Researtiklar

New Zealand Campervan Packing List | Road Trip Essentials

Nothing kills road-trip vibes faster than realising you forgot your charger, your warm socks, or worse, your coffee.

Before you start loading your entire home into a van, here’s the good news: Every Wicked campervan in New Zealand is certified self-contained, so you’ll have the essentials to hit the road and enjoy your own little home on wheels!

Here’s what you can expect onboard:

  • A comfy mattress for a good night’s sleep
  • Kitchen essentials, including cooking utensils and a camp stove, to whip up meals on the road
  • Camp table and chairs for your outdoor breakfasts, lunches and dinners
  • A fridge or ice box, depending on your vehicle category, to keep your food and drinks cool
  • Starting cables, just in case you need a helping hand
  • A chemical toilet (porta-potti style) for added convenience
  • Fresh and grey/waste water tanks to help you manage water while travelling

Whether you're chasing snowy mountains, dramatic coastlines, hot pools or trying to find a campsite before dark, packing the right gear will make your NZ road trip a whole lot easier.

Lake Wanaka camp set up, South Island
Lake Wanaka camp set up, South Island. Photo: Wicked Campers.

The Non-Negotiables

Forget these and your road trip is going to get complicated very quickly.

  • Driver’s Licence (obviously)
  • Bank card and a bit of cash
  • Phone and charger
  • Offline maps
  • Travel insurance (if you have it)
  • Water bottle
  • SPF 50+ sunscreen (even the winter sun in NZ hits hard)
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat

Pro tip: Download your maps before leaving Wi-Fi. You might have plenty of reception in the cities, but once you're surrounded by mountains, forests and absolutely nothing else, you'll be glad you did.

Clothes and Footwear

New Zealand weather is highly moody. One minute you’re soaking in the sun, the next you are finding your beanie before you freeze. Always check the weather before packing and remember the tropical top of the North Island can feel very different to the alpine South.

  • Beanie and warm socks (most important!!). Make sure to bring enough socks to always have a dry pair.
  • Thongs (flip-flops) for campsite showers
  • Waterproof or sturdy hiking boots
  • Runners or sneakers
  • Swimmers (yes, even in winter! Hot pools are very popular in NZ)
  • Thermal base layers
  • Warm jumper and fleece
  • Gloves (in winter)
  • Rain jacket
  • Comfortable, breathable clothing
  • Sleepwear suitable for colder nights

Pro tip: Pack layers rather than a large jacket! They are easier to store and won’t take much of your space.

Sunscreen and Mystery Machine at Lake Taupo, North Island
Sunscreen and Mystery Machine at Lake Taupo, North Island. Photo: Wicked Campers.

Winter Road Trip Essentials

Heading to NZ in winter? Pack these unless you fancy turning into an icicle.

  • Hot water bottle
  • Extra warm blankets (you can buy cheap ones at The Warehouse)
  • Hand warmers
  • Lip balm (no one likes chapped lips)
  • Moisturiser
  • Snow chains (if required for your route), which can be added to your booking
  • Small ice scraper

Cruising through alpine regions in winter usually means dealing with ice, snow and sketchy visibility. Make sure you check the weather before hitting the road and don’t rush; give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination safely.

NZ Survival and Health

  • Insect repellent (sandflies can be present at lakes and beaches)
  • First aid kit: bandages, antiseptics, painkillers and prescription medicines
  • Water (at least 3–4 litres per person per day)
  • Emergency snacks
  • Phone charging cable for the van
  • Reusable toiletries and dental kit

If you’re packing prescription meds, toss the script in as well so you’re covered for refills on the road.

Sunset at Karioitahi Beach, North Island
Sunset at Karioitahi Beach, North Island. Photo: Wicked Campers.

Van Life and Camping Essentials

The things you won’t think about until you desperately need them.

  • Power bank
  • Torch or headlamp
  • Quick-dry towel (unless you’re aiming for that signature “moist cabin” aroma)
  • Clothesline and pegs
  • Duct tape (because somehow it fixes everything)
  • Sleeping essentials (you can buy cheap bedding at Kmart or The Warehouse)
  • Basic toolkit for minor repairs
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Rubbish bags

Kitchen Essentials

What’s included in your campervan kitchen can vary, so check what comes with your vehicle before you hit the road. If you're travelling in a budget campervan with limited kitchen gear, you may need to bring a few extra essentials.

  • Tea, coffee or your drink of choice
  • Easy-to-cook meals
  • Cooking oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Paper towels or reusable cloths
  • Dishwashing liquid
  • Zip-Lock bags or reusable food containers for leftovers
  • Basic veggies and fruits (e.g. bananas, carrots, celery and apples)
Aventus Plus with fridge
Aventus Plus with Fridge. Photo: Wicked Campers.

Self-Contained Campervan Essentials

Travelling in a self-contained Wicked Camper? Make sure you understand how your vehicle’s onboard toilet and waste systems work!

It’s worth looking out for:

  • Toilet paper suitable for your vehicle’s system
  • Toilet cleaning supplies
  • Waste disposal info
  • Fresh-water requirements
  • Freedom camping rules

Freedom camping doesn't mean that you can camp anywhere. Some areas have restrictions or are completely off-limits, so always check signs and local rules before settling in.

Before You Hit The Road - Checklist

Five minutes now can save hours later.

  • Check tyre pressures
  • Fill the fuel tank
  • Download offline maps
  • Charge your devices
  • Stock the fridge or get ice for the ice cooler
  • Check the weather
  • Know where you're camping that first night
  • Check freedom camping rules

If you're heading into remote or alpine areas, don't rely entirely on mobile reception. Check conditions before you leave and give yourself plenty of time.

Pack Light and Travel Freely

Don’t be that person who rocks up with half their belongings only to realise you won’t use most of it. Space in a van disappears quicker than a bacon & egg pie at a bakery, so only bring what you actually need. The whole point of van life is cruising, not overthinking, so chuck your gear in, fire up the playlist, and get wonderfully lost.

FAQs

Are Wicked Campers in New Zealand self-contained?

Yes! All Wicked Campers are certified self-contained campervans with facilities you need to manage your own toilet, fresh water and wastewater on the road.

Can I freedom camp anywhere in New Zealand with a self-contained campervan?

No, you can only camp for free in designated areas where it's permitted. Before parking, check the signs, local restrictions and maximum stay time.

Do Wicked Campers come with cooking equipment?

All campers come with cooking equipment, cutlery and other kitchen essentials. Make sure to check your campervan’s inclusions before your trip!