Buying vs. renting a campervan in New Zealand

Planning an extended New Zealand road trip by campervan? Wondering whether it’s better to hire or buy a campervan for your travels? We’ve got you covered. In this helpful guide, we’ll weigh up the pros and cons of each to help you decide whether a campervan hire or buying a camper is the best fit for your Kiwi adventure.  

Why you should go campervanning in New Zealand

New Zealand is a paradise for exploring by camper or motorhome, offering some of the most scenic and accessible road trip routes in the world. From the rugged coastlines of the South Island to the geothermal wonders of the North, there’s no better way to experience the country.  

The beauty of a New Zealand road trip in a campervan is the freedom it gives you to explore at your own pace. You can immerse yourself in nature, wake up to stunning views, and change your plans on a whim without the constraints of motel check-ins or rigid schedules. 

Campervanning also allows you to access parts of New Zealand that are off the beaten path. When you drive NZ by camper or motorhome, you’re not just a tourist sticking to the main routes; you’re an explorer with the flexibility to discover the hidden gems as well as the highlights. Plus, New Zealand is well set up for campervan travel, with a network of well-maintained holiday parks, freedom camping sites, and facilities designed to make your trip comfortable and convenient. 

For those planning an extended stay, travelling by campervan offers an ideal balance of comfort and adventure. You have the convenience of a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area all in one compact space, making it easy to settle in for longer stays in any part of the country. Whether you’re following a detailed New Zealand itinerary or simply letting the road guide you, campervanning gives you the perfect blend of independence and immersion in the natural beauty that makes New Zealand so special. 

Renting a campervan

Renting a campervan in New Zealand is a popular choice for many travellers, especially those planning an extended stay. It offers a convenient and flexible way to explore the country without the commitment of buying your own vehicle. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons: 

Benefits of renting a campervan

Here’s why opting for campervan hire could be the ideal choice for your New Zealand road trip. 

Flexibility

One of the standout advantages of a campervan hire is the ability to be flexible when planning your trip. Whether you’re looking at a quick getaway or a longer adventure, an RV rental allows you to adjust your travel duration without being tied down by the commitment of ownership. 

Up-to-date, reliable campervans

When you rent a camper, you can choose from a wide selection of high-quality, well-maintained campervans and motorhomes. New Zealand’s rental market offers a variety of options, from compact campers to spacious motorhomes, ensuring there’s something to suit every travel style. 

Cost-effective

Renting an RV also offers a more economical solution, as there’s no need for the initial investment required to purchase. This makes it an attractive option for those who want to explore New Zealand without the financial burden of ownership. 

Hassle-free experience

Another significant benefit is the convenience of avoiding long-term maintenance and storage responsibilities. Once your journey is over, you simply return the campervan, leaving behind any worries about upkeep or finding a place to store it. 

Support on the road

Most rental companies provide customer support and roadside assistance, which can be invaluable if you encounter any issues during your trip. This service ensures you can travel with confidence, knowing help is just a phone call away. 

Disadvantages of renting a campervan

However, there are some downsides to renting a campervan that are worth considering.  

Rental costs can add up

One of the main drawbacks is the cost over time, especially for longer trips. Campervan hire costs will vary depending on the type of vehicle, the season, and the length of your trip. 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.  

READ MORE: ​How much is it to hire a campervan in NZ?

Limited customisation

Additionally, when you rent, you’re very limited in terms of any customisations you’d like to make to your camper. Unlike owning a campervan where you can personalise it to your liking, a rental comes as-is, which might not always meet your exact preferences. 

Seasonal demand

During peak travel times, such as the summer months, campervan rentals are in hot demand which can mean higher fees and lower availability. This means you might need to book well in advance or be flexible with your travel dates to secure the vehicle you want. 

Buying a campervan

For those planning an extended stay in New Zealand, buying a campervan can be an appealing option. It offers a unique sense of freedom and control over your travel experience. Here are a few pros and cons to consider if you're looking to make New Zealand your home on wheels for a while. 

The benefits of buying a campervan

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of buying a campervan for your New Zealand road trip.  

Potential cost savings for long-term travel

If you’re looking at several months or more on the road, buying a secondhand campervan may be a more economical option than renting for the same duration. However, it's important to carefully consider all associated costs and responsibilities that come with ownership before making a decision. 

Freedom to customise and personalise

Ownership gives you the freedom to customise and personalise the vehicle to your liking. From interior decor to functional upgrades, you can tailor your campervan to suit your specific needs and preferences, making it feel more like home. 

Opportunity to resell

Another advantage is the opportunity to resell the campervan at the end of your trip. Depending on the market and the condition of the vehicle, you might be able to recoup a substantial portion of your initial investment. 

Sense of ownership and connection

Owning a campervan often fosters a deeper sense of connection and pride in the vehicle. The knowledge that it’s truly yours can enhance the overall travel experience. 

Flexibility and peace of mind

Owning your campervan allows for spontaneous travel decisions without the pressure of returning a rental. You won’t have to worry about rental availability or peak season price hikes, giving you peace of mind during your travels. 

Disadvantages of buying a campervan

However, buying a campervan comes with its own set of challenges. It’s important to consider these potential drawbacks before making your decision. 

Initial purchase cost

The most obvious downside is the initial purchase cost. Depending on the type and condition of the vehicle, this can be a significant financial commitment. 

Time-consuming search and purchase process

Finding the right campervan can take time and effort. You'll need to search, view, and inspect multiple vehicles before making a decision, which can be time-consuming. 

Risk of scams or buying a lemon 

There’s a risk of ending up with a lemon or being scammed, particularly when buying secondhand. To avoid this, it’s best to buy from a trusted dealer and never pay money without seeing the vehicle and meeting the owner. 

Ongoing maintenance and repairs

Owning a campervan means taking on the responsibility of ongoing maintenance and repairs. This includes routine servicing, unexpected repairs, and ensuring the vehicle remains roadworthy. 

Responsibility for storage

Storage can be a concern, especially if you need to find a secure place to keep the campervan when it’s not in use. This adds an extra layer of responsibility. 

Complexity for foreigners

For foreigners, the process of buying and selling a vehicle in New Zealand can be complex. There are legal and logistical hurdles that can make the process more challenging. 

Additional costs and potential depreciation

Finally, there are additional costs such as insurance, registration, and the warrant of fitness. There’s also the potential for depreciation, which could reduce the resale value of your campervan when your trip ends. 

Things to think about when deciding whether to buy or rent a campervan

When planning your New Zealand road trip, figuring out whether to buy or rent a campervan is a big call that can really shape your adventure. There are a few key things to think about to make sure you choose the option that fits your needs and travel goals best. 

Trip duration

The length of your trip is a major factor in deciding whether to buy or rent. If you’re planning a shorter stay, renting is usually the more convenient and cost-effective option. It lets you dive into your journey without the long-term commitment that comes with ownership. But if you’re thinking of a trip that spans several months, buying a campervan might seem like better value in the long run – just keep in mind the responsibilities that come with owning a vehicle. 

Budget 

Your budget is another big consideration. Renting a campervan comes with lower upfront costs, making it a great choice if you’re trying to keep expenses manageable. On the flip side, if you have the funds to invest in a purchase, buying a campervan could be more economical over an extended period. But don’t forget to factor in ongoing costs like maintenance, insurance, and the potential resale value when crunching the numbers. 

Travel style

How you like to travel plays a huge role in this decision. Renting gives you the flexibility to pick a campervan that suits your trip, without worrying about long-term upkeep. If you prefer a hassle-free experience with less responsibility, renting might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you love the idea of personalising your vehicle and making it your own, buying a campervan could be worth considering.  

Logistics 

Finally, think about the logistics involved. Renting a campervan is straightforward and comes with support from the rental company, making it a smooth process from start to finish. If you’re not keen on navigating the ins and outs of buying and selling a vehicle, especially as a foreigner, renting is likely the simpler option. It’s all about how much time and effort you want to put into the process. 

Book your Cheapa campa today

Choosing between buying and renting a campervan is a big decision for your New Zealand adventure. It all comes down to what works best for you – whether it’s the potential savings and personalisation that come with owning or the flexibility and ease that campervan hire offers. Renting gives you the freedom to enjoy your trip without the extra responsibilities, making it a great option for those who want a stress-free experience. 

If renting sounds like the right fit for you, Cheapa Campas NZ has a fantastic range of reliable, modern campervans ready for your journey. With competitive rates, excellent customer support, and an easy booking process, you can hit the road without any hassle. 

Ready to start your adventure? Book your campervan hire online today with Cheapa Campas NZ and get ready to explore everything New Zealand has to offer. The open road is calling!