing campsites with a large number of other people)
  • food (should be lightweight, fast to cook and high in energy value, e.g.
  • breakfast: cereal, firm bread, spreads
  • lunch: cracker biscuits, cheese, salami
  • dinner: instant soup, pasta/rice, dried vegetables/fruit, cheese or dehydrated meals).

Winter campers should also take warm, quick-drying clothing. Wool and modern synthetics are better than cotton as they dry quickly and give more warmth.

If staying overnight in accommodation houses and having your luggage transported, take everything suggested for day visitors plus the list below:

  • daypack
  • separate bag for transporting gear with a water-proof liner as bags are not left under cover on jetties
  • at least one set of clothes to walk in and another dry set
  • toilet gear: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, hand-sanitising lotion
  • torch and spare batteries.

Before your trip, confirm with each accommodation house what will be provided, including meals, packed lunches, bedding and towels.