Keeping your kids safe and secure in a campervan

Holidays with kids are all about balance – a mix of fun, exploration, and just the right amount of routine to keep things running smoothly. That’s why a campervan road trip is such a great option. You’ve got everything you need always at hand, flexibility to change your plans, and the freedom to take your time. 

But if you’re new to life on the road, you might have a few questions about campervan family safety: How do you keep kids secure while driving? Where will they sleep? What safety essentials should you bring? 

The good news is, campervan travel with kids is easier than you might think. With the right setup and a few simple precautions, you’ll be all set for a safe, memorable family trip. 

Why campervan travel is ideal for families

Family holidays should be simple, stress-free, and full of fun – and that’s exactly a motorhome or campervan road trip works so well. Instead of dealing with multiple hotel bookings, packing and unpacking at every stop, or sticking to a rigid schedule, you can slow things down and explore at your own pace. Whether it’s a quick weekend escape or a longer road trip, hiring a campervan makes travelling with kids easier. Here’s why: 

• Travel on your own schedule – There’s no need to rush out for check-out times or worry about making restaurant bookings. Stay longer at places you love or change plans if needed – the flexibility makes a big difference with kids. 

• Save on accommodation and meals – Campervan hire includes both transport and a place to stay, cutting down on hotel and travel costs. Having a kitchen onboard means you can prepare meals when it suits your family, rather than relying on restaurants or takeaways. 

• Everything in one place – With built-in beds, a bathroom, and storage for clothes, toys, and snacks, you won’t need to constantly repack bags or hunt for the nearest toilet. Everything you need is always within reach. 

• Stress-free bedtimes – Kids love the novelty of sleeping in a campervan – it feels like a mini adventure of its own. Plus, they can have their favourite toys, blanket, and bedtime comforts with them, making it easier to wind down after a big day of exploring. 

• More time outdoors – Many campgrounds are surrounded by nature, giving kids space to play, explore, and burn off energy. Whether it’s paddling in a lake, spotting wildlife, or toasting marshmallows, it’s an easy way to swap screens for fresh air. 

READ MORE: Why campervans make family road trips easier and more fun. 

Key safety considerations when travelling in a campervan

Safety is a top priority when travelling with kids, and a little preparation goes a long way in making your campervan holiday smooth and stress-free.  

Campervan child seat laws in New Zealand

New Zealand law requires all children under seven years old to travel in an approved child restraint, such as a car seat or booster seat, that is appropriate for their height and weight. Children aged seven must also use a restraint if one is available. You can hire booster seats and rear-facing infant car seats when you book your Apollo campervan.  

Apollo provides information on child seat requirements, as well as a range of seats for hire to make travelling with young passengers easy.  

Choosing the right campervan for your family

Not all campervans are the same when it comes to safety features. If you’re travelling with children, it’s important to choose a vehicle with factory-fitted anchor points for child seats. This ensures restraints are securely fastened and meet safety standards. 

Apollo offers a range of family-friendly campervans with built-in safety features, different sleeping arrangements, and plenty of space for luggage, toys, and travel essentials.  

Here’s a look at some of our top family-friendly rentals: 

• Endeavour Camper (4-berth): Lightweight, easy to drive, and ideal for families staying at campgrounds. Perfect for those who don’t need an onboard shower or toilet. 

• Euro Camper (4-berth): A spacious motorhome with a fully equipped kitchen, shower, toilet, and room for baby and booster seats – great for larger families. 

• Euro Deluxe (6-berth): Designed for big families who want it all. Features a kitchen with a microwave, gas stove, fridge, onboard toilet and shower, and internal heating for all-season comfort. 

Packing safety essentials

A well-packed campervan makes for a safer and smoother trip, especially when travelling with kids. Along with everyday essentials like clothing and toiletries, here are a few key safety items to consider bringing: 

• First-aid kit – Include plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relief, antihistamines, insect repellent, and any necessary prescription medications. 

• Nightlights or torches – A plug-in nightlight or battery-powered torch can help little ones feel more secure at bedtime and make nighttime toilet trips easier. 

• Sun protection – Pack sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective clothing, as New Zealand’s sun can be harsh even on cooler days. 

• Safe sleeping aids – If your child moves around a lot in their sleep, an inflatable bed bumper can help keep them secure. These can be placed under fitted sheets to create a soft barrier. 

• Motion sickness remedies – If your child is prone to travel sickness, bring motion sickness bands, ginger chews, or any medication recommended by your doctor. 

• Power socket covers – Packing a few plug socket covers is a simple way to keep power points safely blocked, especially when hooked up to mains power at a campsite. 

For a full packing checklist, check out Apollo’s what to pack guide. 

Securing your kids inside the campervan

Campervan travel gives families the freedom to explore, but safety inside the vehicle is just as important as on the road. Setting a few ground rules and making small adjustments to the space can help keep kids secure and comfortable throughout the trip. 

Setting rules for moving and staying inside the campervan

When the campervan is moving, seatbelts aren’t optional – they’re essential. Just like in a car, everyone must remain seated and buckled in while driving. For young children, this means using the correct child restraint, securely fastened to an anchor point. It’s a good idea to explain the rules before setting off, making it clear that there’s no moving around or unbuckling until the vehicle is parked. 

To help keep kids entertained while seated, pack easy car-friendly activities like audiobooks, sticker books, or small toys that don’t require much movement. 

Designated play areas

Once parked, a campervan can double as a cosy play space, but it helps to set some boundaries to keep things safe. Soft floor mats or a picnic blanket can create a comfortable play zone inside, while a small collapsible storage box is handy for keeping toys organised. If there’s an outdoor area, setting up a shaded spot with a rug and a few activities can encourage kids to play safely outside instead of climbing on furniture or moving around the van too much. 

Childproofing the campervan

A campervan is designed for travel, but a few small adjustments can make it even safer for little ones: 

• Secure hazardous items – Store cleaning products, medications, and anything breakable in overhead cabinets, well out of reach. 

• Keep loose items in place – While driving, anything unsecured can become a hazard. Use built-in storage, cupboards, and seat pockets to keep things safely tucked away. 

• Lock cupboards and drawers – Most campervans have push-snib locks, which will keep cabinets closed when not being used. 

• Block off-limits areas – If there are sections of the campervan you’d rather keep child-free, such as the driver’s seat or kitchen area, use soft barriers such as a portable baby gate. 

Sleeping safely in a campervan

A good night’s sleep is essential for a great campervan trip, and with the right setup, kids can rest comfortably and securely. Whether they’re sleeping in a fixed bed, a fold-out, or the Luton peak over the cab, there are simple ways to make bedtime safe and stress-free. 

• Safety nets for overhead beds – Some larger campervans have a Luton peak bed above the driver’s cab, which comes with safety nets that clip to the ceiling. These add extra security to help prevent sleepers from rolling out. 

• Ladders for elevated beds – In 4-berth and 6-berth campervans with raised sleeping areas, a sturdy ladder is supplied to make getting in and out of bed easier and safer. 

• Extra support for little ones – If you’re travelling with young children, an inflatable bed bumper rail can provide added security. These fit under fitted sheets to create a soft barrier and can be found at baby and travel stores. 

• Nighttime safety – A small plug-in nightlight can help kids feel more comfortable in a new sleep environment and make it easier to navigate any late-night toilet trips. Keep exits clear of bags and shoes and always lock the campervan before settling in for the night. 

Safety while exploring New Zealand

One of the best parts of a campervan holiday is getting out and exploring –whether it’s a quiet lakeside campsite, a rugged beach, or a scenic walking trail. But new environments bring new risks, especially for young children. A few simple precautions can help keep everyone safe while making the most of New Zealand’s great outdoors. 

Road safety

Campervans are bigger than regular cars, which means extra care is needed when getting in and out – especially near roads or busy car parks. 

• Always park in a safe, designated area away from traffic before letting children exit the vehicle. 

• Teach kids to wait until an adult says it’s safe to get out and use the kerbside door whenever possible. 

• Be mindful of blind spots – children can be hard to see from the driver’s seat, so always double-check around the vehicle before moving off. 

• When stopping for roadside breaks, choose a rest area rather than pulling over on the shoulder, where passing traffic can be a hazard. 

Supervising children in campsites and wilderness areas

Campsites and remote locations are fantastic places for kids to explore, but unfamiliar surroundings can present unexpected dangers. 

• Set clear boundaries – explain where they can and can’t go and establish a meeting point in case they wander too far. 

• Keep an eye on younger children at all times, especially near water, bushland, or other campers' vehicles. 

• At holiday parks, check for designated play areas and encourage kids to stick to safe spaces rather than running between campervans and roads. 

• Remind children to be aware of their surroundings, including wildlife, uneven ground, and potential trip hazards. 

Water safety

New Zealand’s lakes, beaches, and rivers are beautiful places to swim and play, but conditions can change quickly. Staying vigilant around water is crucial. 

• Always supervise children closely when near water, even in shallow areas. 

• If swimming at a beach, choose a patrolled area and stay between the red and yellow flags. Many of New Zealand’s beaches have strong currents, so check conditions before getting in. 

• Rivers can have hidden currents and sudden drop-offs – encourage paddling in calm, shallow sections rather than deeper water. 

• Life jackets are recommended for young children when playing near lakes, rivers, or on boats. 

Educating kids on wildlife and natural hazards

New Zealand is home to unique wildlife and plant life, some of which require a little extra caution. Teaching kids about their surroundings can help keep them safe. 

• Some plants, like ongaonga (native stinging nettle), can cause painful reactions if touched. Encourage children to avoid touching unknown plants. 

• While New Zealand doesn’t have dangerous land animals, wasps and sandflies can be a nuisance – packing insect repellent is a good idea. 

• If exploring in bush areas, stick to marked tracks to avoid getting lost and reduce the risk of stumbling into hazards like steep drops or hidden holes. 

• Encourage a ‘look but don’t touch’ approach with wildlife – seals, penguins, and birds should be observed from a safe distance. 

Entertainment and engagement tips to keep kids happy

Keeping kids entertained on a campervan trip doesn’t have to be a challenge. With a mix of travel-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and a bit of education woven in, you can turn every part of the journey into something fun and engaging. Here are some simple ways to keep little travellers happy on the road. 

Interactive activities for kids during travel

Long drives are all part of the experience so having a few engaging activities on hand can help keep boredom at bay. 

• Colouring books and activity pads – Great for keeping hands busy without the need for screens. 

• Audiobooks and podcasts – A good story can make the kilometres fly by. Try kid-friendly audiobooks or educational podcasts about New Zealand. 

• Travel games – Classic games like I Spy, bingo, and scavenger hunts work well in a campervan. 

• Sticker books and reusable drawing boards – Mess-free options that are perfect for travel. 

• Music playlists and singalongs – Let kids create a road trip playlist to keep them engaged and entertained. 

For more fun ideas, check out Apollo’s top tips for entertaining kids in a campervan. 

Encouraging outdoor exploration

One of the biggest perks of campervan travel is the chance to explore New Zealand’s great outdoors. Whether it’s stretching legs at a scenic stop or planning a short hike, there are plenty of ways to make the most of nature. 

• Short family-friendly walks – Tracks like the Blue Pools Walk near Wānaka or the Hooker Valley Track in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park offer stunning views without being too challenging for kids. 

• Beachcombing and rock pooling – Coastal spots like Tāwharanui and Abel Tasman National Park are great for spotting crabs, shells, and small marine life. 

• Scavenger hunts – Create a simple nature scavenger hunt with things like different coloured leaves, birds, or interesting rocks. 

• Stargazing at night – If you're staying somewhere remote, wrap up warm and spend some time spotting constellations. 

Incorporating educational elements

Travel is a great opportunity for kids to learn, and New Zealand has plenty of ways to turn sightseeing into a fun, hands-on experience. 

• Māori culture and history – Visit places like Te Puia in Rotorua to see geothermal wonders and learn about Māori traditions, or explore the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for an insight into New Zealand’s history. 

• Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for native birds like tūī, kererū, and kea, or visit a wildlife sanctuary such as Zealandia in Wellington. 

• Geothermal wonders – Places like Wai-O-Tapu near Rotorua or the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki offer unique landscapes that kids will love. 

• Interactive museums – Many museums, like Te Papa in Wellington, have hands-on exhibits perfect for young explorers. 

READ MORE: Check out our guide to cultural experiences in NZ for kids 

Preparing for emergencies

While most families finish their campervan holiday with nothing but great memories, it’s always worth being prepared for the unexpected. A little planning can go a long way in keeping things stress-free, whether it’s knowing who to call in an emergency or having a plan for minor hiccups along the way. 

• Emergency contact list – Save key numbers in your phone and keep a written copy in the campervan. Important contacts include 111 for emergencies, Healthline (0800 611 116) for medical advice, and the Department of Conservation (0800 362 468) for any safety concerns in national parks. 

• Breakdown and roadside assistance – While issues are rare, help is always available. All Apollo campervans are covered by thl’s 24-hour roadside assistance – simply call the number on your vehicle key tag if needed. It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with basic troubleshooting, such as how to check gas connections or reset power systems. 

• Health emergencies – If anyone in your family has specific medical needs, research the nearest medical centres or pharmacies along your route. Note, All Apollo campervans come with a first aid kit. This will cost $50 only if opened and it means you’ll be prepared for any accidents along the way. 

Additional resources for parents

Planning a campervan holiday with kids is easier when you have the right information. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly campgrounds, activity ideas, or safety tips, these resources can help you make the most of your trip. 

• Family-friendly campgrounds – Finding the right place to stay makes all the difference. Many holiday parks have playgrounds, swimming areas, and kid-friendly facilities. Check out our guide to some of New Zealand’s best family friendly campsites. 

• Fun activities for kids in New Zealand – From nature walks to interactive museums, New Zealand has plenty to keep kids entertained. Check out our guides to some of New Zealand’s best family friendly things to do in … 

• Auckland 

• Tauranga 

• Taupo 

• Rotorua 

• Hawke’s Bay 

• Wellington 

• Nelson 

• Christchurch 

• Queenstown 

• Dunedin 

Plan your family campervan holiday

Ready to hit the road? Start by choosing the right camper for your trip. Apollo offers a range of family-friendly campervans, all equipped with modern amenities to make travelling with kids easy.  

To make planning even simpler, download the thl Roadtrip app. It’s a handy tool that helps you find campsites, access video tutorials, and get useful travel tips – all in one place. Book your campervan today and get ready for an unforgettable New Zealand road trip filled with adventure, exploration, and plenty of family fun.