Retirement Life
13 November 2025
Top tips for motorhome travel these holidays
Ready to hit the road and soak up the freedom of motorhome travel? Whether you're a seasoned road warrior or just starting out, these tips will help you make the most of your holiday adventures - with less stress and more fun
1. Pick the right motorhome set-up
Don’t let a clunky layout ruin your trip. If you’re renting or buying, think about what matters most to you: is it a fixed bed? Easy access to the kitchen? More lounge space? If you already own one, look at ways to fix anything that is bugging you. Minor tweaks, like adding an air awning when you’re staying put for a bit, can transform the way you use (and enjoy) your motorhome.
2. Join the NZMCA
The New Zealand Motor Caravan Association (NZMCA) is a must. You’ll get discounts (including on the inter-island ferries), access to exclusive camping spots and Park Over Properties, and their app is a lifesaver for finding dump stations, campsites, and other services. It can even tell you how busy their campsites are.
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5. Use satellite view to help plan your route
Tight turns and tricky streets can be a fast track to navigation rage when you’re in a large motorhome. But planning your route - including stops - on Google Maps ahead of time, while taking a look at satellite view, will help you spot any potential hiccups. Download offline maps and pack a power bank in case you lose mobile reception or run out of battery.
6. Be realistic about daily life
Motorhoming isn’t all sunsets and wine. Laundry, groceries, and route planning still take time. Build in space for life admin so you can enjoy the fun stuff stress-free.
7. Make use of apps & social media
NZMCA’s app is gold, but you can also use CamperMate, Rankers Camping NZ, WikiCamps NZ, and Gaspy (for the best petrol prices). Join NZMCA’s private Facebook group for insider tips and support from fellow travellers, and search for other relevant Facebook groups that suit what you’re doing.
8. Put safety first
Turn off gas appliances when driving or refuelling. Check oil, water, and tyre pressure regularly. Keep a first aid kit and fire extinguisher onboard and sign up for roadside assistance – you never know when you might need it.
9. Pack some home comforts
An air fryer can be a game-changer for meals on the road, complementing the tiny gas oven and BBQ. Mattress toppers can be a godsend for a good night’s sleep, and a small cordless vacuum (or leaf blower!) is fantastic for keeping things tidy. Little comforts go a long way to keeping everyone in good spirits, so think about what would matter most to you
10. Expect a few bumps along the way
Not every moment will be perfect. Navigation hiccups and family squabbles still happen. Be sure to take rest days when you need them to help keep the mood buoyant– tiredness can sneak up on you when you’re on the road. Make the most of the luxury of having time on your side – one of the great assets of retirement – and indulge in slow travel, the best kind.
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Written by:
Vanessa Glennie
Vanessa is Head of Communications at Lifetime Retirement Income. She’s an experienced investment writer, having spent more than a decade writing about financial markets in the global fund management industry.
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