Rain will instantly change the mood of a campervan trip. To start, bush walks and lakeside breakfasts become far less attractive. Even driving can be a bit of slow going because of the reduced tyre traction and visibility. If you don’t have anywhere else to go for the day, then that steady pitter-patter on your roof can signal that it really is time to hunker down for a bit.

Naturally, when you’re travelling by a campervan rental NZ service, scenic routes are part of the deal, along with all its unpredictability. Even summer itineraries will eventually run into a grey day or two, so it’s a good idea to think things through even before you commit to your campervan rental.

Thankfully, wet weather can become a reset rather than a frustration. But this generally only holds true if you plan for it. Here’s how you can stay comfortable, occupied, and calm when the rain sets in during your road trip.

Lean into the Slower Pace

Slowing down is the whole point of travelling by campervan. Rainy days should, therefore, be a good excuse to stop rushing. If you wake up to the sound of the rain, take it as a sign to let your morning unfold slowly. Make a proper breakfast, or whatever you can manage in the confines of your van. If nothing else, be sure to brew coffee at a leisurely pace and to stop checking the time. When the weather limits your movement, give yourself permission to slow down because that’s what you’re there for.

Set Up a Dry, Functional Interior

Of course, making coffee, let alone breakfast, can be a pain if there’s too much clutter in your van. Rain or no rain, clutter isn’t doing you favours, so be sure to take a few minutes each day to tidy, fold bedding, and organise gear. Also, clear bench space after each use so meals and activities don’t feel chaotic. If you have a larger van, you’ll want to always have a bit of free room to hang damp clothes so they can dry. These small changes can make a huge difference in how long you can comfortably stay inside.

Choose Destinations That Still Work in the Rain

Thankfully, not every plan needs to be cancelled for a rain check. Many towns across the country have libraries, museums, galleries, or local cafés that are just as enjoyable in wet weather. If you still have somewhere to be, taking a scenic coastal or forest detour can also make the trip less gloomy and more atmospheric.

Keep a Dedicated “Rainy Day” Kit

A small kit with cards, books, downloaded films, journals, or puzzles can help turn being stuck in the rain into something genuinely enjoyable. These items don’t take much space and they’re necessary insurance to keep you from defaulting to frustration or endless doomscrolling on your phone.

Cook Something That Takes Time

On rainy days, you’ll be glad you rented a van with a kitchen. Hearty soups, slow breakfasts, and one-pan dinners just hit differently when it’s raining outside, and you’ll be glad you were able to make these things from scratch rather than just reheating the contents of a can. Cooking also helps keep the interior warm and, just as importantly, gives you something practical and enjoyable to focus on.

Manage Condensation Early

Counterintuitively, rainy days are the times when you need to be cracking your windows and vents open. Maintaining a proper airflow throughout the van prevents damp bedding, fogged windows, and that uncomfortable, cold, clammy feeling you get when humidity builds up. 

Dress for Comfort, Not the Outdoors

The waterproofing on rain gear can make things a bit stuffy when you’re indoors, trapping moisture against your skin and giving you the clammy feeling mentioned earlier. If you have to stay in, stick with dry, warm, breathable layers to stay comfortable and to give yourself every opportunity to enjoy the rainy vibe.

Use Short Weather Breaks Wisely

Rain in NZ often comes in waves rather than full-day downpours. In most cases, a quick walk, stretch, or fresh-air break between deluges will already be enough to reset your mood. 

Keep an Eye on Tomorrow, Not the Forecast All Day

Checking the weather every ten minutes won’t change a thing. You’re out to relax, so look ahead once, stop making rigid plans, and then stop fixating on the weather. The weather will let up in its own time.

Turn Those Grey Days into Unforgettable Moments

Rainy days can slow you down and test your limits, but those can actually be the best things about life on the road. Given that they’re inevitable, the only question is if you have the mindset and preparation to make days as enjoyable as they can be.

If you’re planning an upcoming road trip, it’s time to stop dreading rainy days and start thinking about how you can make them highlights of your next journey. Follow these helpful tips and be sure to ask your campervan rental service for more insights before you embark on your life-changing road journey.