Imagine waking up to the gentle rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the fresh scent of nature lingering in the air. For camping enthusiasts, this dream becomes a reality with the right vehicle equipped to handle the great outdoors. Whether you’re planning a family adventure, a solo escapade, or an off-road expedition, having a reliable and capable camping car can elevate your experience to new heights.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 best cars for camping, tailored to outdoor enthusiasts in the USA and UK. From rugged off-roaders to family-friendly SUVs and compact yet mighty adventure-mobiles, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your camping gear, and let’s hit the road to discover the perfect vehicle for your next outdoor adventure!
What Makes a Best Cars For Camping?
Before we dive into the top 10 list, let’s discuss the essential features and characteristics that define a great camping car:
Ample Cargo Space: A camping trip often involves packing a significant amount of gear, from tents and sleeping bags to cooking equipment and outdoor essentials. A vehicle with ample cargo space, whether in the trunk or a spacious cabin, is crucial for accommodating all your necessities.
Off-Road Capabilities: While some campers prefer designated campgrounds, others seek the thrill of exploring remote, off-the-beaten-path locations. In such cases, a vehicle with robust off-road capabilities, such as high ground clearance, four-wheel drive, and advanced traction control systems, can be a game-changer.
Fuel Efficiency: Long drives to reach your camping destination can quickly drain your fuel tank. A fuel-efficient vehicle not only saves you money at the pump but also reduces your environmental impact, ensuring that you can enjoy nature without leaving a heavy carbon footprint.
Comfortable Seating and Ride Quality: Camping trips often involve long hours on the road, so a vehicle with comfortable seating and a smooth ride quality is essential for preventing fatigue and ensuring a pleasant journey.
Roof Rack or Towing Capacity: Some camping gear, such as kayaks or small trailers, may require additional storage or towing capabilities. A vehicle with a sturdy roof rack or towing capacity can accommodate these needs seamlessly.
Durable and Easy-to-Clean Interior: Camping can be a messy affair, with mud, dirt, and other outdoor elements finding their way into your vehicle. A durable and easy-to-clean interior can save you from hours of scrubbing and ensure that your car stays fresh and inviting, even after the most adventurous trips.
Now that we’ve covered the essential criteria, let’s dive into the top 10 best cars for camping, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts in the USA and UK.
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The Top 10 Best Cars for Camping
1. Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is a true off-road warrior, making it an excellent choice for camping adventures that venture off the beaten path. With its rugged body-on-frame construction, high ground clearance, and available four-wheel-drive system, the 4Runner can tackle even the most challenging terrains with ease.
- Standout Features for Camping:
- Impressive cargo capacity (47.2 cubic feet with rear seats folded)
- Available roof rack for additional storage
- Skid plates and off-road-tuned suspension
- Optional third-row seating for up to seven passengers
- Key Specifications:
- Towing capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
- Fuel economy: 16 mpg city / 19 mpg highway (4WD)
- Ground clearance: 9.6 inches
- Best Trim for Camping: The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro trim is designed for serious off-road adventures, featuring advanced terrain-conquering technologies, such as a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, and a locking rear differential.
The Toyota 4Runner is the ultimate camping companion for those who crave adventure. Its off-road prowess and spacious interior make it a standout choice for outdoor enthusiasts. – Camping Life Magazine
2. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a versatile and reliable wagon that combines comfort, capability, and practicality, making it an excellent choice for camping trips. With its standard all-wheel-drive system and ample ground clearance, the Outback can handle rough terrain with confidence, while its spacious interior and generous cargo capacity accommodate all your camping gear.
- Standout Features for Camping:
- Standard roof rails with integrated crossbars
- Water-resistant and stain-resistant upholstery (Onyx Edition XT)
- Available LED steering-responsive headlights for better visibility
- 180-degree front-view camera for obstacle avoidance
- Key Specifications:
- Cargo capacity: 32.5 cubic feet (with rear seats up)
- Towing capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs
- Fuel economy: 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- Best Trim for Camping: The Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT combines off-road capability with practical features, such as water-resistant upholstery and a hands-free power liftgate, making it an ideal choice for camping adventures.
3. Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco is a true icon in the world of off-road vehicles, and its latest iteration lives up to its legendary reputation. With its robust construction, advanced four-wheel-drive systems, and an array of off-road-focused features, the Bronco is a camping enthusiast’s dream come true.
- Standout Features for Camping:
- Best-in-class ground clearance and water-fording capabilities
- Available removable doors and roof panels for an open-air experience
- Terrain Management System with seven G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes
- Available advanced four-wheel-drive system with locking differentials
- Key Specifications:
- Cargo capacity: 35.7 cubic feet (two-door model) / 77.6 cubic feet (four-door model)
- Towing capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs
- Fuel economy: 20 mpg city / 22 mpg highway (four-door model)
- Best Trim for Camping: The Ford Bronco Wildtrak trim is designed for serious off-road adventures, featuring advanced four-wheel-drive systems, heavy-duty skid plates, and a lifted suspension for increased ground clearance.
The Ford Bronco is a camping enthusiast’s dream come true. Its rugged capabilities and open-air design allow you to fully immerse yourself in the great outdoors. – Overland Journal
4. Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic off-road vehicle that has been a favorite among camping and outdoor enthusiasts for decades. With its legendary off-road prowess, removable doors and roof, and versatile interior, the Wrangler is ready to tackle any camping adventure head-on.
- Standout Features for Camping:
- Unmatched off-road capabilities with solid axles and high ground clearance
- Removable doors, roof, and foldable windshield for an open-air experience
- Available three-piece modular hardtop for added protection
- Trail-rated and equipped with skid plates and tow hooks
- Key Specifications:
- Cargo capacity: 31.7 cubic feet (with rear seats folded)
- Towing capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs
- Fuel economy: 20 mpg city / 25 mpg highway (four-door model)
- Best Trim for Camping: The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon trim is the ultimate off-road machine, featuring locking differentials, disconnecting sway bars, and advanced four-wheel-drive systems for conquering even the most challenging terrain.
5. Honda Ridgeline (continued)
- Standout Features for Camping:
- Lockable in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate for secure storage
- Available truck bed audio system and power outlet
- Unibody construction for a smoother ride and better handling
- Available all-wheel-drive system
- Key Specifications:
- Cargo bed length: 5.3 feet
- Towing capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
- Fuel economy: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (AWD)
- Best Trim for Camping: The Honda Ridgeline RTL-E or Black Edition trims offer the best combination of features for camping, including leather upholstery, a truck bed audio system, and additional off-road capabilities with the available all-wheel-drive system.
6. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
While not a traditional camping vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van offers a unique and versatile platform for converting into a fully-equipped camper van. With its spacious interior, robust construction, and reliable performance, the Sprinter is an excellent choice for those seeking a custom camping experience.
- Standout Features for Camping:
- Vast interior space for custom camper van conversions
- Available high-roof option for increased headroom
- Powerful yet efficient turbocharged diesel engine
- Optional all-wheel-drive system for improved off-road capability
- Key Specifications:
- Cargo capacity: Up to 530 cubic feet (high-roof, extended-length model)
- Towing capacity: Up to 7,500 lbs
- Fuel economy: Up to 22 mpg (diesel engine)
- Best Model for Camping: The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4×4 Crew Van with the high-roof option provides ample space for a custom camper van conversion, while the all-wheel-drive system and ground clearance allow for off-road adventures.
7. Toyota Sienna
While minivans may not be the first choice that comes to mind for camping, the Toyota Sienna offers a surprisingly practical and family-friendly option. With its spacious interior, versatile seating configurations, and available all-wheel-drive system, the Sienna can comfortably accommodate your camping crew and gear.
- Standout Features for Camping:
- Available all-wheel-drive system for improved traction
- Versatile seating configurations with removable second-row seats
- Available power liftgate for easy loading and unloading
- Ample cargo space with all seats folded down
- Key Specifications:
- Cargo capacity: Up to 150.1 cubic feet (with seats folded)
- Towing capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs
- Fuel economy: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (AWD)
- Best Trim for Camping: The Toyota Sienna Limited AWD trim offers the most features for camping, including leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and the available all-wheel-drive system for improved traction on rough terrain.
8. Land Rover Defender
The Land Rover Defender is a true icon in the world of off-road vehicles, combining rugged capabilities with modern luxury and technology. Whether you’re tackling rugged trails or simply seeking a comfortable and capable vehicle for your camping adventures, the Defender delivers in style.
- Standout Features for Camping:
- Advanced all-wheel-drive and terrain response systems
- Impressive water-fording capabilities and ground clearance
- Available roof racks and exterior gear carriers
- Luxurious and durable interior with optional third-row seating
- Key Specifications:
- Cargo capacity: Up to 58.3 cubic feet (with second and third rows folded)
- Towing capacity: Up to 8,200 lbs
- Fuel economy: 17 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- Best Trim for Camping: The Land Rover Defender X trim is the ultimate off-road package, featuring specialized off-road tires, a configurable terrain response system, and advanced electronic air suspension for improved ground clearance and off-road capability.
9. Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is a mid-size pickup truck that delivers impressive off-road performance and capability, making it an excellent choice for camping adventures that venture beyond the beaten path. With its rugged suspension, locking differentials, and aggressive tires, the ZR2 can tackle even the most challenging terrain with confidence.
- Standout Features for Camping:
- Multimatic DSSV damping system for improved off-road handling
- Front and rear locking differentials for maximum traction
- Increased ground clearance and aggressive off-road tires
- Available GearOn accessory system for securing gear in the truck bed
- Key Specifications:
- Cargo bed length: 5.2 feet
- Towing capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
- Fuel economy: 16 mpg city / 18 mpg highway
- Best Trim for Camping: The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is the ultimate off-road package, combining impressive off-road capabilities with practical features like the available GearOn accessory system for securing camping gear in the truck bed.
10. Subaru Outback Wilderness Edition
Building upon the versatility and capability of the standard Outback, the Subaru Outback Wilderness Edition takes things a step further with enhanced off-road features and rugged styling, making it an excellent choice for camping trips that venture off the beaten path.
- Standout Features for Camping:
- Increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires
- Upgraded suspension and skid plates for off-road protection
- Roof rack with integrated tie-down points
- All-weather upholstery and rubberized cargo area for easy cleanup
- Key Specifications:
- Ground clearance: 9.5 inches
- Cargo capacity: 32.5 cubic feet (with rear seats up)
- Towing capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs
- Best Trim for Camping: The Subaru Outback Wilderness Edition is the ultimate camping-focused trim, combining the Outback’s practicality and capability with enhanced off-road features and rugged styling.
Off-Road Beasts: Rugged Camping Vehicles
For those seeking true off-road adventures and the ability to reach remote camping spots, several vehicles from our top 10 list stand out as ultimate off-road beasts:
- Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro: With its lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, and advanced traction control systems, the 4Runner TRD Pro is built to conquer even the toughest trails.
- Ford Bronco Wildtrak: The Bronco Wildtrak’s advanced four-wheel-drive systems, skid plates, and lifted suspension make it a true off-road warrior, ready to tackle any terrain.
- Jeep Wrangler Rubicon: The Wrangler Rubicon is an iconic off-road machine, equipped with locking differentials, disconnecting sway bars, and unmatched off-road capabilities.
- Land Rover Defender X: With its advanced terrain response systems, impressive water-fording capabilities, and specialized off-road tires, the Defender X is a true off-road champion.
- Chevrolet Colorado ZR2: The ZR2’s Multimatic DSSV damping system, locking differentials, and aggressive off-road tires make it a formidable force on the trails.
These vehicles are designed to tackle the toughest terrain, ensuring that you can reach even the most remote and secluded camping spots with confidence.
Family-Friendly Camping Cars (continued)
- Land Rover Defender: While rugged and capable off-road, the Defender also offers a luxurious and spacious interior with optional third-row seating, making it a compelling choice for family camping adventures.
- Ford Bronco (Four-Door): The four-door version of the Bronco provides ample space for families, with room for up to five passengers and a generous cargo area for camping gear.
These vehicles offer the perfect balance of practicality, space, and family-friendly features, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for everyone.
Compact and Efficient: Best Cars For Camping
If you’re a solo camper or part of a couple seeking adventure, compact and fuel-efficient vehicles can be an excellent choice for your camping trips. These vehicles not only save you money at the pump but also offer maneuverability and easier access to remote camping spots. Here are some standouts:
- Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek is a compact crossover with standard all-wheel-drive, ample ground clearance, and impressive fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for solo or couples’ camping trips.
- Jeep Renegade: With its rugged styling, available four-wheel-drive system, and surprisingly spacious interior, the Renegade is a capable and efficient option for solo adventurers.
- Honda Ridgeline (Crew Cab): While the Ridgeline is a mid-size truck, its crew cab configuration offers a compact footprint and excellent fuel economy, perfect for solo or couples’ camping trips that require hauling gear.
These compact and efficient vehicles strike the perfect balance between capability, fuel savings, and maneuverability, ensuring that you can embark on your solo camping adventures without compromising on practicality or adventure.
Camping Car Accessories and Gear
No matter which vehicle you choose from our top 10 list, having the right camping accessories and gear can elevate your outdoor experience. Here are some essential items to consider:
- Roof Racks and Cargo Carriers: Many of the vehicles on our list come equipped with roof rails or racks, allowing you to securely transport kayaks, canoes, bikes, or additional gear on the roof.
- Tents and Sleeping Bags: Invest in a high-quality tent and sleeping bags suited for the climate and conditions you’ll be camping in, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep under the stars.
- Camping Stoves and Cookware: Bring along a portable camping stove and the necessary cookware to prepare delicious meals at your campsite.
- Coolers and Food Storage: Keep your perishables fresh and beverages chilled with a reliable cooler or portable refrigerator.
- Camping Chairs and Tables: Set up a cozy outdoor living space with comfortable camping chairs and a sturdy table for meal preparation and dining.
- Outdoor Lighting and Power Sources: Portable lanterns, headlamps, and power banks or generators can illuminate your campsite and keep your devices charged during your adventure.
Proper planning and packing the right gear can make all the difference in ensuring a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable camping experience.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an avid off-road enthusiast, a family seeking outdoor adventures, or a solo camper chasing solitude in nature, the top 10 vehicles we’ve explored offer something for everyone. From the rugged Toyota 4Runner and Ford Bronco to the versatile Subaru Outback and family-friendly Toyota Sienna, each vehicle brings its unique strengths and capabilities to the camping experience.
As you plan your next outdoor escapade, consider your specific needs, the terrain you’ll be tackling, and the level of adventure you seek. With the right vehicle and proper preparation, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on unforgettable camping journeys, creating lasting memories amidst the beauty of nature.
So, what are you waiting for? Gear up, load up your chosen camping companion, and hit the open road – the great outdoors await!