How much is it to hire a campervan in NZ
A New Zealand road trip in a campervan hire is a bucket list experience for many. Whether you’re thinking about a quick getaway or planning an extended New Zealand road trip, travelling by camper lets you create a travel itinerary that ticks all those bucket list boxes. No strict schedules, no rush, just you and the road ahead. Sound like your kind of holiday, but wondering how much does it cost to hire a campervan in NZ? In this helpful guide, we break down the costs involved in planning a campervan holiday in New Zealand and why it’s worth every cent.
Understanding campervan hire costs ahead of your trip
Budgeting ahead for your New Zealand campervan holiday is key to making sure your trip runs smoothly. While the idea of hitting the road in a camper is exciting, knowing what to expect in terms of expenses will help you avoid any surprises. From the type of campervan you choose, to fuel and campsite fees, costs can vary quite a bit. By sorting out your budget early, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what you can spend on extra activities, meals out, or even extending your trip.
Thinking about campervan hire costs in advance also lets you compare your options. Do you want a compact camper for two or a bigger, more spacious motorhome for the family? Would you prefer to travel during peak season or are you flexible with your dates? Having these details squared away will help you make the most of your New Zealand itinerary without blowing the budget.
Factors affecting campervan rental costs
When it comes to the cost of campervan hire in NZ, several factors can influence the price. Here's a breakdown of what you need to consider:
Season and demand
The time of year you plan your New Zealand road trip can have a big impact on your campervan hire cost. Peak season, which runs from December to February, sees higher demand as travellers take advantage of Christmas and extended school holidays.
Type and size of the campervan
The type of camper you choose also plays a big role in the overall cost. A smaller, more basic camper will naturally cost less than a larger, fully equipped motorhome with all the bells and whistles. Think about how much space you’ll need and the kind of amenities you want, as these can add to the price.
Duration of the rental period
How long you plan to hire your campervan will affect the total cost. Often, the longer you rent, the better the daily rate. So, if you're planning a longer New Zealand itinerary, you may actually save money by extending your rental period.
Additional features and amenities
Extras like outdoor furniture or an electric heater/fan can really enhance your camper experience. While they come at an additional cost, they’re often well worth it for added comfort and convenience.
Average costs to hire a campervan in New Zealand
While prices affecting your campervan hire cost can fluctuate depending on several factors, here’s a general overview of what you can expect:
Average daily and weekly rental costs
Campervan hire costs will vary depending on the type of vehicle, the season, and the length of your trip. These can range from around $100 - $500 per day. Typically, the longer you hire the camper, the lower the daily rate. Longer-term hires often provide better value, and many rental companies offer discounts for extended bookings. The good news is, Cheapa Campers offers a Price Match Promise, so you know you’re getting the best rate.
Campervan types and sizes
When it comes to size, there’s a wide variety of campervans and motorhomes to choose from. A smaller, budget camper is perfect for couples or solo travellers looking for a simple setup. Mid-range options often include more space and added amenities, ideal for families or groups. Larger motorhomes are more spacious and fully equipped with high-end features, giving you all the comforts of home on the road.
Variables impacting price
It’s important to note that costs are influenced by factors like season, demand, vehicle size, and additional features. These averages can fluctuate, so the best option is to jump into Cheapa Campa’s online booking page which will give you an accurate quote based on your dates of travel, pick up and drop off location, the number of travellers, and type of campervan or motorhome.
Image: Instgram - @scotthowes
Additional costs to consider
When budgeting for your campervan hire, it's important to think beyond just the rental fee. Here are a few other costs to keep in mind:
Insurance
Standard rental packages include basic insurance, but you may want to opt for extended protection, like windscreen and tyre coverage or single-vehicle rollover insurance. These extras help reduce potential out-of-pocket expenses if something goes wrong during your trip.
Fuel costs
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of fuel. Your camper will need to be filled up throughout your journey, and fuel prices can vary depending on the region. If you're covering a lot of ground on your New Zealand itinerary, this can become a significant part of your budget.
Campervan parks and camping fees
While New Zealand offers plenty of freedom camping spots, you’ll likely spend some nights in paid campervan parks or holiday parks, especially if you want access to facilities like showers and power. These fees vary by location and can add up, so it’s worth planning ahead for them. You may pay only $10 - $15 for an unpowered Department of Conservation site, whereas a powered holiday park site offers more facilities at a cost of around $30 – $60 per night. Rates will also depend on the season and how many people are staying in your camper.
Cleaning fee for pets
Bringing your furry friend along for the adventure? Cheapa Campas are pet friendly, and like most rentals, they include a cleaning fee for all bookings with a cat or dog. It’s a good idea to ask ahead so there are no surprises at drop-off.
Additional equipment and extras
If you’re after some extra comforts, you might want to hire additional equipment like outdoor furniture, a heater or fan, or extra bedding. Other optional extras include first aid kits, child booster seats and snow chains.
For a full list of Cheapa Campas extras and their costs, please see our Terms and Conditions.
What’s included?
The good news is, your Cheapa campervan hire includes all the essentials to make your trip as convenient as possible. All vehicles come equipped with the following:
-
Kitchen kit: Plates, bowls, cutlery, bottle opener, can opener, colander, saucepans, frying pans, cooking utensils, chopping board, kettle, toaster, and tea towel. Electrical appliances are also included in RVs that have 240V.
-
General equipment: Clothesline, pegs, fire extinguisher, bucket, hose, dustpan and brush.
Image: Instgram - @scotthowes
Ways to save money
There are several ways to make your campervan hire more affordable, so you can spend less on the essentials and more on enjoying your adventure.
Booking in advance
One of the simplest ways to save on campervan hire is to book well in advance. This not only gives you access to early-bird rates but also ensures a wider selection of vehicles to choose from. Plus, the earlier you book, the more likely you are to lock in a great deal.
Off-season discounts
Travelling during the off-season can help you score some great discounts. If you’re flexible with your dates, consider exploring New Zealand in the ‘shoulder seasons’ of spring and autumn, where campervan hire prices tend to be lower. You’ll also avoid the busy tourist crowds.
Cheapa Campa deals
Be sure to check out Cheapa Campa’s campervan hire deals for current promotions and discounts. These deals are perfect for those looking to save a bit extra on their camper rental, with offers available throughout the year.
Reducing fuel consumption
Fuel can be a major expense on a New Zealand road trip, but there are ways to keep costs down. Try to drive at a steady pace and avoid sudden acceleration or braking to conserve fuel. Planning your route carefully to avoid unnecessary detours can also help reduce fuel consumption.
Cooking in your camper
Eating out can quickly add up, so taking advantage of the kitchen facilities in your campervan is a great way to cut costs. Stock up on groceries and cook your meals in your camper to stretch your budget further. Not only is it cost-effective, but homecooked meals always taste better when you’re travelling!
Free activities
New Zealand is an outdoor paradise, offering countless free activities such as hiking, walking, and camping. Whether you’re exploring the beaches, forests, or mountains, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors without spending a cent.
Freedom camping and affordable campgrounds
New Zealand offers plenty of freedom camping spots where you can park your campervan for free, especially if your vehicle is self-contained. For those wanting a few more facilities, there are many affordable holiday parks across the country that offer great value for money. DOC campgrounds are another affordable option – and many are in some of New Zealand’s most beautiful spots too!
Book your Cheapa Campa today
Now that you’ve got a good idea of what to expect and how to save on your campervan hire, it’s time to start planning your ultimate New Zealand road trip. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly camper or a more spacious motorhome for the whole family, Cheapa Campa has a range of options to suit every traveller and itinerary.
Why wait? Book your Cheapa Campa online today and get ready to hit the road!