The Best Cars for Car Camping: Your Ultimate Guide to Comfortable Adventures
Car camping has become increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts who want to combine the freedom of road trips with the comfort of a mobile sleeping space. Unlike traditional tent camping, car camping allows you to bring more gear, stay protected from the elements, and even enjoy a cozy bed inside your vehicle. However, not all cars are equally suited for this purpose. The best car camping vehicles offer ample space, reliability, fuel efficiency, and off-road capability when needed.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top cars for car camping, categorized by different needs—whether you prioritize luxury, ruggedness, or budget-friendliness. We’ll also discuss essential modifications to make your vehicle the perfect adventure companion.
What Makes a Great Car Camping Vehicle?
Before diving into specific models, let’s outline the key features that make a car ideal for camping:
- Spacious Interior – Enough room to sleep comfortably, store gear, and move around.
- Foldable or Removable Seats – Allows for a flat sleeping surface.
- Good Fuel Efficiency – Long road trips require a vehicle that won’t drain your wallet at the pump.
- Reliability – You don’t want breakdowns in remote areas.
- Off-Road Capability (Optional) – If you plan to explore rough terrain, ground clearance and 4WD/AWD are helpful.
- Roof Rack or Storage Options – Extra space for bulky items like tents, kayaks, or bikes.
- Climate Control & Insulation – Staying warm in winter and cool in summer is crucial.
Now, let’s look at the best cars that fit these criteria.
Best Overall Car Camping Vehicles
1. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a favorite among car campers for its perfect balance of space, fuel efficiency, and off-road capability. With standard all-wheel drive (AWD), generous cargo space (up to 75.7 cubic feet with seats folded), and a rugged design, it’s ideal for both highway cruising and dirt road adventures. Many campers build simple sleeping platforms in the back for a comfortable setup.
Why It’s Great:
✔ Spacious interior with a long, flat cargo area
✔ Excellent AWD system for rough terrain
✔ Great fuel economy (up to 32 MPG highway)
✔ Roof rails for additional storage
2. Toyota 4Runner
If you need serious off-road capability with plenty of room, the Toyota 4Runner is a top pick. Its body-on-frame construction makes it durable, and the rear seats fold completely flat, creating a large sleeping area. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims offer enhanced suspension for tackling tough trails.
Why It’s Great:
✔ Massive cargo space (89.7 cubic feet with seats down)
✔ Legendary reliability and off-road performance
✔ Available sliding rear cargo deck (for easier loading)
✔ Optional third-row seating (for larger groups)
3. Honda Element (Discontinued, but Still a Legend)
Though no longer in production, the Honda Element remains one of the best car camping vehicles ever made. Its boxy design maximizes interior space, and the waterproof, wipe-clean floors make it perfect for messy outdoor adventures. The rear seats fold up against the walls or can be removed entirely, creating a sleeping area large enough for two adults.
Why It’s Great:
✔ Ultra-practical, easy-to-clean interior
✔ Huge rear doors for easy access
✔ Lightweight and fuel-efficient
✔ Still available used at affordable prices
Best Budget-Friendly Car Camping Options
4. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a fantastic affordable option for car campers. It offers 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space, excellent fuel economy (up to 34 MPG highway), and a reliable reputation. The rear seats fold nearly flat, making it easy to set up a sleeping platform.
Why It’s Great:
✔ Affordable to buy and maintain
✔ Roomy interior for its size
✔ Smooth ride for long-distance trips
5. Subaru Forester
Similar to the Outback but slightly smaller, the Subaru Forester is another great choice. It has 74.2 cubic feet of cargo space, standard AWD, and a tall cabin that makes it feel more spacious than many competitors.
Why It’s Great:
✔ Excellent visibility (large windows)
✔ Strong safety ratings
✔ Good ground clearance for light off-roading
Best Luxury Car Camping Vehicles
6. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van (Converted Camper)
For those who want maximum comfort, a Mercedes Sprinter van (or similar Ford Transit or Ram ProMaster) can be converted into a full-time camper. These vans offer standing room, kitchenettes, and even bathrooms, making them perfect for extended trips.
Why It’s Great:
✔ Fully customizable interior
✔ Spacious enough for full-time living
✔ High roof options for standing
7. Land Rover Defender
If you want luxury and ruggedness, the Land Rover Defender is a dream vehicle for car camping. It has ample cargo space, advanced off-road tech, and a premium interior that makes camping feel like glamping.
Why It’s Great:
✔ Extremely capable off-road
✔ High-end interior with modern comforts
✔ Unique, adventure-ready design
Essential Car Camping Modifications
To maximize your car camping experience, consider these upgrades:
- Sleeping Platform – DIY or pre-made platforms create a flat, comfortable bed.
- Window Shades & Privacy Screens – For better insulation and privacy.
- Roof Rack & Storage Box – Extra space for gear.
- Portable Power Station – For charging devices and running small appliances.
- Insulation & Ventilation – Thermal curtains or fans to regulate temperature.
Final Thoughts
The best car for camping depends on your needs—whether you prioritize space, off-road ability, or luxury. The Subaru Outback and Toyota 4Runner are excellent all-around choices, while budget campers might prefer a Honda CR-V or used Honda Element. For those who want the ultimate experience, a converted Sprinter van or Land Rover Defender takes car camping to the next level.
No matter which vehicle you choose, the key is to optimize your setup for comfort and convenience. With the right car and a bit of preparation, you can turn any road trip into an unforgettable camping adventure.
Happy camping! 🚗🏕️