Outdoor Gear Best Sellers: The Machetes, Dry Bags and Lifejackets Kiwis Are Buying Now

Last time we rounded up our Outdoor Gears best sellers, life jackets, caravan mirrors, a Thermette and a jungle machete took the honours. For this round we went back through the last 90 days of real orders, set those products aside and looked at what else Kiwis have been picking up for the bach, the boat and the back paddock. The result is a practical bunch: a no-nonsense machete, two bits of Precision Pak kit for keeping your catch and your gear in good nick, a lightweight inflatable lifejacket and a bucket that folds flat. Here are five genuine recent best sellers.

1. Truper Machete - 12, 14, 16 or 18 inch

Machetes are consistently among the most-bought items in this part of the store, and this Truper is the one people keep choosing. It has a straight polished blade, an orange riveted non-slip handle, and comes in four lengths: 12 inch (300mm), 14 inch (350mm), 16 inch (406mm) and 18 inch (450mm). Lifestyle block owners, gardeners and growers use it for clearing scrub, cutting back growth and general agricultural work, and it's just as handy for families in the Pacific Islands who rely on a good machete day to day. It's simple, tough and good value. Please note machetes can only be sold to customers aged 18 and over.

Price: from $18.80 - Truper Machete 12-18 inch. More in Household & Garden Tools, Axes & Machetes.

2. Precision Pak Fish Bag - Kingfish

Landed a kingi that won't fit in the kill box? That's exactly what this bag is made for. Precision Pak's heavy duty insulated fish bags are built from UV protected PVC nylon with thick insulating foam and reinforced webbing handles. They suit boats without room for a big hard cooler, and shore-based anglers who want to get their catch home in prime condition. The outer is waterproof fabric, but the bag is designed to let meltwater drain out, because fish sitting in warm water is the quickest way to spoil good eating. Fold it up when you're done and it takes up very little room.

Price: $99.99 - Precision Pak Fish Bag - Kingfish.

3. Precision Pak Arctic Seal Dry Bag 20 Litre

The Arctic Seal is a 20 litre dry bag backpack for kayakers, boaties, divers and anyone who spends time near water. It's made from soft, sturdy 420D nylon TPU with welded seams and a roll-down waterproof closure, so your phone, keys and spare layers stay dry even if the bag goes under. The padded harness comes off to turn it into a simple carry bag that stows neatly in a tight spot, and a side air valve lets you squeeze the air out to pack it small, or add air for extra buoyancy.

Price: $30 - Precision Pak Arctic Seal Dry Bag 20L. See more in Storage Bags & Backpacks.

4. Sigma Manual Inflatable Lifejacket (Over 50kg) - Black

A lifejacket only works if you actually wear it, and that's why inflatables like the Lalizas Sigma are so popular. It's an ultra-lightweight 150N manual gas-inflate lifejacket (CE ISO 12402-3) that sits flat and comfortable, so it doesn't get in the way when you're casting, hauling pots or paddling. It suits people over 50kg, the waist belt adjusts up to 150cm, and a visible indicator shows the activation status at a glance. A sensible, budget-friendly choice for fishing and boating families.

Price: $129 - Sigma Manual Lifejacket - Black. Browse all Life Jackets & Vests.

5. Sea Harvester Collapsible Bucket 20 Litre

One of those bits of kit you don't think about until you need it. This blue 20 litre bucket opens to a sturdy 9.25 inch height and folds down to under 2 inches, so it tucks into a pack, car, boat or campervan without taking up space. People use it for collecting water, rinsing gear, washing hands and dishes at camp, or doing a bit of laundry away from a tap. The fabric is tear-resistant and quick drying.

Price: $19.99 - Sea Harvester Collapsible Bucket 20L. More camp gear in Camping & Outdoor Equipment.

Also popular

If the Truper isn't quite what you're after, the 16 inch stainless machete with sheath ($59.99) has a heavy 3.5mm curved blade and wooden handle, and the Lasher Kukri pattern machete ($39.99) is a well-priced all-rounder. Divers can also check out the NZ-made Sea Harvester Paua Knife Measure Tool ($14.99) in our Diving Equipment range.

Browse our full range at actionoutdoors.kiwi.