Frequently askedquestions.
Answer what travellers ask most often. Filter by topic or search with a keyword.
Can I pick up a Campervan in one city and drop it off in another city? Australia
Yes, that's often possible. This is called a one-way hire. Popular combinations include Sydney to Cairns, Brisbane to Sydney, Perth to Darwin or Melbourne to Adelaide.
Do bear in mind that some hire companies charge an extra 'one-way fee' for this. Also, not every route is available year-round. That's why it's smart to have this compared properly in advance.
Can you wild camp anywhere in Australia? Australia
No, you can't just stay overnight anywhere with a Campervan. Australia does have many free and cheap campsites, but you must always check whether overnight stays are permitted.
Apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate are handy for finding campsites, free camps, dump points and facilities. In national parks separate rules often apply and sometimes you need to book in advance.
Do you need a 4WD camper in Australia? Australia
Not always. For many popular routes, such as the east coast, Great Ocean Road, Southwest Australia and Tasmania, a standard 2WD Campervan is sufficient.
A 4WD Campervan is particularly worthwhile when you want to visit more remote areas, such as parts of the Kimberley, Gibb River Road, some outback routes or beaches and national parks where unsealed roads are required. Do pay close attention to the hire company's terms and conditions, as not every 4WD Campervan is permitted everywhere. Good Day Travels helps you with everything you need to know about travelling through Australia with a 4WD Campervan.
How many weeks do you need for a Campervan trip through Australia? Australia
For a Campervan trip through Australia, I recommend a minimum of 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the route. If you only want to drive part of the east coast, 2 to 3 weeks can be sufficient. For larger routes, such as Perth to Darwin or an extensive trip through multiple regions, 4 to 6 weeks is much more realistic.
Australia is big, so try not to cram too much into one trip. Fewer kilometres and more time per place often makes your trip much more enjoyable.
Is a Campervan trip through Australia expensive? Australia
Australia is not a cheap destination, but with a Campervan you can keep costs well under control. You combine transport and accommodation, can cook for yourself and have access to many affordable campsites.
The biggest costs are usually:
• Campervan hire
• fuel
• campsites
• groceries
• activities
Is Australia suitable for travelling by Campervan? Australia
Yes, Australia is one of the best countries in the world to travel by Campervan. The distances are vast, but that's precisely what gives you the freedom of a real road trip. You drive past beaches, national parks, outback areas, wine regions and small coastal towns that are often not easily reached by public transport.
Routes such as the east coast, the west coast, the Great Ocean Road, Tasmania and the route from Perth to Darwin are particularly perfect for a Campervan trip.
What does it cost to hire a Campervan in Australia? Australia
The cost of a Campervan in Australia depends on the season, type of Campervan, route, availability and insurance. A simple Campervan is cheaper than a larger motorhome with shower and toilet. Send us your travel details and we'll find the best deal.
What is the best time of year for a Campervan trip through Australia? Australia
That depends heavily on the region you're travelling to. Australia is enormous and has different climate zones.
For southern Australia, such as Melbourne, Adelaide, Tasmania and the Great Ocean Road, the months from October through to April are often the most pleasant. For the tropical north, such as Cairns, Darwin and the Kimberley, the dry season from May through to October is ideal.
If you're driving a longer route, it's important to time your travel period well according to the regions you want to visit.
Which insurance do you need when hiring a Campervan in Australia? Australia
Campervan hire usually includes basic insurance, but the excess can be high. That's why many travellers opt for a more comprehensive insurance package that reduces or completely buys out the excess.
My advice is to always look carefully at:
• excess
• damage cover
• damage to tyres, windows, roof and undercarriage
• breakdown assistance
• exclusions in the terms and conditions
At Good Day Travels I'll help you review this, so you know exactly where you stand before you book.
Which route is best for a first Campervan trip through Australia? Australia
For a first Campervan trip, many travellers choose the east coast, for example from Sydney to Brisbane, Brisbane to Cairns or Sydney to Cairns. This route is popular because you have plenty of variety, find good campsites and pass beaches, rainforest, islands and charming coastal towns along the way.
Do you want something more rugged and less touristy? Then Western Australia, for example from Perth to Exmouth or Perth to Darwin, is a brilliant choice.
Can I add additional drivers? New Zealand
Yes, most hire companies allow you to add additional drivers. Sometimes this is included free of charge, sometimes you'll pay a small surcharge for it.
All drivers must be present at pick-up and show a valid driving licence. Only registered drivers are permitted to drive the Campervan.
Can I drop off the Campervan in a different city? New Zealand
Yes, it's often possible to drop off the Campervan in a different city from where you picked it up. This is called a one-way hire.
Popular examples are:
• Sydney to Cairns
• Brisbane to Sydney
• Perth to Darwin
• Melbourne to Adelaide
• Auckland to Christchurch
• Christchurch to Auckland
• Queenstown to Christchurch
Bear in mind that there are sometimes additional costs involved. Also, not every route is always available.
Can I pick up my Campervan immediately after arrival? New Zealand
That's sometimes possible, but it's not always advisable. After a long flight you're often tired, suffering from jetlag and need to get used to driving on the left. That's why it's often wiser to sleep one night in a hotel or hostel first and pick up the Campervan the next day.
This applies especially when you arrive late in the day or are driving in Australia or New Zealand for the first time.
Can I pick up or drop off my Campervan outside office hours? New Zealand
Some hire companies offer options for pick-up or drop-off outside opening hours, but this is certainly not available everywhere. Often this needs to be requested in advance and there may be additional costs involved.
If you're arriving late or flying back early, it's smart to factor this into your planning ahead of time.
Can you freedom camp anywhere in New Zealand? New Zealand
No, you can't just freedom camp anywhere. New Zealand has clear rules per region and these can differ by council.
In some places you're only allowed to stay overnight with a self-contained camper, in other places overnight stays are completely prohibited. Use apps like CamperMate or Rankers to check where you're allowed to park.
Always respect the local rules, because fines can be hefty.
Can you take a Campervan on the ferry between the North Island and the South Island? New Zealand
Yes, you can take your Campervan on the ferry between Wellington and Picton. This is a popular way to combine both islands.
It's wise to book the ferry well in advance, especially during peak season. The crossing takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours and in good weather is truly a beautiful experience, particularly around the Marlborough Sounds. You can book the crossing with Bluebridge or Interislander.
Do I need a credit card for the deposit? New Zealand
Yes, in most cases you'll need a credit card in the name of the main driver. The hire company uses this for the security deposit or as a guarantee.
The amount of the deposit depends on the insurance package you choose. If you opt for a more comprehensive insurance package, the deposit is often lower. With basic insurance, the deposit can be quite substantial.
Do I need an international driving permit? New Zealand
For Australia and New Zealand, it's often recommended to bring an international driving permit, especially when your Dutch driving licence isn't fully issued in English.
An international driving permit doesn't replace your normal driving licence. So you must always bring both: your Dutch driving licence and your international driving permit. Through the ANWB you can easily apply for your international driving permit.
Do you need a self-contained Campervan in New Zealand? New Zealand
A self-contained Campervan is highly recommended. This gives you more freedom to stay at free or cheaper spots, because the Campervan meets certain requirements for toilet and wastewater.
Without self-contained certification you're more limited in where you can stay. Especially if you want to save costs and travel flexibly, a self-contained Campervan is often the better choice.
How clean does the camper need to be when I return it? New Zealand
You usually need to return the Campervan clean and tidy. This means removing your personal belongings, doing the washing up, emptying the fridge and leaving the interior reasonably clean.
When your Campervan has a toilet or waste water tank, you usually need to return it empty and clean. If you don't do this, the hire company may charge cleaning fees.
How long does it take to pick up a Campervan? New Zealand
Picking up a Campervan usually takes between 1 and 2 hours. During the pick-up, your details are checked, you sign the hire agreement, you may pay the bond and you receive an explanation about the Campervan.
Think of explanations about:
• gas bottle
• power connection
• water tank
• waste water tank
• toilet, if present
• insurance and breakdown assistance
• damage inspection
Take your time with this. The better you understand the Campervan, the more relaxed your trip will start.
How many weeks do you need for a New Zealand road trip? New Zealand
For New Zealand, I recommend a minimum of 3 weeks if you want to see both islands. With 2 weeks, you're better off choosing either the South Island or the North Island alone. If you have 4 weeks or longer, you can explore both islands much more relaxed.
New Zealand seems small, but with all the stops, hikes and mountain roads, you're often on the road longer than you think beforehand.
Is driving in New Zealand difficult? New Zealand
Driving in New Zealand is manageable, but you need to account for driving on the left, winding roads, mountain passes and changing weather conditions.
The distances sometimes look short on the map, but in practice journeys often take longer. Therefore don't plan too many kilometres per day and allow room for stops along the way.
Is New Zealand suitable for travelling by Campervan? New Zealand
Yes, New Zealand is perhaps one of the best countries in the world for a Campervan trip. The distances are manageable, the nature is spectacular and along the way you constantly come across places where you want to stop.
With a Campervan you have the freedom to plan your route flexibly and stay overnight in places close to mountains, lakes, beaches and national parks.
What are the most beautiful routes for a Campervan trip through New Zealand? New Zealand
Popular routes include:
• Christchurch to Queenstown via Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook
• Queenstown to Milford Sound
• Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wanaka
• West Coast to Abel Tasman
• Wellington to Tongariro National Park
• Rotorua, Taupo, Waitomo and Hobbiton on the North Island
For a complete trip you can combine Auckland and Christchurch, or do a loop from Christchurch if you want to focus on exploring the South Island.
What does it cost to hire a Campervan in New Zealand? New Zealand
The price of a Campervan in New Zealand depends on the season, type of Campervan, availability and insurance. In high season prices can rise significantly, especially between December and February. A compact Campervan is cheaper than a larger motorhome with shower and toilet.
Booking early is important, especially if you're travelling in high season. For New Zealand it's recommended to book 9 to 12 months in advance so you don't pay too much.
What happens when you return the Campervan? New Zealand
When returning the vehicle, the hire company will inspect the Campervan for damage, fuel level, cleanliness, inventory and, if applicable, emptying of the toilet and waste water.
If everything is in order, the bond will be released according to the hire company's terms. This can sometimes take a few working days, depending on your bank or credit card company.
What if I return the Campervan late? New Zealand
If you return the Campervan late, the hire company may charge extra fees. Sometimes this is calculated per hour, sometimes even per additional day.
Therefore, plan your final day generously. Allow time for traffic, refuelling, cleaning, the dump station and the final inspection at the hire company.
What if I've caused damage during my trip? New Zealand
In case of damage, always contact the hire company as soon as possible. They will explain what you need to do and which steps are necessary.
Take photos of the damage, note the location and collect details of other parties involved if needed. Don't simply drive on when there is major damage or when the Campervan is not safe.
What is the best time of year for a Campervan trip through New Zealand? New Zealand
The best period for a Campervan trip through New Zealand is usually from October through to April. During these months the days are longer, the weather is generally better and most routes are easily accessible.
December, January and February are the most popular, but also immediately the busiest and often the most expensive. My personal preference often goes to November, February or March. The weather is generally good and it falls outside the busy and expensive holiday period.
What time can I collect my Campervan? New Zealand
Most Campervan hire companies work with fixed pick-up times. Often you can collect the Campervan during office hours. For most hire companies this is between 09:00 - 16:00/16:30, but the exact times differ per hire company and location.
It's important to take this into account when booking your flight. If you arrive late in the afternoon or evening, you usually won't be able to collect the Campervan the same day.
When will I get my bond back? New Zealand
If there is no damage, fines or additional costs, the bond is usually released after returning the vehicle. Please note that it may take several working days before this appears on your credit card. The amount of the bond you pay in advance depends on the insurance package chosen. With comprehensive insurance, little to no bond needs to be paid.
The exact timeframe for refund of the bond varies by hire company and bank.
Where can I empty waste water and the toilet before returning the Campervan? New Zealand
In Australia and New Zealand, you'll find facilities at many campsites, holiday parks and public dump stations to empty grey water and toilet cassettes.
Apps such as CamperMate, Rankers or WikiCamps are handy for finding dump points. Plan this well ahead of time on your last day, so you don't have to rush before returning the vehicle.
Where is the best place to hire a Campervan in New Zealand? New Zealand
The most popular cities to hire a Campervan are Auckland, Christchurch and Queenstown.
• Auckland is ideal for the North Island or a route heading south.
• Christchurch is perfect for a road trip around the South Island.
• Queenstown is handy if you want to start right in the middle of the most beautiful nature.
Which city is best depends on your route, trip duration and available flights.
Which insurance do you need for Campervan hire in New Zealand? New Zealand
With Campervan hire, basic insurance is often included, but the excess can be high. That's why many travellers opt for a more comprehensive insurance package.
Pay particular attention to:
• excess amount
• damage cover
• damage to tyres, windows, roof and undercarriage
• breakdown assistance
• bond
• exclusions in the terms and conditions
At Good Day Travels, I clearly explain the differences to you, so you won't face any surprises.
Which is more beautiful, the North Island or the South Island? New Zealand
Both islands are worth visiting, but they're very different.
The South Island is known for mountains, glaciers, fjords, lakes and spectacular hikes. Think Mount Cook, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, the West Coast and Abel Tasman.
The North Island is known for volcanoes, geothermal areas, Māori culture, glowworm caves, Hobbiton, Rotorua, Tongariro and beautiful coastal areas.
If you have to choose and you're mainly coming for nature and mountains, then I'd recommend the South Island.
Will I get an explanation of how the Campervan works? New Zealand
Yes, when you collect the vehicle you'll usually receive an explanation of the main features of the Campervan. However, the quality of this briefing varies between hire companies and between individual staff members.
Always ask questions if something isn't clear. Think about connecting to mains power, filling the water tank, emptying waste water, using the gas bottle and operating the fridge, hob, toilet or heating.
Some hire companies send you instructional videos after you've booked the Campervan, which you're expected to watch beforehand. With these companies, the physical briefing on collection day will be more limited.
Do I need to return the Campervan with a full fuel tank? Campervan hire
In many cases you'll receive the Campervan with a full tank and must return it full as well. This varies by hire company, so always check the terms and conditions.
If you don't return the Campervan as agreed, the hire company may charge fuel costs and service fees.
Is it smart to spend the last night close to the drop-off location? Campervan hire
Yes, that's absolutely recommended. Especially when you have an early flight or need to return the Campervan in the morning.
By spending the last night close to the drop-off location, you avoid stress and have enough time to clean the Campervan, refuel and empty any tanks.
What documents do I need when picking up the Campervan? Campervan hire
When collecting the Campervan, you'll typically need the following documents:
• valid passport
• valid driver's licence
• international driver's licence, if required
• credit card in the name of the main driver
• booking confirmation
• any voucher from the hire company
Always check in advance which documents your hire company requires exactly. Without the correct documents, collection of the Campervan may be delayed or even refused.
What should I look out for during the damage inspection? Campervan hire
When collecting, always walk calmly around the Campervan and check for existing damage. Take photos and videos of the exterior, interior, windows, tyres, roof and any accessories.
Pay particular attention to:
• scratches and dents
• stone chips in the windscreen
• damage to tyres and rims
• damage to roof or underside
• operation of lights
• inventory in the Campervan
• any damp patches or broken parts inside
Always have existing damage noted before you depart.
What time must I return the Campervan? Campervan hire
Most hire companies ask you to return the Campervan in the morning or early afternoon. The exact return time is stated in your hire agreement.
Return the Campervan on time, as late returns can incur additional charges. So don't plan a long drive on your last day of travel, but preferably sleep near the return location.
Where do you pick up the Campervan? Campervan hire
You usually pick up the Campervan at a hire location in or around the city where your trip begins. Think of cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Cairns, Brisbane, Auckland, Christchurch or Queenstown.
The exact pick-up location differs per hire company. Usually it's close to the airport and you'll need to take a short taxi, Uber or shuttle. After your booking you'll always receive the exact location and instructions for picking up your Campervan.
Why hire a Campervan through Good Day Travels? Campervan hire
At Good Day Travels, I compare several reliable Campervan hire companies for you. I look not only at the price, but also at terms and conditions, insurance, availability and which Campervan suits your route best. With an extra discount, you pay less than if you booked yourself.
In addition, you receive free personal travel advice with your Campervan booking. This way, you not only hire a Campervan, but also get help planning your road trip through Australia or New Zealand.
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