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Best Cars, Trucks, and SUVs for Camping

No matter what kind of camping you’re into, you have to get to the campsite before you can start camping, so you’ll need a car, truck, SUV, or van that will get you, your stuff, and your companions there in comfort, safety, and style. Not every car is well-suited to the demands of camping, whether you’re at your nearest carefully manicured state park or deep in the wilds of America. Still, fortunately many are, and you won’t even have to break the bank to afford one.

That’s not to say you can’t spend six figures on a camping vehicle — you can, quite easily, and that’s before you start customizing — but it is to say you don’t have to. In fact, it’s possible to get a great vehicle for camping for as little as $10,000. Buying used can also allow you to afford more vehicle than you would when buying new, so it’s not only about tight budgets, either.

Getting Away From it All

For instance, there are a lot of good reasons to not want to bring the noise and pollution of the city to the great outdoors when you go camping. To that end, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and electric vehicles (EVs) can do a great deal to lessen your impact on your campsite and its immediate surroundings. Although PHEVs do use gasoline like normal vehicles, they can also run in electric-only mode, often for 20 miles or more, potentially allowing you to travel near your camp or even go off-roading without burning a drop of gasoline.

This is especially true near campgrounds and trail systems with chargers installed, like those on the Jeep 4xe Charging Network at Moab, the Rubicon Trail, and Big Bear, which provide Level 2 charging at the trailhead, or Rivian’s Adventure Network, which also plans to include some trailheads. Wherever you might want to camp, apps like PlugShare can help you find exactly what you’re looking for — including filtering for charging stations at campsites. Whether a PHEV in electric mode or a pure EV, the silence of electric power can open a new aspect of the experience of traveling into the wild.

Whatever kind of vehicle you’re looking for, we’ve put together a list of some of the best camping vehicles on the market today. We’ve also compiled some great camping advice from Ben Stewart, a writer and expert on the topic, in the links below to help ensure your camping vehicle purchase is the right fit for you. Prices quoted below include MSRP and destination fees, but do not include other mandatory fees like tax, title, and licensing. The prices quoted are for the base trim unless otherwise specified.

Best Trucks for Camping

2024 Ram 2500

Starting Price: $47,245

The 2024 Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup with heavy-duty towing, hauling, and even off-road capability. That combination means it’s great for reaching remote places, even if you need to tow a trailer or haul a lot of gear — and that’s a fantastic set of capabilities for camping. The available trailer reverse steering system makes hooking up your camper trailer a breeze. If you opt for the Ram 2500 Power Wagon trim, you’ll get some serious off-road upgrades like a disconnectable front anti-roll bar, a Warn winch, electronic locking differentials, and more. See Ram 2500 models for sale near you

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2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2

2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison

Starting Price: $48,395

For serious off-road capability in a more compact form, the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado is a great choice, especially in range-topping, off-road-focused Colorado ZR2 form. The ZR2 trim upgrades ground clearance to 10.7 inches while adding Multimatic off-road dampers, unique fenders and body trim, 33-inch off-road tires, and more. The Colorado’s smaller size means it tows and hauls a bit less than a full-size pickup, but its smaller size also means it can access even more rugged and remote areas. See Chevrolet Colorado models for sale near you

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2024 Ford F-150

2024 Ford F-150 Lariat in red with trees in the background.

Starting Price: $38,765

One of America’s most popular trucks is also a great choice for camping. The 2024 Ford F-150 is Kelley Blue Book’s Full-Size Truck Best Buy of 2024 thanks to its capability, comfort, and extensive range of available configurations. Features like Pro Power Onboard generator make it easy to keep your camping must-haves powered up. Off-road biased trim levels can get you further into the woods. Whether you’re a trailer camper who loves staying in state parks or a more adventurous wild camper who likes to explore BLM land, the F-150 has a variant for you. See Ford F-150 models for sale near you

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2024 Toyota Tacoma

2024 Toyota Tacoma in orange on a dirt road.

Starting Price: $32,995

The Toyota Tacoma has long been a favorite of campers and off-road enthusiasts, and the all-new 2024 Toyota Tacoma takes it to a new level. Several trim levels cater to off-roaders, including TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road models. Look for the Trailhunter model for overlanding capability from the factory. The Tacoma is also Kelley Blue Book’s Midsize Truck Best Buy of 2024. See Toyota Tacoma models for sale near you

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2024 Ford Maverick

2024 Ford Maverick driving off-road.

Starting Price: $25,410

The 2024 Ford Maverick is a relative newcomer to the compact pickup space, but if you don’t need all the space in the world, the Maverick’s small footprint, both physically and environmentally, may be appealing. In standard form, the Maverick gets a 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine with optional AWD, but the optional hybrid is front-drive only. An available Tremor off-road package upgrades the suspension, bumpers, and under-body protection. See Ford Maverick models for sale near you

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2024 Honda Ridgeline

2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport in blue driving down a dirt road.

Starting Price: $41,145

Refined and comfortable in a way no other midsize truck is, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline‘s unibody construction takes the best from the world of cars and crossover SUVs and blends it with the practicality and utility of a pickup truck. The Ridgeline is packed with features that make it a great campsite companion, including standard all-wheel drive (AWD), an in-bed trunk that can serve as secure storage or an ice chest, a 2-way tailgate that makes for easy access, and even power and audio directly in the truck bed. See Honda Ridgeline models for sale near you

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2024 Jeep Gladiator

The 2024 Jeep Gladiator Texas Trail Edition seen from a front quarter angle

Starting Price: $39,790

The Jeep of pickups, the 2024 Jeep Gladiator combines midsize pickup utility with Jeep’s go-anywhere ability. The result is a vehicle that was seemingly made for the dedicated camper, the removable doors and roof immersing you in the outdoors even when you’re on the move. There is also a huge range of trims and options in the Gladiator line, with models like the Mojave adapted for desert use and the Rubicon setup for maximum trail capability. See Jeep Gladiator models for sale near you

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Best Cars, SUVs, and Vans for Camping

2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Starting Price: $38,290

The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee is excellent on- and off-road, with genuinely premium materials and features in top trims. It’s also roomy and powerful, giving it serious cargo space and up to 7,200 pounds of towing capacity. The Quadra-Lift air suspension on 4WD-equipped Overland and Summit models adds extra ride height when off-road, and it tucks back down again for more efficient cruising on the highway. See Jeep Grand Cherokee models for sale near you

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2024 Ford Bronco Sport

2024 Ford Bronco Sport Free Wheeling

Starting Price: $31,390

If you’re looking for funky, rugged style in a modern SUV, the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport has plenty, as well as solid safety scores, standard AWD, and a range of trims and styles to suit different needs. There’s an available MOLLE strap system inside so you can store bottles, multitools, and more. The cargo floor is rubberized, making it easy to clean. Mountain bikers can fit two upright bikes in the interior with the available rack. For the campers out there, Ford offers a Camp Outfitter bundle that includes roof rail crossbars, a Yakima Skyrise HD two-person rooftop tent, a Yakima awning, and all-weather floor mats. See Ford Bronco Sport models for sale near you

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2024 Ford Bronco

2024 Ford Bronco Raptor on a dirt road.

Starting Price: $41,525

When it comes to outdoor adventure, you can’t mention the Bronco Sport without including its bigger, highly capable 2024 Ford Bronco sibling. Available with two or four doors, hard top or soft, the Bronco has a 4WD powertrain that works with a Terrain Management System, making it easy to go exploring. Electronic locking front and rear differentials, disconnecting front anti-roll bar, and Trail Turn Assist give the Bronco incredible off-road capability. The Bronco can get you far beyond the campground, deep into the backcountry. Ford also offers roof rails with crossbars, rooftop tents, camp shower, and several canoe and kayak carriers. See Ford Bronco models for sale near you

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2024 Toyota Land Cruiser

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser in blue on flat rock with trees in background.

Starting Price: $57,345

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser marks an all-new generation of the adventuring icon, with fresh new style, new technology, new powertrains, and even more camp-friendly features and ability. The new Land Cruiser is hybrid-only, with a total output of 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of trail-taming torque. Full-time 4WD with locking center and rear differentials enhance the Land Cruiser’s climbing ability even further, along with multi-terrain traction modes, an available front stabilizer bar disconnect, and even an exterior video system to help spot your way up the trails without needing someone outside the vehicle. Toyota also offers an optional cool box for drinks. Plus, you can get camp chairs, a tent, camp tables, and more gear through your dealer. See Toyota Land Cruiser models for sale near you

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2024 Subaru Outback

Front view of the 2024 Subaru Outback Touring XT in Autumn Green Metallic

Starting Price: $30,240

The 2024 Subaru Outback is the all-arounder wagon-meets-SUV you never knew you needed. With SUV-like ground clearance, standard AWD, and a capacious rear cargo area, as well as plenty of room for five adults, the Outback is an excellent camping companion. The Wilderness model gets even more ground clearance, underbody protection, roof rails upgraded to support a roof-top tent, and even an upgraded AWD system with special modes. See Subaru Outback models for sale near you

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2024 Toyota 4Runner

2024 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro climbing over rocks.

Starting Price: $42,600

Brand new but old school, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner is the best of both worlds in many respects. It’s loaded with safety features and modern tech (including smartphone integration), but it’s built with a truck-style body-on-frame structure that makes it extra rugged on the trails, especially when equipped with the optional part-time 4WD system. There’s even a TRD Pro trim level that includes Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select, as well as a TRD roof rack. Toyota also offers a full line of accessories, including a cooler, recovery gear, camp chairs, and a fridge/freezer. See Toyota 4Runner models for sale near you

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2024 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT in green parked near a stream.

Starting Price: $41,995

Completely redesigned this year, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe has a fresh, edgy look, but it also has an all-new off-road-focused variant called the Santa Fe XRT, which is very different from the previous generation trim. In addition to standard 3-row seating and ample cargo space, the Santa Fe XRT adds off-road tires and 1.3 inches more ground clearance and increases towing capacity to 4,500 pounds. The electronically controlled AWD system helps make trails easier, too. See Hyundai Santa Fe models for sale near you

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2024 Volvo V90 Cross Country

2024 Volvo V90 profile in the snow.

Starting Price: $61,195

Like a more luxurious, refined version of the Outback, the 2024 Volvo V90 Cross Country combines the space, comfort, and convenience of a wagon with more off-roadable ride height (8.3 inches of ground clearance) and suspension setup, as well as a 295-horsepower hybrid drivetrain good for 25 mpg combined. The result is a wagon that’s just as at home making the morning coffee run as it is sidling down a dirt path to the campsite. See Volvo V90 models for sale near you

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2024 Toyota Sienna Woodland Edition

2024 Toyota Sienna Woodland Edition driving through a forest.

Starting Price: $50,020

What’s this, a minivan? Yes, the 2024 Toyota Sienna is not only Kelley Blue Book’s Minivan Best Buy of 2024, but it’s also a fantastically practical and capable camp vehicle, especially when outfitted in Sienna Woodland Edition form. The Woodland package adds AWD and a modest suspension lift to give the minivan more SUV-like capabilities. It also comes with easy-to-wash SofTex-covered seats and a 1,500-watt power outlet — and it’s packed with tons of Toyota conveniences. See Toyota Sienna models for sale near you

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Best EVs and PHEVs for Camping

2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe

2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve 4xe in white parked in front of a gate.

Starting Price: $62,285

Combining a plug-in hybrid powertrain with the already excellent 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee makes it an even more attractive option for those looking to off-road in electric elegance. In fact, if you want the rugged Trailhawk trim, you’ll have to choose the PHEV — it’s not available on the regular Grand Cherokee. The 4xe treatment gives the Grand Cherokee up to 25 miles of all-electric range, and the available air suspension and standard 4WD make light work of most trail obstacles while the spacious interior packs plenty of space for people, pets, and camping gear. See Jeep Grand Cherokee models for sale near you

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2024 Rivian R1T/R1S

2024-rivian-r1s-front

Starting Price: $71,700/$76,700

More affordable than you might think and very capable off-road, the 2024 Rivian R1T and its SUV sibling, the R1S, offer big EV ranges (up to 410 miles), big EV power (533 horsepower minimum, up to 835 horsepower), standard AWD with multi-terrain modes, and a host of unique EV features that are useful around camp, like external storage cubbies, a spacious front trunk, a built-in air compressor, a flashlight built into the driver’s door, and two 120-volt outlets in the bed. Oh, and it can tow up to 11,000 pounds — perfect for even a large RV trailer. Rivian also offers a 3-person rooftop tent (with ladder, of course), cargo crossbars, recovery boards, and an off-road recovery kit. See Rivian R1T models for sale near you

2024 Kia EV9

2024 Kia EV9 in blue with snow dusted mountains in the background.

Starting Price: $56,395

The 2024 Kia EV9 electric vehicle is all-new this year, with standard 3-row seating and a spacious interior combined with a surprisingly affordable price considering the 223-mile minimum range (270 miles maximum range) and available AWD. The base model gets rear-wheel drive and 215 horsepower, but the EV9 Wind adds dual motors and AWD for a total of 379 horsepower. While the EV9 isn’t the off-roadiest EV round, it’s capacious and capable of going wherever a typical crossover can — while burning no gas at all. See Kia EV9 models for sale near you

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2024 Kia Sorento PHEV

2024 Kia Sorento PHEV

Starting Price: $51,665

Hyundai’s Santa Fe is all-new this year, but in the updates, it ditched the PHEV powertrain option, with no plans to replace. That leaves the 2024 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid as one of the best options for a plug-in SUV with the space for people and gear you need for camping. The Sorento PHEV’s all-electric range is up to 32 miles, and there’s 3-row seating, standard AWD, and Kia Drive Wise assist features for safer road-tripping. See Kia Sorento models for sale near you

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2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime

2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime XSE driving down a highway.

Starting Price: $45,040

Perhaps the best-known name on this list, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime is the PHEV version of one of America’s most beloved SUVs, with all of the practicality and comfort you’d expect, plus up to 42 miles of all-electric range. Camping-friendly features include standard AWD, built-in Trail Mode, 2500-pound towing capacity, and nearly 70 cubic feet of total cargo space. See Toyota RAV4 models for sale near you

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2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV in red parked next to a building.

Starting Price: $41,790

The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is one of the only plug-in hybrid 3-row SUVs on the market (the others being the Sorento and XC90), and the Outlander is considerably less expensive. Nonetheless, it offers up to 38 miles of all-electric range, standard AWD with active yaw control for improved cornering and traction, and even offers DC fast-charging to top up the Outlander PHEV’s battery by 80% in as little as 38 minutes. See Mitsubishi Outlander models for sale near you

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2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge

2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 AWD in Denim Blue driving down a road.

Starting Price: $73,195

Stylish and luxurious, the 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge’s 6- or 7-seat interior and 33-mile all-electric range make it a great low-impact option for camping, road-tripping, or daily adventure. Standard AWD and 312 horsepower make for plenty of traction and pep, while the 5,000-pound tow rating and 85.7 cubic feet of cargo space mean you don’t have to leave anything behind. See Volvo XC90 models for sale near you

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10 Best Used Cars and SUVs for Camping

2009-2011 Honda Element

2010 Honda Element in orange

Price Range: $9,500-$15,000

The Honda Element has been popular with outdoorsy people since its introduction, thanks to its rugged, washable interior, ample cargo space, and myriad accessories. Honda’s all-wheel drive is available for excursions farther afield, and the rear seats flip up to make stowing camping gear or hauling bikes a lot easier. See Honda Element models for sale near you

2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler

2018 Jeep Wrangler in red

Price Range: $13,000-$33,000

The Jeep Wrangler needs no introduction, its long lineage of war-born and trail-tested off-roading ability having built a reputation around the world. It’s that off-roading ability that makes the Wrangler a great camping companion, with the potential to get you to sites you wouldn’t be able to get to any other way. See Jeep Wrangler models for sale near you

2016-2021 Toyota Land Cruiser

2021 Toyota Land Cruiser

Price Range: $45,000-$86,000

For excellent off-road ability and legendarily plush on-road comfort, a recent Toyota Land Cruiser is an exemplary option. Advanced safety and driver assists plus 9,300 pounds of towing capacity make light work of the road trip to your destination. The Land Cruiser’s 381-horsepower V8 and advanced 4WD system are ready to tame the trails once you’re there. See Toyota Land Cruiser models for sale near you

2017-2019 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack

2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack in red.

Price Range: $18,000-$26,000

More civilized campers will appreciate the all-purpose flexibility of a car like the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. You typically won’t need wild ground clearance and 4WD to make it to your local state or national park campground, and the Alltrack’s spacious cargo area, standard AWD, and 30 mpg highway rating are great features to have when you’re not camping, too. See Volkswagen Golf models for sale near you

2014-2018 Subaru Forester

2015 Subaru Forester

Price Range: $9,000-$20,000

The Subaru Forester is the roomier, taller cousin of the Outback, and all the reasons that make the Outback a great choice for camping apply here, too. As a bonus, the Forester is typically less expensive than the Outback (while also a bit less luxurious), yet it still offers EyeSight advanced driver assists, X-Mode AWD with hill descent control, and more. See Subaru Forester models for sale near you

2012-2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500

2015 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 in black.

Price Range: $20,000-$40,000+

If off-roading isn’t a significant part of your camping adventure, or you’d like to build your campsite right into your vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is an incredibly flexible option. With a range of heights, wheelbases, and fitments, you can make a Sprinter for nearly any occasion. The Sprinter 2500 offers extra payload capacity over the Sprinter 1500. There’s even the option for 4WD, though the height and length of some models of Sprinter will make it a challenge to fit, let alone maneuver, on rough trails. The used market offers a host of up-fitted models to choose from, as well — a savvy shopper might find the perfect van at a cheaper price than DIY. See Mercedes-Benz Sprinter models for sale near you

2016-2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid in blue.

Price Range: $18,000-$27,000

Everything you love about the RAV4, with the added benefit of hybrid efficiency, makes the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid a great vehicle for just about any use, including camping. The RAV4’s sensible balance between cargo space, passenger capacity, compact exterior size, and fuel efficiency is a perfect complement to the “leave only footprints, take only memories” school of camping. See Toyota RAV4 models for sale near you

2010-2013 Chevrolet Suburban 2500

2010 Chevrolet Suburban 2500

Price Range: $12,000-$23,000

If you need to do a bit of everything while bringing along seven or eight of your best friends, the extreme capability and size of the Chevrolet Suburban 2500 are just what you need. With seating for up to nine, the ability to tow more than 9,000 pounds, available 4WD, and a standard V8 engine, the Suburban 2500 is up to the challenge — provided your wallet is up to the task of feeding it. The 6.0-liter V8 under the hood rates 10 mpg in town and 16 mpg on the highway. See Chevrolet Suburban models for sale near you

2011-2015 Nissan Xterra

2015 Nissan XTerra in gray.

Price Range: $7,500-$18,000

The Nissan Xterra, like the 4Runner, is a newer SUV built with older methods, and that body-on-frame construction does lend it old-school ruggedness and ability. While it never got quite as popular as the 4Runner, there is good aftermarket support for the Xterra, especially when it comes to outfitting it for adventure. The Xterra PRO-4X model includes a nice setup from the factory, with 4WD, a locking differential, and more. See Nissan Xterra models for sale near you

2008-2014 Chevrolet Express 1500 AWD

2011 Chevrolet Express 1500 AWD in white.

Price Range: $10,000-$25,000+

Van fans who don’t want to spring for the Sprinter will find the Chevrolet Express 2500 a fantastic alternative as well as great value. While it’s less than optimal off-road, it also offers AWD. For those with serious camping trailers, the Express 2500 van can tow more than 10,000 pounds when properly configured. If you’re angling to tow heavy while also hauling lots of gear, consider the 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel V8. As with the Sprinter, the Express is often available in the second-hand market with significant up-fitting for camping and adventuring, so be sure to see what’s out there. See Chevrolet Express models for sale near you

The Features Your Vehicle Needs for Camping

By Ben Stewart

The Case for All-Wheel Drive

Campsites and the roads that lead to them are incredibly varied. Some sites can be accessed from the pavement and have bathrooms nearby, which is quite convenient. But many recreational campers want to tread a little further away from civilization. And that means leaving the paved roads behind. Dirt roads that lead to remote locations tend to become a little less like roads and more like trails the farther you go. If this sounds like a fun adventure, consider choosing a vehicle with all-wheel drive and more ground clearance than a typical car.

To reach truly remote locations, you’ll need to take off-road trails. Go for a vehicle with a classic 4-wheel-drive system that includes low-range gearing. In short, be sure to know the type of terrain you want to explore before buying a vehicle.

The Deeper You Go, the More You Bring

Pack your vehicle for just one overnight, and you will realize just how much stuff is required to camp out. The longer your trip, the more things you’ll need to bring with you. Extra food, water, and clothing take up space and add weight. Venture further into the wild in a 4×4, and you might want some specialized off-road equipment, too. To be well prepared for off-road exploring, stock your vehicle with basic emergency supplies, recovery gear, and perhaps a few tools, too, should something break — and something usually does. Yes, this stuff will add even more weight to your vehicle.

Storage Space and Payload

How much cargo space do you need?

Once you have an idea where you might travel and for how long, you can zero in on the best vehicles for that lifestyle. No surprise, a larger SUV, pickup truck, or van will provide the most space and have the ability to carry more weight. But smaller vehicles are more maneuverable and easier to manage on tight trails.

Many campers strike a balance — they get vehicles that can carry lots of equipment and remain highly maneuverable. That’s why it’s essential to know how many cubic feet of cargo space is available with the seats up and with them folded. This will provide a standardized number for comparisons, and it will help you figure out if the vehicle you’re eyeing can carry what you will need.

How much cargo weight can your car carry?

You need to know how much weight the vehicle can handle — that is called the payload. This spec can be found on the inside of the driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual. Be aware the total payload weight can add up very quickly. For example, a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited has a payload that ranges from around 850 pounds up to 1,300 pounds, depending on how the vehicle is optioned from the factory.

That number doesn’t just count the weight of the cargo on board; it also includes the people. So, two 200-pound passengers and their gear could take up a sizable chunk of Wrangler payload. And that’s assuming the Wrangler owner has not bolted on serious off-roading equipment. That electric winch and those heavy-duty steel bumpers add serious weight.

Tents and Rooftop Tents

One way to shave some weight from the camping equation is to forgo the tent option and sleep inside your vehicle. But generally, tents aren’t too heavy unless you opt for the rooftop variety. Rooftop tents are popular, especially for overlanding, which is long-distance off-road camping. They can provide a great sleeping experience because many are roomy, include plush mattresses, and are high off the ground (away from critters).

Plus, they save space inside the cargo hatch for other gear. But these tents can be heavy, ranging from around 80 pounds up to 200 pounds. That extra heft eats into your vehicle’s available payload. And because the heavy tent is also up high, it can affect the vehicle’s handling on the road and off.

See Best SUVs for Towing.

How much does all your camping gear weigh?

Let’s pack up for a virtual weekend camping trip and find out what kind of weight a typical trip could add to a vehicle. These weights are just an approximation and could vary wildly depending on what you might want to bring. We are packing for two people on this mock adventure who each weigh 180 pounds, plus a 40-pound dog.

Rooftop tent: 130 pounds
Sleeping bags and pads: 6 pounds
Clothing and toiletries: 15 pounds
Four gallons of water: 32 pounds
Three days of food: 12 pounds
Propane stove and fuel: 20 pounds
Cooking equipment/mess kit: 6 pounds
Two folding camp chairs: 20 pounds
Large cooler: 25 pounds
Shovel and tool kit: 10 pounds
Miscellaneous (soap, trash bags, etc.): 20 pounds
Gear total: 296 pounds

The combined weight of our adventurers and all this gear is 696 pounds. That’s quite a bit of weight. The good news is that plenty of SUVs carry a payload rating right around 1,000 pounds. However, packing for longer camping trips could require more weight capacity.

Smart Engineering

When shopping for a good camping vehicle, look for intelligent ways that automakers help make gear-hauling easier. Here are a few we have found.

Toyota offers a sliding rear cargo deck for the 4Runner. It is rated at 440 pounds and has two positions, the farthest of which slides out past the bumper and can make loading gear easier. Similarly, Ford offers a cool cargo management system for the Bronco Sport. It allows you to create shelves and separators in the cargo hold. You can even remove the unit and use it as a camp table.

Chrysler’s Pacifica goes beyond the minivan’s inherent usefulness by offering Stow ‘n Go seating. At the touch of a button, the second- and third-row seats can disappear beneath the floor. That allows for a completely flat platform behind the front seats — a perfect space to sleep.

Ford offers the option of several onboard generators for the F-150, which can help power lots of equipment around a campsite. In addition, the Ford F-150 is available with an onboard cargo scale, to make sure you don’t overload your truck with gear. Also, a continuously controlled damping system smooths out the ride by compensating for gear in the bed or a trailer on the hitch. And Honda offers official tents through its accessory division for both the Pilot and Ridgeline.

The Honda Ridgeline’s underfloor storage can be used as a cooler. This is similar to the available bedside storage in the Ram 1500 and Nissan Titan.

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