Pro Camper

 

Booking your Camper van Hire New Zealand is a big enough hurdle and expense. You don’t want to spend extra money on items you already have.

During your Camper van Hire New Zealand you should try to keep things simple. Be precise in what you bring. Too much gear is only a hassle in your Camper van. Always remember that there is only a limited amount of storage room in a Camper van Hire New Zealand.

Travel with foldable bags only. Hard suitcases are really awkward and do not store very well in most Camper van Hire New Zealand vehicles.

 

If you find there is something missing in my list below, please be so kind and post a comment to this blog post - I (and other readers) would love to know of any other ideas.

 

1. Headlight (or Torch)

A simple headlight or hand-held torch can add value to your Camper van Hire New Zealand holiday. Take it with you on nighttime walks and activities. Lost something in the dark? Get your headlight to look for it. You are able to offer assistance to fellow travelers in need of some extra light. A headlight is essential when you try to use the portable toilet outside during the hours of darkness. Your sleeping travel partner will appreciate it when you use your headlight instead of turning on the full camper van lighting. There are many ways this independent light source will come in handy. Do not forget this one on your Camper van Hire New Zealand!

 

2. Waterproof Jacket & Pants

I’m sure you’ve heard that the weather is very changeable in New Zealand. During wet weather, a simple walk from your Camper van Hire New Zealand to the campground toilet can be an unpleasant experience without the right gear. With your waterproof clothing, you will be the one on the upper deck of your Milford Sound cruise ship, enjoying the breathtaking Fiord land scenery during a rainstorm with a big smile on your face. Believe me, you will find use for your waterproof gear at some stage in New Zealand.

 

3. Layered Clothing

Different layers of clothing are useful. With a wind direction change there can easily be a 10 degree (Celsius) rise or drop in temperature. New Zealand is an island in the middle of a huge ocean and is exposed to extreme weather from the Antarctic and warm sub-tropic influences from the North. Keep in mind, though, that you only have limited storage space in a Camper van Hire New Zealand. Make sure you bring clothing for all types of weather, but do not bring your entire wardrobe.

 

4. Sunglasses & Sunscreen

The sun is very intense in New Zealand due to the weak ozone layer. Wearing sunglasses is recommended to protect your eyes from UV damage. As there is usually a light wind in NZ, it is misconceiving how hot the sun is on your skin. During summer months, make sure you wear 30+ sunscreen during the day otherwise you will get burned. Wearing a hat is also a very good idea.

Funny Fact: Most Camper van Hire New Zealand drivers and passengers get sunburned on the arm that is closest to the window. You can tell who has done more driving by comparing right arm tans.

 

5. Backpack

A daypack is a must-have on a Camper van Hire New Zealand trip. It is used for carrying gear to the beach, taking a picnic lunch on a walking trek or simply for a shopping spree in town. You will probably use your backpack on a daily basis.

 

6. Insect Repellent

Best bought when you get to New Zealand, insect repellent can make the difference between having a wonderful or terrible time. Sandflies can be a nuisance, especially on the West Coast of the South Island, but they pretty much exist everywhere in the wilderness of New Zealand. Mosquitos are also a big problem in the Central to Northern parts of the North Island. It’s not a good experience to find your Camper van Hire New Zealand vehicle humming of mosquitos when you get into bed at night. You may not get much sleep. For that reason I always recommend a Camper van Hire New Zealand with built-in fly screens. You can also buy insect repellent candles, which are ideal for your camper van living area.

 

7. English Driver’s License Translation

Drivers of Camper van Hire New Zealand vehicles must carry a driver’s license in English language or an International license. An English translation of your original driver’s license is sufficient should your document be in a different language. A translation of your license can be obtained at any automobile club or accredited translation service in your country.

 

8. Camera & Cell Phone

Do not forget your camera on your Camper van Hire New Zealand holiday! There are too many picturesque spots. I can guarantee that you will feel a strong urge to take photos on you Camper van Hire New Zealand trip.

A cell phone is a big bonus as it enables you to call for help or assistance with your camper van, book your next campground in advance or stay in touch with family and friends. You can rent a cell phone from your Camper van Hire company or buy a sim card for your existing phone.

 

9. Water & Food Containers

Organization will help make your Camper van Hire New Zealand relaxed and stressless. It’s practical to have some plastic food containers for leftovers or for transporting food to a picnic location. When you fill up your Camper van water tank at a service station, it is also a good idea to fill up some spare bottles with extra water supply.

 

10. Duct Tape (& Fly screen mesh)

Duct Tape or sticky tape is very versatile on a Camper van Hire New Zealand holiday. I have been in many situations where I needed some tape but had none. It temporarily fixes water leaks, secures your makeshift washing line to a tree, repairs broken bits and pieces, etc. There are numerous ways duct tape will save your day.

If your Camper van Hire New Zealand vehicle does not feature fly screens you may want to stick some fly screen mesh to on of your windows to allow air circulation without mosquitos and sandflies.

 

I’m sure there are many more items that are essential to a successful Camper van Hire New Zealand holiday. These are the 10 items I could not be without on my Camper van trip.

Please feel free to post a comment if you have questions or suggestions.

Happy Traveling!