Renting a Campervan in Australia vs. New Zealand: Which is Best for You?

If you’re thinking about a road trip and are torn between Australia and New Zealand, renting a campervan is one of the best ways to experience the outdoors and soak in the beauty of both countries.

But which one suits your travel style? Let’s break it down in a more personal, friendly way so you can see the advantages of each

1. Big and Bold vs. Compact and Cozy

• Australia: Think of Australia as the ultimate playground for those who love long drives and dramatic changes in scenery. It's massive!

One day you could be cruising along a beautiful coastal road, the next, you’re deep in the Outback.

Renting a campervan here means you get to explore huge spaces, take your time, and really get lost in all that variety.

• New Zealand: On the flip side, New Zealand is like a smaller, perfectly packaged adventure.

You can experience mountains, beaches, and forests all in one day without covering endless miles.

It’s ideal if you don’t want to spend too much time driving, but still want to see stunning, diverse landscapes.

2. Roads and Driving Experience

• Australia: Australia’s highways are generally in great shape, especially along the coasts.

You’ll enjoy smooth, easy drives between big cities like Sydney and Melbourne. But if you’re up for more rugged, remote adventures, Australia has some tricky backroads, especially in the Outback, where things can get a bit rough.

Having a campervan gives you the freedom to tackle those remote spots (just make sure it’s 4WD if needed).

• New Zealand: New Zealand’s roads are a campervan driver’s dream. The distances are shorter, meaning more sightseeing and less driving.

Some areas, like the South Island’s mountain passes, can get a bit challenging, but the rewards are worth it. Every twist and turn reveals something new — lakes, fjords, snow-capped peaks. Plus, you’ll always be just a few hours from your next incredible destination.

3. Campsites: From Beachfronts to Bushland

• Australia: Australia has loads of camping options. From luxury caravan parks with all the amenities to free campsites in the bush, there’s something for every type of traveler.

If you dream of camping right by the beach or waking up in the wilderness, it’s all possible. The variety here is hard to beat.

• New Zealand: New Zealand’s campsites are top-notch too. The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages many campsites in breathtaking locations.

These places are well-maintained, often quite remote, and you get to camp in some of the most untouched parts of the country. However, they can get busy in peak season, so it’s good to plan ahead.

4. Wildlife Encounters: Aussie Creatures vs. Kiwi Magic

• Australia: Let’s be honest — Australia is world-famous for its wildlife, and for good reason. On your road trip, you’ll likely see kangaroos hopping around, maybe even a koala or two chilling in the trees.

It’s such a thrill to spot these animals in the wild as you journey from one spot to another.

• New Zealand: New Zealand has less in terms of land animals, but its marine life and bird species are amazing. You might see dolphins, whales, and even penguins on your travels!

And for bird lovers, catching a glimpse of a kiwi (the bird, not the people!) is a real treat.

5. Weather: Chasing the Sun or Embracing the Seasons

• Australia: Australia is so huge that you can practically choose your climate. Love the heat? Head to Queensland in winter. Want something more temperate? Try the southern states in summer.

With a campervan, you’ve got the flexibility to follow the weather and enjoy outdoor activities year-round.

• New Zealand: New Zealand’s climate is a bit more predictable, but still offers variety. Summer is the best time for a road trip, but even in winter, the snowy mountains and cozy campsites can make for a magical experience.

Just keep in mind, some areas — especially in the South Island — can get cold quickly, so pack accordingly.

6. Freedom Camping: Aussie Flexibility vs. Kiwi Culture

• Australia: Freedom camping (basically camping for free in designated spots) is allowed in many parts of Australia, but it depends on the state.

You’ll need to check local rules, but generally, there are lots of options if you want to save money and park in some pretty cool locations for the night.

• New Zealand: New Zealand is all about freedom camping, especially if your campervan is self-contained (meaning it has a toilet and waste facilities).

There are plenty of spots where you can camp for free or for a small fee. The scenery at these spots is often incredible, but some areas have tightened their rules due to environmental concerns, so be sure to check in advance.

• Check here for more information about: Self-Contained in New Zealand

7. Adventure Awaits: Aussie Icons vs. Kiwi Thrills

• Australia: Australia’s campervan routes lead you to some iconic, world-famous spots. Imagine parking your van near the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, or the Blue Mountains.

You’ve got access to snorkeling, hiking, and even desert adventures all from the comfort of your home on wheels.

• New Zealand: For thrill-seekers, New Zealand is hard to beat. Bungee jumping, white-water rafting, epic hikes — you name it. The compact size of the country means you can do all of these within a single trip, making it perfect for adventurers who want it all in one go.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, both Australia and New Zealand are fantastic destinations for a campervan road trip, but the experience differs:

Whichever you choose, a campervan adventure is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the open road!