If you are used to cooking in a full-size kitchen in a regular house however, you may be a bit daunted when you first try cooking meals in a motorhome. There is usually little or no counter space, and fridge and cabinet space can also be very limited.

Below are some tips to help you get used to preparing meals efficiently and successfully in a motorhome. While cooking in such tight quarters takes some getting used to, once you get the hang of it, you will find that it is not that much harder than preparing meals in a big kitchen.

1. Plan meals which use the same ingredients.

First of all, some motorhomes do have full-size refrigerators and freezers, but many have something more along the lines of a mini-fridge. Space for dry and canned ingredients may also be less than ideal.

What can you do about it? Try and plan out a vacation menu in advance. Think about meals you can eat which use ingredients in common. Eggs for example can be used in a lot of meals, as can potatoes, pasta, ground beef, and so forth. The fewer ingredients you are using, the less space they take up in your fridge or cabinets.

2. No counter space? Pack a cutting board to place on top of the sink.

Some motorhome kitchens offer next to no counter space. Find out in advance if that is what you can expect. If so, the easiest solution is simply to get a cutting board and place it over one of the sink basins. Use that as your “counter” while you are preparing your meals.

3. Get used to putting things on the table, dinette seats, etc.

Of course, you may still need more counter space than the cutting board solution provides. If that is the case, you will need to think outside the box. You do not have to only use the kitchen—everything is in one “room” in a motorhome, so take advantage of other useful surfaces.

Set some dishes on the dining table. Put some pots and pans on the seats. Place some ingredients on the desk. Make use of your entire environment if you have to. Because it is such a small area, everything will probably still be within immediate reach.

4. Try and cook with just one appliance at a time.

You may be used to preparing complex meals which involve using the oven and the stovetop, perhaps both at the same time, and maybe multiple burners as well. While you can make these meals in a motorhome, trying to juggle all that can be overwhelming.

It is usually easier to stick with meals that only require you to use a single appliance. Try making a meal entirely in the oven, or preparing a recipe which only requires you to use the stovetop.

5. Try and cook when there are few distractions.

In most motorhomes, the kitchen is essentially a narrow “corridor” between the front of the vehicle and the back. Usually it separates the main living space from a back bedroom. There is generally just enough room for a single person to stand.

So if you have kids running back and forth, trying to push past you, you will have a hard time cooking. It will be a challenge to focus, and it will be hard to physically do the work. In some cases, it can even be a safety hazard. All it takes is a child knocking into you for you to lose your balance or drop something. If the stovetop is on, that could result in burns.

If you can, look for a way to get the motorhome to yourself while you cook. Send the kids to play outside. If your family or friends do not wish to go outside, then try and wait to cook until they are occupied with something (i.e. watching a movie).

6. Clean dishes as you go.

Another trick to cooking meals with limited space is to continuously wash your dishes and utensils while you are preparing your recipes. If you wait to wash up until you are done, you will just end up piling up dishes with nowhere to put them. If you wash them as you go, you will have more free space to work with, and you can re-use the same dishes.

7. Only one person can cook at a time.

You have heard the phrase “too many cooks in the kitchen.” Well, in a motorhome, that idiom applies quite literally, and it is almost always true. With so little space, even two is a crowd.

So plan to cook meals by yourself if you will be the one in charge of meal prep. If you want to share the job of cooking, each person who cooks should do so one at a time. So you can cook meals one day, your spouse can cook meals the next, and so on. If you try to cook meals together, you will only end up getting in each others’ way.

Cooking Meals in a Motorhome Isn’t Too Hard, But Does Take Practice

You are on vacation, so try and keep that in mind when you are planning and packing for your adventure on the road. The trick is to keep things simple. Adjusting to meal preparation in such a small space may seem challenging, but with these tips on your side, you will soon be doing it like a pro. You can enjoy the taste and nutrition of your own cooking while saving money on your trip.

You actually will want to think about all three of these elements of trip planning simultaneously. Why? Because different motorhomes and campervans are equipped with different conveniences. Depending on the vehicle you choose to hire, you may need to look for campgrounds which offers specific amenities.

You can look at it the other way around too. Perhaps you really, really want to stay at a certain campground which has few amenities. If that is the case, then you will want to select a vehicle to hire which will provide you with those amenities onboard. That way you can enjoy a comfortable stay.

Regardless of the approach you end up taking, here are some campground amenities which you may want to look for while you are booking your reservations.

• Toilets: One of the awesome things about renting a spacious motorhome is that you should have your own toilet onboard. But if you are travelling in campervan or motorhome which isn’t equipped with a toilet, you will definitely want to look for toilets at the park where you will be staying. Check to find out if they are flush toilets or not.

• Showers: Unless you plan to shower in your motorhome (which may be feasible, but is frequently awkward), you will need to make sure that showers are included among the amenities where you will be staying.

• Sewer hookups, dump station, trash, and recycling services: You will accumulate various forms of waste while you are camping in your hired motorhome, 4WD camper or campervan. Find out what your options will be for waste disposal where you are going.

• Water hookups: Some campgrounds may allow you to hook up your motorhome and get running water in your sink and shower. Obviously, this is very convenient.

• Potable water: This refers to water which is safe to drink. If a campground does not offer this, it will be up to you to bring or treat your own water for safe drinking. Obviously, it is very important to know in advance if you are going to need to do this. Most motorhome campgrounds have potable water, but some of the more remote ones on protected parkland may not.

• Firewood: If you want to build a fire, you will either need to provide your own wood or purchase it. Some campgrounds may have it for sale. Make sure you also find out what regulations there are surrounding campfires before you attempt to start one.

• Ice: Is there a vending machine which dispenses ice on the grounds, or will you need to provide your own ice?

• Fire pits and grills: Find out whether the campground offers fire pits and/or grills for warmth and food preparation. This is particularly important if you are not going to be cooking inside your motorhome.

• Picnic tables: Even with a smaller campervan, you may have a dining nook inside where you can sit and eat comfortably at a table. Still, you may want to look for a campground with picnic tables so you can enjoy sitting outside.

• On-site staff: Are there park hosts to help you out if you need it? If so, are they available only during the day, or will they be there 24/7?

• Electric hookups: Some campgrounds allow you to get electricity inside your motorhome, but many do not. If full hookups are important to you, make sure you check into this.

• Wi-fi: Planning to get online during your trip? Find out whether there will be wi-fi available at the campground. This can be helpful not only in staying connected with life back home, but also for ongoing trip planning while you are on the road.

• Laundry facilities: If you will be taking an extended vacation, it can be really helpful to have somewhere convenient to do your laundry—especially if you are in a remote location. Some campgrounds offer laundry facilities, even in wilderness parks.

• Common areas: Most campgrounds will have some outdoor common areas for picnicking, kids to play, etc. Others may have additional common features such as clubhouses. This is more common at privately-run parks than national park campgrounds.

• Convenience stores: Convenience stores may be found at many campgrounds in remote locales. While they usually only stock the essentials, they can be a big help while you are camping.

• Swimming pools, playgrounds, pet parks, etc: These features are sometimes offered at privately-operated motorhome parks.

Remember, you do not necessarily need all of these amenities. It all depends on 1-what kinds of features your hired vehicle already comes with, and 2-what you need in order to be comfortable during your trip.

Here Are Some Important Questions to Ask About Amenities at Campgrounds

• Are the amenities listed available year-round, or are they seasonal only?
• Are the amenities free, or do some of them carry fees? If so, how much?
• Are the hookups which are available compatible with your vehicle?
• What are the rules regarding the amenities (i.e. what do you need to know about using the dump station)?

You can usually find pretty thorough information on motorhome campground amenities on campground websites, but if you have any questions, you can always call and ask.

It takes a bit of time to research the amenities offered at campgrounds, but doing so can go a long way toward ensuring that you will have a convenient and enjoyable trip in your rented motorhome, 4WD camper or campervan. Good luck planning the perfect vacation!

But while you will start your trip with more clean clothes, you will also find yourself with more dirty laundry along the way. This is especially true on an extended trip.

Thankfully, you can certainly get your laundry done while you are on the road.

A lot of folks aren’t used to doing laundry on vacation, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Following are some suggestions for cleaning your clothes while you are vacationing in a rented motorhome.

1. Know your options.

You may have more options than you initially realize for doing your laundry when you hire a motorhome, campervan or 4WD camper.

Some larger motorhomes may have onboard washing machines and dryers. If you do have access to these, you can wash your clothes after you hook up.

Here are some of your other options:

• RV parks frequently have laundry facilities which everyone can use.
• Parking in or near a town? Chances are good there is at least one Laundromat you can visit.
• Hand-washing your clothes takes some elbow grease, but it does get the job done. But you need to be aware that most motorhome parks will not be amused by you hanging out your laundry on a line or from a tree. Hanging a few items over the shower bar inside your motorhome may work as an alternative.
• Use the laundry facilities at a truck stop while you are on the road.
• There are wash bags you can get to use for camping. So long as you have soap and water to fill them with, you can wash your clothes anywhere. This is a great solution if you are at a remote campground with no access to washing machines or dryers.

Once you know what your route and stops will be for your road trip, you will be able to research laundry facilities along the way and come up with the best plan.

2. Skip the delicates.

If possible, you may want to leave your delicate at home, at least for the most part. Why? The issue isn’t washing them. As already mentioned, you can always hand-wash. All you need for that is a basin, a wash bag, or even a regular sink.

The issue is drying. Throwing your delicates in the dryer is typically a bad idea if you want to preserve them. But as mentioned, line drying them often is not an option either. That leaves hanging them up over your motorhome shower bar, if you have one.

So think about passing on the delicates, along with any other clothing which you cannot throw in a regular dryer. It will make your laundry life a lot less complicated while you are on your road trip.

3. Using the motorhome park’s facilities? Know the rules.

While guests are free to use the laundry facilities provided by motorhome parks, they are expected to follow the rules governing the use of the washers and dryers.

For example, some septic systems cannot handle bleach, therefore, you should not use it if a sign stating such as posted.

So before you start a load of laundry at a motorhome park or campground, check to see if there are any rules you need to abide by.

4. Try to beat the rush.

If you are staying at a park which happens to have a number of full-time residents, be aware that they may have regular laundry schedules and frequently be using the washers and dryers.

If you wake up early, you might want to consider getting to the laundry room right away to check if it is available. If it is, you might want to start a load immediately so that you do not get stuck in line behind others waiting their turn.

For this reason, it is also usually not a good idea to put off doing your laundry until right before you plan to pull out of a particular park or campground and continue on the road.

5. Consider doing smaller loads regularly.

If you have brought a lot of clothing with you for an extended trip in order to avoid doing your laundry as much as possible, you might want to reconsider that plan.

Doing large loads of laundry on vacation can become logistically complicated and overwhelming, especially if it means that you are waiting for more than one washer or dryer to be available.

You might instead want to think about doing your laundry every couple of days, even if that means that you are only washing a few items.

This approach gives you the freedom to hand wash everything instead of using a washing machine. That means you do not need to wait for the laundry facilities to become available, and you do not necessarily even need the laundry facilities.

It should only take you a few minutes to get your laundry done each time you wash this way. You could just take care of it when you are showering and getting ready for the day. If you make it a habit, it should become an afterthought. You can then get right back to your vacation activities.

Keeping Up With Your Laundry On Vacation Can Be Easy

You have a number of options now for how you can approach doing your laundry when you are travelling in a motorhome, campervan or 4WD camper.

While a motorhome which includes onboard laundry machines gives you the most flexibility, there are still many ways you can keep your clothing clean and fresh while travelling in a smaller hired vehicle.

With these tips and ideas, you should be able to keep hassles to a minimum and spend less time doing the wash. That means more time to enjoy your adventures in New Zealand!

While these conveniences can make life easier and more comfortable, you probably also are aware that many motorhome parks and campgrounds offer toilets and showers of their own.

If you do not have a lot of experience with travelling in a motorhome, you may wonder whether it is better to use your onboard bathroom or the bathrooms in the parks where you stay.

This is a subjective matter. If you talk to other vacationers or full-timers, you will encounter very different opinions on the topic. So to help you plan for your own vacation, following are some of the pros and cons of each of your options.

Pros of Your Motorhome Bathroom:

• Obviously, if you stay in your motorhome and use the onboard bathroom, you maximize your privacy—at this in terms of dealing with other vacationers, park residents and park staff.

• It saves you time and effort not to have to walk all the way to the shower facilities and back carrying all of your stuff. It is just a much more convenient option.

• The motorhome bathroom is clean, and will stay that way so long as you do not make a mess of it. For a lot of people, this is the biggest selling point on using the onboard bathroom.

Cons of Your Motorhome Bathroom:

• Even though you maximize privacy with respect to other people at the campground, you may have less privacy with respect to other people you are travelling with.

• In order not to clog the black tank, you will need to make sure that you’re using the appropriate type of toilet paper.

• You will need to deal with emptying your black tank if you are using it.

• Taking a shower in a motorhome is not the most comfortable prospect for everyone. Showers in motorhomes tend to be on the small size. For larger travellers, they may not be entirely feasible. Water pressure also tends to be lower than what you would get from a regular shower.

• As a short-term traveller, you don’t really need to worry about humidity. But if you were a full-timer, you would need to concern yourself with airing out the motorhome to prevent mold.

Pros of a Public Bathroom:

• You get all the space you need in the shower. There also should be a private stall with plenty of room for changing and taking care of any other personal hygiene needs. For a lot of folks, this is simply more comfortable and less of a hassle than a small motorhome bathroom.

• Water pressure in a public shower can vary. At some parks, it may be on the low side, but at many, it may be closer to what you enjoy at home.

• If you are using the public bathroom instead of the toilet in your motorhome, you do not have to deal with the black tank at all. You can just ignore it.

• There may be more counter space in the public bathroom if you want to spread stuff out to do your hair/makeup, etc.

Cons of a Public Bathroom:

• To many people, public showers seem “unclean.” The reality is that there can be wide variation in the cleanliness and upkeep of RV park restrooms. While some of them can be pretty dodgy, many are really no less clean than any other public restroom you’re used to using. From my experiences, the perception that RV park restrooms are “unhygienic” is greatly exaggerated. That being said, like any other public showers, they do seem conducive to athlete’s foot.

• You have to put up with disruptions in the public restroom. Another annoyance of using motorhome parking campground toilets and showers is that people are constantly coming and going, interrupting you and making noise. You do not need to deal with this if you use your onboard toilet and shower.

• People doing their laundry can pull hot water from the showers. While not an issue at every campground, oftentimes, when people throw in their wash next door, all the hot water can go out of the shower for part of the cycle. This is not an issue in your motorhome shower.

• Sometimes public restrooms are closed for cleaning. Although some motorhome parks do not take the time to clean their bathrooms as often as they should, others may do so daily. Even though this is obviously a positive, sometimes it means that the bathroom is not available for a period of time.

• Finally, sometimes there is no public restroom. There are RV parks that do not offer showers. Also, if you are parked at a remote campground rather than a motorhome resort, you may have no shower or toilet to use at all aside from the one that you have onboard.

Should You Use the Onboard or Public Bathroom While Vacationing in a Hired Motorhome? You Decide.

Having read through the pros and cons above, you can see that there are quite a few advantages and disadvantages of both onboard bathrooms in hired motorhomes and public facilities at parks and campgrounds.

Ultimately, neither option is definitively superior to the other. It all depends on your preferences and sensibilities as well as what is most convenient to you and your family while travelling.

What is great about hiring a motorhome is that you do have options. You can even try using both public and onboard bathrooms and decide for yourself which you prefer.

For more tips for taking a motorhome or campervan vacation in New Zealand, be sure and keep up with our blog.

There are many benefits of touring New Zealand in a self-contained campervan instead of a regular van or a different type of vehicle. In this article, we will go over some of the benefits, but first, let’s talk about the basics, starting with the definition of a self-contained campervan.

What Are Self-Contained Campervans?

“Self-contained campervan” is an official legal designation for a campervan which fulfils the following requirements:

• Freshwater tank: 12L per person (technically, per berth) for three days.
• Grey tank: 12L per person for three days.
• Black tank: for 12L per person for three days.
• Evacuation hose for a fitted or sealed portable tank.
• A toilet, sink, and rubbish bin which conform to regulations.
• Warranted under the NZ Standard for Self Containment of Motor Caravans and Caravans, NZS 5465:2001 (this is a must, even once other requirements are filled).

Your Campervan Must Have a Certification Sticker

Is the campervan you are driving self-contained? The only way to be sure is to look for the self-containment certification sticker. If you do not see this sticker, then the vehicle has yet to pass inspection.

You also do not want to travel without a sticker because it is possible that authorities might fine you for camping in a zone where only certified self-contained vehicles are permitted.

Top Benefits of Hiring a Self-Contained Campervan

Now you know what a self-contained campervan is, and you are aware of the importance of the certification sticker.

What doors does driving a self-contained campervan open for you is a vacationer in New Zealand? Let’s go over some of the top advantages.

1. Travel and camp (just about) anywhere in comfort.

First of all, a self-contained campervan is a campervan! That means that you can explore New Zealand by road without worrying about booking and paying for separate accommodations. Your vacation itself is self-contained.

2. Stay at campsites that require onboard toilets.

If you do not have an onboard toilet in your vehicle, you are prohibited from camping at sites which have signs telling you not to (typically spots without public toilets). This law exists in order to discourage pollution.

If, however, you are travelling in a self-contained campervan, by definition, it must include an onboard toilet. That means that if you are displaying the appropriate certification, you are free to park that campervan at any campground, whether it includes public toilets or not.

That opens up more opportunities, and may also help you to get away from some of the crowds since there are many people who will not be able to park and camp in those locations.

3. Protect the environment and public health.

The specific regulations governing inspection and certification for self-contained campervans ensures that they will help to safeguard both public health and the ecosystems through which you drive and park. So when you hire a self-contained campervan for your next trip, you will know that you are doing your part.

4. Pay less for camping opportunities.

There are more than 300 free campgrounds scattered around New Zealand. But not all of these have public toilets.

That means that it can be harder to save money on your vacation if you do not have a self-contained campervan. But with one, free opportunities abound.

5. Enjoy freedom camping.

Are you on public land? Do you see a sign that says you are not allowed to camp? If you have answered “yes” to the first question and “no” to the second, then you can freedom camp so long as you are in a self-contained campervan.

Again, if you do not have a campervan with this certification, you cannot do this (at least not in every region—there may be exceptions) because there are no public toilets. So the freedom that a self-contained campervan extends you goes far beyond campgrounds to include much broader access to public land for camping.

Self-Contained Campervan or Motorhome?

Now that you know that self-contained campervans let you park in more locations because of the onboard toilet, you might be wondering how a campervan compares to another option such as a motorhome which also can include all the same features and receive a certification. Which one should you choose?

Consideration #1: Driving and parking is easier and more accessible in a campervan than a larger motorhome.

From an access standpoint, a campervan is probably preferable to a motorhome in most cases. Because campervans are smaller vehicles, they can drive on roads which may be unsafe (or simply challenging) to drive in a larger motorhome.

Campervans also can park in smaller spaces than motorhomes. Not every campground can accommodate larger vehicles.

Consideration #2: A Motorhome Does Provide More Space and Amenities

On the flipside, a motorhome might be a more suitable option if you need more space than a campervan can provide and are looking for a additional amenities such as a shower and a fully-featured kitchen.

Conclusion: A Self-Contained Campervan Is Your Passport to Camping Freedom in NZ

While there are many lovely campgrounds with public toilets throughout New Zealand, there are many more camping opportunities—including freedom camping on public land—which are only available if you have a certified self-contained campervan with an onboard toilet.

So think about booking a reservation for a self-contained campervan now. It could be your ticket to exploring New Zealand with the highest degree of freedom, comfort, and flexibility.

In this post, we’re going to review the regulations you need to know. But first, let’s talk a little bit about freedom camping.

What is Freedom Camping?

“Freedom camping” is a term which is specific to New Zealand. It is defined by the NZ government as camping, “on public land that isn’t a recognised camping ground or holiday park.”

The basic rule is simple. If you are on DOC (Department of Conservation) or local council land, and there is not a sign posted saying that camping is not allowed, then you can freedom camp.

But there are some detailed regulations which you need to know about in order to make sure you are not breaking the law.

Freedom Camping Laws and Regulations to Know About

Where You Can and Cannot Freedom Camp

• Do not camp on private land.

• Do not park on public land if you see a sign telling you it is not allowed. This sign includes a pictogram of a caravan and a tent which is inside a red circle with a bar going across it.

• If your vehicle is not self-contained, you cannot park anywhere you see a blue sign featuring a pictogram of a white caravan with its own toilet facilities. The words “Self Contained” are written beneath it.

• You may not camp at a Māori burial site (urupā).

• You may not be able to camp at a site which is home to a protected species (the rules for conservation areas can vary, so you should look them up for the area which interests you for camping).

• There might be other special sites you also cannot legally camp at. Be on the lookout for signs indicating that camping is prohibited.

• Freedom camping on council land tends to be limited strictly to self-contained vehicles. You must follow all applicable bylaws for the council and district in question. These might place specific parameters on where you can camp and how long you can park there. It is common, for instance, to need to drive out of town at least a kilometre before you can legally camp for the night.

• You are expected to conduct yourself politely and not to violate the rights of other people. That means you should not be excessively noisy, violate other persons’ space, or behave in a rowdy or menacing manner.

• If an enforcement officer tells you to leave a site, you must do so, whether or not you agree. If you resist, you could be fined.

What Type of Vehicle You Can Use for Freedom Camping

The previously linked government page says, “Your vehicle may need to be self-contained depending on the bylaws” which apply in a particular region.

If you want to maximize your freedom to camp almost anywhere you choose (especially close to towns), you definitely need a self-contained vehicle.

This could be a campervan, RV, motor caravan, motorhome, regular van, or other type of vehicle.

That vehicle must pass inspection and receive the self-containment certification sticker.

That means that it will require the following:

• Freshwater, graywater, and blackwater tanks with the capacity to support as many people as there are berths in the vehicle for a minimum of three days.

• A sink, a toilet, and a rubbish bin which meet specific requirements.

Make sure you have the certification sticker before you start freedom camping. Even if a vehicle meets the requirements for certification, it is not legally “self-contained” until it passes inspection and you can display the sticker.

It should be noted that over the years, repeated violations of pollution laws by campers without self-contained vehicles has led to enforcement officials really cracking down since last year.

The easiest way to stay on the right side of the law is to hire a self-contained vehicle for your vacation and only dispose of your waste at dump stations.

If you do that, in most cases, you should be just fine. Just pay attention to signage so that you do not mistakenly park somewhere that is prohibited.

Freedom Camping Do’s and Don’ts

Don’t:

• The entire point of the regulations concerning self-contained vehicles is to try and prevent pollution. So do not leave toilet paper, excrement, or rubbish of any sort at a site.

• Do not argue with enforcement officers or ignore their requests to see your certification or other information. You can get a fine if you do this.

• Never damage or vandalize a site in any way. You should leave it exactly the way you found it.

• Don’t use detergents in streams, lakes, or other bodies of water.

• Never harm vegetation. If you want to build a fire, do so out of sticks that are already laying around, or purchase firewood. Do not cut down trees or branches.

Do:

• Properly dispose of waste. That means heading to a dump station. Don’t know where to find one? Check the closest i-SITE (visitor centre).

• Clean up after yourself. Wastewater and human waste are not the only pollutants you should not leave at a site. You should not leave any sort of litter behind you. Dispose of it in a trash or recycling bin, or take it with you when you go.

What Happens if You Break Freedom Camping Laws?

If you violate freedom camping laws, you could receive a fine. At the low end, that fine could be $200, which is what you could expect for the majority of violations.

But there are a couple of violations which can incur a much heftier fine. If, for example, you are “behaving illegally towards an enforcement officer,” the fine could be $5,000. And if you dump on public ground instead of at a dumping station, the fine can be $10,000.

Failure to pay your fine on time can stop you from exiting the country at customs. So try not to incur any fines, and if you do, make sure you get them paid within 28 days to avoid additional penalties.

Conclusion: Follow Freedom Camping Laws and Enjoy the Experience

Freedom camping truly does give you the freedom to explore New Zealand at your own pace, parking in any beautiful spot on public land where camping is not prohibited. So long as you are following all regulations to the letter, you should be able to enjoy a smooth, flexible, affordable vacation in your self-contained campervan or motorhome.

You Will Need to Use a Ferry

The only way to bring your campervan or motorhome from the North Island to the South Island or vice versa is to put it on a ferry.

Introducing Interislander

While there are a few options for ferrying across the Cook Strait, the main one is the Interislander, also referred to as Ngā Waka.

It is state-owned and operated through KiwiRail, and currently has a fleet of three vessels. These include the DEV Aratere, the MS Kaiarahi, and the MV Kaitaki. These names translate to “Quick Path,” “Leader” and “Challenger” in Māori respectively.

The route which the ferries take measures 50 nautical miles, and the cruise itself takes about three hours, running between Wellington on the North Island and Picton on the South Island.

Lest you worry that this is just going to be a big interruption in your vacation experience, think again. The Interislander ferry trip is in itself an experience. A lot of people book it for sheer enjoyment, not even out of necessity. The scenic vistas you’ll get to take in as you relax onboard are world famous. So, get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

What Should You Know About Travelling on the Interislander Ferry?

Book Early

When you reserve your space, you’ll need to input what type of vehicle you are bringing, including its length and weight. The earlier you book, the more likely it is that the ferry will be able to accommodate you, especially if you are travelling in a larger motorhome.

Luggage

You do not need to worry about luggage limits. Everything which you are able to stow in your campervan or motorhome can go with you on the ferry. You can even bring bicycles or kayaks, so long as you can attach them to your hired motorhome.

Dogs and Cats

If you have a pet along, you can bring it on the ferry. You have two options for where to put it during the voyage: in your vehicle or in the ferry’s kennels or baggage area.

The kennel or baggage area may be a suitable option if your pet will be uncomfortable or unsafe in your vehicle for one reason or another (i.e. a small vehicle on a hot day).

But if the motorhome or campervan will be safe for your pet with the windows cracked, that is the recommended option since the kennels and baggage area will be in high demand among pedestrian travellers with pets.

Be sure to think about what you want to do in advance, because you will need to reserve a kennel spot for your dog if you need one. You do this at the same time you reserve your passage.

Food

Want to grab a bite to eat while you are onboard? Whatever snacks you bring along with you are one option, but you also can book breakfast when you place your reservation, and enjoy a full meal on the voyage.

For afternoon fare, head to the Ocean View Eatery. There you can grab fish and chips or sushi or sweets. You also can head to the Local Heroes bar if you want to grab some beer or wine. There is a no-kids-allowed lounge offering free food as well called Interislander Plus.

Passing the Time

What’s the best way to spend the three hours of your voyage between the North and South Islands? If you ask us, it is taking in the views and fresh sea air. But if you (or your kids) are looking for something more to do than hang out on the viewing decks, you can play video games, watch TV, or view a movie in one of the family lounges.

There is also a play area for children featuring climbing equipment, slides, and more. Your children may also have the chance to watch a magic show if one of the ferry’s entertainers is onboard.

The Ferry Trip Between the North and South Islands With Your Motorhome or Campervan Is a Treat In Itself

Now you know what to expect if you decide to ferry your motorhome or campervan between New Zealand’s islands.

You’ll find that the three-hour voyage provides for a nice change of pace. It is a chance to relax, grab a bite to eat or a refreshing beverage, and take in some of the country’s most picturesque views.

No animal is going to take kindly to being kennelled for hours on end for a road trip in a car. Plus, leaving your dog or cat in a small vehicle while you head out to do other things (even grab a bite to eat) can be dangerous in hot conditions.

But with a motorhome, your dog or cat has room to run around. It is also a bit easier to maintain climate control in a larger vehicle than it is a small one.

Still, travelling with a dog or cat in a motorhome can pose some challenges, and there are still health and safety considerations. Here are some tips for safe and successful motorhome travel with a dog or cat. I have categorised them to make the list as easy to skim as possible so that you can rapidly jump to your areas of concern.

1. Safety

• If you will be out of the motorhome without the air conditioner running, be aware that even with the windows cracked, it could still potentially overheat if it is warm outside. Only leave your pet alone in the motorhome if it will be safe to do so.

• Something else simple you can do to help your cat or dog stay cool when you are present is to fill a spray bottle with water and use it now and again. Also make sure that your pet has plenty of water available at all times to stay hydrated.

• Keep your pet’s collar and tag on securely at all times. If possible, microchip your animal before you go on your vacation. If it can provide you with GPS tracking, all the better. There is no reason for your cat or dog ever to be without identification on a trip.

• It should go without saying, but enter and leave your vehicle very carefully if you have a dog or cat inside that is not tied up or in a crate. It is very easy for an animal to make a dive past you for the door. If you have any concerns at all that your dog or cat might not return to the motorhome after running around outside, it is best to keep your pet indoors at all times or on a leash.

• Leash-training a cat can make it much safer and easier to travel with one. You can simply get your cat’s harness and leash on before opening the door, and keep a firm hold on the end of the leash. This also makes it much less likely you will lose your cat if you decide to bring her outdoors with you.

• Regularly taking your cat or dog on short drives in a carrier in your regular vehicle is a good way to start adapting your pet to travel. This is wise to do before you bring your pet on a motorhome vacation.

• Do not forget to pack your pets’ medications as well as their vet records when you bring them on a trip.

2. Cleanliness

• If you are travelling with a cat and a litter box, choose a low-dust product, and be prepared to sweep up litter each day.

• You don’t want your dog or cat tracking too much dirt or mud inside. See if you can check your pet’s paws at the entrance to the motorhome. If they are exceedingly dirty, you might try rinsing them off before letting them in. Dogs boots also are not a bad idea.

• Your cat or dog will shed during the course of your vacation, especially if it is during the hotter months of the year. Do what you can to keep up with this. You do not want to return your hired vehicle covered in cat or dog hair.

3. Damage Issues

If your pet is at all destructive in terms of furnishings, cushions, or so forth, strongly consider not taking a trip with your animal in a hired vehicle. All you have to do is turn your back on your pet for one minute, and you could find yourself responsible for paying for damages.

4. Bookings

Not all motorhome parks or campsites are animal-friendly. Before you book any reservations, ask whether dogs or cats are allowed. If there are, find out what the basic rules are.

5. General Tips

• It is hard for a cat or dog to adjust to a new environment and a disruption in routine. To minimise those difficulties, bring supplies from home which will provide a feeling of safety and familiarity (i.e. your dog’s favourite toy, your cat’s bed, etc.).

• Regular rest stops are a good idea. Not only will they ensure that your dog or cat gets exercise and a chance to use the bathroom, but they also are an opportunity for a break for you too. Everyone needs to get up and stretch during a long drive.

• Observe the same etiquette when travelling with your pet as you would at home. That means that you need to pick up after your animal. You also should not let your dog run up and jump on other people or get involved in fights with other animals.

• For cats, an anti-anxiety spray such as Feliway or Rescue Remedy may be helpful. This can not only soothe your pet’s anxiety, but also reduce potentially destructive behaviour.

6. Legal

• Crossing international borders with animals can be complicated. Research any and all border crossings you have planned for your vacation and what you can expect regarding your pets. Be prepared in advance for paperwork, vaccination requirements, etc.

• There are locations where you cannot have your pet off a leash. In particular, state and national parks tend to have a strict policy against this, and you would be wise to follow it. Fines can be hefty for violations, as pets off leashes may endanger protected flora and fauna.

Conclusion

If you are new to motorhome travel with a dog or cat, your first trip can be a challenge to plan as there is so much you need to think about and for which you must be prepared.

But once you have taken a few motorhome trips with your pet, you may find that your dog or cat takes well to experiences on the road. Eventually, your pet may look forward to adventures in a hired motorhome as much as you do!

Taking a New Zealand holiday in a motorhome or other hired vehicle frees you from needing to book reservations at traditional hotels and motels.

Instead, you can stay at any of the numerous holiday parks for national parks throughout NZ.

Even better, you do not have to worry about bookings, because New Zealand allows freedom camping.

That means that if need be, you can pull over and spend the night anywhere that freedom camping is not prohibited.

In this article, we will go over all of these options in detail so that you can plan for your New Zealand motorhome holiday.

Holiday Parks

Your first option when it comes to spending the night in a hired vehicle is to head to a holiday park.

There are holiday parks located throughout New Zealand. A holiday park is the same thing as a “motorhome Park” or “motorhome resort.” It could also be called an “RV park” or even a “trailer park” (there is less of a distinction between these terms than many people believe).

There is a huge range of quality and amenities across the board. So, you should do research before you book reservations at a park.

Pros of Holiday Parks:

• Holiday parks are often located conveniently close to popular tourist attractions and town amenities.
• Some holiday parks include tennis courts, splash parks, swimming pools, and other fun features.
• There are typically laundry and bathroom (including shower) facilities at holiday parks.
• Some holiday parks offer complimentary breakfasts.

Cons of Holiday Parks:

• If you stay at a holiday park which is close to town, there can be more traffic.
• Holiday parks are sometimes very crowded, and can get noisy.

National Parks

Currently, there are 13 national parks throughout New Zealand. Put together, they feature around 30,000 km² of protected land.

These national parks feature campgrounds of their own directly on the premises.

Depending on the park and the campground, you may or may not need to place a reservation. If the campground is at a particularly remote site or is on the small side, you may only be able to claim a spot if you get there before others.

Pros of National Parks:

• Some national park campgrounds can be very busy, while others are smaller and more secluded, providing more privacy and tranquillity.
• Depending on where you stay, you may have access to drinking water, firewood, ice, restrooms, and sometimes even laundry.
• You cannot beat the scenery you will be surrounded by at a national park campground in New Zealand.
• If discovering national parks is your priority on your holiday, there can be no more convenient location to spend the night than directly on the grounds you want to explore.

Cons of National Parks:

• National park campgrounds can fill up quickly, even those which accept reservations. You may need to book months in advance of your trip.
• Some national park campgrounds provide very little in the way of amenities.
• You may be located inconveniently far from restaurants, stores and other in-town amenities at some destinations.

Freedom Camping

Finally, there is another option for where you stay on your motorhome holiday in New Zealand, and that is almost anywhere you like.

So long as you are on public land and there are no signs prohibiting camping, you are allowed to spend the night so long as you are travelling in a self-contained motorhome or campervan.

You need a certificate to do this. So, when you hire your vehicle, make sure to inquire about this.

Also, there are specific laws which govern freedom camping in New Zealand. Make sure that you are familiar with them before you embark on your adventure.

Pros of Freedom Camping:

• Camp almost anywhere! Think how many times in other locales you might have thought that something looked like the perfect campsite, but were unable to stay there. As long as there are no signs prohibiting camping, any ideal spot can become your campground in New Zealand.

• Don’t worry about bookings and vacancies. You get to decide how early or late you want to stop driving for the day. You don’t need to juggle the administrative hassles associated with bookings, and you don’t need to worry about no vacancy signs.

• Change your plans on the fly. If you want to make a detour or change your plans altogether, you have complete freedom to do so. This flexibility can make your vacation more convenient and more fun.

Cons of Freedom Camping:

• Following freedom camping laws means that you will need to dispose of your waste properly. So you will need to locate dump stations near the sites you select.

• There is always a chance that an enforcement officer will ask to see your certificate. But so long as you’re not part in an inappropriate location and are in a self-contained vehicle, you should not experience any issues.

• There are no amenities or hookups.

Campground Options Abound for Motorhome and Campervan Vacationers in NZ

Whether you decide to freedom camp or stay at holiday parks or national park campgrounds, the abundant options available to you make it fun and easy to plan a motorhome for campervan holiday in New Zealand. Continue exploring our posts to learn more about discovering NZ by motorhome or 4WD vehicle!

Even with the smallest hired vehicles, you should have ample storage space available onboard. And if you hire a larger motorhome, you can pack quite a few supplies and still have room left over.

But you probably are not used to packing for trips in hired vehicles and are more used to eating at restaurants and sleeping in hotels.

So, you may wonder what additional supplies you need to pack that you would not normally bring on a typical vacation.

In this guide, we will discuss what you do and do not need to bring with you to enjoy a comfortable motorhome or campervan holiday in New Zealand.

Items That Will Be Provided For You With Your Rental

When you hire a motorhome or other vehicle for a New Zealand holiday, certain supplies will be provided to you as part of your rental. You do not need to pack these supplies yourself as they will be waiting for you onboard.

• Basic bedding including sheets, pillows, and blankets will already be waiting for you if you hire a motorhome.
• A hired motorhome also will come with towels to use in the bathroom along with soaps, shampoos and conditioners (like in a hotel).
• In the kitchen, you should find cookware, dishes, utensils and even some basic appliances. You do not need to pack anything for the kitchen in most cases beyond specialty items that you want to bring.
• Closets come equipped with hangers for your clothes.
• Cleaning supplies such as liquid soap, dishtowels, dust pans, brushes and brooms tend to be onboard.
• Both matches and at least one fire extinguisher will probably be onboard as well.
• You may be able to pay extra for add-on supplies like bicycles, outdoor equipment, binoculars, and so on.

A small campervan will not include the same amenities and supplies as a large motorhome. Also, different companies offer different supplies. Find out what is included in your rental agreement. Otherwise, you might forget to pack something you need.

What You Need to Pack for Your NZ Motorhome Holiday

So, assuming all of the items listed above are waiting for you in your hired vehicle, what do you need to pack for your New Zealand holiday?

Bathroom Supplies

Whether or not soaps, shampoos and conditioners are provided by the rental company, you may still want to bring those you prefer. You also should pack your hair products, shaving cream, razors, deodorant, makeup, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and any other supplies you use to get ready for your day.

Kitchen Supplies

If the vehicle you are hiring has a basic kitchen, you likely will not need to pack things like forks and knives. But if there are any special utensils you need, you should bring those.

Ask what appliances are included. If any are missing that you want to bring, you can consider doing so. While a small kitchen appliance may be unwieldy in your luggage, once it is in one of the kitchen cabinets, it will be out of the way.

In terms of foodstuffs, plan some meals around dry and canned ingredients, and pack them. You can also bring snacks, and if you are travelling with a baby, toddler or pet, you will need to pack any special foods or supplies they need. Also, don’t forget to bring foods for special dietary requirements.

Pet Supplies

Taking your cat or dog to New Zealand with you? You’ll have to bring everything that your pet requires for the trip.

Supplies to pack include your pet’s bed, a crate, rain boots, feline spray, leashes, tags, collars, food, medications and toys. If your pet is not yet micro-chipped, consider taking care of that. Bringing along a GPS tracker for your pet is a good idea as well.

Medical Supplies

On any vacation, it is wise to pack some essential medical supplies, and a trip in a campervan or 4WD vehicle is no exception.

You should bring a basic first aid kit. Along with that, pack your prescription medications, painkillers and supplements. You also should bring copies of your prescriptions and contact information for your healthcare provider. Bug spray is a smart supply too.

Outdoor Supplies

One of the main draws of New Zealand is its stunning scenery. You won’t want to look out at those views solely through the windows of your hired vehicle. You are going to want to get out there!

So, you should pack the necessary outdoor supplies. We already mentioned bug spray. You also are going to want to be ready for the weather. That means packing sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and visors for bright days. For rainy days, you will want to remember to bring an umbrella. To be ready for unpredictable weather conditions, you should pack clothing which you can layer up or down.

Some additional outdoor supplies which can be helpful to bring on a motorhome holiday in New Zealand include flip-flops, outdoor toys, pool toys, binoculars, hiking boots, sandals, backpacks, and bicycles. If you will be camping outdoors at any point, you may also want to bring sleeping bags, tarps, and other camping supplies.

Important Documents

Here are some documents you need to make sure you have with you for your holiday:

• Your passports and visas
• Vaccination certifications (don’t forget about your pets)
• Insurance documents
• Travel tickets
• Traveller’s checks
• Currencies
• Debit and credit cards
• Rental agreement

Miscellaneous Supplies

Finally, along with the supplies in the categories above, you also need to pack all the basic clothing you will need, watches, accessories, and so forth.

Do not forget to pack everything you need in terms of electronics either. That includes laptops, tablets, smartphones, adapters, spare batteries, chargers, power cords, and your camera.

You will probably be hanging out in your hired vehicle at least some of the time, so consider packing a few Blu-ray discs or DVDs to stay entertained.

Finally, a couple more miscellaneous supplies to bring on your vacation include a flashlight and some bags for your laundry.

Make an Inventory List

While there are many storage spaces available onboard a hired campervan or motorhome, the potential downside of using them is that you can easily misplace items or forget them entirely at the end of your trip.

The best way to prevent that from happening is to make an inventory list of all of the supplies you are bringing along and where you are putting them for the duration of your stay. When you pack up to leave again, you can check off all the items on your list so that you do not leave anything behind.

Pack Well for the Perfect Motorhome Holiday in NZ

While some time and work go into packing everything you need for your motorhome holiday in New Zealand, the effort will pay off when you enjoy a safe and comfortable trip. Have fun exploring all NZ has to offer!