One of the best things about car camping? Providing the items you wish to take fit inside or on top of your vehicle, you can pack as much gear as desired. The result? An outdoor adventure with a few home comforts.
From rooftop tents to snuggly sleeping bags, to pots, pans, air mattresses, and portable fridges – there is an array of camping companions to choose from.
Whether staying in the wilderness or at a full-service campground, we’ve listed a handful of camping essentials, all of which have been designed to heighten your car camping experience.
Roof Top Tents
A car tent is a great investment if reluctant to sleep in the back of your vehicle, yet not too fond of setting up on the ground either. For best results, choose one that promises to sleep the necessary amount of people. As well as one designed with ease of use and the outdoor elements in mind.
Those with lower profiles not only lower your vehicle’s height, they are better geared to withstand the wind.
A Lounger
Having a car to hand allows you to bring luxury camping items on your trip that you normally would have to go without, including loungers.
These loungers often boast built-in leg rests and reclining backrests, allowing you to sit comfortably, whether reading, enjoying your morning coffee, or fishing.
Some contemporary styles feature beverage holders, integrated head pillows, and a phone pocket, allowing you to keep all your essentials within reach.
Another feature to look out for? Adjustable backpack straps, meaning you can carry the lounger to and from the car to the campsite or campfire.
A Portable Fridge
An asset to those camping in the warmer months! A portable fridge can be hooked up to the mains (if on site), via a portable power source, or your vehicle’s battery when off-grid.
Choose one big enough for all who intend to join you on your camping adventure and be sure to stock up on cold beverages before your trip.
Some modern-day appliances can be controlled via WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to change the temperature from an app on your phone.
Things to consider before purchasing a portable fridge? The weight and how easy it is to transport. Most boast a handy set of carry handles.
Air Mattresses
Air mattresses are available in various sizes, meaning there is one to suit your tent or car. For best results, choose one that promises to inflate in minutes. And one that comes with the necessary accessories to do so, such as an electric air pump. The majority of these can be plugged into your 12V car outlet.
If worried about getting a good night’s sleep on an air mattress, you needn’t be, provided you opt for a quality design. According to studies, adults who sleep on an air mattress or air bed are 12.6% more likely to rate their sleep as “above average”.
The best thing about inflatable air mattresses? They take up next to no space when not in use.
Lantern
Irrespective of whether at a campsite or in the wilderness, light is a must-investment for your camping trip. From ensuring safe trips to and from the bathroom, to illuminating the area around your tent to having a reading light to hand, there are many uses for a light.
Try to opt for a rechargeable light. This makes it a great deal more portable. Additionally, those with several light settings will mean you’re less likely to disturb your fellow campers.
A Portable Shower
From showering after a long day in the sunshine to cleaning muddy dogs, camping equipment, and dirty dishes, a portable shower is an asset to those camping off the grid.
From adjustable spray settings to rechargeable batteries to accessories in the shape of hoses, a portable shower is a godsend to those on the road.
Most contemporary designs fold into a compact unit, meaning it’s easy to transport in your car.
A Dryrobe
A dryrobe isn’t just for the beach. These items come in handy when camping. Whether walking to and from the showers or the lake, they promise to keep you dry (and cozy if temperatures are on the cooler side).
They can also be used as a portable changing room when changing from bathers into clothing or getting dressed at night.
Another bonus to packing a dryrobe? They double up as beach towels, meaning you can leave these bulky items at home, thus saving space.
An Off-Grid Power Bank
From charging laptops to speakers to lamps, torches, fridges, and phones, if camping off-grid, a power bank is an essential item to invest in.
When picking a power bank, invest in one with various outputs, including AC, USB-C, USB-A, DC, high-speed USB-C PD, or even wireless charging. This way you can charge more than one device at any one time. Just be sure to charge it up before setting off on your adventure.
The Bottom Line
Before setting off on your adventure, it’s wise to plan. Think about where you will be going and what you’ll need to make the trip a comfortable one. It’s always wise to check weather conditions and whether the campsite you are visiting has a store on site. This will help you decide on what bedding and supplies to bring.
The key to a successful trip? Invest in an array of handy, must-have car camping accessories. All of the above have been designed to help and not hinder your camping trip. If using a trailer to transport your camping gear, keep in mind that unless the trailer is fitted with brakes, it should weigh no more than 750kg.
The bottom line? Camping is a fun experience for all, providing you pack everything you need!