Backpacking across New Zealand is a fun adventure. Although, you should know that New Zealand isn’t a budget-friendly destination.
That said, if you’re on a working holiday visa in New Zealand, you’re going to have plenty of time to discover the country. In this post, I’m giving you tips for backpacking New Zealand on a budget.
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Find cheap accommodation
Depending on how you like to travel, there are a few options for budget-friendly accommodation. Like most places you travel, hostels are always a great way to socialize and a cheaper option.
Dorm beds average from $25-$40 NZD ($15 – $24 USD). If shared rooms aren’t your thing, private rooms within the hostel are always a great option too!
Couchsurfing is another cheap option for accommodation if you don’t mind sleeping on a couch. While it is not common everywhere in the country, you will be able to find hosts in most of the major cities.
If you enjoy the outdoors, New Zealand is an excellent place to camp. Campsites are cheap to stay at, and there are plenty throughout the country.
Before your trip to New Zealand, do a little research online so you will know what your options are. Visit different local websites and blogs, and get as much information about cheap accommodations recommended by the locals and tourists.
Ideally, you should have the contact numbers of these accommodations before your scheduled trip so you can inquire about their costs, services, and locations.
You can also ask around the moment you arrive in New Zealand. This option can be a great way to befriend locals, but, on the other side of the coin, this can be very tricky, especially if you will not book any accommodation beforehand.
Try hitchhiking to get around!
If you have time and patience, hitchhiking is a great way to get around the country (note this is not recommended for other places!). Hitchhiking is legal here, so it is a common sight.
People are friendly, and you’ll be able to interact with local people, which is always the best way to get recommendations!
When hitchhiking, do not be afraid to engage in conversations with the locals. Get to know them better and ask for recommendations about the best tourist spots or activities to do in New Zealand.
Aside from being a cheap way of getting around, hitchhiking can also become your platform to make new friends!
Time and patience come into play as you will have to wait for the right person to come along, going the right direction.
This can mean standing on the side of the road for minutes or even hours.
To avoid being bored when waiting, prepare your extra batteries and download some of your favorite tunes ahead of time. Instead of sulking about how long you have to use, use this opportunity to take great pictures to showcase the wonders of New Zealand or relax while listening to music.
Also, if you are traveling a long distance, you may have to find multiple rides. BUT if you have those things, it is an eco-friendly, cheap, and adventurous way to get around! If you do choose to hitchhike, always be careful!
Do not divulge too much information and keep valuable items, such as your gadgets and pieces of jewelry, in your bag. Do not display them so you can prevent being a victim of theft.
Enjoy nature – it’s free!
When you are surrounded by so much fantastic scenery, you have to take it in! There are 13 National Parks in the country, and all of them are free to enter! You could easily plan a trip centered around visiting the National Parks.
Other outdoor activities such as walking or hiking, are also beautiful ways to spend your days and they’re free.
Hiking is one of the best ways to explore a country’s natural landscapes. There are numerous walking and hiking trails scattered throughout the country. Taking advantage of daily free activities will save you lots of cash along the way.
If trying outdoor activities is something up your alley, research about the free national parks in New Zealand first and determine which among these suits your experience.
Do not visit national parks that require expert hikers if you’re still a newbie, as this can only result in accidents and injuries.
Take advantage of happy hours (and the wine!)
If you plan on drinking, you should know that wine is a cheaper option than beer or cider. We won’t get into the boring details, but beer gets taxed high, and New Zealand wine is delicious, so it’s a win-win!
You should also take advantage of happy hours, especially at the backpacker bars.
Stick to exploring one island
If you are trying to keep to a tight budget, sticking to 1 island will save you cash. Jumping from place to place will add up in travel costs, so if you limit how far you are traveling, you will save money.
You can choose to explore the North or South Island and explore around there.
The North Island is known for being beautiful and a bit warmer, so you will get plenty of sunny beach days. The South Island is equally stunning, with tons of lakes and nature to explore.
Hire a Campervan
A campervan is not necessarily cheap to hire, but when you look at everything you can use it for, it does cut down your costs while traveling. It’s your accommodation, kitchen, and transportation all in one! It’s also a great way to travel the country.
Having your own transport allows you to go at your own pace and schedule, and be in charge of your trip. You’re able to stop and take pictures when you want or change your plans if you come across something that looks worth visiting.
Cook your own food
One of the best parts of traveling is the cuisine, but it is also one of the most expensive parts of a trip! New Zealand’s food scene is great to try, but buying and cooking your own food will save you cash.
Many hostels have a kitchen area you can use, so you should try to book one that allows you to do so! If you are staying in a campervan, you will have an area to cook. Take advantage of the cheaper options you can find in the markets.
You might also like these quirky things to do on New Zealand’s North Island.
