Before embarking on my campervan journey, driving wasn’t even in my skillset. However, when New Zealand’s borders closed in March 2020, my travel horizons narrowed, confined within the country’s boundaries. That’s when I took the plunge and bought a campervan – after some nerve-wracking driving lessons, of course. Owning my campervan unlocked a newfound sense of freedom and motivated me to explore my own beautiful country.
And now, I firmly believe that New Zealand is best experienced from the comfort and flexibility of a campervan. The landscapes are breathtaking, campsites are abundant, the weather is generally pleasant, and the country itself is quite compact. Traveling with your bed and kitchen on wheels allows you to immerse yourself in the stunning outdoors that Aotearoa is famous for. I’ve woken up mere feet from the vast Pacific Ocean, surrounded by lush rainforest, and high on scenic mountain plateaus.
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Courtesy of Petrina Darrah To date, I’ve journeyed over 15,000 miles on New Zealand’s roads, traveling solo and living in my van. If you’re considering a similar adventure, here’s what I’ve learned about choosing the Best Travel Van and making the most of van life in New Zealand.
The Nimble Single-Sized Van: Your Best Bet for Solo Travel
One of the greatest advantages of solo travel is the freedom to choose a smaller, more maneuverable campervan. This is particularly beneficial on New Zealand’s sometimes narrow and winding roads, especially if you’re a less experienced driver like I was. For solo adventurers, the best travel van doesn’t need to be massive. All you truly need is a comfortable bed, smart storage solutions, and a basic kitchenette. Take my word for it – you likely won’t miss a table or couch. In fact, in almost two years of van ownership, I’ve rarely even set up my table. I keep my bed permanently made, and if I need to relax indoors during rainy days, I simply stretch out on it.
For shorter trips to New Zealand, campervan rental companies like Epic Campers and Mad Campers offer a great selection. However, if you plan to stay longer, purchasing a van equipped for camping and reselling it at the end of your journey can be more cost-effective. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace are popular for buying and selling campervans, with a vibrant market and vans frequently changing owners.
Prioritize Practicality Over Aesthetics in Your Travel Van
When I first started my van life, I envisioned a stylish, Instagram-worthy space. I decorated my camper kitchen with small potted plants and invested in pure linen sheets. It didn’t take long to realize that reality bites – the plants quickly died, and the linen sheets soon acquired mysterious stains.
Don’t be misled by perfectly filtered van life photos into thinking it’s all about bohemian chic on wheels. More often than not, van travel involves maximizing every inch of space for storage and constantly battling to keep sand out of every nook and cranny. The best travel van is one that works for real life, not just for photos.
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Courtesy of Petrina Darrah Pack smart and prioritize practical items for your travel van. Essentials I’ve found invaluable include a pocket knife, a five-liter water container, a sturdy chopping board, and a quick-drying microfiber towel. On the other hand, things that seemed like good ideas but proved impractical were a full cutlery set, delicate wine glasses, and a variety of plate sizes. Despite having a well-equipped kitchen, I mostly use just one bowl, spoon, and drinking bottle – simplicity is key in the best travel van setup.
Vary Your Campsite Choices for the Full New Zealand Experience
Camping is deeply ingrained in New Zealand culture, making campsites plentiful and diverse. Utilize the Rankers camping app to easily locate the nearest campsite that suits your needs.
If you’re traveling in a certified self-contained campervan, you have the option to freedom camp for free. These spots are often designated overnight parking areas, sometimes just car parks, with a public toilet nearby. Freedom camps are a mixed bag in terms of ambiance and location – some are in prime beachfront locations, while others are on the outskirts of towns. I always check reviews on Rankers and steer clear of any sites with negative feedback about unfriendly locals or a strange atmosphere.
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Courtesy of Petrina Darrah I like to alternate between freedom camps and Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites, which are situated on public conservation land and offer stunning natural settings. DOC campsites are also budget-friendly, ranging from $5 to $20 NZD per night depending on the facilities. Typically, they provide water and compost toilets, and some even offer cold showers. After experiencing a two-week stretch without a shower during the peak of summer, even a cold shower feels like a true luxury.
For those wanting hot showers and full cooking facilities, holiday parks are an option, but they tend to cater more to families or retirees with large motorhomes. Holiday parks are also the most expensive, averaging around $20 NZD per night. Choosing a mix of campsite types ensures you experience the variety New Zealand offers and helps manage your travel budget effectively while enjoying the best travel van experience.
Driving Safety is Paramount on New Zealand Roads
Throughout my solo van travels, I’ve always felt safe at campgrounds. Naturally, I lock my van doors at night and keep valuables out of sight. I also keep friends and family informed of my itinerary. I generally settle into my van for the night before it gets dark, which makes summer travel, with daylight extending until 9 p.m., much easier. During the darker winter months, I make sure to download plenty of reading material and podcasts for evening entertainment.
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Courtesy of Petrina Darrah The primary safety concern when traveling solo in a van is driving fatigue, as you don’t have anyone to share driving duties with. Be kind to yourself and plan realistic daily distances. New Zealand roads can be narrow, steep, winding, and sometimes unsealed. Additionally, some drivers can become impatient and aggressive when stuck behind a slower campervan. Drive cautiously, and if you notice traffic building up behind you, pull over to a safe spot and let them pass. Prioritizing safe driving practices is essential for a positive best travel van experience.
Embrace Solitude and the Freedom of Van Life
Solo van travel in New Zealand can be a wonderfully solitary experience. While people are generally friendly, offering smiles and waves at campgrounds, most travelers tend to keep to themselves. I didn’t quite find the strong sense of camaraderie on the road that I had hoped for. Humorously, I carried a bottle of wine for about a year, hoping to share it with a fellow traveler, but eventually, I drank it alone.
Overall, exploring New Zealand solo in a campervan isn’t always glamorous, but it’s undeniably liberating, thrilling, and creates memories that are truly unforgettable. Choosing the best travel van for your needs is the first step towards unlocking this incredible adventure.
