Backpacking around New Zealand offers a lifetime adventure with its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and countless outdoor activities. However, to explore this beautiful country, you don’t need to drain your savings, with some careful planning and budget-friendly strategies, you can experience New Zealand’s wonders without overspending.
With the right approach, it is completely possible to backpack around New Zealand on a budget. Some budget strategies like off-season travels, and affordable accommodations, etc. can help you experience the best of New Zealand without overspending.
Check out this list of some essential tips for backpacking around New Zealand -
1. Plan Your Visit During the Off-Season
New Zealand’s peak travel seasons are during the summer months, i.e. from December to February, when accommodation and activities are at their most expensive. Visiting during the shoulder seasons, i.e. Either March-May or September-November) can help you save money on flights, lodging, and attractions. The winter months, i.e. from June to August, you can find several budget-friendly options, especially for non-skiers, as prices drop significantly in non-touristy areas.
2. Select Budget Accommodations
Accommodation can be one of the biggest expenses during traveling. For cutting costs, you can consider staying in -
- Hostels - New Zealand has a vast network of budget-friendly hostels with dormitory-style rooms and communal kitchens.
- Camping & Campervans - if you love nature, camping is a great option. Many free and low-cost campsites are available through the Rankers Camping NZ app or the Department of Conservation (DOC) website.
- Couchsurfing - Connecting with locals through Couchsurfing can provide free lodging and a chance to experience Kiwi hospitality firsthand.
- Work for Accommodation - Some hostels and farms offer free accommodation in exchange for a few hours of work per day.
3. Use Budget Transportation Options
Getting around New Zealand can be costly, but there are several budget-friendly travel options -
- Buses - Companies like InterCity and Naked Bus offer affordable travel passes for long distances.
- Carpooling - Apps like BlaBlaCar and Facebook rideshare groups can help you find fellow travelers sharing rides.
- Campervans - Renting a campervan can combine transport and accommodation costs, making it a cost-effective option.
- Hitchhiking - While not for everyone, hitchhiking is legal and relatively safe in New Zealand, especially on well-traveled routes.
4. Save on Food
Eating out too often can be expensive, so you can consider these alternatives -
- Cook Your Own Meals - You can buy groceries from supermarkets and use hostel kitchens to prepare meals.
- Eat at Local Markets - Farmers\' markets and food trucks offer cheap and delicious local food.
- Bring a Reusable Water Bottle - Tap water in New Zealand is safe to drink, so save money by refilling your bottle instead of buying bottled water.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption - Drinking at bars can be expensive. Instead, buy alcohol from supermarkets and enjoy socializing in hostel lounges or at scenic picnic spots.
5. Explore Free & Cheap Activities
New Zealand is a paradise for outdoor lovers, with many incredible experiences that won’t cost a fortune -
- Hiking & Nature Walks - New Zealand is famous for its trails, including the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Abel Tasman Coastal Track, and Hooker Valley Track.
- Beaches & Lakes - Relax at stunning beaches like Cathedral Cove, Piha Beach, and Lake Tekapo for free.
- Free Attractions - You can visit sites like Wellington’s Te Papa Museum, Queenstown Gardens, and Rotorua’s natural hot springs.
- Wildlife Spotting - See penguins, seals, and dolphins without expensive tours by exploring coastal areas like Kaikoura and the Otago Peninsula.