Have you been planning on taking some time out to enjoy the beautiful scenery of nature, going on a camping trip, exploring the great outdoors, or maybe just camping in your car overnight on a long trip?
If you have, you need to understand that it isn’t just something you decide to do overnight. You need to prepare thoroughly or risk not having the best experience. Here, we will share everything from how to get started with car camping to choosing the right vehicle and must-have gear. So buckle up and get ready for an adventure!
How to Get Started Car Camping
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, these are the tips you must remember:
Research
Giving a lot of time to doing research is essential; otherwise, you may encounter some trouble camping. You need to understand how other campers prefer to camp in their cars and figure out what works best for you.
Most people turn to YouTube for tips on the best campsites and how to set up their vehicle. This is a good idea, but your preparation doesn’t stop there. You need to visit local gear stores and consult the people there for more insights on what you may need.
Another good place to look for advice is online communities. These communities have the answers to questions you may have on camping in your car and tips on the best gear to move it. You may even be lucky enough to find used gear deals.
Know what permits you need
You should keep in mind that you cannot just park and camp wherever you want. Most states have dedicated spots that you can use to camp in your car.
There are several websites that can show you the right campgrounds or places where you can park and camp overnight without any trouble. Some of these places are free, and some others charge a certain fee. All you need is to make some effort of searching and you will get the one that suits your needs best.
You should also take note of the rules and regulations of the sites you’re considering. Sometimes, there are limitations concerning campfires, when people need to be silent, and restricted car usage in some campsites. Knowledge of these dos and don’ts will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises upon arrival.
Buy and outfit your car
As much as car camping is more of an outdoor activity, your car is really the central equipment in the whole affair. It’s your home away from home and therefore, it needs to be in optimal condition.
Most people would go with the vehicle they already own but others may search for a more convenient ride for the purpose of camping. Either way, you need to make sure the vehicle is reliable and spacious enough to sleep in, and you need to house the necessary gear and roadside essentials for your trip.
Explore local
You may be thinking of a cross-country trip, but if this is your first time car camping, its ideal to start in your local area. You can try at a nearby park or campround and see how you handle the environment and everything.
You don’t need to rush into anything, especially if you’re an outdoor person. Take it one step at a time and explore local campgrounds before visiting your dream location.
How to pick a car for camping
How can you tell if a car is suitable for car camping? Here are some features to keep an eye on while choosing a vehicle:
Space and comfort: Look for a vehicle with plenty of cargo space for passengers and gear. Try to look for one that feels comfortable, especially if you plan to spend several nights in your car.
Off-road capability: If you plan to camp in remote areas, consider a vehicle with off-road capabilities and AWD or 4WD. This will give you access to more secluded and beautiful camping spots.
Fuel efficiency: While checking larger vehicles for space, also check their fuel efficiency ratings since it is very important for long trips. Balance your need for space with the cost of fuel.
Reliability: Choose a vehicle known for its reliability. You don’t want to be stranded in the middle of nowhere due to car trouble.
Some of the top cars for camping are:
Honda CRV
Toyota 4 Runner
Ford F-150
Jeep Wrangler
Subaru Forester
Subaru Outback
Toyota Tacoma
Nissan Xterra
Nissan Pathfinder
Jeep Gladiator
If you want to get a new ride from the used car market for your car camping adventures, you must remember to check the vehicle’s history to find the most reliable one for yourself.
Many used car owners discover terrible defects and damages after purchase and, more often than not, will have to splurge extra costs to repair them. That’s why you need to have its vehicle history report, as it uncovers the car’s past accidents, service history, and more.
If you are interested in getting a used Ford F-150 for camping, be sure to use a Ford VIN decoder to view its past and hidden records.
The Must-Have Items for Car Camping
Having the right gear can make or break your car camping experience. Here’s a list of must-have items that will make you feel more comfortable and improve convenience while camping in your car:
Cooler
Coolers are really handy for preserving food and keeping drinks fresh, but they can also double as tables or chairs, eliminating the need for these extra items.
You should make sure that the cooler has good insulation and a size that fits your needs. Check its durability, ice life, size, etc. You can also get a portable cooler that can be powered with your car battery or using solar energy.
Lighting
When the sun goes down, navigating through the campground or your car with a flashlight or your phone will not be sufficient. You should consider other lighting options, such as headlamps, lanterns, and string lights.
Headlamps are great for hands-free tasks, while lanterns can illuminate your campsite. Also remember to have extra batteries or a portable charger to keep your lights powered throughout your trip.
Organizers
When you are out there camping, it’s difficult to keep track of your belongings, toileteries, clothing, and everything else. You might end up making a mess and being uncomfortable. That’s why you need to carry along storage bins, bags, and organizers to categorize your items.
For example, you can have a dedicated bin for cooking supplies, another for personal items, and one for outdoor gear. This saves you time and reduces stress when you need to find something quickly.
Sleeping pad
A sleeping pad is another must-have item for car camping. To get the best sleep while you’re away from home, you must look for one with adequate cushioning and insulation from the cold.
Make sure it’s the perfect size for your car and needs. Don’t forget that you also need pillows, sleeping bags, blankets, and quilts. Some campers love to go with tents for nights to get even better experiences.
Stove
You’re going to cook or at least heat some food from the cooler, and you definitely need a stove for that. Lucky for you, there are several options out there. You can opt for a compact camp stove or a more robust outdoor grill.
Don’t forget to bring along utensils, pots, and pans for cooking, cast iron skillet, camp sink, as well as a lighter or matches for starting your fire.
Water storage
Staying hydrated is essential while camping. Bring along a reliable water storage solution, such as a water jug or collapsible water container.
Ensure you have enough water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. If you’re camping in a remote area, consider bringing a water filter or purification tablets to ensure you have access to safe drinking water.
Conclusion
Car camping is an incredible way to connect with nature while enjoying the comforts of your vehicle. By following these must-know tips, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable camping experience.
Remember to carry out thorough research and choose the right vehicle for camping. If you’re thinking about purchasing a used Ford F-150 or any other model, make sure you check its history with a Ford VIN check tool.
