Budget-Friendly Road Trip

Hacks for Exploring the South Island

A road trip through New Zealand’s South Island promises breathtaking scenery, but it can also be budget-friendly with some careful planning. Here’s a breakdown of tips for saving money on accommodation, food, activities, and other aspects of your trip:

Accommodation:

• Camping:
  • New Zealand’s Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites offer affordable options. Consider purchasing a DOC pass for extended stays.
  • Freedom camping is possible in designated areas for self-contained vehicles, but always adhere to local regulations.
• Campervans:
  • Renting a campervan combines accommodation and transportation costs.
  • Look for deals and compare prices from various rental companies.
• Hostels and Budget Accommodation:
  • Hostels provide affordable lodging and opportunities to meet fellow travelers.
  • Explore Airbnb or similar platforms for budget-friendly apartments or rooms.
• Travel in the Shoulder Seasons:
  • Avoid peak season (December-February) for lower accommodation prices. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Book in Advance:
  • Especially during popular times, booking accommodation in advance can secure better deals.

Food:

• Self-Catering:
  • Grocery shopping at supermarkets like Pak n’ Save can significantly reduce food expenses.
  • Prepare your own meals whenever possible, especially breakfasts and lunches.
• Farmers Markets:
  • Visit local farmers markets for fresh produce and affordable snacks.
• Limit Eating Out:
  • Dining out can be expensive in New Zealand. Minimize restaurant meals and opt for picnics or home-cooked meals.
• Tap Water:
  • New Zealand’s tap water is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle.

Activities:

• Free Activities:
  • Take advantage of the South Island’s natural beauty with free activities like hiking, exploring national parks, and visiting beaches.
  • Many scenic viewpoints and walks are accessible without fees.
• Choose Activities Wisely:
  • Prioritize activities that align with your budget. Expensive adventures like helicopter tours can be replaced with scenic drives or hikes.
• Look for Discounts:
  • Check travel websites and local tourism offices for deals and discounts on activities.
• DOC Hikes:
  • New Zealand has amazing hiking trails, many of which are managed by the department of conservation. These are often very low cost, or free.
• Enjoy the natural wonders:
  • Many of the most amazing things to see in the south island, like the lakes, mountains, and coastlines, are free to enjoy.

Transportation:

• Fuel Efficiency:
  • Drive efficiently and plan your routes to minimize fuel consumption.
  • Use apps like Gaspy to find the lowest fuel prices.
• Consider Bus Travel:
  • For those not wanting to drive, bus lines like Intercity offer affordable travel options.
• Relocation Deals:
  • Look for relocation deals on rental cars or campervans, where you drive a vehicle to a specific location for a discounted price.

Other Tips:

• Travel Insurance:
  • Invest in comprehensive travel insurance to protect against unexpected expenses.
• Local SIM Card:
  • Purchase a local SIM card for affordable mobile data and communication.
• Be Mindful of Credit Card fees:
  • Some vendors may add surcharges for credit card use.