Why Small Camper Vans for Rent Are Best for Couples and Solo Adventurers

Not everyone wants a six-berth motorhome. If you're travelling as a couple or heading out solo, a smaller campervan makes the whole trip easier. Less to park, less to fuel, and more than enough space to live comfortably on the road.

We've seen some travellers book vans twice the size they need. Then they find themselves spending the entire road trip squeezing into tight carparks and burning through a costly amount of fuel. A compact campervan gives you everything you need without the excess.

In New Zealand, many of the best places sit at the end of winding coastal roads or have small, simple camping areas. In those situations, smaller really does work better.

Here's what to consider when choosing a small campervan for your trip.

Why Smaller Works for Couples and Solo Travellers

Choosing a compact campervan is not just about cost. It is about practicality.

If you are travelling solo or as a couple, you don’t need a lot of space. What matters is a comfortable bed, a functional kitchen, and storage that keeps things organised.

Smaller vans handle NZ roads with ease. Imagine narrow bridges, gravel sections, and tight turns through places like the Coromandel or the West Coast. You'll also easily park closer to trailheads while securing that ideal freedom camping spot that bigger rigs can't access.

You’ll also use less fuel along the way, which adds up over a longer trip.

What to Look for in a Small Campervan Rental

Size aside, the quality and condition of the van are equally important. Cheap van RV rental options might save you a few dollars upfront. But an older, poorly maintained van often costs more in fuel and stress.

Easy handling and manoeuvrability

A compact van should feel light on the road. Look for a vehicle under 5.5 meters. It should be easy to reverse into tight spots. It should also handle one-lane bridges well. If you're used to driving a regular car, the transition should feel natural.

Clever use of space

In a smaller van, design makes a big difference. Well-thought-out layouts use storage under the bed, fold-down tables, and multi-use bench space. The goal is to move around easily without feeling cramped.

Self-contained for freedom camping

Getting into freedom camping sites requires a certified self-contained van. That's absolutely needed if you want to park up lakeside or beachfront without ending up in holiday parks. Make sure the van has an updated certification before you book.

Fuel efficiency

Smaller vans consume less fuel, and over a two-week trip, the savings can rack up to as much as $200 or more. With fuel around $2.50 per litre, a van that does 9L/100km instead of 14L/100km makes a genuine difference to your daily spend.

Off-grid power

Solo travellers and couples often spend more nights off-grid than families do. Check whether the van has a dual battery system or a solar panel. This ensures that lights and USB ports are ready whenever you need them. You'll never need to worry that the fridge will lose power every other night.

Reliable support

Quiet roads are part of the appeal, but they also mean you're relatively far from help if something goes wrong. Choose an operator that offers proper roadside assistance and answers the phone when you call.

How Much Do Small Campervans Cost to Rent?

Daily rates for campervan rental in New Zealand vary depending on the season, van size, and hire length. As a rough guide, expect around NZ$100–200 per day for a compact, well-equipped van during shoulder season. Summer sits higher, and winter deals can drop lower.

For travelling duos, this daily rate covers both the cost of travel and accommodation. Compare that to a rental car plus motels, plus eating out, and the numbers stack up well.

If you are travelling for three weeks or more, it is worth asking about extended hire pricing, as longer trips often bring the daily rate down.

Compact Vans and Freedom Camping

One of the biggest advantages of a smaller van is access. Many freedom camping spots are designed with compact vehicles in mind. Tight pull-offs by lakes, small clearings near beaches, and quieter roadside areas are often off-limits to larger motorhomes.

With a self-contained campervan, you can park at DOC sites and council-approved areas. The freedom to follow the weather and change plans easily makes campervanning in NZ special. You can wake up in a beautiful place without going through a complicated booking process.

Who Should Choose a Small Campervan?

Small campervans suit couples and solo travellers who want simplicity and flexibility. They work well for people chasing waves, heading into the mountains, or taking a slower road trip without unnecessary extras.

You don't need a van with features that you will eventually not use. You need something reliable, comfortable, and designed for that trip just the way you want it.

For help choosing the right van, we've put together a guide that walks through the options.

Choosing the Right Van for the Road

At Big Little Campers, we built our vans for exactly this kind of travel. Compact, self-contained, and designed by travellers who've spent years on these roads. Our team knows the back routes, the best freedom camping spots, and what makes a trip feel easy instead of exhausting.

Travelling as a couple or solo? The Little One offers compact comfort with easy parking and better fuel economy. Get in touch and find your perfect match.