Budget Friendly Ways to Travel in a Camper!

Traveling New Zealand by camper doesn’t have to mean stretching your budget. In fact, with a few smart choices, camper travel can be one of the most affordable and rewarding ways to explore the country!

1. Cook your own meals:

Eating out adds up fast when you’re traveling, especially if you’re stopping for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. One of the biggest perks of travelling in a camper is having your own kitchen wherever you go! Even a small setup with a stove, fridge, and basic cookware can save you a surprising amount of money over the course of a trip.

Before you hit the road, stock up at the supermarket and plan simple, flexible meals like pasta, wraps, or one-pot dishes that don’t require lots of ingredients or cleanup. Having snacks on hand such as yogurt, fruit, or eggs can also help you avoid impulse café stops.

Beyond the savings, cooking in your camper adds to the experience. There’s something special about enjoying a homemade dinner with mountain views right outside your door!

2. Freedom camping:

Since our vans are fully self-contained, with your own toilet, fresh water supply, and kitchen on board, you're not tied to paid campgrounds or holiday parks every night. That means zero accommodation costs and a lot more flexibility in where you stay.

Instead of hunting for public bathrooms or planning your day around facilities, everything you need is right there in your van! You can easily pull into freedom camping spots and settle in comfortably without spending a cent.

Freedom camping isn't only budget friendly, it also gives you access to stunning locations and the freedom to explore on your own terms!

3. Bring your own gear:

Our campers are designed with plenty of storage space, making it easy to pack surfboards wetsuits, bikes or fishing gear without feeling cramped. Bringing your own gear means you can skip expensive rental fees, which can quickly eat into savings, especially if you're hiring equipment for multiple days.

Without having to plan your activities around rental shop hours and availability, you're free to go whenever the conditions are right. Find a quiet fishing spot? You're already set!Having your own gear makes travel more spontaneous, letting you explore more, try new activities, and save money along the way!

4. Hitch your own adventures:

Some of New Zealand's best experiences don’t cost a thing. Think scenic hikes, hidden waterfalls, swimming holes, adventure is everywhere! All you have to do is step outside your camper and spend your days soaking up epic viewpoints, wandering beaches and exploring native bush.

The best part? There are no bookings, no tickets and no schedules to follow. You have the freedom to enjoy each day as it comes!

5. Using apps and websites:

Using apps and websites like CamperMate can make a huge difference when it comes to keeping your trip smooth, affordable and stress free. These apps can help you quickly locate essential facilities such as campgrounds, freedom camping spots, dump stations, petrol stations and even WIFI spots.

Having this information means you can compare, options, choose the cheapest fuel or camping spots and avoid unnecessary detours. Even better, these apps can often point you toward hidden gems, local favourites, and less well known spots you might never have discovered otherwise!