Yes! The butane gas canisters provided with our campervans and available as accessories via the Online Check-in Portal are perfectly suitable for most travel conditions, including typical chilly days. Butane is an affordable and efficient fuel choice for most days of the year.
When might butane cookers face issues?
Butane has a low boiling point of -1°C and low vapour pressure. This means it may struggle to perform optimally only in extreme cold winter conditions, particularly in remote, high-altitude or sub-zero areas of New Zealand. Most Space Travellers will never encounter these conditions during their road trip.
What if I’m travelling in winter or to very cold areas?
If you’re planning to travel in extreme winter conditions or to remote, high-altitude locations, you might prefer a fuel type with better cold-weather performance. You’re welcome to purchase your own compatible cooker and fuel at your own expense. Some alternatives include:
Isobutane: Boiling point of -12°C, higher vapour pressure and better performance in colder temperatures.
Propane: Boiling point of -42°C, high vapour pressure and the most reliable option for super cold temperatures and high altitudes.
Do I need to bring my own cooker for most trips?
No! For the vast majority of campervan trips, the provided butane cookers will work perfectly fine. The issues mentioned above only apply in extreme winter conditions or very remote areas. Most travellers will have no problems at all.