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How to Make the Most of Your Campervan Experience in New Zealand

A Food Fun Travel Guest Post

New Zealand is a country that has something for everyone. With its breathtaking natural scenery, friendly people, and diverse range of activities, it’s no surprise that many individuals are opting to explore this beautiful country in a campervan.

However, if you’ve never been on a campervan holiday before, it can be tricky to know how to make the most of your experience. So we’ve teamed up with Travellers Autobarn to put together some top tips for getting the most out of your New Zealand campervan adventure.

1. Select the Best Vehicle for You

The first step in making the most of your campervan experience is to choose the right vehicle for you. There are many different campervans available for hire in New Zealand, so it’s crucial to consider your preferences and needs before making a decision.

If you’re travelling with a family or group of friends, then you’ll need to make sure you choose a campervan that’s big enough to accommodate everyone comfortably. Likewise, if you plan to cook a lot while you’re on holiday, you’ll need to ensure your campervan has a good kitchen setup. And if you want to be able to go off-road and explore some of New Zealand’s more remote areas, then you’ll need to make sure your campervan is 4WD.

2. Plan Your Route Before You Go

One of the good things about hiring a campervan is that it gives you the freedom to change your plans if you want to. However, if you’re new to New Zealand or travelling with young children, it’s still a good idea to plan your route before you set off. It will give you peace of mind knowing that you won’t get lost and will also help you make the most of your time in each place you visit.

When planning your route, make sure to factor in plenty of time for rest stops, as driving long distances can be tiring. It’s also worth mentioning that some of New Zealand’s roads are unsealed and can be challenging to drive on if you’re not used to them. So, if you’re planning on doing any off-roading, make sure your chosen campervan is up for the task.

3. Make Use of New Zealand’s Campsites

One of the great things about travelling by campervan is that it gives you access to all sorts of accommodation options – including campsites! Camping is a popular way to travel in New Zealand, and there are campsites dotted all around the country catering to all budgets and tastes.

So, whether you’re looking for a basic campsite where you can pitch your own tent or an upmarket camping resort with all the mod cons, there’s bound to be something that suits your needs. Just remember to book ahead during peak season (December – February), as campsites can get very busy during this time.

4. Be Prepared for All Weather Conditions

New Zealand’s weather can be notoriously changeable, so it’s important to be prepared for all eventualities when travelling by campervan. Pack plenty of warm clothing for cold camping nights, as well as rain gear and sunscreen for days, spent exploring outdoors.

It is also worth noting that some roads may be closed due to snow or bad weather conditions – so always check the latest weather forecast before setting off on any long journeys. By being prepared for all types of weather conditions, you’ll be able to ensure that nothing puts a dampener on your trip.

5. Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance

Even the best-laid plans can go awry, so it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when travelling abroad. In addition, it is crucial when hiring a campervan, as you’ll be responsible for any damage to the vehicle during your rental period.

So, before setting off on your campervan adventure, make sure you’re adequately insured. It will give you peace of mind knowing that you’re covered if anything goes wrong. Moreover, it will also give you the freedom to make the most of your trip, safe knowing that you’re protected against any potential mishaps.

Conclusion

A campervan holiday is a perfect way to see everything New Zealand has to offer – but it’s important to plan beforehand to make sure you make the most of your experience. By following these easy tips, you can be sure that your trip will be one to remember.

Have you ever taken a campervan vacation? What are your other tips for getting the most out of it? Let us know in the comments below!