10 Things You Need for an Unforgettable New Zealand Road Trip

Four months. A tiny self-contained van. Two people who had only known each other for a few months. New Zealand.

It was a completely new experience for both of us, and you get to know someone very quickly when you live together in such a small space. But what a time that was. New Zealand is simply made for road trips: the distances are manageable, the scenery is breathtaking, and every bend brings a new view that takes your breath away.

We learned a lot the hard way. So that you are a little better prepared than we were, we have put together 10 things you really need on a New Zealand road trip.

1. Antibacterial wet wipes for hygiene in the van

Van life sounds romantic, and it is. But staying clean takes a little creativity. Antibacterial wet wipes are your best friend. Wipe down surfaces, clean the small sink, and quickly clean your hands after cooking. Small thing, big impact.

2. Citronella candle for cozy evenings

Evenings in New Zealand are magical. Bonfire atmosphere, starry sky, the quiet rustling somewhere in the distance. A citronella candle not only creates a cozy atmosphere but also keeps mosquitoes at bay. Natural, effective, and atmospheric.

3. Card games for long evenings and new friendships

Long drives, quiet evenings in the van, campsites where you happen to meet nice people. A good card game is worth its weight in gold in all these moments. Whether poker, Uno, or something you made up yourselves, card games bring people together. Whether traveling or at home.

4. Power bank to keep everything running

New Zealand is so beautiful that you will constantly have your phone in your hand. Photos, maps, Spotify on the drive through Fiordland. A good power bank is absolutely essential. You only get the perfect moment once, don't let it fail because of a dead battery.

5. Headlamp for nighttime adventures

New Zealand's starry sky on the South Island is one of the darkest and clearest in the world. And the wildlife becomes truly interesting at night. A good headlamp leaves both hands free and lights the way when it gets really dark. Definitely bring one.

6. Sandfly spray for the South Island

This is something we really learned the hard way. Sandflies are tiny mosquitoes that are found especially in damp areas on the South Island. They bite without warning and without mercy. A reliable sandfly repellent spray is not an option on the South Island, but a must. We are telling you this from experience.

7. Camping stove for home-cooked meals

With your own stove, you not only save money, you also experience New Zealand differently. Breakfast overlooking Milford Sound. Cooking pasta while the rain drums on the van outside. Coffee early in the morning before everyone else is awake. A good camping stove is freedom in miniature form.

8. Pak'nSave customer card for cheap shopping

Pak'nSave is New Zealand's cheapest supermarket chain, and with a customer card you save even more. For long-term travelers with a van, this is one of the easiest ways to save on the budget without having to do without good food. Get it on your very first visit.

9. Your own water bottle for on the go

New Zealand has free drinking water at public taps everywhere. Your own refillable water bottle not only saves money, it is also the right thing for the beautiful nature you are traveling through. Buying plastic bottles simply is out of the question here.

10. Multitool or good knife

Cutting fruit at a picnic, a small repair on the van, opening a bottle when the corkscrew is once again somewhere else. A good multitool covers so many situations that after the first time you ask yourself how you ever traveled without one.

New Zealand is waiting

A road trip through New Zealand is one of the most beautiful things we have ever done. With the right preparation, it will be even better. Not perfect, it's not meant to be. But good enough so that you can really enjoy every moment.

From the first sunrise over the New Zealand mountains to the last evening on the South Island beach: You do not forget the land of the long white cloud.

And somehow, this exact trip set everything in motion that is today Salty Dreamers.

Curious how it all began? Read our story: How New Zealand made us Salty Dreamers

Or discover the jewelry that was created from this trip: Our favorite pieces made from paua shells and treasures from the sea