Why RV travel beats a hotel and car: 7 benefits you’ll love for your next New Zealand adventure

If you’ve always gone for hotels and rental cars when planning a trip, you might wonder why so many travellers rave about campervan travel in New Zealand. The truth is, swapping a fixed itinerary for the freedom of the open road can completely transform how you experience a place. A camper isn’t just a way to get from A to B – it’s your ticket to exploring hidden gems, waking up in nature, and having everything you need right there with you. 

In this blog, we’ll share 7 reasons why choosing a campervan for your New Zealand adventure offers so much more than a traditional holiday – and why it might just be your new favourite way to travel. 

1. Cost efficiency

When it comes to travel expenses, renting a campervan can make a big difference to your budget. By combining your accommodation and transport in one, you avoid the cost of separate hotel bookings and car rentals – often two of the biggest chunks of any travel budget. With everything rolled into one, your campervan becomes both your home and your ride, saving you money without sacrificing convenience. 

Beyond the upfront savings, travelling by campervan also gives you more control over your spending. Instead of relying on expensive restaurant meals, you can cook your own food onboard, which is not only cost-effective but also lets you enjoy local produce in a more personal way. Many travellers find that the money they save on dining alone adds up quickly. 

Plus, with freedom camping options available in designated spots around New Zealand, you can often park overnight at no cost at all. This kind of flexibility means you can stretch your travel dollars further while still exploring some of the country’s most incredible locations. 

READ MORE: 10 myths about campervan travel debunked: The reality of road trips in New Zealand 

2. Unmatched flexibility

Travelling by campervan is all about freedom – the kind that hotels and rental cars just can’t offer. Imagine being able to stay overnight in places where hotels don’t exist, like the shores of Lake Tekapo or near the towering cliffs of Milford Sound. With a campervan, you’re not limited to destinations with accommodation; you can park up in designated spots surrounded by stunning views and wake up right where you want to be. 

One of the best parts of campervan travel is leaving rigid schedules behind. Forget early check-out times or rushing to meet a check-in window – your timetable is entirely up to you. Want to spend a bit longer soaking up a sunset or exploring an unexpected detour? No problem. A campervan gives you the flexibility to adjust your plans on the fly, making it easier to savour the journey instead of feeling like you’re ticking boxes. 

It’s a style of travel that puts you in control, letting you explore at your own pace and making every stop a highlight. 

3. Immersive nature experience

One of the best things about travelling in a campervan is the chance to get closer to nature in a way that hotels simply can’t offer. Instead of waking up to city streets or the hum of traffic, you’ll open your door to breathtaking views – whether that’s the crashing waves of a beach, the stillness of a forest, or the sweeping vistas of mountains. Staying in a campervan means you’re always right where the action is, with nature at your doorstep. 

And it’s not just about the scenery – it’s the outdoor experiences that come with it. When the sun sets, you’ve got the perfect opportunity for stargazing, especially in places like New Zealand’s dark sky reserves. Away from city lights, the night sky is clearer and brighter than you might have imagined. For many, it’s a magical way to unwind after a day of exploring. 

From waking up to the sound of birdsong to watching the stars fill the sky above you, RV travel offers an immersive experience that brings you closer to New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and peaceful moments in nature. 

4. Comfort and convenience

A campervan might just be the most convenient way to travel. It’s like having your own little home on wheels, with everything you need in one space. Comfortable beds, a functional kitchen, and even a bathroom – all within arm’s reach – make the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Whether you’re brewing your morning coffee or enjoying a meal cooked with fresh local ingredients, it’s easy to feel at home wherever the road takes you. 

One of the biggest perks of campervan travel is avoiding the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. With a camper, there’s no need to stuff your suitcase every morning or worry about forgetting something at the hotel. Your belongings stay put, and you can focus on enjoying your trip rather than juggling luggage. 

This level of comfort and convenience transforms the travel experience, allowing you to settle in and relax no matter where you are. It’s travel made simple, letting you focus on the adventure without sacrificing the comforts you value most. 

READ MORE: Creating your perfect New Zealand itinerary: tips and recommendations from experienced travellers. 

5. Perfect for families and groups

Travelling as a family or group can be tricky – juggling everyone’s needs, coordinating schedules, and ensuring there’s enough space for everyone. That’s where a campervan really shines. Modern RVs are designed with room to spread out, making them perfect for families or groups of friends. With dedicated sleeping areas, kitchen facilities, and space to unwind, everyone has a spot to call their own, and no one feels cramped. 

But the real magic of campervan travel is how it brings people together. Sharing the journey means shared experiences – whether it’s playing road games during the drive, cooking a meal together onboard, or sitting around after dinner swapping stories from the day. These moments often become the highlight of the trip, creating memories that last long after the adventure ends. 

Instead of separate hotel rooms or the isolation of a car ride, a campervan offers the chance to connect, making travel not just about the destination but about the time spent together along the way. 

6. A unique cultural experience

Travelling by campervan offers a window into New Zealand’s unique camping culture, where the journey isn’t just about the places you visit but the people you meet along the way. Holiday parks and campgrounds are more than just places to park for the night – they’re hubs of activity where locals and fellow travellers come together. Whether you’re swapping tips about hidden gems, chatting over a barbecue, or sharing stories around a picnic table, these moments of connection add a personal touch to your adventure. 

For those feeling adventurous, freedom camping in designated spots is another way to embrace the Kiwi spirit of exploration. It’s about venturing beyond the well-trodden paths and experiencing New Zealand’s landscapes in a more intimate way. Freedom camping not only allows you to wake up in some of the country’s most stunning remote locations but also offers insight into a way of life that values independence and respect for nature. 

Travelling by campervan gives you a front-row seat to New Zealand’s camping culture – a blend of community, adventure, and a shared love of the outdoors. 

7. Eco-friendly travel

Campervan travel isn’t just a great way to explore – it’s also an eco-friendly option when done thoughtfully. Many modern campervans are designed with sustainability in mind, offering features like fuel-efficient engines and solar-powered systems to help reduce your environmental footprint. By choosing a camper, you’re not only simplifying your journey but also making a conscious effort to travel more responsibly. 

New Zealand’s natural beauty is one of its greatest treasures, and campervan travel allows you to experience it while leaving minimal impact. Responsible camping practices, like using designated campsites and proper waste disposal facilities, help protect these pristine environments for future generations. Many travellers also embrace the ‘leave no trace’ ethos, ensuring that every stop is as untouched as they found it. 

With a campervan, you can explore New Zealand’s landscapes in a way that’s mindful of the planet – proving that you don’t have to sacrifice adventure to travel sustainably. It’s all about enjoying the journey while preserving the beauty that makes it so special. 

Ready to discover RV travel?

Planning your New Zealand campervan adventure has never been easier. Start by downloading the thl Roadtrip app, your go-to tool for finding campsites, mapping out your journey, and making the most of your time on the road. With features designed specifically for RV travellers, it’s the perfect companion to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip. 

When it comes to choosing the right campervan, Apollo has you covered. Our range of vehicles is equipped with all the essentials for a comfortable and memorable road trip – from cosy sleeping areas to functional kitchens and everything in between. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a group adventure, or a solo escape, Apollo has the perfect option to suit your needs. 

It’s time to trade rigid itineraries for the freedom of the open road. Download the app, book your Apollo campervan, and get ready to explore New Zealand like never before. 

FAQ

What are some advantages of travelling in a campervan?

Travelling in a campervan lets you combine your transport and accommodation, making it easy to explore New Zealand’s stunning spots at your own pace. It’s a flexible, budget-friendly, and super comfortable way to enjoy the journey and the views along the way. 

What is RV in New Zealand?

An RV, short for recreational vehicle, is another name for campervans and motorhomes. In New Zealand, they’re a popular choice for exploring the country’s incredible scenery. Most come with handy features like beds, kitchens, and bathrooms, so you’ve got everything you need for a self-contained adventure. 

What are the disadvantages of travelling in a campervan?

Travelling in a campervan does come with a few considerations, like adjusting to a more compact space compared to hotels and being mindful of waste disposal and campsite rules. Driving a larger vehicle can also take a little getting used to. However, these are small trade-offs for the freedom, flexibility, and unique experiences that campervan travel offers – making it a favourite way to explore New Zealand for so many travellers. For helpful tips, check out our blog on driving a campervan in New Zealand.