Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Tatonka packs, travel gear, outdoor accessories, product care, sizing and buying Tatonka in New Zealand.
About Tatonka
What is Tatonka?
Tatonka is a German-designed outdoor brand known for durable packs, travel gear and practical outdoor accessories. The range is designed for people who need reliable gear for hiking, hunting, camping, travel and everyday adventure.
Is the Tatonka gear suitable for New Zealand conditions?
Yes. Tatonka gear is well-suited to New Zealand’s varied outdoor conditions, from bush tracks and mountain huts to hunting trips and international travel. Many products are designed exclusively for the New Zealand and Australian market with input from local adventurers, and are found nowhere else in the world.
Where is Tatonka from?
Tatonka is a family-owned German brand with a strong focus on outdoor performance, long-lasting materials and functional design.
Where is Tatonka made?
Tatonka is the only outdoor manufacturer to own the factory where every product is constructed in a fully transparent manner for more than 30 years, meaning working conditions are controlled to ensure a positive environment for all. With our Open Factory program, anyone can visit our SA8000-certified Mountech Co. Ltd. factory in Vietnam, anytime and during production hours.
Choosing the Right Pack
Which Tatonka pack should I choose?
The best Tatonka pack depends on your unique build and what your plans for adventure are. Our women's packs are best suited to smaller-stature humans, including some men. Our men's packs are best suited to broader build humans, which can include women. You must get the right fit for you, which is why we recommend trying in-store for a tailored fit.
What size pack do I need for tramping?
For short day walks, a pack of around 15 to 30 litres is usually suitable. For overnight trips, including Duke of Ed and DOC Hut missions, many people choose around 40 to 60 litres, depending on the season and how compact and/or lightweight their gear is. Kiwi hunters tend to find 75 +10 model packs to hit the sweet spot of being just right. With longer trips or heavier loads, a larger 90+10 model pack may be more comfortable.
Should I choose an X1 frame or a V2 frame?
Choose a Tatonka X1 frame when you need maximum support for heavy loads, long distances, steep country, or packing out meat after a hunt.
Choose a Tatonka V2 frame if you want a lighter, more mobile frame for moderate loads, general hiking, hunting, tramping, or multi-day outdoor use. It is better suited to users who value comfort and freedom of movement over maximum load hauling capacity.
Are Tatonka packs adjustable?
Many Tatonka packs include adjustable shoulder straps, hip belts and back systems. These features help improve comfort by allowing the pack to sit correctly on your body and distribute weight more evenly.
How should a hiking pack fit?
We always recommend being fitted in store using a weighted pack. A hiking pack should sit close to your back, with the hip belt resting securely around your hips rather than your waist. Shoulder straps should feel supportive without carrying all the weight. The pack should feel stable when walking, climbing or moving over uneven ground.
Product Features
Are Tatonka bags waterproof?
Some Tatonka bags, like the Torrent range, are waterproof, but most are light rain-resistant. This means they can handle light rain and splashes, but they are not designed to be submerged or exposed to heavy rain for long periods without extra protection.
Do I need a rain cover for my Tatonka pack?
A rain cover is recommended for changeable New Zealand conditions. Some Tatonka packs include an integrated rain cover, while others may need one purchased separately. For extra protection, store sensitive items in dry bags inside your pack.
Are Tatonka packs good for hunting?
Yes. Tatonka has an outstanding reputation among NZ hunters for durable materials, carrying systems which maintain comfort even under heavy harvest loads, and a high capacity for gear. Many of our hunting packs have been designed with input from local hunters, taking prototypes into the bush to fine-tune the design process to deliver gear that really delivers in the unique conditions of New Zealand.
Are Tatonka travel packs carry on size?
Some Tatonka travel packs are suitable as carry on luggage, but airline size and weight limits vary. Check the packed dimensions of your bag against your airline’s current carry on rules before flying.
Care and Maintenance
How do I clean my Tatonka pack?
Empty the pack, shake out loose dirt and wipe it with a damp cloth. To extend the life of your gear, we recommend washing and waterproofing with the Nikwax Tent & Gear range. Avoid harsh detergents, bleach and machine washing, as these can damage coatings, fabric and trims.
Can I put my Tatonka pack in the washing machine?
Please don’t! Machine washing is not recommended for your pack or your machine. Hand wash in the bath, shower, or with a hose outdoors.
How should I dry my Tatonka gear?
Air dry your pack in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Keep it away from direct heat sources such as full sun, heaters, fires or dryers. Make sure the pack is fully dry before storing it.
How should I store my Tatonka gear?
Store your gear clean, dry and away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving packs compressed for long periods, especially if they have padded back panels or shaped harness systems.
How can I make my pack last longer?
The easiest way to get the most use from your pack is by keeping it clean, avoiding overloading it beyond its intended use and storing it properly when not in use. After contact with salt water, mud, smoke, blood, or heavy dust, we recommend washing with Nikwax to maintain the integrity of the pack and restore UV protection and waterproofing.
What happens if my pack or bag is damaged during flight?
Your airline is responsible for any damage to your luggage whilst in their care. You must check your luggage as soon as you retrieve it from the carousel. If you notice any damage, head straight to your airline service desk to lodge a claim. Airline damage is not covered under your luggage warranty and will need to be resolved with your airline.
Ordering and Availability
Where can I buy Tatonka in New Zealand?
Check out our stockists page for a full list of friendly and knowledgeable authorised New Zealand retailers
Are product colours always exactly the same as shown online?
Product images are provided as accurately as possible, but colours can look slightly different depending on screen settings, lighting and photography. Always check the product name and colour description before ordering, or view in store for the real-world experience.
What if the Tatonka product I want is out of stock?
If an item is out of stock, it may return in a future shipment. Contact us directly, or reach out to your local retailer for availability, alternatives or expected restock information.
Shipping, Returns and Warranty
How long does shipping take within New Zealand?
Delivery times depend on location. Rural delivery may take longer. Check the shipping information page on our website for more information.
What is your returns policy?
If you bought something from a retail store please check their returns policy. For online orders please refer to our returns page here.
What should I do if my Tatonka product has a fault?
Contact the retailer you purchased from and provide your order details, photos of the issue and a clear description of the fault. They will advise on the next steps.
Will you replace a broken clip?
Buckles and clips do wear out over the lifetime of a pack, and are not generally considered a warranty issue, which is why replaceable parts are available for purchase as required
The aluminium bars on my X1 frame are twisted. Can you help?
The X bars on the Bison and Modulus packs can become damaged. The most common causes of this are:
- Failure to disengage the bars from the hip fins prior to travel
- Dropping the pack from your back directly onto hard ground
Thankfully, they are a replaceable item, and we do sell these on our website. The bars are uniquely tapered for the left and right. You will need to work out which one you require, or you may need both. There is more information about this on the link.
Does Tatonka gear come with a warranty?
Yes. Tatonka has a two-year warranty for most items, with some in the ‘Built Tough’ range enjoying 10 years warranty. Manufacturing faults are generally handled through the place of purchase. Damage caused by wear and tear, misuse, overloading or accidents may not be covered. Please note that proof of purchase is required for all warranty claims.
Product Use and Safety
Can I use Tatonka gear for air travel?
Yes, many Tatonka packs are suitable for travel. For flights, check airline baggage limits and make sure straps are secured before check-in. For checked luggage, consider using a travel cover or pack liner to help protect loose straps and buckles.
For X1 frame pack users, we recommend disengaging the X bars from the hip fins of your pack before travel. This includes when loading into the back of a ute or vehicle with other gear. This prevents any damage to the frame.
Can I carry heavy loads in a Tatonka pack?
Many Tatonka packs are designed to carry serious loads. The best comfort and performance depend on the pack model, fit and total weight. Please refer to our Carrying System information page to avoid overloading your pack and make sure your pack is fitted in line with the weight of your load.
Are Tatonka packs suitable for children?
We have a range of packs for children, and some pack models may suit older children or teens, depending on size and fit. Always choose a pack that matches the user’s body size and intended activity.
Need More Help?
Where can I find more product details?
Each product page includes key features, specifications and sizing information where available. For the best result, compare the product capacity, weight, dimensions and intended use before buying. If you cannot find the information you are looking for, please get in touch, we are happy to help.
How can I get in touch?
Contact our friendly team in New Zealand for support with:
- Product information and recommendations
- Stock availability
- Order enquiries
- Warranty and product support
- Retailer and trade enquiries