Having the right gear will make your NZ Cycle Trail experience that much more comfortable and enjoyable, which is why we’ve put together this helpful NZ Cycle Trail guide, outlining the most essential items, from cycling shorts to walking shoes and playing cards.

One of the advantages of booking your cycle trail holidays with Adventure South NZ is that your luggage is carried on the support vehicle each day, which means you only have to carry a few things on the bike, and you’ll have access to any other extra bits you leave in the bus while on the trail.

All of our bikes are fitted with a drink bottle holder as well as 15L rear carrier bags which are the perfect size to hold the essentials such as a raincoat, extra thermal layer as well as a few snacks. Our carrier bags come with a waterproof cover in case of rain.
 

What should I wear on the bike?

New Zealand weather is extremely changeable so it’s important that you bring clothing for both extremes.

Don't leave home without:
 

• Cycling shorts will be your favourite piece of clothing for the duration of your trip!
• A helmet (we provide helmets with bike hire)
• Bright coloured cycling jerseys 
• Running shoes or cycling shoes if you opt for SPD clip in pedals
• Warm fleece jacket or woollen jumper
• Thermal layers (avoid cotton)
• Warm hat or beanie
• Warm cycling gloves or mittens
• Waterproof jacket
• Sunglasses
• A lightweight scarf or buff – great for keeping your neck, head or ears warm. You can even use it as an eye mask!
• Good quality socks 

What Should I Carry with Me on the bike?

Try to keep items on your bike to a minimum – remember, the support vehicle will be waiting for you at the next stop if you need to grab anything extra. After a long day on the bike, you may regret bringing your hardcover copy of War & Peace.


Essential items include:

• A full drink bottle (we have a supply of water with our support vehicle where you can refill your water bottles)
• Snacks (You can top up from our snack basket that includes an array of yummy fruit, muesli bars and sweets)
• A warm hat and gloves (if you're not already wearing them)
• A lightweight raincoat
• Thermal layers

What do we provide?

It's helpful to know what you can leave at home, so you can save valuable space in your luggage.

• Avanti Mountain Bikes (You can hire our bikes, or you can opt to bring your own. You can also choose to bring your own pedals, saddles or ergonomic grips to fit on our bikes before your trip departs)
• Helmet
• Flat, SPD or toe clip pedals
• Water bottle cage
• Bike computer
• Rear rack bag
• Snacks and water
• Our guides carry a comprehensive bike tool kit and full first aid kit
   

What else shouldn't i leave without?

• Universal adapter
• A keep cup (if you enjoy hot drinks to avoid throwing away paper cups)
• Walking shoes (there are plenty of short walks around the trails!)
• Camera/extra memory cards and charger
• Sunscreen
• Reading material and playing cards
• Earplugs (just in case of snorers... 

We include a full clothing list in our pre-departure information when you book on any tour with us.
Discover more about our range of cycle trail holidays in New Zealand here.