Sure, New Zealand’s campervan scene boasts breathtaking landscapes and endless freedom, but with kids in tow, the adventure can quickly turn into a “Lord of the Flies” scenario. Don’t worry, I’ve been there (literally, stuck in a campervan with three hangry monkeys). Here are some hard-won tips to transform your NZ family campervan trip from tantrum-fest to memory-making extravaganza:
1. Size Matters (a lot): Forget that cozy two-berth van you dreamt of. Kids and their mountain of belongings have an uncanny ability to expand, engulfing every inch of space. Opt for a bigger van – trust me, your sanity will thank you.
2. Silence is NOT Golden: Those long stretches of road can get eerily quiet with bored kids. Pack board games, card games, anything to spark laughter and conversation. “I Spy” is great, but save your voice for singing along to cheesy Kiwi classics.
3. Button Battle Royale: Prepare for the fridge-switch tango. Tiny fingers love buttons, and a warm beer after a day’s drive is less than ideal. Regularly check those switches, and consider child-proofing the fridge if possible.
4. Fairy Lights to the Rescue: Campervan lighting can be harsh, especially at bedtime. String up some fairy lights for a soft, calming glow. Bonus points for Instagram-worthy vibes while you sip (cold!) wine from a plastic cup, reminiscing about the day’s adventures.
5. Rubbish Avalanche: Let’s face it, kids are messy. Pack more rubbish bags than you think is humanly possible. You’ll thank yourself later.
6. Car Seat Shuffle? Skip it: Save yourself the hassle of lugging your car seat around. Most rental companies offer child seat rentals, one less logistical hurdle to jump over.
7. Wipes: The Universal Solvent: Trust me, there are never enough wipes. Sticky fingers, muddy shoes, spilled snacks – wipes are your secret weapon, the duct tape of parenthood on wheels.
So, buckle up, crank up the Kiwi tunes, and embrace the chaos. With a little planning, flexibility, and a generous dose of laughter, your New Zealand campervan adventure with the kids will be one for the memory books. Just remember, fairy lights and extra wipes are your ultimate allies!
