Tips

Tips for saving money during your Campervan trip through New Zealand

A Campervan trip through New Zealand doesn't have to be expensive at all. With a few smart choices, you can easily save hundreds of euros without compromising your travel experience. Many of the most beautiful places, such as national parks, beaches and walks, are completely free.

1. Book your Campervan in time

The earlier you book, the greater the selection and the lower the prices. I recommend reserving your Campervan 9 to 12 months before departure. This way you often benefit from early booking discounts and have more choice from different models.

2. Travel outside peak season

December and January are the most expensive months to hire a Campervan. If you travel in October, November, February, March or April, you'll often pay less and it will also be quieter at the most popular attractions.

Also check out 'Best time to visit New Zealand'.

3. Choose the right Campervan

A larger motorhome is more comfortable, but also more expensive to hire and run. Therefore, choose a Campervan that suits your travel party and needs. A compact model is often more than sufficient.

Also see 'Types of Campervans'

4. Hire a self-contained Campervan

A certified self-contained Campervan gives you the opportunity to use many designated freedom camping locations. This way you can save significantly on camping costs. Do check in advance whether your Campervan meets the current certification requirements and only stay overnight in places where this is permitted.

Also see 'Hire a Campervan in New Zealand'

5. Alternate campgrounds

You don't have to stay at a holiday park every night. Alternate commercial campsites with DOC campsites and designated freedom camping locations. This way you'll save money and often spend the night in the most beautiful spots right in the middle of nature.

Also check out 'Best campsites in New Zealand'

6. Shop smart for groceries

Cooking for yourself is one of the biggest advantages of a Campervan trip. Do larger grocery shops at Pak'nSave, Woolworths or New World in bigger towns. In small tourist villages, prices are often considerably higher.

7. Plan your route wisely

New Zealand looks compact, but the roads are winding and journey times often turn out longer than expected. A logical route prevents unnecessary kilometres and saves fuel and time. So think ahead about what you'd like to see during your road trip through New Zealand.

8. Refuel on time

Fuel is often more expensive in remote areas. Therefore, fill up when you drive through larger towns and don't wait until the tank is nearly empty. When collecting your Campervan, also ask about any fuel discounts.

9. Choose your activities wisely

Not every day needs to cost money. Many of the best experiences in New Zealand are free, such as walks in national parks, viewpoints and beaches. Choose a few paid activities that you really want to do and fill the rest of your trip with free highlights.

My advice

Saving money doesn't mean you have to cut corners everywhere. Choose consciously where you spend your money. Perhaps you'd rather drive a simpler Campervan so you have budget left over for a Milford Sound cruise or a helicopter flight over Franz Josef. Ultimately, it's about the memories you take home, not how much money you've spent.

Ready for your own road trip?

Request a Campervan deal with no obligation. Response within 24 hours, advice is always free.

Book a Campervan