✅ Last Update:
If you’re renting a campervan in New Zealand, chances are you’re here for a proper adventure—not a five-star hotel experience. That’s the beauty of it. But let’s be real: the gear that comes with your van can make or break your trip.
- Here’s a no-fluff rundown of what you’ll want, what’s usually included, and what’s totally worth adding when renting a campervan—even if it costs a bit more.
1. What You Usually Get in Your Campervan Rental
Most rentals in NZ include the basics:
- Bed setup (mattress, pillows, a blanket and a sheet)
- Cooking gear (gas cooker, pans, plates, cutlery, one sponge that’s probably seen better days)
- Small chilly bin or a fridge (depends on the van)
- Basic cleaning stuff (dish soap, tea towel)
- Water tank and sink (especially if it’s a self-contained setup)
It’s usually just enough to survive, not thrive. So if you’re planning to live in the van for a few weeks, you’ll want to level up a few things.
🏆 Top rental companies will offer these items — we’ve compiled the best ones in New Zealand, you can find them here: Best Rental Companies in New Zealand
2. Stuff That’s Totally Worth Adding
If your rental company offers these, it’s worth saying yes—or you can pick them up yourself:
- 12V USB charger – Super useful for charging your phone while driving. Many vans only have one socket, and this makes life easier.
- Camping chairs and a small table – So much better than eating inside the van all the time. Great for sunsets, beach dinners, and campsite hangs.
- Local SIM card with data – Usually cheaper and more reliable than rental WiFi. Good for maps, bookings, and keeping in touch.
- Fairy lights or a mini lantern – Soft lighting makes your van feel like home. Way better than the harsh overhead light most vans have.
- Solar shower – A black bag that heats up in the sun. Perfect for off-grid days when you need a quick rinse.
3. What About Tech?
Let’s talk about a few small tech items that can make your campervan trip way easier (and more fun):
- Bluetooth speaker – Perfect for road trip playlists, beach days, or just setting the vibe while cooking dinner at camp.
- Phone mount for the dashboard – Super handy for using Google Maps without fumbling with your phone while driving.
- Multi-port USB charger – If you’re traveling with someone else, you’ll both want to charge your phones, cameras, or power banks at the same time.
- Power bank – Great backup when you’re parked off-grid or if the van doesn’t have many charging options.
These gadgets don’t take up much space, but they definitely make the road feel a little more like home.
4. Things You’ll Want to Grab Yourself
Don’t expect the rental company to think of everything. These bits are cheap and make life easier:
- Microfiber towel – dries fast, packs small
- Reusable shopping bags – NZ supermarkets charge for plastic ones
- Mosquito spray or net – some campsites are bug heaven
- Storage crates or bags – vans get messy fast without them
- Power bank – for when you’re off-grid and low on charge
5. Where to Get Extras (If Your Van Doesn’t Come with Them)
🛒 The Warehouse – Cheap stuff that actually lasts
🛒 Kmart – Good for blankets, storage bins, fairy lights
🏕️ Torpedo7 / Hunting & Fishing – More outdoorsy gear
📱 Spark / Vodafone / 2degrees – For SIM cards and top-ups
🛠️ Bunnings – Random tools, rope, containers
