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Thinking of renting a campervan in New Zealand? You’re probably already picturing the open road, epic mountain views, and waking up next to lakes and beaches.
- But before you hit the road and get lost in the magic, there are a few important tips to know. They’ll help keep your trip smooth, safe, and full of good vibes—not surprises.
1. Reducing the Cost of The Rental
Summer in New Zealand is wild — sunny skies, packed campgrounds, and lots of tourists.
But let’s be real: campervan prices shoot way up during the peak months (December to February).
If you’re not set on summer, go in spring or autumn instead. The roads are quieter, campsites less crowded, and rental prices way easier on your wallet. Same epic views, half the cost.
- Checking prices way in advance and placing an early booking will save you hundreds of dollars at the end of the day.
🚐 Check prices of campervan rentals by using the Travel Cars NZ search tool, no matter where in New Zealand you plan to arrive and depart.
2. Be Aware of Age Restrictions
It’s a bummer, but unless you’re over 25, renting a campervan will come with some restrictions. For instance, if you’re under 21, you are unlikely to be the campervan driver.
If you’re under 25 years old, you’ll likely incur surcharges from rental companies. However, some companies specialize in rentals for younger drivers.
“Not a special tip, but something you should know before making plans ahead”.
3. Don’t Forget The Ferry Charges
NZ has two main islands, and if you’d like to take your adventure from one to the next, you will have to use a ferry to cross them.
If your campervan is more significant in size, using the ferry will cost you more.
4. You Save a Lot More With Campervan Relocations
If you start the first leg of your trip on the South Island and finish off on the North Island, you can get fantastic camper relocation services and deals, this is a great tip depending on your travel plans.
But these deals are available for limited periods, and you should ask your campervan rental for more info.
👉 For more information about this topic, we have created an article about Campervan Relocations in New Zealand
5. Consider The One-Way Fee
If you’re picking up your camper on one island and dropping it off on the other, just a heads up — most rental companies will charge you extra for that.
It’s called a one-way fee, and it can sneak up on your budget if you’re not expecting it.
6. Consider The Fuel Costs
When preparing for your trip to NZ, one of the aspects you must research is fuel costs.
The prices may be higher or lower depending on where you’re coming from.
Campervans in New Zealand come in diesel and regular gas.
7. Beware of Deals That are Too Good to Be True
Suppose you happen upon an advert for a campervan rental for NZ$15 a day; run from it as far as you can, that’s the best tip we can give you in this type of situation.
- Generally, prices of campervan rentals start at 29$.
Even though the deal may be valid, you’re likely to come into contract with an old model car that has stringent rental periods, or it may not be big enough for your needs.
8. You are Spoiled for Choice
New Zealand roads were made for epic road trips — and trust us, you won’t be the only one chasing that campervan dream.
Whether you’re after a comfy minivan, a decked-out luxury ride, or just something simple to get you from beach to mountain, there’s a camper out there with your name on it. Just be quick — they book out fast, especially in high season!
9. Be Aware of Parking Rules
Camping in New Zealand isn’t a free-for-all — there are some pretty strict rules in place.
If you’re keen to live that campervan life without always paying for campsites or holiday parks, make sure your van is self-contained.
- That little green card? It’s your golden ticket to camp for free in loads of awesome spots across the country.
10. Learn How to Drive The New Zealand Way
If you’re not used to driving on the left side of the road, hitting the road in your campervan around New Zealand can feel pretty scary at first.
Before you rent, take some time to get comfortable with how Kiwi roads work — it’ll make your trip way more fun and way less stressful.
Here’s a quick tip: always stay chill, take it slow, and keep an eye out for roundabouts — they’re everywhere!
11. You Can Get Multiple Inclusions
When you rent a campervan in New Zealand, it often comes packed with all the essentials to make it feel like your home on wheels. Towels, cups, bedding, pots, tea towels, and cutlery — it’s all there waiting for you.
So, no stress about lugging around heavy bags. Just hop in, hit the road, and start your adventure.
12. Do Not Ignore Insurance Coverage
When you rent a campervan, your price should include basic insurance — stuff like windshield cracks or small dents.
But if you can, it’s smart to upgrade your insurance. That way, you’re covered for the bigger stuff too, like rollover damage or undercarriage hits, which can happen on those rough Kiwi roads. Better safe than sorry!
13. Rates for Road Usage
New Zealanders typically contributed to the maintenance of their roads. If your van uses gasoline, you will pay a levy fee as you buy the fuel.
If the campervan uses diesel, you will pay RUC (Road Usage Charge).
The cost is usually paid once you return the vehicle.
14. Arrange Early for Pick-Up
Picking up your campervan can take about an hour if there’s no line ahead.
You’ll need to do a quick quiz on New Zealand’s driving rules, show your driver’s license for approval, and then get a short walkthrough on how everything works in your campervan.
It’s all pretty simple and gets you ready to hit the road safely!
15. Conduct Routine Maintenance
Keep your campervan feeling like home by giving it a quick clean every few days.
Use proper dump stations to empty your grey water and toilet cassette — they’re easy to find across NZ.
And yep, do those dishes and tidy up regularly, so stuff doesn’t fly everywhere when you’re on the move. A clean van = a happy road trip!
16. Do Not Park Your Campervan in Queenstown
Plenty of tourists get fined because they are not aware of this rule.
If you need to tour Queenstown, book a space at a campground and park your campervan there. Don’t risk fines while you can avoid them.
🔍 More relevant information about parking in New Zealand can be found here: Parking in New Zealand | Guide
17. Don’t Over-Plan
It’s super easy to get caught up in all the epic stuff to do in New Zealand — hikes, hot springs, wildlife, you name it.
But don’t pack your itinerary too tight. Consider this tip…leave some space to chill, soak up the views, and really enjoy the spots you vibe with.
“Some of the best memories come from the moments you didn’t plan”.
