The Best Cars for Camping Trips
The Best Cars for Camping Trips: Your Ultimate Guide to Adventure-Ready Vehicles
Camping trips offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing you to reconnect with nature, breathe fresh air, and explore breathtaking landscapes. However, the key to a successful camping adventure lies not just in choosing the right gear but also in selecting the best vehicle to get you there comfortably and reliably. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip, the right car can make all the difference.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best cars for camping trips, considering factors such as cargo space, off-road capability, fuel efficiency, and comfort. From rugged SUVs to spacious minivans, we’ll help you find the perfect vehicle to match your camping style.
What Makes a Great Camping Car?
Before diving into specific models, let’s outline the essential features to look for in a camping-friendly vehicle:
- Ample Cargo Space – You’ll need room for tents, coolers, sleeping bags, cooking gear, and more. Roof racks or foldable seats can maximize storage.
- Off-Road Capability – If you plan to venture into remote campsites, ground clearance and 4WD/AWD are must-haves.
- Fuel Efficiency – Long road trips demand good gas mileage, especially if you’re covering vast distances.
- Comfort & Sleeping Space – Some campers prefer sleeping inside their vehicles, so spacious interiors or fold-flat seats are a bonus.
- Reliability – A breakdown in the wilderness is the last thing you want, so durability is crucial.
Now, let’s explore the top vehicles that excel in these categories.
1. Subaru Outback – The All-Rounder
Best For: Adventurers who want a balance of comfort, efficiency, and off-road capability.
The Subaru Outback has long been a favorite among campers for its rugged yet refined design. With standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and X-Mode for off-road traction, it handles dirt roads and light trails with ease.
Inside, the Outback offers 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space (expanding to 75.7 with seats folded), making it ideal for gear storage. The available turbocharged engine ensures strong performance, while the fuel-efficient base engine keeps costs down on long trips.
Why It’s Great for Camping:
✔ Spacious interior with fold-flat seats
✔ Excellent AWD system for rough terrain
✔ Comfortable ride for long distances
2. Toyota 4Runner – The Off-Road Beast
Best For: Hardcore campers who need serious off-road capability.
If your camping trips involve rocky trails, river crossings, or deep sand, the Toyota 4Runner is a top pick. Its body-on-frame construction, available locking rear differential, and multi-terrain select system make it a true off-roader.
With up to 89.7 cubic feet of cargo space, you can pack everything from bulky tents to kayaks. The available sliding rear cargo deck is perfect for loading heavy gear, and the roll-down rear window adds convenience.
Why It’s Great for Camping:
✔ Legendary off-road durability
✔ Massive cargo capacity
✔ Optional third-row seating for extra passengers
3. Honda CR-V – The Fuel-Saver
Best For: Budget-conscious campers who prioritize efficiency without sacrificing space.
The Honda CR-V is one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class, with a hybrid option delivering up to 38 MPG combined. Despite its compact size, it offers 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space (75.8 with seats folded), making it surprisingly roomy.
Its available AWD system provides decent traction on unpaved roads, while the comfortable ride ensures fatigue-free long drives. The Magic Seat system allows flexible storage configurations, perfect for odd-shaped camping gear.
Why It’s Great for Camping:
✔ Excellent fuel economy
✔ Smart interior storage solutions
✔ Smooth ride for highway cruising
4. Ford Transit Connect – The Stealth Camper
Best For: Minimalist campers who want a compact van for urban and outdoor adventures.
If you prefer stealth camping (sleeping in your vehicle without a tent), the Ford Transit Connect is an excellent choice. Its tall roof and boxy shape provide ample space to fit a small mattress, and the rear seats can be removed for even more room.
With up to 105.6 cubic feet of cargo space, it’s perfect for hauling bikes, surfboards, or camping gear. The 1.5L EcoBoost engine balances power and efficiency, making it great for long trips.
Why It’s Great for Camping:
✔ Roomy interior for sleeping inside
✔ Easy to maneuver in cities and campsites
✔ Affordable compared to full-size vans
5. Jeep Wrangler – The Ultimate Overlander
Best For: Off-grid campers who love extreme adventures.
The Jeep Wrangler is an icon of outdoor exploration, with removable doors and roof, solid axles, and best-in-class off-road angles. Whether you’re tackling Moab or navigating forest trails, the Wrangler thrives where other SUVs struggle.
The two-door model offers 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space, while the four-door Unlimited version provides 72.4 cubic feet—enough for all your gear. Many campers modify their Wranglers with roof-top tents or pull-out kitchens for a fully customized setup.
Why It’s Great for Camping:
✔ Unmatched off-road performance
✔ Open-air driving experience
✔ Huge aftermarket support for camping mods
6. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – The Luxury Camper Van
Best For: Glampers who want comfort and space for extended trips.
If you’re looking for a high-end camping experience, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is the gold standard. Available in multiple lengths and roof heights, it can be converted into a full RV with a bed, kitchen, and bathroom.
Even in its stock form, the cargo area is massive (up to 532 cubic feet), making it ideal for storing bikes, kayaks, and all your camping essentials. The turbo-diesel engine provides excellent towing capacity, while the luxurious interior ensures a smooth ride.
Why It’s Great for Camping:
✔ Spacious enough for full RV conversions
✔ Premium driving experience
✔ Ideal for long-term road trips
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Camping Car
The best car for your camping trips depends on your specific needs:
- For rugged off-road adventures: Toyota 4Runner or Jeep Wrangler
- For fuel efficiency and comfort: Honda CR-V or Subaru Outback
- For stealth camping: Ford Transit Connect
- For luxury road trips: Mercedes Sprinter
No matter which vehicle you choose, ensure it aligns with your camping style, budget, and travel plans. With the right car, every camping trip becomes an unforgettable journey into the wild.
Happy camping—and happy driving! 🚗⛺
