Tim Setterfield / February 12th, 2022

The 9 Best Vehicles for Car Campers & Nature Lovers

Royalty-free image: https://unsplash.com/photos/PRU6-3v8n7I

 

One of the best reasons to have a car is to get outdoors and see some of the very best scenery and nature. Car camping is popular and is a practical way of providing shelter and being able to experience the outdoors. But which vehicle is best suited for this activity so you have space and can enjoy your time in nature.

What Does Car Camping Mean?

So you can consider the type of vehicle you need, understanding what car camping is will help you create a shortlist. Car camping means you do one of two things. Either you drive right up to the place you plan to stay and pitch your tent. Or, you camp in your vehicle. That’s why you need to consider aspects like size, space for equipment and where you will prepare food.

 

Types of Vehicle for Car Camping

Subaru Forester

A Subaru Forester is spacious and has an all-wheel-drive system. It has 8.7-inch floor clearance, making it practical for off-road locations. The back seats fold flat, so you can place a mattress inside for sleeping. The legroom is spacious, making it easy to get in and out and comfortable when traveling. There’s also built-in Wi-Fi and LED lighting and a touch screen. Premium models have hill descent control built-in. 

2019 Ford Flex

The Ford Flex is another vehicle with a reputation for space. There’s a good 43.2 cubic feet of space once the third-row seats are folded down. Once the second-row seats are folded, there are 83.2 cubic feet. A Ford Flex is suitable for traveling in forested areas and unpaved terrain. There are accessories too, including cup holders and pockets, to make life easier on the road.

SUVs and 4x4s

An SUV or 4×4 vehicle is a practical choice for car camping. Generally, they are high off the road and can cope with rough terrain if you get into nature. These cars are spacious too and can be adapted for sleeping and shelter. In addition, you have space to store kits such as OBD2 scanners and cooking equipment. Another option is to use these vehicles to get into the countryside and camp alongside if you need more space.

Toyota 4Runner

 

The Toyota 4Runner was made for off-road driving and is ideal for accessing hard-to-reach places to camp. Its rear differential is electronically controlled and helps with driving on rough terrain. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System is another off-road feature. There’s spacious capacity too, making it ideal for weekends away.

 

Napier Rooftop Tent set up on a Toyota 4runner
PC - @autorevolution

 

Ford Bronco

The Ford Bronco has a formidable reputation. However, its 4 x 4 features are ideal for off-roading and getting into remote places. The roof panels come off, and there is room inside for your gear. You’ll find features including powder-coated steel bumpers, tow hooks, and a tilting feature giving access to the rear cargo area.

 

2021 Volkswagen Golf

Car camping does not always mean you need a 4×4. However, if you are heading off for a weekend away and intend to car camp, the 2021 Volkswagen Golf is ideal. It is a hatchback with ample storage space to start, but you can make even more by folding down the back seats. With enough room for a mattress, Wi-Fi included and touch screen controls, this car is ideal for a camping getaway.

Toyota Prius

Do not be fooled by a Toyota Prius. They look like a standard car in the parking lot, but their space for car camping is impressive. There’s already ample cargo space within the vehicle. Fold down the rear seats and there’s even more. This car is ideal for weekend camping and has a touch screen with entertainment and even an Amazon Alexa. 

Jeep Wrangler

 

The Jeep Wrangler has an impressive reputation for off-road travel so that you can get to remote areas. In addition, there is a lot of cargo space so that you can camp in the back. Most models have either a removable top or a roll-down soft cover, making it perfect for stargazing as you camp. 

 

Napier Sportz SUV Tent setup on a Jeep Wrangler
PC - @my.jeeplife

 

 Chevrolet Trailblazer

The Chevrolet Trailblazer is a popular vehicle for car camping. It has more than the average cargo space with room for tents and coolers. In addition, this vehicle has several driver-assist features, including automatic emergency braking. Off-road shock absorbers can also be added to the car. 

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The jeep Grand Cherokee is famously powerful, having the ability to tow a camper. There is a lot of cargo space inside, especially when you fold down the seating. It has a rear-wheel drive for off-roading, which will appeal to those who want to go into forested areas or similar locations to camp. A four-wheel drive can be added as an extra. In addition, the car has a touch screen and USB ports so you can still stay connected while in the backcountry. 

Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback is another popular car for camping vacations and breaks. Around 7.3 cubic feet of space is available once the rear seats are folded down, giving you enough room for a mattress. The all-wheel-drive system comes as an extra, making it useful for off-road driving. 

Some of these excellent vehicles are ideal for car camping, whether as a family or a couple. Check out the space they offer and the driving devices and any extra features that would make a difference to your camping experience. Then, all that remains is planning your journey and enjoying your car camping in the wild.

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