Top Tips for Travelling New Zealand Solo

Planning the Bucket List Trip

With its welcoming communities, excellent campgrounds, and unforgettable scenery, New Zealand is a top destination for a solo travel experience. And there’s no better way to go it alone than to book a campervan hire and take a New Zealand road trip. You’re in complete control with total freedom to follow the roads you love, make spontaneous detours, and stay as long as you like in places you love. Solo travel for women and men alike offers an unparalleled sense of liberation. It's not just a holiday; it's a journey of self-discovery.

But, before you hit the road in search of adventure, it pays to do a bit of homework first. To help create your road trip planner, we’ve put together this handy guide with all the must-know tips for those keen to travel alone. 

1. Take a road rules refresher test

If it's been a while since you've taken a New Zealand road trip, it’s worth refreshing your knowledge of the road rules. It’s a great way to boost your confidence if you’re a bit nervous and will give you that extra peace of mind that you’re all set to drive safely. For a fast, free option, take the test at Driving Tests NZ.

2. Get inspired with social media

In today's digital age, social media is more than just a platform for selfies and food pics; it has lots of benefits for solo travellers on a New Zealand road trip. One of the best ways to discover hidden gems and must-visit spots is by following location-specific hashtags on Instagram. For example, if you’re taking a South Island road trip, search for tags like #southislandnz and you'll find a wealth of inspiration for your own itinerary. For a constant stream of travel inspiration and practical tips, be sure to follow Apollo Motorhome Holidays on Instagram. You’ll find a treasure trove of stunning locations and handy travel advice.

Facebook is home to numerous groups you can join, from solo travel for women to motorhoming groups around New Zealand. These communities are a goldmine for tips, from hidden gems on a North Island road trip to awesome camping spots and the best local eateries.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

3. Keep your loved ones informed

New Zealand is regarded as one of the safest destinations for solo travel, but you should still always prioritise your safety. With that in mind, it’s important to always keep your loved ones in the loop. Here are a few tips to help you do that: 

• Share your road trip planner with friends and family, including your planned stops and estimated arrival times.

• Use apps like Google Maps or Life360 to share your real-time location with someone you trust. This way, they can keep tabs on you throughout your journey.

• Make it a habit to check in with someone at the start and end of each day. A quick text or call can go a long way in ensuring peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.

• Keep a list of emergency contacts and important numbers, such as local police and medical services, easily accessible. Better yet, save them in your phone for quick dialling.

4. Keep an eye out on the local events calendar

Whether you're a music aficionado or a foodie, there's always something happening around the country to add a special touch to your New Zealand road trip.

For music lovers, summer is the peak season for festivals. But don't discount winter; especially near ski areas, you'll find some great winter festivals that will help warm up your travels. 

When it comes to food and drink, New Zealand doesn't disappoint. The Marlborough Wine & Food Festival is a must-visit for wine connoisseurs, while the Wellington on a Plate festival is a food lover's dream, showcasing the best of local cuisine.

5. Connect with locals

One of the most enriching aspects of solo travel is the opportunity to connect with like-minded travellers and locals. When you're exploring New Zealand in an Apollo campervan hire, you have the flexibility to visit smaller townships and communities and immerse yourself in local culture, something that can add an extra layer of authenticity to your New Zealand road trip. Here are some tips on how to make some new connections:

• Make a point to visit local markets. Not only can you pick up fresh produce for your journey, but it's also a great place to strike up conversations and get insider tips on hidden gems in the area.

• Keep an eye out for community events like local sports matches or town fairs. These gatherings are perfect for meeting locals and experiencing the Kiwi way of life.

• Don't underestimate the social power of a good café or pub. These are often community hubs where you can meet people willing to share their local knowledge.

• If you have a bit more time, consider doing some volunteer work. Whether it's helping out at a local conservation project or lending a hand at a community centre, volunteering is a rewarding way to connect.

6. Be prepared for any weather

New Zealand's weather is as diverse as its landscapes, capable of changing in the blink of an eye. This is especially crucial to consider when you're planning to travel alone. It’s a good idea to check in with site managers or rangers when you arrive at camping grounds, particularly if you're planning on long hikes or other outdoor activities. Their local knowledge can be invaluable for your safety.

Before hitting the road each day, make it a point to check the weather forecast for the region you're exploring. Conditions can shift rapidly, and being informed is your best defence against unexpected surprises. Being prepared also means packing the right gear to make the most of the current season. If you're travelling in winter, make sure you've packed your thermals and warm socks, and don’t forget sunblock for summer. 

7. Make an epic road trip playlist

One of the perks of solo travel is having the freedom to listen to whatever you like, whenever you like. So why not curate an epic road trip playlist to be the soundtrack of your adventure? Music has the power to elevate any experience, turning a simple drive into an uplifting adventure. Downloading a playlist ahead of time means that you'll have your favourite tunes at your fingertips, even in areas with poor reception. 

But it's not just about music. A leisurely New Zealand road trip is a great opportunity to dive into that audiobook you've been meaning to listen to or catch up on your favourite podcasts.
 

8. Always be mindful of your fuel

While the freedom of a campervan adventure is exhilarating, it's essential to keep an eye on practicalities like fuel. Running low on gas in a remote area can quickly turn your dream New Zealand road trip into a stressful ordeal. Before venturing into less populated regions, make sure you remember to top up your tank. You never know when you'll stumble upon a magical spot where you'll want to extend your stay. Having a full tank gives you the flexibility to change your plans on the fly without worrying about finding the nearest petrol station.

To make finding fuel easy, consider downloading the thl Roadtrip app, available on Google Play and the App Store. This handy tool not only helps you locate the nearest fuel stations but also offers a wealth of other useful information for your New Zealand road trip. From campsite locations to activity suggestions, it's a valuable addition to any road trip planner.

9. Be one with nature

From curious dolphins that visit our harbours to the beautiful birdlife in our native forests, we’re pretty lucky here in New Zealand when it comes to wildlife. Some great areas to spot wildlife include the Otago Peninsula for penguins and seals, and the waters around Kaikōura for whale watching. Wherever you go, always follow the guidelines for responsible wildlife viewing.

Equally important is to leave no trace. Don't leave food or rubbish behind that could be harmful if ingested by animals. Always use designated rubbish bins or take your waste with you. We encourage you to join us in upholding New Zealand's Tiaki Promise. This initiative encourages visitors to care for New Zealand's natural environment and respect its unique cultural heritage. By making this promise, you're not just a tourist; you're a guardian of Aotearoa's treasures.

10. Pick the right motorhome

Choosing the right motorhome hire is a crucial step in ensuring your New Zealand road trip is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. If freedom camping features on your road trip planner, be sure to opt for a campervan hire that is certified self-contained. Apollo has plenty of great models to choose from. 

For most solo travellers, an Apollo 2-berth campervan hire such as the Euro Tourer is the ideal choice. These compact yet well-equipped vehicles are easy to drive and feature all the luxury additions of a motorhome, making them ideal for solo travellers. If you're looking for something more spacious, Apollo also offers larger motorhome hire options with additional amenities like a bigger kitchen and more storage space. Perfect for those who love to travel with extra space.

11. Capture the moments

While the memories of your New Zealand road trip will undoubtedly stay with you for years to come, there's something special about capturing those moments to look back on. Whether it's through photos, a journal, or even short video clips, documenting your journey adds another layer of enjoyment to your solo travel experience.

Photography is an obvious choice, and with the stunning landscapes that New Zealand offers, you'll have no shortage of Instagram-worthy shots. From the golden beaches of the Coromandel to the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, every turn presents a new photo opportunity. You may even like to consider creating short video logs (vlogs) of your journey. 

Keeping a travel journal allows you to capture your thoughts, feelings, and observations in real time. It's a wonderful way to reflect on your experiences and can be incredibly rewarding to read back later.

12. Download any maps

While the idea of getting lost in New Zealand's stunning landscapes might sound romantic, the reality can be a bit stressful, especially in areas where mobile reception is spotty. To ensure you always know where you're going, it's a good idea to download maps onto your phone ahead of time.

The thl Roadtrip app is a fantastic tool for this. Not only does it offer a wealth of information for your New Zealand road trip, but it also allows you to download maps for offline use. This means you can navigate with confidence, even when you're exploring more secluded areas. Download the app on either Google Play or the App Store.

If you're more of a traditionalist, or just like having a backup, physical maps are also a great option. These can be purchased from visitor information centres (isites) across the country. By having your maps sorted, you're ensuring a smoother, more enjoyable adventure, allowing you to focus on the beauty and excitement that comes with solo travel in New Zealand.

Get started on your solo New Zealand road trip with Apollo

There you have it – your comprehensive guide to making the most of your solo travel adventure. New Zealand's diverse landscapes and rich cultural experiences are waiting for you. All you need is the right motorhome hire to make your dream trip a reality. So why wait? Book your Apollo campervan online today and set the wheels in motion for an unforgettable solo adventure in Aotearoa.