road trip camping car 4x4

12 Cars That Can Handle Dirt Roads and Camping

These camping cars are brought to you by RovR, whose cooler with wheels blends the durability of a rugged outdoor cooler with features (a cutting board, cup holders, and attachable wagon basket) that make it an all-purpose camping machine.

If you’re a consistent car camper / weekend warrior / drop-everything-and-get-outside type of person, then the convenience and importance of a great, outdoorsy car has probably hit you at some point, whether it was on the way to the top of a mountain on a road that only your car could handle, or on the side of the road with a flat tire, where you contemplated the value of trading up for something a little more rugged.

Whatever the final straw was in your car camping game, if you’ve bottomed out when it comes to your current vehicle, you’re not alone.

12 of The Best of the Best Cars for Camping

Here at The Dyrt, we’re always drooling over the latest and greatest in vehicles that seem built just for the outdoor adventurer, the backroads driver, and the avid car camper, and we’re on the hunt to find the best options available. Whether you’re looking for cars with a little extra room for your coolers or you’re hoping to find the best cars to sleep in for boondocking along that forested highway, we’ve created a list of some of our team’s top choices on four wheels.

The Cargo Space Champions

The best cars for camping might not always be cars you’ll end up sleeping in. Often, one of the top complaints we hear about camping vehicles is that there just isn’t enough room in some traditional crossovers or SUVs . Indeed, if you’re planning to camp with more than a couple of friends, packing can be the hardest part of the trip. The following cars for camping solve the Rubik’s-cube-trunk problem by eliminating it entirely.

1. Honda Ridgeline

Image from Miki Yoshihito on Flickr, (CC BY 2.0)

Despite the pick-up truck appearance, the Honda Ridgeline is a crossover vehicle that drives like an SUV with the convenience of a pick-up. With four doors and a truckbed to boot, this is the ideal option for heavy packers looking to hit the road in a hurry, without the hassle of the packing process. The truck bed can open outward or down, and, when down, can double as a sleeping platform, and it includes a locking, waterproof trunk for your more valuable items. While it’s not necessarily an off-roading machine, Honda kept campers in mind with this one, as they offer a specialized, fitted tent that fits inside the truck bed, making it one of the best cars to sleep in for camping and an excellent choice for skiers, family car campers, and those who just need to get up and go.

2. Chevy Blazer

Photo by The Dyrt camper Meghan O.

The perfect blend of space and sport, the Chevy Blazer is a car for families with a keen interest in the outdoors yet a need for a functional crossover with adequate storage space. The power liftgate is a game changer for heavy packers, featuring the automatic opener with just a wave of the foot underneath the car. In addition to that, the ever-kid-friendly sunroof runs almost the length of the car, making it a family favorite in the summer. With an easy-to-maneuver size without sacrificing on engine power, the Chevy Blazer is a one-way ticket to becoming the weekend warrior you always dreamed you’d be.

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The Most Durable Camping Cars

So what if you’re not into cargo space, but want something that can withstand the dirt, grime, and spills that inevitably come with camping? If you’re a mud-runner or a kid-hauler, these cars provide the best of the outdoor vibe with the added plus of being indiscriminately durable.

3. Honda Element

The second Honda to grace our list, this one SUV is a monster when it comes to outdoor recreation, particularly for its stain-resistant seating and washable floors. Although it might not look as cool as some of the other boxy vehicles out there, the height of this vehicle allows for storage and packing of many larger items like coolers, chairs, grilling equipment, and a slew of other must-haves while camping.

With the all-wheel drive added on, the Element can be the perfect family camping car while still boasting the ability to navigate those tough dirt roads to your hidden campsite. Did we mention the washable floors? It’s a parent’s dream, and the 6-person tent that Honda offers as an attachment makes it an easy sell for the adventuring family. Not into the tent? The seats can all be removed, making it one of the best cars to sleep in for camping, regardless of whether or not you’ve run out of tent space.

4. Toyota 4Runner

A classic in the camping space, the Toyota 4Runner has to make the list, if only for its longtime dependability in the outdoors. With four-wheel drive and a body that accommodates both riders and their gear, the 4Runner is tough to beat when it comes to a durable vehicle to take on all of your adventures. Sitting just being the Pontiac Aztek in terms of cargo space (89.7 cubic feet), there’s little this vehicle doesn’t offer when you’re headed to the outdoors. The 4Runner is also a towing machine, capable of handling up to 5,000 pounds, meaning if you’re a pull-behind camper type, you’re set. It’s the ideal family car without the look of a minivan, and with the added cargo space of a larger SUV. What’s not to love?

The Classic Camping Cars

The cars on this portion of the list need no introduction, but we’ll blurb them anyways. These are for the ideal outdoorsy types. The ones that really want the aesthetic of the outdoors combined with pure utility and high-end drivability. Did we mention these cars are just flat-out cool?

5. Jeep Wrangler

Let’s be real, we couldn’t make a list of cars for camping without mentioning the car for camping over the last few decades. As far as off-roading, towing, and overall badassery goes, the Jeep Wrangler is in a league of its own. With innumerable customization opportunities and expert, trail-ready construction, the Jeep Wrangler is one of the few vehicles that probably performs better in the outdoors than it does on the highway. Although the cargo space might be lacking, newer models of the Wrangler continue to improve upon this, and the four-door Wrangler allows families with a taste for high alpine tracks to still indulge in their Jeep-driving dreams. If you’re looking for more, Jeep offers an array of camping accessories, including air beds, hammocks, and tents. Of all the cars for camping on the market, Jeep might own the label as the most iconic—just don’t forget to do the “Jeep wave” once you own yours.

6. Subaru Outback

Image from The Dyrt camper Art S.

Right up there with the Jeeps (though a step behind if you ask us) is the Subaru Outback, another classic when it comes to cars for camping. As backcountry stable as it is efficient, the Outback is the happy medium between a fuel-efficient highway machine and a trail-ready outdoorsy vehicle that always stays at the top of our best cars for camping list. With a lower profile than most traditionally “rugged” vehicles, the Outback has a reputation for being extremely agile and easy-to-pack without sacrificing a huge amount of cargo space. With the seats folded down, the Outback offers 73.3 cubic feet of space, and can easily accommodate two campers with sleeping bags. With up to 2,700 pounds of towing capacity, this Subaru can also be an option for pull-behind campers.

The Weekend Warriors

So maybe you’re not the off-roading type, but weekend camping trips are a staple of your summer. These cars are as perfect for camping as they are for navigating those windy mountain roads, with the added benefit of being sturdy, well-spaced family vehicles.

7. Nissan Pathfinder

For families, the Pathfinder is hard to beat. It’s supreme navigability and highly drivable frame makes it a solid choice for parents looking to haul their kids and the camper into the woods. With towable capacity up to 6,000 pounds, there are few things that this vehicle can’t bring along. Updated technology in the latest models has expanded the view from the vehicle without sacrificing on the urban-rugged design. With three rows of seats, you can feel good about bringing some friends along, too, without having to think about a second car.

8. Jeep Grand Cherokee

This popular alternate to the classic Wrangler, the Grand Cherokee is an SUV version of a vehicle made for the outdoors, which puts in on the list of cars for camping that double as solid, drivable family vehicles. Whether it’s a one-nighter, a two-night weekend rampage, or a lengthy day-hike turned impromptu car camping trip, the Grand Cherokee provides comfort, space, and rugged functionality that’s tough to beat from a best-of-both-worlds angle. With added tech flourishes that bring family-friendly luxury to an otherwise trail-ready vehicle, this is a great middle-of-the-road solution for the adventurers that hit the campground after taking in a couple kiddie soccer games.

The Sporty Car Camping Rigs

For the car fanatics seeking a sportier way to get outside, these cars ride the line between fast rides and functional juggernauts, providing all the handleability without sacrificing on the durable, sturdy frames that mark all great cars for camping.

9. Volkswagen Golf Alltrack

A sportier vehicle than others on the list, the VW Golf Alltrack is a crossover with options for 4WD and AWD that take it to the next level when it comes to cars for camping. While it lacks the extensive cargo space of its larger compatriots, the Golf Alltrack is all unto its own in terms of handleability on high, winding alpine roads. It’s a drivable machine with an off-road capability in snow or rough weather, while still allowing for speedy highway travel in between destinations. While not necessarily a “classic” camping car, the technology, capability, and overall feel of the car make it a great option for campers looking for a sportier way to move through those illustrious mountain towns .

10. Subaru Impreza

One of the best sport-style Subarus in a long line of utility vehicles, the Impreza is a speedier, sturdier version of its Outback cousin that boasts the same all-wheel drive capability combined with an updated sport-steering system and a slightly lower center of gravity. It sticks to the road nicely around steep mountain curves, yet still impresses in its mileage (38 mpg highway). With easy roof access and the same sturdy frame that are a hallmark of Subarus, this vehicle is a perfect way for urban dwellers to still invest time in the outdoors without having to switch up their ride. Did we mention the camping accessories?

The Dependable Wild Cards

Sometimes, the perfect vehicle looks a little bit different than its trademark companions. These vehicles offer a unique take on the outdoorsy functionality of the other cars for camping on this list, but still merit consideration from even the most skeptical of trail warriors.

11. Toyota Tacoma

Okay, so not everyone’s a truck person—and we respect that—but there’s something about the Toyota Tacoma that transcends the traditional pick-up truck and makes it a must-feature on any list of cars for camping. While not built for the city, this truck is as dependable as they come in the outdoors. With a wide set platform and nearly 10 inches of ground clearance, this high-sitting trail machine is the answer for folks seeking an all-around adventure vehicle. Perhaps the coolest feature in the TRD Pro version of the Tacoma is its “Crawl Control,” which allows drivers to simply steer the vehicle while its automated system navigates through complicated off-road terrain.

12. Mini Clubvan Camper

Notoriously eccentric, the Clubvan camper is a wild card if only for its limited capacity. That said, when it comes to cars for camping, this vehicle was literally made for it. The interior features a cot, an extendable kitchenette, and a propane stove, making it a virtual camp-anywhere machine and one of the best cars to sleep in for camping trips of all kinds.

The addition of the fridge and a handheld shower turns it from a Mini into a full-on van life adventure rig. The only reason it isn’t tops on our list of cars for camping is its inability to accommodate more than two people, with one person being the ideal fit in this miniature go-van. Still, it’s worth the look for avid solo campers, or couples who don’t mind a snug fit!

This article was brought to you by RovR

Image from The Dyrt camper Shay F.

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Tyler Wildeck

Tyler Wildeck is a writer with a passion for all things outdoors. His favorite place he's ever visited is Alaska, and his favorite activity might be fishing or reading, depending on the day. In his free time, Tyler can be found searching Portland for the next great food establishment or perusing the many bookshelves of Powell's.

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The 15 Best Camper Vans for Road-Tripping in Style

Now you can experience #vanlife in comfort and style..

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The first years of this decade have already provided ample evidence that it’s important to get away from our daily lives from time to time.  And you don’t have to suffer the airport hordes or step foot on a plane to do so. We currently find ourselves in something of a golden age for luxury trailers, which has made it easier than ever to take your life on the road without sacrificing many, and in some cases any, of the comforts of home. And now, there are plenty of manufacturers and dedicated conversion shops giving the same treatment to vans and other similar vehicles. They may not be able to sleep as many people as their hulking cousins—with one key exception—but these all-in-one wonders come loaded with perks such as high-end kitchens, Wi-Fi-enabled multimedia systems, and plush beds. Plus, their relatively smaller size means they are more agile, off-road friendly, and easier to park. Below are 15 campers that will let you experience #vanlife in comfort and style.

Our Best Camper Van Picks

Best overall: airstream interstate 24x, best for off-roading: jayco terrain, best for weekend getaways: mercedes-benz eqt marco polo, best for off-the-grid trips: winnebago solis, best for cyclists: outside van tails, best for camping (anywhere): storyteller overland beast mode 4×4, best to live in: loki expeditions discovery series, best all-electric option: tonke eqv.

• Best for G-Wagen Lovers: Terracamper Tecrawl

Best With a Bathroom and Shower: Thor Motor Coach Sanctuary

Best for $50,000: caravan outfitter free bird, best for families: winnebago boldt, best for winter road trips: sportsmobile sprinter 4×4, best conversion: boho old faithful, best for diy couples: ford transit trail.

Airstream. Thankfully, the company isn’t afraid to branch out. Just look at the  Interstate 24X , the trailer maker’s attempt to take the camper van to new heights. Built on the bones of a  Mercedes-Benz  Sprinter—like a lot of the models on this list—the vehicle has everything you need to rough it in comfort. Airstream has done a lot to maximize space in its climate-controlled cabin. A modular dining table doubles as a desk, and it can be easily converted into the largest sleeping area in a Class B Motorhome. There’s also a full mini kitchen and bathroom. You can take the van off-roading, too. In addition to a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V-6 engine that churns out 188 hp and 325 ft lbs of torque, it also comes equipped with four-wheel drive, a height-adjustable suspension and all-terrain tires. Pricing for the all-around beast starts at $213,850.

Special Features: —A climate-controlled living area that has been designed to maximize available space. —A modular dinner table, a mini-kitchen and a bathroom with a toilet.

Jayco is best known for its hulking travel trailers, but like Airstream, it can do compact, too (well, compact enough to fit in a parking space, that is). The US company’s new  Terrain  model, which starts at $192,000, is an adventure van designed for those who like to veer from the beaten path. As the name suggests, it’s designed for off-roading, with a turbo-diesel V-6, Koni shocks, a rear stabilizer and a rear hitch strong enough to tow an additional trailer if you need more room. Inside, it’s a little spartan compared to some other options on this list, but its kitchenette can be converted into a sleeping area with room for a full-size bed, as well as plenty of storage space beneath. There’s even a built-in awning when you need some shade in the summer months.

Special Features: —Equipped with Koni shocks, a rear stabilizer and a heavy-duty tow hitch. —Kitchenette can be converted into a spacious sleeping area with room for a full-size bed.

Mercedes-Benz clearly doesn’t want to relinquish its title as the go-to van maker for outdoor lovers. At last year’s Düsseldorf Caravan Salon, the German marque showed off a prototype based on its upcoming all-electric EQT van called the Marco Polo. The stylish EV has everything you need for a weekend at the campground and is more compact than the ubiquitous Sprinter. When the van’s rear seats are folded down, the back can be used as either a sleeping area with room for a double bed or a cooking and entertaining space. The kitchen doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some of the other entries on this list, but it does have a pull-out stove, fridge and sink. There’s also a pop-up, roof-mounted tent if your travel party includes more than two. The Marco Polo is a concept, but Mercedes will sell a module that will allow you to turn any EQT into a camper van when the $51,500 EV goes on sale in the spring.

Special Features: —All-electric power train, so you don’t have to worry about doing too much damage to nature while you explore it. —Its  camping  gear—from the bed to the kitchenette—is part of a module that can be fully removed when you need more cargo room.

The Winnebago Solis is for adventurers who don’t want to be confined to the campground. The van is available with an optional power kit that has everything a group of up to four adults needs to spend a few days off-the-grid. The setup, which includes an inverter, a shore battery converter, a battery energy converter, a solar energy converter and an alternator energy optimizer, can produce enough power to keep the van and all its features running for up to 72 hours. On top of that, the van features a kitchenette, a convertible entertainment area with room for a double bed, and a full-width wet bath.

Special Features: —A unique power kit that can provide enough power to spend up to 72 hours off the grid. —Still has all the features you’d expect from a luxe camper van, including a full-width wet bath.

If you like to mix biking and camping, Outside Van has the vehicle for you. The Portland brand’s  Tails  model is a camper van designed with cyclists in mind. The van, which is based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, has everything you need for a few days away from home, including a kitchenette, a roll-over sofa and a convertible mattress. But what really sets it apart is the rear of the vehicle that’s basically an on-the-go bicycle repair shop, with a fold-down work table, an air compressor and Molle panels to hang all your tools. If that wasn’t enough, it somehow has room for six bikes, even when the bed is laid out for the night.

Special Features: —The back of the van is basically a bicycle-repair shop with a fold-down table, an air compressor and plenty of storage space for tools. —Has room for six bikes, even when its convertible sleeping area is out.

This latest offering from Storyteller Overland, based in Birmingham, Ala., is a true adventure van. The  Beast Mode 4×4  is the outfit’s most feature-packed model yet and was designed specifically for overlanding (as you may have guessed from the company’s name). It’s a true 4×4 powered by a 188 hp turbodiesel V-6 that’s strong enough to tow an additional 5,000 pounds. Its slick retro-style livery is offset with loads of useful off-roading gear, too, such as an LED light package, a roof rack and a side ladder and custom wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich K02 tires. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to relax after a day of exploring, including a cushy lounge that can be converted to a full-size sleeping area. There’s even a climate-control system to ensure you’re comfortable no matter the weather outside. It’s priced at a flat $198,746, for everything listed above.

Special Features: —Turbodiesel V-6 sends 188 hp of power to all four wheels and is strong enough to tow 5,000 extra pounds. —Surprisingly cushy lounge for an off-roading beast.

Let’s get this out of the way: the Loki Expeditions Discovery Series isn’t technically a camper van. It’s a giant expedition vehicle, but because its cabin is installed directly onto a heavy-duty truck chassis you also don’t need anything to tow it. The vehicle’s cabin is what separates it from anything else on this list. Loki Expeditions has turned a shipping container—yes, you read that right—into a full-featured living space that has all the amenities you’d expect to find in a luxury apartment, including a full kitchen with a large fridge, an entertainment area with a U-shaped banquet, and a wet bath with a cassette toilet. It’s also big enough to sleep six adults, with room for two in the dedicated bedroom and four in the entertainment area. And because the heavy-duty vehicle, which starts at $550,000, has all-wheel drive, you can take it practically anywhere.

Special Features: —Cabin has all the features you’d expect to find in a well-appointed apartment and can sleep six adults. —Built on a burly heavy-duty truck chassis that gives you the freedom to venture off the beaten path.

Looking for an EV you can take to the campground. The upcoming EQV just might fit the bill. Despite its relatively compact size—it’s smaller than the ever-popular Sprinter—Dutch camping outfit Tonke has managed to outfit it with everything you need to spend some time communing with nature. It has an entertainment area that doubles as a workspace along with a kitchenette, both of which can be converted into a two-person sleeping area with a simple flip of a bench (a roof-mounted, pop-up tent means it can sleep two more, too). Best of all, there are two variants available—the Touring, which is designed for long road trips, and the Adventure, which is aimed at casual campers.

Special Features: —Fully electronic power train means you won’t have to worry about filling up the tank (though the battery is another story). —Can sleep up to four even despite its relatively compact size.

Best for G-Wagen Lovers: Terracamper Tecrawl 

The Tecrawl isn’t a camper van per se, but it’s hard to leave something this cool off a list like this. Terracamper’s latest offering is based on one of Mercedes-Benz’s most legendary vehicles, the G-Wagen . The German shop has dreamed up a modular accessory kit for the luxury 4×4, that starts at $11,900 and includes a roof-mounted tent, a convertible sofa, and a pull-out kitchenette with a fridge box. Thanks to the ingenious setup, the boxy SUV can sleep up to three and act as your home base next time you want to rough it for the weekend. And because it’s a G-Wagen you can take it as far off-road as you want.

Special Features: —A G-Wagen but has room for up to three people to sleep. —Packs a brawny powertrain that’s well-suited for off-road adventures.

Thor Motor Coach makes camper vans for those uninterested in making sacrifices. With the  Sanctuary , the company has taken Mercedes-Benz’s already excellent Sprinter 2500 4×4 and turned it into something you could easily live on—on or off the grid. The off-road-ready vehicle comes in two configurations—the 19P ($148,680), which features a back bench that converts into a bed, or the 19L ($151,060), which has a fixed double bed. Even with the bed there’s still plenty of room for other creature comforts, including a bathroom, an entertainment area with a TV and a kitchen with a sink, a dual-burner cooktop, a convection microwave oven and a fridge. An Onan 2500 LP generator keeps everything up and running, too, including an A/C system you can leave on for eight hours at a time. There’s also retractable power awning when you want to spend some time outdoors.

Special Features: —Full-featured bathroom has a sink, a shower and a toilet. —Available with your choice of either a convertible or a fixed bed.

Caravan Outfitter’s third-generation Free Bird isn’t the most feature-laden camper van out there, but it has everything you and the family need to spend a weekend (or more) at the campground. The van, which starts at $50,810, is built on the relatively compact Ford Transit Connect platform but still has room for a full-size bed, a multi-purpose table that can be used as a dinette or workstation, and a pull-out kitchenette with a sink. Because it’s smaller than other options on this list, it only has room to sleep two, but there are several enticing add-ons, including roof- and rear-mounted capsule tents, in case you’re traveling group includes more people.

Special Features: —It’s the rare camper van that’s small enough to be comfortably parked inside your garage. —Caravan Outfitters offers several intriguing add-ons so you customize it to your liking.

Airstream isn’t the only famous RV maker that’s gotten into the camper van game. Winnebago actually sells several, and our favorite is the luxe  Boldt . Despite being nowhere near as long as one of its campers—it caps out at 22 feet in length—the $230,276 van has everything you’d expect from the larger vehicle, including dedicated living and sleeping areas, a fully functional kitchen and a bathroom equipped with a shower. You also have several interior decor options to choose from, each of which delivers an updated take on classic Winnebago style. The Boldt is designed for paved roads and campgrounds, but if you want a more rugged ride, the brand also offers the off-road-ready  Revel.

Special Features: —Stretches 22 feet bumper to bumper, meaning there’s plenty of room for you and yours. —Enough space for dedicated entertaining and sleeping areas.

Take one look at  Sportsmobile’s Sprinter 4×4  and it’s clear what its designers had in mind: off-roading. Whether you go with the 12- or 14-foot configuration, the Texas outfit’s stripped-down take on Mercedes’s ultra-popular van comes equipped with a 3.0-liter BlueTec V-6 connected to a five-speed automatic transmission and pumps out 188 hp and 325 ft lbs of torque. That should be more than enough to tackle even the toughest terrain. Inside, you’ll find a spacious living area with a full-featured kitchen. If you want even more room, you can also opt for a pop-up sleeping area that’ll make it that much easier to lounge in comfort.

Special Features: —Well insulated throughout, but also has space for a propane furnace or heater. — 3.0-liter BlueTec V-6 and four-wheel drive mean it can take on any terrain.

Struggling to find a camper van that’s just right? Boho might be able to help. The Arizona-based company specializes in conversions and will work with you to create the vehicle of your dreams. The company offers several 20- to 24-foot layouts—of which the most popular is the appropriately named Old Faithful—that can be further tailored to meet your needs, whether your priority is multi-season versatility, lots of cooking space, or spending serious amounts of time on the road. The company also offers plenty of cool add-ons too, like wood paneling and flooring.

Special Features: —Versatile layouts that can be further customized so that you’re getting the exact van you want. —The wooden interior option looks better than it has any right to.

Ford’s ready to knock the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter off its perch. The Detroit giant unveiled its own camper van, the Transit Trail, last fall. The adventure-ready vehicle is based on its uber-popular commercial van but is taller, wider and outfitted with protective body cladding. It’s also powered by a potent V-6 that sends 310 horses and 400 ft lbs to all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Right now, Ford seems content to let the $65,975 vehicle be the base for the camper van of your dreams, but it comes loaded with a slew of features that will come in handy at the campground, including a drillable wall you can use to install shelves, a kitchenette or furniture, along with a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen and a back-up camera. It also available in three body configurations—medium-roof, standard length; high-roof, standard length; and high-roof, extended length—one of which should fit your needs.

Special Features: —It’s basically a blank slate for you and your partner to create your own dream camper. —Still comes with premium features such as a 12-inch infotainment screen and a back-up camera.

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Top 25 Best Cars to Sleep in when Camping (2024)

About the Author

Tom Davidock

Camping in a car has many advantages, such as simplicity. It doesn’t take a lot of extra time to set up, it’s relatively easy to find a place to park for the night, and it’s super quick to pack up and leave in the morning. However, there are some challenges, but with a little bit of ingenuity and by following some easy tips, they can easily be overcome. Even if you plan to sleep in a tent during a long road trip, having the option to sleep in your car can be convenient, especially if you need a quick solution when you can’t find a campsite.

I’ve spent a lot of time camping and sleeping in cars over the years and have found some key factors that make a car ideal for camping. Below, we’ll cover some of these important elements, but if you’re simply looking for a short list of the best cars to sleep in, check out the following lists and click on the links to learn why they earned a spot at the top:

Best Gas Vehicles for Camping and Sleeping

Best Electric Vehicles for Camping and Sleeping

Camping can take many forms, including sleeping in a tent, in an RV, under the open sky, or even in your vehicle. While some are more common than others, camping is camping. People have been sleeping in cars for as long as they have been driving them. Either because of convenience or necessity, camping out of a car is a viable way to spend the night.

When I was younger, I slept in my car regularly during outdoor adventure trips. For example, after work on Friday, I would leave my home in Philadelphia and head north to upstate NY. Usually, my first night away was spent sprawling out in the back of my vehicle. This was done mainly for convenience, as it was a quick, easy, and free way to camp for the night.

Best Vehicles to Sleep in when Camping

2024 subaru outback.

The Subaru Outback is at the top of the list of best cars for car camping. It’s a mid-size crossover SUV that Subaru has manufactured since 1994. It is a rugged, practical vehicle well-suited for off-road adventures and long road trips. A Subaru Outback is one of the most popular vehicles for camping, either in a tent or when sleeping in it. Its go-anywhere and outdoorsy style make it very popular amongst outdoor enthusiasts. The other great thing about the Outback is its decent fuel economy, providing much better gas mileage than larger SUVs.

A range of four-cylinder powers the Outback; however, 6-cylinder engines were available in 2019 and earlier. The best thing about the Outback is that all models come standard with standard all-wheel drive. Newer models also have several advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeps assist, and automatic emergency braking.

Inside, the Outback has a spacious, comfortable interior with many convenient features. It has a large cargo area and several storage compartments throughout the cabin. The wagon-style Outback provides plenty of space for sleeping, even for taller individuals. While the seats fold in the back, I would love an upgrade that creates a fully flat surface. However, it makes for a comfortable sleeping surface.

I owned a 2012 Outback and owned it for about eight years. It was reliable, dependable, and extremely capable on and off-road. So it’s not surprising that the Outback has received regular praise for its practicality, versatility, and all-weather capability. It has won several awards, including the Motor Trend SUV of the Year award in 2020. While you can purchase a new Subaru Outback, they’re easy to find on the used market and are known for their long-lasting drive trains. Therefore, a low mileage preowned Outback will last you for many years of camping.

I probably slept in my Outback more than any other vehicle and became fond of the space inside. I don’t know if Subaru intentionally planned this, but the cutouts and form of the interior when the seats were folded made perfect storage areas for items I needed when camping in it.

The Outback provided decent fuel economy for an all-wheel drive vehicle. I racked on close to 200,000 miles before I sold it, but I’m convinced it could have easily pushed out another 100. The 2024 model is very similar to the previous year. Expect a big update in 2025.

  What I Love:

• Standard all-wheel drive
• Great layout for storage when sleeping in it
• Standard roof rack

What I don’t love:

• No longer offers 6-cylinder engines
• Seats don’t fold down completely flat

Cargo Area : 75.6 ft³ with seat area

Starting Price : $28,895

2024 Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV that Honda has manufactured since 1995. It is a popular choice for families and individuals who need a practical, fuel-efficient vehicle with a spacious interior and several advanced features. And, if you’re in search of the best car to sleep in, it’s worth a look.

The CR-V is powered by a range of four-cylinder engines and can be purchased with an all-wheel drive configuration. It’s also available in a Hybrid version. The CR-V is surprisingly spacious inside and makes for a great vehicle to sleep in. It also gets excellent gas mileage and has a reputation for lasting longer than comparable vehicles, making it a perfect camping vehicle when planning long trips.

The direct competitor to the CR-V is the Toyota Rav4. Both are excellent vehicles, but I give the edge to the Honda (just slightly). This is because you get a few more options without upgrading to the higher trim level. However, the overall price for the CR-V may be a little higher.

It’s relatively easy to find a used CR-V with low mileage, which is helpful if you are on a budget but don’t want to sacrifice quality. The CR-V is a top choice for a good camping vehicle. Some 2023 models have a cool feature that allows the rear cargo area to drop down for additional storage. It can then be raised back up for a near-flat sleeping area.

If shopping new, I suggest upgrading to the sport hybrid, which has improved fuel efficiency and roof rails as standard.

• Great fuel economy
• Premium feel
• Exceptional storage
• Roof racks aren’t standard
• More expensive than other similar options
• AWD is not standard

Cargo Area : 76.5 ft³ with seat area

Starting Price : $29,500 LX., Sport Hybrid (with roof rails) $33,350

MPG: 28/34 (43/36 Hybrid)

2023 Toyota Rav4

If the Toyota Rav 4 had a direct competitor, it would be the Honda CR-V. The Rav 4 shares a reputation for being a reliable and capable crosser SUV. It first debuted in 1994 and has been one of Toyota’s best-selling vehicles since. With a spacious interior, it seats five comfortably.

The RAV4 is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models. Powered by a 4-cylinder engine, it delivers excellent fuel economy. A Hybrid model is also available as well. With such a long history of reliability, the newer models have been fine-tuned to offer excellent ride quality.

The Adventure model, which may attract campers, is the most expensive trim level for the Rav 4. However, it comes standard with all-wheel drive and extra upgrades that make it outdoor-ready and a top contender for the best car for car camping. With an included roof rack, 120V plugs, and TRD-tuned suspension, it’s ready for off-road adventures.

The Rav4 also makes a capable vehicle to sleep in when camping. With the seats folded, you have a generous length of 74 inches with a minimum width of 44 inches. The open feel of the interior makes it great for adding a mattress. The added 120V outlet in the rear on the new Adventure model also makes it very convenient for charging devices or plugging in a needed appliance.

Overall, it’s a great vehicle for travel and camping. It’s right up there at the top of the pack for reliable vehicles for travel and sleeping. In addition, it’s very capable off-road abilities make it a great vehicle for boondocking on the remote USFS lands out west.  We don’t expect to see any many major changes for the 2024 Rav4 over the previous year’s model. However, it’s a solid camping crossover that has proven itself year after year.

What I Love:

• Plenty of room for a mattress
• Features like roof rack, improved suspension, and AWD only standard on the highest trim package
• No Larger Engine is Available
• It can be a little noisier than the competition

Cargo Area : 69.7 ft³ with seat area

Starting Price : $27,975

2024 Mazda CX-50

Mazda’s  2024 CX-50  is a newer addition to the brand’s vehicle lineup and combines Mazda’s trademark driving experience with rugged capabilities suited for camping and outdoor adventure. With interior comfort being a key focus, CX-50 features Mazda’s latest seats with favorable rear leg room making it easy to sleep in when needed.

The model also offers high-strength roof rails and a lowered roofline, making it easy to haul and access equipment such as pop-up tents and a deeper cargo capacity designed for your camping gear and sleeping items. Mazda also offers a wide variety of  accessories  like cargo blocks and nets, rooftop carriers, and all-weather floor mats that can improve the functionality of the vehicle based on the driver’s lifestyle and activities of interest.

The roominess of this SUV, combined with the available accessories, makes it a great contender for the perfect sleeping vehicle and one of the best camping vehicles. Mazda is known for its reliability, which should help buyers feel confident in knowing that they’re making an investment that will last a long time.

• Reliability
• Available OEM accessories
• The power tailgate is only available on higher trim options

Cargo Area : 56.3 ft³ with seat area

Starting Price : $30,300

2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee

When you hear the word Jeep, many will associate it with ruggedness. The Jeep Cherokee has been around for decades, first being introduced in 1974. It is a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts and those who need a practical, rugged vehicle with a spacious interior and a number of advanced features. It inherits many of its off-road capabilities from the Jeep Wrangler, one of the most rugged vehicles known for its capability to travel for long journeys on dirt roads. It’s also the best SUV to sleep in on the list.

The Cherokee is powered by a range of turbocharged four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, and it is available in front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations. Its higher clearance makes it a great option if you drive off-road to remote areas, giving it an edge over other SUVs.

The Cherokee has a spacious, comfortable interior with several convenient camping and off-road features. There is even an off-road display screen, providing you with critical information about its offroad performance (suspension, pitch/roll/ gauges, etc.). In addition, it has a large cargo area and several storage compartments throughout the cabin. Since the Cherokee is a little larger than other mid-size SUVs, you benefit from extra sleeping space when the seats are folded down. However, it will still fall short of the space in full-sized SUVs.

One of the great things about a Cherokee vs. some of the crossover SUVs is its towing ability. You can easily pull a small RV or teardrop camper with this, adding to its versatility. Also, if you opt for a sunroof, you get a full panorama view, making it a delight for sleeping in.

Aside from an increase in price and powertrain design, the style of the Grand Cherokee is on par with 2023. You will find a smart key system as an option, but the extreme off-road abilities of the vehicle will remain intact.

• Off-road ready
• Powerful engine options
• Less fuel efficient than other options
• More expensive

Cargo Area : 70.8 ft³ with seat area

Starting Price : $40,130

MPG: 19/26 (V6)

2023 Subaru Forester

Subaru makes this list twice, with the Outback and the popular Forester. The Forester is one of the best cars for road trips and camping because of its affordability, ample room, and excellent gas mileage compared to similar-sized SUVs.

The Forester is available in several trim levels, and it comes with a choice of a naturally aspirated or a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Forester’s key features include a spacious interior, raised ride height, roomy cargo area, and good fuel efficiency. In addition, the Forester has consistently received high ratings from automotive reviewers for its all-around capabilities and value.

When the rear seats are folded flat, a mattress fits perfectly, creating a spacious sleeping area comfortable for taller people up to 6 feet 3 inches. Overall, the Forester feels a little less luxurious than a trimmed-out Outback. However, it’s less expensive and is very similar in performance.

The Forester is loved by many campers who appreciate its roomy design and off-road capabilities. This vehicle is common to see traveling the dirt roads leading to the many remote boondocking campsites out west. However, it also makes a great city driver and is easy on the pocketbook.

It’s hard to say anything negative about the Forester because it packs many more positive aspects for the outdoorsy person than negatives. So I expect we’ll see this vehicle around for a long time.

• Standard AWD
• affordable price when compared to the competition
• It can be a little noisy
• It doesn’t feel quite as luxurious as other options
• Sluggish acceleration

Cargo Area : 67.3 ft³ with seat area

Starting Price : $29,400

2024 Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV manufactured by Volvo Cars since 2002. It is the first SUV model from Volvo and is available in seven or eight-seat configurations. The XC90 was designed to be a more practical alternative to traditional luxury SUVs, and it has a spacious interior with a number of features designed for comfort and convenience.

The XC90 is powered by a range of engines, including a supercharged and turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a plug-in hybrid powertrain, and a twin-engine plug-in hybrid powertrain. In addition, it has advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane keep, assist, and a 360-degree camera system.

The XC90 is known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced safety features. It has the most luxurious feel out of all the vehicles on this list. Likewise, it’s also one of the most expensive. While it’s capable of off-road driving, it’s not necessarily targeted to that customer. However, it does make a great camping vehicle and is very roomy for sleeping.

Its base model comes well-equipped with features found in only the highest trim levels of its competition. However, the base price is also higher than some of the fully equipped models of other vehicles. With that said, the ride is exceptionally smooth, quiet, and safe.

This may be a good option if you want a vehicle built with quality at the forefront and don’t mind spending the extra cash. While a new model may be too expensive for someone looking for a good sleeper vehicle, a preowned Volvo XC90 may fit the bill. In addition, they are known to be very reliable, so you might be able to score a fantastic deal if you search around.

The 2024 is largely a carryover model, so i shopping soon, look for a good deal on a 2023 model

• Decent towing specs
• Fuel economy leaves much to be desired
• Higher annual repair cost

Cargo Area : 63.3 ft³ with seat area

Starting Price : $56,000

2024 Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride is a large, three-row crossover SUV known for its spacious interior, smooth ride, and strong performance. It is a good vehicle for camping because it has several features that make it well-suited to outdoor activities.

One of the key features of the Telluride is its spacious interior, which can accommodate up to eight passengers with three rows of seats. This makes it an excellent choice for families or groups who are planning to go camping together. However, the spacious interior provides exceptional space for two people if you want to sleep in your vehicle.

In addition to its practicality, the Telluride is a capable off-road vehicle. It has a robust AWD system and a high ground clearance, allowing it to tackle rough terrain easily. This makes it well-suited to camping trips that take you off the beaten path. It also has a decent towing capacity of 5,500 lbs.

There was a time when Kia meant small, inexpensive cars. However, they have come a long way and provide some amazing vehicles with a luxurious feel and very capable specs. With a Standard V6 engine and 291 Horsepower, the Telluride is one of the most capable SUVs on this list. As with every Kia, a new owner gets an industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. So if you plan to put a lot of miles on a vehicle, this is one to look at.

Overall, the Kia Telluride is a reliable, comfortable, and capable vehicle that is well-suited to the demands of camping. Its spacious interior, strong performance, and off-road capabilities make it an excellent choice for outdoor adventures. It’s also a very spacious vehicle, making sleeping in it very comfortable.

The 2024 Telluride bumped up its tow capabilities to 5,500 lbs. However, most other upgrades are minimal over 2023.

• Powerful and affordable
• Amazing Warranty
• Very spacious
• Below-average fuel economy

Cargo Area : 87 ft³ with seat area

Starting Price : $37,355

Honda Odyssey

While most minivans make great vehicles to sleep in, at the top of the list is the Honda Odyssey. The Odyssey has been in production since 1994 and is known for its roomy interior, smooth ride, and strong performance. One of the key features of the Odyssey is its spacious and versatile interior, which can accommodate up to eight passengers. The Odyssey also has a large cargo area, which provides plenty of space for luggage and other belongings.

The interior of the Odyssey is designed to be comfortable and functional, with a range of convenience and entertainment features such as power-sliding doors, a rear entertainment system, and even an available built-in vacuum cleaner.

The third-row seats fold using the trademark “magic seat” storage system, allowing them to tuck into the minivan floor and providing a completely flat area. The second-row seats also fold forward, providing plenty of room for sleeping. In addition, the second-row seats can be removed to maximize the sleeping space, providing an open floor plan in the rear.

While a minivan may not be for everyone, you can’t go wrong with a Honda Odyssey if space is your top priority. They have been around forever, and finding a low-mileage used one isn’t too difficult. However, they hold their value so that you may pay more for one than some of the other used minivans.

While the 2024 has a slight facelift, the guts of the minivan are pretty consistent with the 2023 model. The new price is only slightly more than the previous year, which is a plus. Regardless of what year you choose, you won’t find an SUV or car with sleeping space as luxurious as the minivan.

• Reliable and dependable
• Lots of space for sleeping
• Easy to find preowned
• No AWD available
• You’re driving a minivan
• Not too great fuel economy

Cargo Area 140.7 ft³ with seat area

Starting Price : $37,840

2024 Chevrolet Equinox

The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact crossover SUV that Chevrolet has manufactured since 2004. It is a popular choice for individuals who need a practical, fuel-efficient vehicle with a spacious interior and a number of advanced features.

The Equinox is powered by a range of four-cylinder engines, and it is available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations. Following the trend of other manufacturers, Chevrolet no longer offers a 6-cylinder engine. However, the 4-cylinder engines are available in a 1.5 or 2.0-liter option. This is because 4 cylinders have come a long way and, in many instances, perform just as well as the previous six cylinders.

Sleeping in an Equinox is easy with the fold-down seats. Some of the added storage compartments in the rear make it convenient to  stay organized  for the night and maximize your sleep area. A model with a sunroof makes it even better for sleeping, assisting with ventilation, and allowing you to look up at the stars. You will easily have enough room for two people.

While the Equinox doesn’t excel in any specific area, it doesn’t fall short. It is just an all-around good SUV with decent specs and a middle-of-the-road price point. It, with the option for FWD or AWD, has decent upgrade and safety options, gets decent gas mileage, and is pretty reliable.

The biggest change, which is a big one, for the 2024 lineup is the introduction of an all-electric option. While it didn’t make our EV camping car list below this year, I wouldn’t be surprised to see if there in the future.

• Good fuel economy
• No hybrid options
• Less luxurious feel
• Nothing extra-special

Cargo Area : 63.9 ft³ with seat area

Starting Price : $26,600

2023 Toyota Prius V

When looking for a good vehicle to sleep in, most people will probably look past the Toyota Prius. However, it is a great vehicle for sleeping if you’re not too tall. At 5’6″, I had many comfortable nights sleeping in the back of my Prius with the seats folded down. The longer Prius V model adds even more space and rivals many cross-over SUVs.

While not as roomy as a larger SUV, what you sacrifice in space you make up for in exceptional fuel efficiency, with ratings ranging from around 50 to 56 miles per gallon (MPG) in the city and around 54 to 58 MPG on the highway.

The Toyota Prius is a hybrid gasoline-electric car and has been in production since 1997. It is known for its fuel efficiency and low emissions and is widely considered the modern hybrid car market pioneer.

With such a rich history, they have received the distinction of being very reliable. This smaller car is available in several trim levels, with some models available as fully electric vehicles. However, the hybrid powertrain combines a four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and sips gas compared to other competitors.

The Prius hybrid models can run on electricity alone for short distances and switch between gasoline and electric power as needed. So if you’re planning to do long-distance camping, a Prius will allow you to do it for a fraction of the fuel costs of other cars.

The Prius V is a very spacious vehicle for camping. If you plan to sleep in it, you’ll be happy to know that when the rear seats are folded, you have a very generous 67.3 cubic feet of space. In addition, the design provides a higher roof, which adds to the spacious feeling inside.

The one downside of the Prius is its limited abilities and low ground clearance when driving off-road. However, when I owned my Prius, I regularly drove it on gravel forest roads in Pennsylvania, and it handled just fine. I just wouldn’t plan to take this offroad on extremely uneven surfaces.

Overall, the Prius is a great car and, surprisingly, a very capable car for sleeping and camping. It’s also affordable compared to other options, and when factoring in the reduced gas bill, it will have a noticeable positive impact on your wallet.

Stayed tune for details on the new 2024 model. We’re expecting a big change this year, and it may be worth considering if your currently in the market for a new car.

• Amazing fuel economy
• Surprisingly spacious
• Easy to convert for sleeping
• Not the most aesthetically appealing vehicle
• Lack of off-road capabilities
• Roof rack and hitch possible, but not standard

Ford Transit and Econoline (discontinued) Vans

The Ford Transit Van is a full-size van that has grown in popularity for campers looking to create their custom camping vehicle. This van has become the new go-to Ford vehicle for custom van setups ever since the Ford Econoline Van was discontinued. However, since the Econoline Vans have been in production since 1961, it’s possible to find a good quality used one on the market.

The Ford Transit line of vans comes in all different configurations, including both passenger wagons and cargo vans. The Transit Connect is the smallest of the bunch, but it’s also the most economical for a new model, starting at just over $30,000.

Ford also has an E-series line of vans, taking advantage of electric drivetrains for gas-free travel. Larger cargo vans are also available with many customization options, including engine size, roof height, wheelbase length, and seating options.

While the Econoline Van was pretty basic in features, it’s loved by the camping community because of its ability to be converted into the ultimate camping vehicle. This is an excellent vehicle if you’re looking for a DIY option for creating your own camping vehicle and want to save money by purchasing a used one.

You can easily maximize your floor space in all Ford Van configurations by removing all seats. While you can easily add a bed to the van’s rear, many owners will also add lighting, storage, and a kitchen area and insulate it for all-season camping. If you’re looking for inspiration, google Ford Van Life Conversions.

In terms of performance, the Econoline Van is available with a range of gasoline and diesel engines, which offer strong acceleration and towing power. In addition, an Econoline Van is similar to Ford’s pickup truck lineup, making it super easy to maintain and find parts. The newer Transit Van options will also offer excellent reliability with newer safety and performance features.

The price range for a base model Transit Connect starts at just over $30,000. However, a fully equipped 2023 Transit Van can easily approach $60,000 (or more).

• Extremely customizable
• Tons of space
• Not ready to go without some work
• The fuel economy of vans is pretty lackluster.
• It can be expensive (including upgrades)

Cargo Area : Varies (but lots of it)

Starting Price : $30,000

MPG: Varies by style

Honorable Mentions

While the above vehicles are my top choices for a good vehicle to sleep in, there are many other great options to mention. Below is a short list of other vehicles worth checking out. Who knows, they may bump up onto my top list next year.

• Honda Ridgeline
• Honda Element (only available used- but #1 choice for preowned)
• Toyota Sequoia
• Chevrolet Suburban
• Ford Expedition
• Ford F-150 (with Cab)
• Chrysler Pacifica
• Nissan Pathfinder
• Toyota Tacoma
• Toyota Sienna

Top Electric Vehicles for camping and sleeping

If you’re looking for a new vehicle for camping, you now have many options for electric vehicles. The list of options will be rapidly growing year over year, but in 2023, below are the best electric vehicles to sleep or camp in.

Electric vehicles offer many options for camping or sleeping beyond fuel savings. One of my favorites is the ability to have access to power when the car is off without worrying about depleting your starting battery. Some vehicles do this better than others, but when implemented correctly, it’s easy to charge a phone or laptop or run a plug-in cooler overnight.

Some vehicles will even be able to let you run air conditioning or heat while the vehicle is off. While this will use much more energy than simple tasks like charging a phone, it’s a great option to have when needed.

Other Benefits of Electric Vehicles for Camping

• It can be charged at a traditional RV campsite with an electric hookup.
• Quiet if you need to have the car turned on for AC or heat.
• Easy to charge devices or run AC appliances.

Disadvantages of Electric Vehicles for Camping

• Charging can be more difficult in remote locations.
• Options are currently fewer than ICE vehicles.
• More expensive due to newer technology

2024 Tesla Model Y

You can’t talk about Electric Vehicles without discussing Tesla, the leader in the EV industry. Why historical Tesla models were focused on sedans, the Model Y entered the mix with a bang. For many reasons, this could be the best car for sleeping in when you want to most access to comfort features.

The Tesla Model Y, first released in 2020, is a crossover SUV that has the benefits of a sedan with the space of an SUV. It can comfortably seat five passengers and, with an optional third row, increases seating capacity to seven. Like other Tesla models, it comes in several trim levels, an unnamed standard-range version, Long Range and Performance.

The thing that makes the Model Y a great, if not the best, EV camping car is the cargo capacity. The 2023 model offers 76 cu. Ft. of cargo room and has seats that fold nearly flat. The vehicle has several USB ports accessible in the rear of the vehicle and a low voltage port in the back trunk, where you can connect DC devices for charging or operation.

All power ports are active when the vehicle is considered “awake,” meaning that it’s ready to deliver power. This is turned on in what I consider to be a game-changing feature when the car is in camp mode.

When your Tesla is in Camp Mode, it will maintain the optimum temperature and airflow inside the cabin and provide you with lighting. You can also listen to music if you want and have most of the features you use outside of driving it. This mode was created just for this purpose and elevates the Model Y to the top of the list for a car you can sleep in comfortably.

2024 Subaru Solterra

When it comes to sleeping and camping in a car, no manufacturer has marketed this better than Subaru. The Subaru Outback and Forester have been hauling campers around for decades. The Soltera, just like all other Subarus, features the standard all-wheel drive (AWD) benefit of its all-new, all-electric drivetrain.  One of the things that makes this a great camping car is the go-anywhere mantra that Subaru owners love. With 8.3 inches of ground clearance, you can safely head down a long bumpy forest road for a peaceful place to camp.

The cargo area of the Solterra is good, with a 73” distance from the hatch to the seats when folded. This is a great size for sleeping. However, the Soltera doesn’t have a frunk, which can be found in other EVs, making it less convenient for storage. It does have a great rack system for carrying bikes, kayaks, or luggage, keeping the adventure benefits that Subaru is known for.

A few downsides of the Soltera when compared to other EVs. One is the lack of camping mode, which is found in the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Ioniq 5. This feature, which lets you turn on specific features of the vehicle when camping, such as AC or heat, is not offered, per se, in the Subaru. Through the Connect app, you can adjust your climate settings before you drive or turn on the car when parked, but it’s a little cumbersome compared to the other options.

Additionally, the range and charging time leaves some to be desired. The okay range of 220 miles is hamstrung by the longer charging times. At a level one charger, it will still take almost an hour to reach an 80 percent charge. Not great when comparing similar models.

However, if you plan to camp close to home, this may not be a big deal. On a road trip, though, you may need to plan some long stops for charging.

The Rivian R1S is essentially the same as the R1T, but with an enclosed rear instead of a truck bed. Aside from Tesla, it’s probably the most versatile vehicle on the list.

Last year, Rivian revealed a new feature for the R1T and new R1S known as Camp Mode, designed to enhance the camping experience. The new feature allows the ability to control various vehicle settings, including noise levels, display settings, and energy management. Additionally, the vehicle features floodlights in the mirrors to illuminate the campsite.

One standout feature of Camp Mode is its capability to modify the truck’s independent air suspension, ensuring the cabin remains level. This function aids in transforming the vehicle into a comfortable overnight stay.

Tesla, a competitor in the electric vehicle market, also offers a Camp Mode. While Tesla’s mode focuses on maintaining cabin conditions and touchscreen functionality for entertainment, it doesn’t provide the unique suspension adjustment feature found in Rivian’s version.

For this reason alone, the R1S is one of the top vehicles for sleeping and camping. While I would love to put it at the top of the list, the price tag of $78,000 makes it out of reach for many. If money wasn’t an issue, I would hands down recommend the Rivian over every other EV on the market.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

I’ll be the first to admit that I didn’t expect Hyundai to release one of the best electric vehicles for camping, but when compared to a Tesla, it holds its ground and outperforms in some areas. The Ioniq 5 is one of the best camping cars on the market because they pay attention to the details that people want.

Two of the most impressive features are Utility Mode, similar to Tesla’s Camp Mode, and the addition of 120V outlets to directly plug in electronics or even appliances. In Utility mode, Hyundai hit the mark by prepping a non-running car to take advantage of the onboard batteries. In a recent test, the Iioniq 5 lost about 10 miles of range for a 9-hour night of sleeping in utility mode. That’s pretty darn impressive.

Now, when it comes to powering devices, you have access to USB A power in utility mode, and if you opt for the top-of-the-line model, you’ll also get a 120V household plug. Hyundai also has a converter available that plugs into the bidirectional charging port (where you charge your car) that provides power for almost anything you need. So, if you want to run a coffee pot in the morning, no problem. This is available even when the vehicle is turned off.

The one downside of the Ioniq 5 is the slightly smaller sleeping space as compared to other EVs on the list. At roughly ## in length, it may not be the best option for really tall people. You can extend this a bit by sliding the rear seat up a bit, but you’ll be left with a gap that you’ll need to fill to avoid back pain.

Overall, the Hyindai Ioniq 5 is one of the best and most feature-rich electric cars for sleeping or camping. It has a good range, fast charging, and exceptional connectivity for all your electric needs. When factoring in price, compared to other EVs, this could be on of the best car camping cars available.

Car type and layout that is best for Camping and Sleeping:

Now that you’ve seen some of the best vehicles for sleeping, we’ll go through some of the critical things to remember when prepping to sleep in your car. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions to help you decide if it’s right for you.

While you can sleep in any car, some will be more comfortable, provide extra space, and be easier to adapt for privacy. Over the years, I have slept in many different cars, including a Toyota Prius, Subaru Outback, large SUVs like a ford explorer, a pickup truck, and even a minivan. While they all had their plusses and minuses, by large, the most comfortable were the ones with the most space. However, the best car for camping will ultimately come down to personal preference.

An SUV will typically be the best option for a car camper when given a choice. However, what you gain in space, you lose in fuel efficiency, which may be a factor in your decision on what type of car to purchase. The least comfortable and inconvenient are typical sedans with a trunk. While a trunk makes an excellent place to store items out of the way, sleeping on the front seats is less than ideal and a choice I would avoid if I planned to do a lot of camping in my car.

Below are some of the different car style options to choose from:

A camper van is ideal if you’re looking for the most luxurious vehicle to sleep in outside a full RV. It will offer the most space, a separate sleeping area, and even some luxury camping features like water, heat, air conditioning, and storage. Unfortunately, these can get very expensive if you opt for a van with full amenities. However, many design their own, starting with a cargo van as a base.

A minivan is an excellent option if you’re looking for a regular vehicle to sleep in but value space. While it may not be everyone’s choice for a daily driver, the extra space will make it a perfect vehicle to sleep in. In addition, many people remove the rear seats, creating an open floor plan, perfect for a mattress and sleeping bag.

A full-size SUV is a staple for daily driving and car camping. When the rear seats are folded down in the rear, you have a large space, often as big as a pickup truck’s bed. For most people, this will provide more than enough space for sleeping. While fuel efficiency is not great with an SUV, the added space makes up for it if you regularly plan to sleep in it. Also, some SUVs will accept a tent, which can be installed over the vehicle’s hatchback, significantly increasing the living space.

Crossover SUV

A compact SUV is probably the sweet spot regarding fuel efficiency and space. Vehicles like a Subaru Outback or Honda CRV make excellent camping options. There’s a good reason they top the list for some of the best cars for camping. I spent many nights sleeping inside my Subaru Outback and was always comfortable. Length is preferred over height when looking for a compact SUV, as longer vehicles provide more sleeping space, especially for taller people. When you fold down the back seats, you will have plenty of space for sleeping.

Compact car (hatchback)

While a compact car may seem like a poor choice for sleeping at face value, many compact cars make excellent cars you can sleep in. However, the one caveat is that it should be a hatchback rather than a trunk. While a compact car will be shorter than a typical sedan, a hatchback allows you to maximize the total length for sleeping with the rear seats folded down and is a great choice. One of my favorite vehicles for sleeping was a Toyota Prius. The salesperson rolled their eyes when I crawled into the back and laid down, but it helped me pull the trigger on a very fuel-efficient and sleeping-capable car. While the Prius was great on gas, most compact cars are also.

My least favorite vehicle for sleeping is a typical sedan. You’ll likely need to sleep on a reclined seat unless you’re short. While some vehicles will have a seat that reclines back to a nearly horizontal position, most will be slightly elevated in the backmost position. Some people like to sleep like this, but I prefer to have a different sleeping area than a seat. The one benefit of this style is a trunk, which allows you to keep all your gear and supplies out of the way. It is usually the quickest vehicle to set up for camping and the easiest to break down. However, the lack of sleeping space puts it at the bottom of my list if given a choice.

Pickup Truck

A pickup truck can make an excellent vehicle to sleep in, or if not set up properly, it can make a very uncomfortable one. The main determining factor is whether you have a cap on the truck’s bed. If you do, a pickup can be the perfect camping vehicle. If not, it isn’t easy to get comfortable and sleep in the truck’s cab. With an enclosed bed, however, you can fit a large mattress, customize the layout for your specific needs, and have plenty of room to store your gear and supplies. 

Can you live in your car?

While it’s not an ideal situation, many people experiencing economic hardships from living in high real-estate priced cities are making the decision to save on rent and live in their car. This is mostly a short-term solution for housing, but it’s something many people are doing. Additionally, many people choosing to travel the country choose this option as a way to save money and do more exploring.

Living in your car is legal, but depending on where you park, that could be a different story. Some cities or businesses strictly prohibit overnight parking. While it doesn’t mean that you can’t sleep in your car, you just can’t do it in these places. I suggest researching laws and rules before staying overnight in your vehicle.

Where can you sleep in your car to camp?

Finding a place to sleep in your car is not difficult, but it’s important to carefully plan where you want to stay for the night. The best place to stay is usually somewhere that allows camping, either at a form campground or a boondocking location. These sites typically provide a convenient place with the least possibility of getting disturbed.

The more challenging location is usually on a public street or parking lot. We’ll cover the legalities of overnight parking in public and private locations later but be aware that it may not be as simple as pulling over anywhere and sleeping.

Some of the best places to camp are certified boondocking locations. This means it’s legal to stay in these locations, usually in scenic areas, free and traditionally quiet. Best yet, locations are available throughout the country, even in areas close to populated areas. Most boondocking spots are located on public lands. Most are on federal lands, but many state and local governments have land available for boondocking. You should be aware that there typically aren’t camping amenities like fire pits, bathrooms, or trash facilities. You will need to plan accordingly for the place you plan to stay.

When you’re looking for a place to sleep, I like to use the power of the internet to find a good location. Some fantastic apps and websites list places to camp for free. Two of my favorites are iOverlander , Campedium , and The Dyrt App. However, there are a bunch of other resources that have their own unique benefits. I like to have a couple of options installed on my phone for the best chance of finding the perfect spot. My favorite resources are the ones that provide reviews from real users.

·         Campendium

·         AllStays

·         The Dyrt App

·         FreeRoam

·         iOverlander

·         Boondocking App

Is it Legal to Sleep in Your Car?

Yes, in many instances, it is entirely legal to sleep in your car. There are no federal or state laws prohibiting it, but some localities may have regulations or ordinances prohibiting it. In some places, it is legal to sleep in a car as long as it is not done in a way that disturbs the peace or poses a safety hazard. In other places, sleeping in a car may be illegal or restricted to certain areas.

It is important to check the laws and regulations in the area where you plan to sleep in your car. Some places may have specific laws regulating sleeping in a car, while in other places, the laws may be more general and apply to overnight parking.

Unless expressly prohibited by local laws, sleeping in your car when parked on a public street is legal. However, more and more municipalities are cracking down on this, so it’s best to check with local authorities before your stay. While sleeping in your car when parked on a public street may be possible, it’s typically loud, won’t offer privacy, and creates an opportunity that someone will disturb you and ask you to leave. Therefore, I recommend this option as a last resort since better options are available. You should also be aware of potential safety risks and take appropriate precautions.

In general, sleeping in a car at a designated campsite or rest area is usually legal if you follow any rules or guidelines that apply to those areas. It may also be legal to sleep in a car in a parking lot if it is not a private property or restricted area. However, checking with the property owner or manager is important to ensure it is allowed.

Some businesses may allow you to stay in their parking lot overnight. Many Walmart locations will allow this as well as Cracker Barrel restaurants. However, their policies regularly change, so ask the store manager before you park for the night. If you are unsure about the legality of sleeping in a car in a particular

area, it is a good idea to contact local law enforcement or a local tourism office for more information.

Do campgrounds let you sleep in a car?

Yes, many campgrounds allow guests to sleep in their cars. Some campgrounds have designated areas for car camping, while others allow visitors to park their car at any campsite and sleep in it.

If you plan to sleep in your car at a campground, it is a good idea to check with the campground beforehand to ensure it is allowed. Unfortunately, some private campgrounds won’t allow this and restrict the types of vehicles you can sleep in. In addition, some campgrounds may have specific rules or guidelines for car camping, such as requiring that the car be parked in a designated area or prohibiting the use of propane heaters.

However, most public campgrounds won’t restrict this, but it’s a good idea to check with the host or when you make a reservation. In general, you will need to be able to park at your campsite. For example, if a campground offers rustic tent camping but offers a parking lot for tent campers, you typically won’t be able to sleep in your car in this situation. Public campsites are usually less expensive than public ones, so keep this in mind when deciding where to camp.

When sleeping in your car at a campground, it is important to follow any rules and guidelines that apply. This may include paying the appropriate fees, respecting the rights of other campers, and being mindful of any noise or other potential nuisances. Overall, sleeping in a car at a campground can be a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy the outdoors and experience the beauty of nature.

Tips for Sleeping in a Car:

Stay organized.

If you plan to sleep in your car for a long trip, developing a system for staying organized is a good option. Many SUVs will have a roof rack option, a great way to keep your camping gear , luggage, and other supplies out of the sleeping area. This will be even more important if you have a small car.

Another option is to take advantage of your vehicle’s hitch. If you have a hitch receiver, consider purchasing a hitch carrier. While these aren’t ideal for clothing and soft items that may get wet, they work perfectly for coolers and generators.

When getting ready for a camping trip , start by storing your supplies in bins, totes, or bags. If you keep them in the rear of the vehicle, you can quickly move them when it’s time to sleep. On the other hand, if everything is scattered around, you’ll spend a lot of time moving items rather than getting a good night’s sleep.

Don’t run the engine.

Running the engine while sleeping in a car is generally not recommended. There are several reasons why this can be dangerous:

• Carbon monoxide poisoning: Running the engine generates exhaust fumes containing a poisonous gas called carbon monoxide. If the fumes enter the passenger compartment, they can cause dizziness, nausea, and even death. Therefore, ensuring the exhaust pipe is clear and not blocked by debris is important to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Fire risk: Running the engine generates heat, which can increase the fire risk if it comes into contact with flammable materials. It is important to ensure the engine is in good working order and not leaking any fluids.
• Noise and disturbance: Running the engine can disturb other people sleeping or camping nearby. It is important to be considerate of others and try to minimize noise and disturbance.

Control humidity

One challenge with sleeping in a car can be humidity. Because of the small space, it’s easy for the inside of the car to get from breathing. This is especially noticeable on cool nights when you have the windows closed. However, there are some easy steps to reduce humidity when sleeping in your car:

• Park in a shady spot: Choose a parking spot shaded from the sun to reduce the heat and humidity inside the car.
• Crack a window or sunroof: Opening a window a few inches can help to ventilate the car and allow excess moisture to escape.
• Use a dehumidifier : Consider using a small, portable dehumidifier to absorb excess moisture from the air. These devices can be powered by your car’s cigarette lighter or a small battery.
• Use a fan: A portable fan can help circulate the car’s air and reduce humidity.
• Avoid drying clothes inside the car: Avoid hanging wet clothes or towels inside the car to dry, as this can increase humidity levels.

Best Car Features for Sleeping

Ventilation is a must when sleeping in a car. While you can always roll down the windows, a better options is to open a sunroof if you have one. This allows for better ventilation while improving privacy and safety. While not all cars have sunroofs, you can get one installed if you want. I remember doing this in my 1989 Chevy Beretta (did I just age myself).

Tinted Windows

Privacy is an important part of any car camping or sleeping trip. Tinted windows will greatly help in this department. While some cars come with tinted windows to keep the interior cooler, you can easily add darker tint to windows with a tinting kit or by taking it to a shop that specialized in it.

4-doors and hatchback

Most of the cars that I suggest below are hatchbacks, which maximized sleeping room. However, at a minimum, you should plan to sleep in a 4-door vehicle. While some small sports cars will have two doors, most options out there will meet this spec. However, you will likely be much more comfortable in a hatchback or a car without a trunk.

Rear Outlets

Many vehicles will have 12V outlets up front, but some will have them in the rear of the cargo area too. While you don’t want to plug in a refrigerator to these outlets when stationary, they are great for a quick charge of your cell phone. However, be aware that some 12V outlets turn off when the key is off. You can manually rewire these, but it takes some know-how, which you can usually get from Youtube. Remember that too much charging will drain your battery, so use this option sparingly.

Camping can take many different shapes and forms, and that includes sleeping in your car. While any vehicle is okay to sleep in, some are simply more comfortable. When looking for a good car to sleep in, the best choice is typically the one with the most room. However, this is only half the battle. You also want to ensure you have a reliable vehicle capable of getting you from point A to point B.

You may also have other needs like traveling long distances, towing a trailer, or hauling heavy loads. All of these factors must be part of your decision when selecting a vehicle. Also, while a new model year car sounds exciting, the car payment may not. You may opt to look at some used models and want to ensure that the vehicle is reliable for your travel plans.

Regardless of the vehicle, the best choice will be the one that meets your needs and budget. I highly recommend you open up the hatch, fold down the seats, and lie down in it. You may get some awkward looks, but that’s really the best way to see if the vehicle is right for you. Best of luck and happy trails.

4 thoughts on “Top 25 Best Cars to Sleep in when Camping (2024)”

Great information, thank you. Many articles list the Honda CR-V at or very near the top choice for sleeping on the road. I own a 2012 CR-V EX-L (AWD, luggage rack, etc) I bought used and on several levels it has been a terrific road vehicle. I would submit, however, and possibly newer models are better suited, this particular revision does not work well for sleeping for me though I’ve tried. I’m 6’1″, which I’m sure determines much of my sleeping discomfort, so with my height and the flawed engineering for sleep of the back seats not folding flat, it doesn’t at all well for me. I have considered a small pickup with a bed cap or a small van since I’m primarily concerned with sleep and light cooking.

Thanks for sharing. It’s a real shame that Honda discontinued the Element many years ago. That seemed to be a great SUV for sleeping. Fortunately for me, I’m only 5’6″, so I don’t have the same struggles as taller people. Good luck, and thanks again for the comment.

I love that you measured out the length on many of these models. I haven’t seen other websites do that. Thank you.

Sure thing- I’m glad it was helpful

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The ultimate guide to car camping

Car camping is an affordable, low-barrier way to enjoy the great outdoors—here's what you need to know to get started

By Madeleine Balestrier

There are as many different ways to camp as there are campers—from glamping to overlanding and backpacking, you can personalize your experience in the outdoors. If you’re new to camping or looking for a new way to get outside, consider car camping. 

Related 20 overlanding essentials: Gear and gadgets for the ultimate off-road camping adventure

How is car camping different from tent camping? It’s simple—you sleep in your car instead of a tent. Car camping is a low-barrier and comfortable way to enjoy the outdoors without investing in expensive camping gear. But even when car camping, you can still choose to pull up to a campground and set up a tent. 

One of the many advantages of car camping is your ability to choose how, when, and where you sleep. This includes stealth camping. Similar to boondocking , stealth car camping is free camping where you sleep in your car without drawing attention to yourself. You can stealth camp in wild and urban areas—but be wary of local laws and stay safe. 

Are you ready to watch the sunrise over the mountains from your car window? Or pull over to sleep whenever you feel like it on a long road trip? 

Related 11 states in 14 days: Car camping along the most famous routes in the U.S.

How to get started car camping

One of the most fun parts about car camping is researching all the cool ways people do it and finding out what works best for you. YouTube is a valuable resource in learning how to set up your vehicle with whatever space you may have. 

Visiting and supporting local gear stores will help you learn about the gear you may need, like a camp stove. 

Joining Facebook groups and Reddit forums gives you access to people within the car camping community. They also offer used gear deals and answers to questions you didn’t know you had. 

Buy and outfit your car 

Your vehicle is the most important part of car camping. A car you already own will most likely suffice for your car camping needs. Just make sure it’s reliable and spacious enough for you to sleep and store gear. 

You’ll need appropriate gear for camping, roadside essentials, and anything else you intend to use outside, like a hiking pack, running shoes, or fishing gear. 

Explore local 

Before you start planning a cross-country itinerary, consider using your first car camping trip as an opportunity to learn more about your local area. Start in a nearby park or campground. State parks are a good choice as they offer activities, amenities, and other resources to help ease you into a new kind of camping. 

Related From tobogganing to spelunking: Wild and weird experiences await at these state parks

How to pick a car for camping

What makes a vehicle ideal for car camping? The best cars to sleep in have all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive capabilities. You should look for a vehicle with plenty of cargo space and weight capacity. 

The best vehicle to sleep in is one that’s reliable, safe, and secure on and off the road. It’s also worth considering vehicles with good gas mileage or even electric cars, which are becoming more popular for car camping . 

Here are some popular models for car camping: 

• Jeep Wrangler
• Subaru Forester
• Subaru Outback
• Toyota 4Runner
• Hyundai Kona Electric

Regardless of what vehicle you drive, don’t let it stop you from car camping. Even a small car like a Toyota Prius can be suitable with the right setup. 

Car camping essentials  

Car camping essentials vary widely based on the person, weather, and destination, but here is a list of necessities to get you started.

Coolers are not only crucial for preserving food but they also can be used as a table, camp chair, or beer fridge. Features to look for in a cooler are ice life, insulation, durability, and size.  Look to Yeti , Pelican , and Canyon Coolers , which offer viable options depending on your needs and budget. 

You’ll quickly find that navigating around the campground by phone flashlight or firelight won’t cut it. It’s worth investing in lighting for utility and ambiance purposes. Headlamps, lanterns, or even solar string lights will do the trick. 

Organization is key for keeping everything orderly while car camping in a small space. Invest in inexpensive bins to separate your kitchen supplies, toiletries, clothing, outdoor gear, and other belongings. You can even designate areas of your car for specific items so you can quickly find, pack, and unpack everything you need. 

Sleeping pad

Aside from the vehicle, your sleep system is crucial. There are several ways to approach how you want to set up your car for sleeping. Do you want a system that easily folds up for day use? Are you traveling solo or with a partner? You can even build a sleeping platform to create more space and organization. 

To keep things simple, start by investing in a quality sleeping pad. A sleeping pad can be anything from a self-inflating pad to a luxurious mattress topper. 

Other items to consider for your sleep system are pillows, sleeping bags, blankets, and quilts. You may also want to bring a tent for nights when you want to switch things up. 

A variety of stoves work for car camping. A popular and affordable option is the classic two-burner Coleman stove . If you’re traveling solo, a backpacking stove like the MSR PocketRocket is sufficient enough and saves space. Other items to add to your camp kitchen are a cast iron skillet, sharp knife, camp sink, utensils, and a folding table. 

Water storage

You’ll need water for drinking, cleaning, and washing. Always have plenty of water in a storage container. If you know you will be camping near water sources, consider investing in a water filter . 

Car camping tips and tricks 

• Crack open opposite windows when you sleep for a cross breeze and to avoid moisture build-up in the car. 
• Purchase a GPS and satellite communicator for off-the-grid contact, and let someone know your plans. 
• Boil water, pour it into a heat-safe water bottle, and place it in your sleeping bag for more warmth on cold nights.
• Bring pre-packaged foods, like overnight oats or pancakes, or plan one-pot recipes for when you need an easy meal with minimal cleanup.
• Carry cash for local shops and campgrounds that might not accept credit cards. 
• Download maps, movies, music, and podcasts to make sure you can access them even without cell phone service. 

How to plan a car camping trip 

Traveling on a whim without a plan can be freeing, but for beginner car campers, plan your trip ahead of time. This will ease stress and help avoid some unforeseeable circumstances.

Here is a list of apps and websites to help plan a car camping trip:

• Roadtrippers features everything from campgrounds to things to do, places to eat, and road services along the way. 
• Campendium helps you find places to camp, with in-depth reviews from other Campendium users. The app features boondocking sites, free campgrounds, RV parks, and more. 
• iOverlander features places to camp off-the-beaten-path. It’s useful in finding places to stealth camp in urban places, like Walmart and Cracker Barrel.
• Overnight RV Parking is another resource for finding stealth camping options.
• Recreation.gov is a great resource for finding federal campgrounds, like Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service sites. You can also make reservations through this site. 
• GasBuddy is an app to help you find the cheapest gas on your road trip. 

Other resources that are popular with car campers include Google Maps and AllTrails. It’s also worth checking with gear stores in your destination as these will often share local recommendations and current conditions. 

To comfortably camp in your car, start by investing in a sleep setup, review local ordinances if stealth camping, and understand your vehicle’s safety precautions. 

To keep your car cool while camping, you can make or purchase insulation shades, sleep with opposite windows cracked open for a cross breeze, and use a battery-powered fan. 

You can legally sleep in your car in campgrounds, select businesses, some rest stops, visitor centers, BLM Land, and other places across the U.S. For specifics to your area, utilize Overnight RV Parking or the other popular car camping apps and websites listed above. 

It’s safe to leave your car windows shut when you sleep in your car as long as the engine is off, but you’ll most likely be more comfortable if you leave your windows open slightly (depending on the climate).

The safest place to sleep in your car is in legal car camping areas, whether that’s a campground, BLM land, big box store, rest stop, or a visitor center. 

There are several ways to cover a window while sleeping in a car. You can buy window covers or curtains or buy a roll of Reflectix (insulation) material and make your own window covers. 

Car camping can be staying at or near a trailhead before spending a few days hiking in the backcountry. It can be pulling into a new town late at night or waking up to a spectacular view on public lands. 

Related How to find a safe place to park your RV or van for the night

It can also be a way to save money during a cross-country road trip. It gives you the flexibility to sleep wherever you want because you have everything you need in your car. Car camping is just another vehicle, literally and figuratively, for an adventure into the outdoors.     

This article has links to products that were carefully selected by our editors. We may earn commission on your purchases from these links.  Visit this page  for the full details of our affiliate marketing policy.

Meet the Author

Madeleine Balestrier

Madeleine is a freelance writer who writes about the outdoors, travel, and cannabis. She loves being buried in the snow, running single-track, and eating cucumbers and gummies at the summit. When she’s not writing or traveling, you can find Madeleine in Telluride, Colorado working as a lifty or sleeping in her hammock.

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The 10 Best SUVs for Camping

Wanna get away? These SUVs will make it easier than ever.

By Will Sabel Courtney and Tyler Duffy

Whether you’re planning on doing some car camping out of it or simply driving it to your preferred trailhead before embarking on an overnight hike , no vehicle is quite as well-suited to camping as the sport-utility vehicle . Like trucks, sport-utes offer the added ground clearance and payload and towing capacity to haul ample people and cargo; like cars, they offer a completely enclosed space for making sure valuable items don’t fly away (either due to breeze or theft).

A few decades back, choosing which SUV to use as your camping vehicle would have been fairly easy; there were only a few types of them, after all, and they were all fairly equivalent in terms of capability. Here in the modern day, however, SUVs — both car-like crossovers and the more traditional truck-like models — have effectively taken over the new car market. It’s almost harder these days to find a new car that isn’t a truck or SUV than the opposite.

What to look for in an SUV for camping

Ground Clearance: Camping will likely involve leaving the pavement. Having solid ground clearance will ensure you can clear obstacles and won’t get high-sided in an area with poor cell reception.

Cargo Space: When you’re camping you’ll want as much room as possible for storing gear and/or people. Vehicles with a larger cargo space — particularly with the rear seats lifted — will offer a lot more visibility.

All/four-wheel-drive: You don’t need a full-on two-speed transfer case unless you’re challenging tough terrain. But on a basic level, having four wheels moving instead of two increases the odds of one of them finding traction and you don’t get stuck.

Price: You don’t want to spend too much on this vehicle. Camping out of, say, a Lamborghini is something you could do. But it’s much more pleasurable to do so out of a vehicle you don’t feel obligated to be precious with.

• Ground Clearance: 6.7 in
• Cargo Space: 24.2/62.1 cubic feet
• Starting MSRP: $19,890

Okay, sure, calling the Kia Soul an SUV is a bit of stretch. Still, if you don’t need all-wheel-drive and can live with 6.7 inches of ground clearance (which, to be fair, is only 0.6 inches less than the Seltos ), it’s hard to beat the Soul’s versatile interior for the price. You may be tempted by the off-road-esque X-Line Trim seen here, but don’t be fooled; the base LX has just as much capability.

Subaru Outback Wilderness

• Ground Clearance: 9.5 in
• Cargo Space: 32.5/75.7 cubic feet
• Starting MSRP: $39,960

Really, any Subaru bar the BRZ and Legacy could arguably find a place on this list, but it’s the brand’s Outback Wilderness (which starts at $38,445) that deserves it most. Building on the already impressive turbocharged Outback XT , the Wilderness adds ground clearance (standing 9.5 inches off the ground) and off-road capability without compromising the excellent cargo space (33 cubic feet with the seats up, 76 with the seats down) and other traits that make the Outback such a great ride.

Ford Bronco Sport

• Ground Clearance: 8.8 in
• Cargo Space: 32.5/65.2 cubic feet
• Starting MSRP: $29,215

With its playful attitude, rugged looks and arsenal of handy, outdoorsy features (MOLLE straps! A bottle opener!), the Bronco Sport was pretty much made for camping. Cargo space is limited compared to some vehicles on the list, but it still has up to 32 cubic feet with both rows up and 65 cubes with the back seats down.

Volkswagen Atlas

• Ground Clearance: 8 in
• Cargo Space: 20.6/96.8 cubic feet
• Starting MSRP: $35,150

With up to 97 cubic feet of cargo bay available and a starting price of under $35,000, it’s hard to beat the VW Atlas when it comes to bang for your buck. And Volkswagen is enhancing its camping appeal with a rugged Atlas Peak Edition for 2024.

Dodge Durango

• Ground Clearance: 8.1 in
• Cargo Space: 43.3/85.1 cubic feet
• Starting MSRP: $40,140

Every version of the Durango offers ample space inside, with 85 cubic feet of space after the second and third rows have been folded down — enough to sleep, in a pinch (we’ve checked). But the 4WD Durango R/T Tow N’ Go (which starts at $54,685) takes things a step further; its 5.7-liter V8 delivers 8,700 pounds of towing capacity, and it even offers low-range for its four-wheel-drive system, for those times you need to take a campsite way away from everyone else.

Honda Passport

• Cargo Space: 50.5/100.8 cubic feet
• Starting Price: $41,100

Not everyone wants a third row of seats. If that covers you, but you also want 100 cubic feet of available cargo space (or up to 50.5 cubes with the second row upright), Honda reliability and a well-equipped price of around $40K with all-wheel-drive, the Passport is your…well, y’know…to adventure.

Ford Expedition

• Ground Clearance: 9.8 in
• Cargo Space: 20.9/104.6 cubic feet
• Starting MSRP: $55,725

The Expedition became an even better buy for adventurous buyers who don’t need room for more than five people a couple years back, when Ford rolled out the more affordable two-row-only XL STX trim . No matter which trim you choose, you’ll find 57.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 104.6 cubes with all the seats folded flat. (If you need even more, there’s a longer Expedition Max, too.)

Land Rover Defender 110

• Ground Clearance: 8.6 in (up to 11.5 in)
• Cargo Space: 27.1/76.1 cubic feet
• Starting MSRP: $69,100

By now, you probably know everything there is to know about the reborn Land Rover Defender . Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no arguing that it’s an excellent camping rig — especially if you’re planning on going well beyond the beaten path. Granted, it’s not the most commodious SUV for the money, what with just 58.3 cubic feet of space with the second and third rows down and just 15.6 cubes with the second row up. Still, its impressive towing capacity, gnarly off-road capabilities and extensive collection of accessories (both official and aftermarket) make outfitting it for your camping adventures very easy.

Chevrolet Suburban

• Ground Clearance: 7.9 in
• Cargo Space: 41.5/144.7 cubic feet
• Starting MSRP: $57,200

But if the Expedition still isn’t big enough, you’ll want to go Suburban. It’s unmatched among in cargo space ( except for amongst its GM SUV brethren ), packing 41.5 cubic feet with all three rows up, 98.3 cubic feet with the third row flat, and 145 cubic feet with second and third rows down. Plus, if you’re planning on doing some casual overlanding, you can even order the burly Z71 off-road trim.

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

• Cargo Space: 18.4/84.7 cubic feet
• Starting MSRP: $81,800

The Mercedes GLS may not have quite as much cargo space as you might expect given its size (you’re looking at 85 cubic feet with the second and third row folded flat), but it’s still ample roomy — and makes up for any deficiencies with an interior so luxurious, you might wonder why you bother sleeping outside.

More Camping Gear

• Best Rooftop Tents
• Best Rooftop Cargo Boxes
• Best Overlanding Gear
• Best All-Terrain Tires

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April 21, 23

What Is The Best Car for Camping?

The relentless nature of the daily grind has become a lot to shoulder these days. Even with the flexible shift to working remotely, it can feel like life has lost its boundaries. The desire to step into your car and drive until service disappears has grown increasingly urgent and increasingly accessible as camping experiences something of a renaissance. Gone are the days when car camping was defined as stretching across the cramped and lumpy back row of your hatchback. With the introduction of roof top tents, camper conversions, and a sophisticated abundance of accessories, it can be downright luxurious.

What Types of Cars Can Be Used as a Camper?

Nearly any vehicle can serve as an entry to car camping. It doesn’t have to be the latest off the assembly line to get you to a state park or public lands. However, for those seeking to go all-in, there are some key factors that define the best cars for camping.

8 Considerations For Car Camping Vehicles

1.  Storage Capacity - The more capacity a vehicle has to pack in, the more potential it has to accommodate campers, activities, and extended trips. If you plan to hit the trail for more than a weekend or enjoy recreation that comes along with its own gear (surfing, cycling, skiing, hunting, you name it), you’ll need a vehicle large enough to fit everything. And if you’re forgoing a tent, the best cars to sleep in for camping will have seats that fold flat or stow away to make room for your sleeping pad.

2.  AWD/4WD - All-wheel drive or four-wheel drive systems are non-negotiable in our book. They offer more control and stability in conditions you’ll commonly encounter while camping. They are not synonymous, but both send power to all four wheels to improve traction in adverse conditions such as heavy rain, slush, muddy trails, or challenging, loose terrain.

3.  Fuel Economy - Don’t underestimate the value of good mileage. It’s nice to think of dispersed camping as free, but hidden costs add up. The expense of gas isn’t strictly hidden, but price fluctuations can throttle a budget when driving long distances. Fuel efficiency will also decrease as soon as you begin adding weight to the car and mounting equipment that creates drag. If you drive remote roadways getting fewer miles per gallon, will your tank run empty before you pass the next gas station? If you choose a hybrid or electric vehicle, will you be able to charge it reliably?

4.  Static and Dynamic Weight - Static weight is how much a vehicle’s roof can support while the car is parked. Dynamic weight is how much the roof can support while in motion. Simple enough, right? If you plan to explore the world of roof tents, static and dynamic weights are critically important. Be sure to account for the combined weight of the roof rack, the RTT, and the passengers who will be sleeping inside once you set up camp. Know your limits and respect them.

5.  Payload - Payload is the weight capacity a vehicle can support, and the ones with higher payload make some of the best car camping cars. This number is usually listed in the owner’s manual or the doorjamb on the driver’s side. It’s sometimes written as a cautionary statement, such as, “combined weight of passengers and cargo should never exceed” a determined weight. That includes anything added into or on top of the vehicle. No matter how much you want your compact car to take you to the mountains, it might not be built to hold the weight of your aspirational camping.

6.  Towing Capacity - Think of the difference between payload and towing capacity as what the car can carry and pull. They’re not the same, but they’re not exclusive from one another, either. This number can also be found in the owner’s manual for larger vehicle classes, but if it’s not, you can calculate it. Subtract the Curb Weight (weight of the vehicle and operating fluids) and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (how much it can structurally support while parked) from the Gross Combined Vehicle Weight Rating (how much the tow vehicle and trailer can weigh together when loaded) to determine towing capacity. You may not want to tow a trailer or camper behind your car now, but that can change over time. As you shop around, we recommend considering if you can install a trailer hitch on a vehicle and the maximum weight it can safely tow behind it. 

7.  Suspension - This system stabilizes the car and keeps things comfortable when traveling over inconsistent terrain. If the idea of rock crawling to reach base camp appeals to you, many overlanders prefer to upgrade their suspension. That may not be necessary, depending on how and where you plan to camp. For a weekender taking mostly paved roads to state or national parks, any vehicle with stock suspension will be just fine. For driving Forest Service roads or trail roads, going deep into public lands, something with a more robust suspension will serve you well - especially when fully loaded. Are upgrades a worthwhile investment? Maybe, but not something to rush into until you have a clear idea of the experience you’re seeking.

8.  Clearance - Ground clearance is the distance between the lowest part of the vehicle and the surface of the road. Even if you don’t see yourself off-roading, camping in shoulder seasons or inclement weather can significantly impact road conditions. On trail access or gravel service roads, you’ll want at least 8.5 inches of ground clearance. This will help prevent damage to the car while navigating obstacles like rocks, creeks, and ruts. 10.5 inches of clearance should be the bare minimum when it comes to more serious off-roading, like rock crawling. These numbers are just a starting point. The terrain you drive will ultimately dictate the practical minimums.

Vehicles that overachieve on these considerations are Trucks, SUVs, Crossovers, and Vans. There are exceptions, and you will find some great wagons and vehicles in other class categories that can meet your needs. The newest models will have all the bells and whistles, but the market for used vehicles is a great place to find affordable car camping prospects.

What Is a Car Tent?

For anyone uninterested in sleeping inside their car, roof top tents are a compelling alternative. Car tents, also known as roof tents, mount to the roof or bed rack of a vehicle. They offer a host of advantages, such as freeing up storage capacity, unobstructed views, quick set up, and spacious beds for a restful night’s sleep. There is a fair range of models to accommodate different vehicle classes and outdoor interests.

Types of RTTs

• Hard Shell: Many hard shell roof top tents feature an expansion panel, so the tent can maintain a tight footprint on top of your vehicle without sacrificing sleep capacity. The Skycamp® 3.0 has an aerodynamically contoured hard shell to reduce drag and allow down bedding to be stowed inside.
• Soft Shell: Lighter than a hard shell tent and more similar to a traditional ground tent. These RTTs are generally less expensive than their counterparts but not as long-lasting. The soft textile design doesn’t weather inclement conditions as well as a hard shell tent, either.
• Wedge: These are some of the fastest tents to deploy - we’re talking seconds. Wege tents benefit from their utilitarian design and ability to load gear on top without unloading when the tent is deployed. Think solar panels and cargo boxes. Models like the BDV™ also feature t-track rails to mount additional equipment along the sides of the tent.
• Hybrid: Some roof top tents don’t fit neatly into established categories. The X-Cover® 2.0 uses a book fold design to blend the lightweight benefit of a soft shell tent with a hard FRP exterior. The flat top even features integrated cross bars for mounting equipment like bicycles and kayaks.

Best SUVs and Crossovers for Camping

When it comes to camping, SUVs have a lot going in their favor. They can accommodate plenty of passengers, are comfortable to ride in, and most will feature AWD or 4WD systems. Not only do they have plenty of storage capacity, whatever you pack is going to stay dry, secure, and dust-free. They can support substantial weight on the roof and offer towing capacity, but access to rear cargo storage will become limited once you attach a trailer. Whether it’s a compact crossover or a full-size SUV, this body type has been designed for practical use, hence the name, sport utility vehicle. A few of the ones listed here have origins as wagons, and that still shows through in their latest models. Everyone’s entitled to an identity crisis, and we don’t care as much about their class evolution as their standing reputation for being some of the best SUVs for camping:

• Jeep Grand Cherokee: well known for its off-road prowess and deluxe interior. Rugged, reliable, and capable of towing over 7,000 lbs which makes up for its below-average cargo capacity.
• Subaru Outback: a great entry vehicle to car camping because it doubles well as a primary commuter car, has plenty of cargo room, ground clearance, AWD, and payload. The rear seats will also fold down to accommodate a sleeping inside if that’s your preference.
• Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: compact as far as SUVs go, but still offers generous cargo storage with the rear seats folded down. It earns top marks on fuel economy thanks to its hybrid tech.
• Ford Bronco Sport: has standard AWD and respectable crash scores. Boasts a suite of features that complement car camping, such as roof racks fit for RTTs, a cargo management system with a rubberized floor, a slide-out table, and built-in tie-downs.
• Ford Expedition: a full-size SUV with a twin-turbocharged engine and solid ground clearance. Agile off-road with room for an entire cabinful of campers. Limited cargo capacity.
• Toyota 4Runner: a favorite for car campers, with a vast world of aftermarket modifications available. It’s easy to maintain, highly-capable off-road, and has more than enough room for you and everything you might bring along for the ride. It can handle RTTs and towing trailers, but mileage leaves a lot to be desired.
• Subaru Crosstrek: standard AWD, great off-road capability, ground clearance, and safety ratings. As a compact crossover, it doesn’t offer as much cargo capacity as the Outback, but it’s nimble to navigate through tight spaces. Available as a hybrid for those looking to splash out on the long-term investment.
• Honda Pilot: ample cargo room and capable of towing as much as 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. Performs well off-road, available in AWD or FWD. This family-friendly crossover has long been a staple for car camping.

Best Trucks for Camping

By and large, trucks won’t have great fuel economy, but they will offer more storage capacity and payload than the average vehicle. They’re great off-road and endlessly customizable with racking, tailgate, and cargo systems. A few strong advantages of the truck’s body: the passenger cab is separate from whatever you’re transporting in the bed, ideal when camping gets messy. Access to the truck bed storage isn’t restricted when towing a trailer, as you can still reach in from the sides. And, of course, flexible configuration of cargo. A few disadvantages: the vehicle’s storage capacity is less secure due to the open bed, so things will need bolted or tied down unless you invest in a canopy or cover. Anything uncovered in the truck bed will also be fully exposed to the elements, including dust, mud, rain, and snow. For most trucks, the cab won’t be long enough or strong enough to support a roof tent, so you’ll need a bed rack if that’s the type of camping you’re set on. Some of the best trucks for camping include:

• Toyota Tacoma: Not as substantial with cargo space as other trucks, but it is towing capable and wildly popular for aftermarket modifications. If you want your car camping vehicle to be a blank canvas to customize, the Tacoma and 4Runner present the crowd favorites for Truck vs. SUV. Why? They’re easy to find secondhand when new is in conflict with custom.
• Rivian R1T: not only an all-electric truck, it’s also rewriting expectations for performance vehicles destined for the outdoors. Every bit as capable as a gas-powered pickup, with plenty of cargo capacity and ground clearance, all wrapped up with luxury features from end to end. There’s even a kitchen upgrade available. Truly - this truck wants to take you camping and cook you breakfast. The catch, like any EV, is that range limitations may require compromises to how far your overlanding takes you from charge to charge.
• Honda Ridgeline: custom accessories like a tent for the truck bed give it a slight edge over other trucks where camping is concerned. Built on a crossover frame, it rides like a car without sacrificing cargo or towing capacity. It even includes in-bed speakers and power outlet.
• Jeep Gladiator: as rugged as a mid-size truck gets and the only one to offer removable doors and roof. Exceptional off-road, but the tradeoff is a noisy cabin and lesser handling on paved roadways.
• Ford F-150: popular for aftermarket customization, also available as a hybrid model. Its full size can be hard to maneuver on tight trails, and the fuel economy isn’t anything to write home about.
• Chevrolet Colorado ZR2: may not have as much payload as other trucks, but it’s unlikely you’ll overload it car camping. Multimatic suspension delivers a great ride on and off-road.
• Ram 2500: this three-quarter-ton truck has more payload and towing capacity than any camper could need. A powerful, capable vehicle for work or play with no shortage of luxury trim options.

Best of Everything Else for Camping

Cars, wagons, and vans are going to tick many of the boxes like fuel economy, AWD/4WD, and certainly comfort, but fall short in other areas like ground clearance or towing capacity. The best cars for road trips and camping will generally have a wagon body type, and vans best suited to overlanding will be the sprinter or cargo variety. This list covers a few of the corner cases that stand out as:

• VW Golf Alltrack: not as much ground clearance, but it will do just fine on an average dirt road and features AWD. Roomy interior for a compact car with plenty of cargo capacity. The shorter vehicle height makes loading roof racks much easier to manage than an SUV.
• Volvo V90 Cross Country: luxury wagon with standard AWD to complement its excellent suspension and safety features. It’s not built for off-road performance, but its ground clearance and towing capacity make it much more capable than it appears at first glance.
• Audi A4 Allroad: a long roofline, refined finishes, and generous cargo capacity make this wagon perfect for understated adventures. It features standard AWD, a turbocharged, four-cylinder engine, and a lifted suspension for respectable clearance while seeking rolling hillsides over wild canyons. Pair it with a roof top tent and a secluded destination somewhere in between the frontcountry and backcountry.
• Toyota Sienna: one of few minivans available with AWD, and the latest editions are exclusively hybrid. It would be a stretch to call this off-road capable by any means, but it would work well for more accessible camping destinations at state or national parks. Split & Stow 3rd Row® seats make plenty of room to sleep inside and pack more cargo than you can shake a stick at.
• Mercedes-Benz Metris Getaway: boasts an impressive payload, in excess of a ton. This van blurs the line between adventure vehicle and commuter, and all its top-of-the-line features come at a steep price. Includes a pop-up camper and optional upgrades like solar panels and roof racks.
• Chevrolet Express 1500: this AWD cargo van is prime for camper conversions. The broad range of aftermarket accessories allows you to configure and customize to your heart’s content.

Thinking About Buying a Vehicle For Car Camping?

As you research your options, remember that cars can be modified or customized (for a price) to better suit your needs, whether that’s upgrading tires, suspension, racking systems, bed systems, you name it. Maybe you just want to car camp a few times a year, or maybe you want to follow the road and commit to full-time van life. Camping is only one part of the equation. Will the vehicle you take camping be your primary or secondary vehicle? How will it serve you day to day? If you already have a practical vehicle for car camping, and you’re ready to start outfitting it, explore tents and accessories to make the experience even better.

Guide to Roof Top Tent Camping in an Electric Vehicle

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The Best Vehicles for Camping in 2022

Ford Motor Company |

Camp, Not Glamp, in Style

If the last few years have shown us anything, it's that getting outside and away from other people can be a wonderful thing, both for mental and physical health. To do that comfortably, you'll need a vehicle for the adventure, and there's no shortage of great choices.

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Selecting a vehicle for camping can be a little confusing at first, as you're searching for a model with decent off-road capability mixed with good interior space and comfortable accommodations. We've selected 10 of our favorites to get you started.

The models you see listed here offer capability, comfort and space, though it's worth noting that these qualities may only apply to certain trims. In other cases, a model is a good choice because it's available with a wealth of accessories and upgrades that make camping much more comfortable.

Note that the scores associated with each vehicle were correct at the time of publication. Be sure to check out each vehicle's review for their most up-to-date scores. Let's dive in and take a look.

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American Honda Motor Co., Inc |

Honda Ridgeline

$37,640 | u.s. news performance score: 7.7/10 | overall score: 8.3/10.

Though it's not a hardcore pickup, the Honda Ridgeline is more truck than most of us will ever need. Its unibody construction means that it offers an SUV-like ride and a comfortable interior that makes it an excellent camping companion.

The Ridgeline comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

The Ridgeline's bed is large enough to carry all of your gear, and with an accessory bed, the truck can mount a roof rack to carry larger and longer items like kayaks and bikes. There are even in-bed speakers and an in-bed power outlet, so you can make your campsite party last well into the evening.

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$67,500 | U.S. News Performance Score: 8.7/10 | Overall Score: N/A

The brand-new Rivian R1T is an all-electric wonder with excellent range, astonishing power and adventure-ready accessories to power your campsite and keep you comfortable.

The R1T comes with two different battery options and 835 horsepower from its four electric motors. With the standard 135-kWh battery, the R1T has a 314-mile range. That is upgraded to over 400 miles with the 180-kWh battery. All-wheel drive is standard, and Rivian offers special drive modes for sand, snow, dirt and more.

If a right-sized electric truck isn't good enough, Rivian offers a camp stove accessory for the R1T that incorporates a stove and other components into the truck's under-bed gear tunnel. Additionally, the R1T's 300-plus-mile range means you can get way off the beaten path and back again.

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$29,990 | U.S. News Performance Score: 8.7/10 | Overall Score: 8.8/10

The Ford F-150 is the best-selling pickup in America, and it's one of the best vehicles for camping.

Ford offers the F-150 with a variety of powertrain options, including an innovative hybrid that can be paired with a built-in generator. The system provides enough power to run a campsite or even a home in limited circumstances. On top of that, the F-150 offers great tech and infotainment with the SYNC 4 system. It is also available with an upgraded suspension and body protection for hardcore off-roading.

Perhaps the best part of having an F-150 as a camping vehicle is the aftermarket support. Since the truck is so popular, it's easy to find all manner of accessories, upgrades and replacement parts.

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Stellantis |

Jeep Gladiator

$36,085 | u.s. news performance score: 7.2/10 | overall score: n/a.

The Jeep Gladiator is one of the most off-road capable trucks on sale today. Though it looks like a Wrangler , most of what the Gladiator shares with its SUV cousin comes in off-road capability rather than physical components.

Jeep offers two powertrain choices for the Gladiator, including a torque-heavy turbo diesel. Both engines come paired with a six-speed manual transmission, though an eight-speed automatic is available.

The Gladiator offers serious capability off-road, with solid axles and beefy all-terrain tires. The aftermarket support is also building, and Jeep itself offers several great campsite-ready accessories for the truck.

If you're someone who prefers driving miles into the wilderness to create your own campsite, the Gladiator is a great option for you.

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Ford Bronco

$29,300 | u.s. news performance score: 7.1/10 | overall score: n/a.

Ford revived the Bronco for the 2021 model year and has struggled to keep pace with overwhelming demand for the SUV since. Now, in its second model year on the market, the Bronco has added a couple of new colors, but is otherwise the same incredibly capable vehicle it's always been.

This Wrangler-alternative is a great SUV for campers who need to tow a small boat or camper to their site. Once you unload your equipment, take your Bronco to find some trails near your site.

Beyond vintage charm and extreme off-road capability, the Bronco is a comfortable vehicle to live with on a daily basis. It's also possible to fold the rear seats flat in four-door models, opening the cargo space for sleeping.

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Subaru of America, Inc. |

Subaru Outback

$27,145 | u.s. news performance score: 7.0/10 | overall score: 8.2/10.

Subaru is one of the best automakers around when it comes to listening to customers' needs and wants. As part of those efforts, the automaker has updated the Outback with a more rugged Wilderness trim that adds increased ground clearance and an adventure-ready interior.

The Outback is available with two capable four-cylinder engines and comes standard with a CVT and all-wheel drive. The all-wheel drive is crucial for getting through some of the tougher trail roads you may find.

Though it's not a hulking SUV, the Outback offers a tremendous amount of cargo space, and its interior is comfortable for five people to ride for extended distances. On top of that, Subaru equips every Outback with an extensive list of advanced safety gear.

Fold down the rear row, and you're even able to sleep in your Outback.

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Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. |

Toyota Sienna

$34,710 | u.s. news performance score: 7.1/10 | overall score: 8.1/10.

For many years, the Toyota Sienna was the only game in town for minivan buyers needing all-wheel drive, though that has changed. Even so, Toyota is intent on making their minivan an adventurous vehicle with capability exceeding those of other family haulers.

The Sienna shifted to hybrid-only powertrains in recent years, and Toyota added a Woodland trim with extra ground clearance, making the van an excellent vehicle to take you and everyone you love well off the beaten path.

While you're there, the Sienna offers plenty of interior space for gear-hauling and for sleeping, so the minivan could replace a tent in a pinch. Your tent likely doesn't have four-zone climate controls, either.

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Ford Expedition

$51,110 | u.s. news performance score: 7.8/10 | overall score: 8.6/10.

It should come as no surprise that a full-size SUV makes an excellent camping vehicle. The Ford Expedition offers enough seating for the whole family, and the SUV is surprisingly agile for such a large vehicle.

Ford equips every Expedition with a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, but the output ranges from 380 horsepower to 440 horsepower depending on the trim. The new Timberline model features improved ground clearance and excellent off-road abilities, but it's still a plush, well-equipped family vehicle inside.

A major upside to a full-size SUV is capability, and the Expedition offers up to 6,000 pounds of towing in certain configurations. That's plenty of power to tow a good amount of travel trailers, though some of those can exceed 8,000 pounds.

John M. Vincent | U.S. News & World Report

Volvo V90 Cross Country

$55,200 | u.s. news performance score: 7.1/10 | overall score: 8.6/10.

Volvo is legendary among people who love wagons, and the V90 Cross Country is a great example of why. It's an upscale vehicle with plenty of room and great safety features.

The Volvo V90 has a new B6 engine that is both turbo- and supercharged. The mill delivers 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels.

With a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, there is just enough grunt to tow a pop-up camper.

Inside, the V90 is Scandinavian minimalism at its best. The materials are high quality, the design is striking and the space is welcoming and serene.

This may not be your go-to thought for a camping vehicle, but its towing capacity and 8.3-inches of ground clearance definitely make it a vehicle to consider.

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Toyota 4Runner

$37,605 | u.s. news performance score: 6.0/10 | overall score: 7.1/10.

The 4Runner looks new, but underneath, it's the same trusty off-roader that Toyota has sold for years. That said, it's still capable and comfortable enough to be your only vehicle, and there's very little the SUV can't handle on the trails.

The 4Runner's 4.0-liter V6 produces 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It comes mated to a five-speed automatic transmission and either rear- or four-wheel drive.

Toyota offers rugged TRD variants of the 4Runner with skid plates and lifted suspension, but even the more basic models are shockingly capable when the pavement ends. Additionally, there's enough room inside to carry you, all of your gear and the whole family in comfort.

You can even throw your sleeping bag and an air mattress into the back of your 4Runner with the seats down.

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How to Plan a Cross Country Car Camping Road Trip

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If you told me a year ago, I’d be planning a cross-country car-camping road trip; I wouldn’t have believed you, but now all I seem to be planning are car-camping road trips.

If you are new here, you might not know I lost my corporate job in early 2020 and after a dreadful job search, I decided to take some time off and travel for a few months. Unfortunately, after booking six months of international solo travel, the COVID pandemic happened, which forced me into plan B. I ended up laying low in upstate NY for half the year.

At the end of 2020, my wanderlust was still burning bright, so I decided I had to get back out there in the “safest” and most convenient way possible. I always wanted to take an RV across the US, visit all 63 National Parks, and explore all 50 US states, and I thought now is the time. I still wasn’t convinced I would be car camping in my 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe, but once I realized car camping was the only way to travel cross country on the budget I had, I was committed to planning my first cross-country car-camping road trip. My route took me over 17,000 miles, through 23 states and countless cities. I ended up visiting 23 National Parks and learned so much about car camping and myself.

This post will take you through how I planned and organized every element of my road trip. I’m sharing everything from choosing my supplies , sleeping comfortably, planning the route , road trip costs, the mistakes I made and how I stayed safe along the way. I hope this guide to planning a cross-country car-camping road trip will help inspire you to hit the road and give car camping a fair try!

Table of Contents: Jump to

What is Car Camping?

There are two main ways to answer the question What is Car Camping? Either you drive up to a tent site where you will sleep in a tent next to your car or you actually sleep in you car parked overnight in a number or areas including campsites, public parking lots, or public use land. This post will focus on the latter, because I sleep inside my car when I car camp.

Overview of my car-camping road trip

I left Miami on March 1, 2021, and drove to the west coast of Florida. I stayed in Tampa with my family for two weeks while building my bed platform, setting up my car, and testing out my camping supplies . I was off by 7 am on March 25th and made it to Mobile, Alabama, for my first car camping night at a Bass Pro parking lot.

I spent 73 consecutive nights on the road (March 25th-June 7th, Tampa, FL to Redwood, NY). I did not car camp the entire time. I slept in my car 50% of the time and stayed with family or in hotels when I was desperate for WIFI, a hot shower, or air-conditioning while I slept the other 50% of the time.

Since my first road trip, I have learned a Black Card pass to Planet Fitness is the best way to score hot showers for cheap. I’ve also learned sleeping in my car when its 60+ degrees is pretty unbearable for me. I make sure to plan trips during cool weather now- the colder the better for me.

In early June, I ended the first leg of the road trip in Redwood, NY. Redwood is a small community surrounded by acres of farmlands, fishing lakes, and charming villages near the 1,000 Islands in Upstate New York . It’s only a few hours from the Finger Lakes region, where there are many scenic driving routes, waterfalls , hiking trails, and locally produced wineries. I stayed with family and explored the surrounding towns, and took a few short road trips until I chased fall foliage in October all the way to Florida in the fall.

Why car camp?

In my opinion, the pros of car camping out weight the cons. So here are my four biggest reasons to go car camping.

• It’s cheap – Car camping is the most cost-effective way to travel the US for long periods of time assuming you already own a reliable car.
• It’s convenient- There is no packing and unpacking, waiting around for a check-in time, or being rushed to check out. It is a lot easier to come and go as you please and allows you to leave quickly if need to.
• It’s great for outdoorsy gals – Sleeping in your car means you can wake up at the most scenic places, pull over for a hike whenever you want, travel easily to off-the-grid locations, and watch the sunrise from your car window.
• Less Planning – With car camping, there is no need to plan exact details and overnight stays way in advance. Car camping welcomes those who desire a flexible schedule, like me!

Is a car-camping road trip for you?

Car camping is not for everyone, but there are many things you can do to make your journey more enjoyable. Before planning a cross-country car-camping road trip, ask yourself these questions:

• Do you like to camp?
• Can you fit in your car lying down?
• Can you sleep with slight noise and light?
• Are you ok not showering every night?
• Are you able to sleep through the night without needing a restroom?
• Is your car reliable?
• Are you comfortable without A/C?

If you answered NO to any of these questions, you might need to upgrade to an RV or luxury van before planning a cross-country car-camping road trip. Car Camping is not a luxury option, and it can be draining finding safe places to sleep every night, but it is great for those who like adventure and do not need to have a solid plan every step of the way.

Choosing the best car to sleep in

There are so many options when it comes to automobiles to sleep in. Choosing the right one is important when planning a cross-country car-camping road trip. These days people sleep in everything from pickup trucks and minivans to Toyota Prius and SUVs. So it’s important to do your research and choose something best for your own preferences, needs, and budget.

You can convert your own automobile or rent one from Outdoorsy.com . Outdoorsy is like Air B&B but for RVs and vans. They have many rental options all over the US, with standard-size SUVs and built-out vans renting for around $130-$200 a day. I knew I wanted to take my own car but renting is a great option if you do not have a car to sleep in or if you want to try out van life before going all in.

I got a lot of inspiration for my Hyundai Santa Fe conversion from searching “car camping setups” on YouTube. There are all kinds of conversions for every size and type of car. I’m amazed at how some of these people transformed their car’s interior into a complete house on wheels.

I kept my setup simple opting to lay my seats down and build a level sleeping platform. The platform was big enough for me to sleep comfortably on but small enough to allow space for a cooler , water jug , rinse kit , and large tupperware, among a few other car camping essentials .

What to look for in a car camping car

Your needs may vary, but ideally, most car-camping setups have the below.

• Large cargo space
• Storage compartments
• Roof rack (for extra storage)
• Aux plugs throughout
• Lay down or easy-to-remove seats
• Reliable engine
• Spare tire compartment
• Level sleeping platform
• Adjustable front seats

How to make your car more comfortable for sleeping

I’ll admit even though my setup was very comfortable, it was hard to get a good night’s sleep while car camping. There are a few things I learned to do to sleep comfortably in my car but there were many things out of my control that did not make sleeping in my car easy, such as noise from the public places I usually slept in.

I love car camping in parks and established campsites because the noise is minimal and the sky is dark. But that wasn’t an option every night. Travel centers, truck stops and Cracker Barrel are the most convenient places to park over night when driving long distances across the country on interstates.

These four things are the most important when building a sleeping setup. It’s also smart to find sleeping locations away from the noise and only go camping in cool temperatures for added comfort.

• Build a sleeping platform to have a level bed
• Use a comfortable mattress , comforter or warm sleeping bag , and pillows
• Use window covers to block light, add privacy and help regulate inside temperatures
• Use mesh covers for windows or sunroof to allow airflow while sleeping or relaxing . These work great when sleeping in remote areas or at campsites, but at travel centers, the noise was just to loud to have my windows down.

Planning the cross-country road trip route

It can be a bit intimidating when trying to plan your first car-camping road trip. I knew I had to remain flexible for whatever may come up, so I followed the below four steps, to plan a route before I left. Once on the road, I planned each week’s destination and sleeping locations a week in advance. I changed up my route frequently based on overnight parking and weather, but for the most part, I followed my pre-planned route.

Four steps to planning a cross-country road trip

• Decide where to go . I sometimes pick a theme (hiking, waterfalls, lighthouses, towns, national parks ect.)
• Research the internet, blogs, and IG hashtags for location ideas, the best things to see, and itineraries for each area I am interested in visiting.
• Use Google Maps to highlight and save all desired locations and landmarks + check driving distances
• Use Google Sheets to plug all info into a spreadsheet for easy reference. It is the best way to ensure you don’t forget where you want to go!

Click on the Google Sheets link above to gain access to my simple planning template. If you are not automatically redirected email me at [email protected] with the subject line ”Road Trip Template” to alert me that you are trying to gain access and I will approve ASAP. Just make sure you “make a copy” of the template and do not edit the original document so others can enjoy it.

My goals for planning my first cross-country car-camping road trip, were to visit new states and National Parks i have never seen before. However, I also thought about areas where I had family that offered to host me for a few nights to save money.

I used Google Maps to search for National Parks and surrounding areas of interest. I LOVE how easy Google Maps is to use and the convenience of having my searches update seamlessly on all devices.

If you are not sure how to save locations in Google Maps, read my brief guide below.

How to save locations in Google Maps

• Open Google Maps (you’ll need a google account) on a mobile phone or desk computer
• Use the “search here” bar at the top of the screen to search for a location
• After the search results appear, near the bottom, next to directions click “Save”
• The save options will appear. Select the star, heart or flag for each location to save it in your map. I use a star for a town or city, a heart for landmarks I want to visit, and a flag for where to sleep.

Google Maps saves everything you highlighted to your main world map to reference in the future.

Planning sleeping locations

One of the most important aspects of planning a car camping road trip route is knowing where you will be sleeping overnight. It is important to choose a legal and safe location away from noise and light if possible. Car camping regulations change frequently and vary from state to state, so knowing where to sleep way in advance can be tricky. It is important to do your research and even ask local authorities if you are unsure of car camping policies. Some towns may fine you for illegal overnight parking, while others fail to enforce car camping guidelines altogether.

These apps are all beneficial when researching camping spots, and most provide real-time reviews from campers which I found very helpful.

The best car camping resources

• iOverlander (app)
• Freecampsite.net (website)
• FreeRoam (app)
• Hip Camp (app)
• The Dyrt (app)

I slept for free when I could but sometimes stayed in developed campgrounds for a fee. Pilot Flying J Truck Stops and Loves Travel Stops are great for overnight parking. Most have clean hot showers for purchase and a large convenience store to pick up essentials. KOA (campgrounds of America) are also popular for car campers. They cost money ($40-$80) but are much less than a hotel. The benefit of staying in a developed campground is having the peace of mind no one will be knocking on your window in the middle of the night, and some offer amenities like showers, potable water, and 24/7 flush toilets.

Once I planned my route and possible overnight spots, I plugged the information into a Google sheet for easy reference across my devices. Again, I stuck to my general plan, only editing out a few National Parks and states along the way mainly due to weather conditions or extended driving time.

Costs of a car-camping road trip

The biggest drawback to traveling has to be the cost, especially when traveling in the US. Between food, accommodations, and experiences, travel can be costly. Car camping alleviates a lot of these costs, but it still isn’t free. Gas, car maintenance and safety , and supplies are major expenses when planning a cross-country car-camping road trip. The good thing about supplies is they may be expensive upfront but will last for many trips to come.

Buying groceries and cooking yourself is a great way to save on food, and regular car maintenance will help prevent costly repairs at one time. Below is an overview of my car camping expenses. Take a look at “How Much Does It Actually Cost to Car Camp” for a more in depth explanation of what my car camping road trips cost.

Travel expenses

• Gas $1,300 for 10,000 miles
• Food $1,000
• Hotel 400,000 Hilton points + $1,135 (this was much higher than I thought but once them temps got into the 80s in some locations I could not bear the heat and needed to sleep indoors).
• Supplies $1,700 on camping/car supplies
• Car Maintenance $740 before I left (but I would have done this anyways)
• Tolls/Parking + Park entrance Fees $200 (I used the $80 a year America the beautiful National Park Pass)

Much of my big purchases were evergreen supplies that will last for years to come. While I spent money on a good cooler , a portable battery , a rinse kit , sleeping bag and bed mattress , I’ll re use all of these items on future trips so my supply costs will be much lower next time.

Avoid these Mistakes

I learned so much about car camping and myself during this first cross-country road trip. It was a great experience that allowed me to gain self-confidence and a new appreciation for the country I call home. Although everything went well during my road trip, I would do a few things differently next time.

• Pay to sleep at campgrounds- I really wanted to sleep for free each night to stretch my savings but in some cases, I was not sure what the car camping rules were and I did not get a good night’s sleep thinking about whether I was parked legally or not. If I would have paid $20-$40 dollars to park at a campground, I would have gotten a much better night’s rest. It is hard paying for a campground that has no amenities but in retrospect, I am thinking the pay off would have been worth it.
• Use a fan for airflow while car sleeping -many locations were hotter than I expected and some nights had rainfall. I usually kept my sunroof open with a magnetic mesh overlay but it was tough to stay comfortable on those warm or rainy nights. In the future, I will car camp with a battery-operated fan and avoid hot temperatures for optimal comfort.
• Covering too much ground – I wanted to see it all but shouldn’t have planned to see so much when I knew I needed to be back in NY at a certain time. I definitely felt rushed and got tired at the end of the trip causing me to skip out on a few states which I now regret.
• Buying too many supplies – I thought of it all but didn’t end up using it all. I wish I would have bought some items when and if I needed them rather than upfront. I have plenty of space in my car to store everything but it would have been nice to save some money on unnecessary supplies. The Jackery solar charger, a pop up toilet, a heavy wool blanket, and buying too many fuel canisters were the most unused of the lot.

Car camping across the US has been a fun, eye-opening journey but not without its struggles. I’ve learned so much and can’t wait to hit the road again this October when I journey back to FL through New England’s fall foliage . Despite all the ups and downs and many uncertainties, I am so glad I made this trip happen. I met a lot of people curious about my travels but mostly about my safety. There were a few times I was a little uncertain about an area, but I followed all my safety rules and never had a real cause for concern.

I’ll be hitting the road again so make sure to follow my travels on Instagram at @Seeing__Sam and head back here to read more about my car camping adventures.

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Meet Sam, a fearless wanderer and avid solo traveler who has made the world her home. Through cross country road trips, car camping in her SUV and solo adventures to far corners of the globe, she has become an expert in crafting itineraries that balance adventure and self-discovery. Through her insightful tales and practical tips, Sam inspires others to embrace the unknown, break free from conventional boundaries, and embrace the beauty of solo exploration.

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Good to hear! I flew across and around the country in a small airplane with my bike and camping gear. Did it again by car, then again with a small RV Trailer and my next adventure is on a Bicycle from New York City to San Diego. Love your Spirit! My best to you.

wow, I’ve never know anyone to fly, drive and bike the US. What a great way to see and experience the country! What is your favorite mode of transportation so far? Congratulations on your accomplishments! Best wishes for a safe and fun biking trip’

dont waste your time over planning. be aware of what lies between your two points of travel, whats a good view so daylight would be important and of course the weather like will it be raining so maybe something inside. keep it simple !

This is a great way to plan a road trip. The luxury of just seeing what you see is so fun to me. Overplanning can definitely be waste of time!

Hi Sam, I wanted to thank you for your blog and all the super wonderful information you’re sharing. I am a newly retired RN in FL, planning a solo car camping trip next year. I’m taking the whole thing very slowly to make sure I’m ready to go and fully prepared. Sadly, I’m getting very little support from friends/family so I’m keeping my excitement to myself. So glad to have your encouragement and enthusiasm to cheer me on! My plan will be to go from home to Yellowstone and back with lots of adventures in the middle both ways. You’re my inspiration!

Barbara, this message brought me so much joy! I am so glad you are gaining some helpful advice and car camping tips from my posts. This is the reason why I spend so much time documenting my travels and sharing all my experiences, I just want to inspire others to get out there and see the world! It is sometimes hard to know if I am reaching anyone so thank you so much for taking the time to send me this message, it is so appreciated. There are so many adventures from FL to MT you’ll have trouble wanting your trip to end. I am so thrilled to hear you are pumped up for this next adventure despite the less than thrilling response from your friends and family. I too have been in a similar situation a few times before and while it would feel great to have support from loved ones, I’ve learned self motivation is the key, especially when the people you are surrounded with do not share the same ideas for adventure. I know they love and care about you but know there is a community out there cheering you on! I’m sending good vibes your way. Please let me know if I can answer any additional questions or anything else to help your trip go smoothly. Here’s to seeing the world xx

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How to Find a Great Off-Road Campsite

Longer days and warmer weather mean camping season is here. Clean out the camper, pack up the weekend bins and start planning your adventures.

But, where do you go? With 985 million acres of public land in the U.S., and tens of thousands of campgrounds, pulling out a blank map can be overwhelming. Do you drive into the woods and hope to find a spot? Or what about heading towards the river? Is there public land? Will the campgrounds be full? Can my car get there?

onX Offroad offers access to land maps across North America with public and private land boundaries, recreation points and the most important feature: open roads and trails by vehicle. Wherever you are, the App lights up open trails as green, and temporarily closed trails red. Looking for off-road campsites near you? No matter where you live, we have you covered. Scan the map for the tent icons and start planning your next adventure.

Planning a camping trip should be fun, not stressful. Make sure you have appropriate gear, enough food and water, and a backup plan. Still don’t know where to go? Don’t worry, it happens to all of us. Check out our tips below for finding a great campsite.

Campgrounds vs. Dispersed Campsites

Before you head out looking for a campsite, consider what type of campsite you prefer. If you want to reserve a spot, then campgrounds are the way to go. Many campgrounds take reservations online, and you can find many links in the onX Offroad App. Tap a Campground icon for more information. Campgrounds also have bathrooms and individual sites with fire rings and picnic tables. On the downside, campgrounds can be crowded and you’re often close to your neighbors.

Want a more adventurous weekend? Check out dispersed campsites. These are sites on public land, such as National Forest or BLM, that are not in designated campgrounds. They may only contain a small rock fire ring, and they are first-come first-serve. On the plus side, they are often removed from crowds and are free.

onX Offroad identifies both campground and dispersed campsites in the App. Pro tip: when planning your trip, drop Waypoints at a few different campsites, just in case one is full or you hit snow or other roadblocks.

Can My Vehicle Get There?

The most important question when heading out to camp, often left way too late, is: “Can my rig get there?” When heading off pavement you have to think about seasonal closures, gates, and road width. You don’t want to get your truck stuck on a single track with nowhere to turn around. onX Offroad covers all of this for you. In the App, tap a road or trail and find out if it’s open to SUVs and trucks, or just SXSs and dirt bikes. On that same screen you can check “open dates” so you don’t hit a gate. Make sure you download your Offroad maps before you leave cell service so you can still access trail and road data and all of your saved Waypoints.

Plan Your Activities

If you are trying to decide where to camp, think of what you want to do while you’re there. If it’s hot, consider looking for a campsite near a lake, river or creek so you have somewhere to cool off. Scan the App for trailheads that may also lead to waterfalls or alpine lakes.

Ready to rip the SXS, 4×4, or dirt bike? Plan your trip around a concentration of open trails and roads using your Offroad App. Zoom in and look for green trails, which means they are open and ready to go. Red trails are temporarily closed. If you find a blue trail, tap on it for featured details like descriptions, difficulty ratings, and trail photos.

The Offroad App also highlights fishing accesses, climbing walls, historical points and more in all fifty states. No matter what you have planned for the weekend, where you live, or you’re with, there are activities for everyone in the App.

Don’t forget to download your Offline Maps before you head out of service, and drop Waypoints so you have plenty of backup activities for the weekend. A little planning goes a long way. onX Offroad can help you plan at home, and then be your guide in the backcountry.

Our 4×4 camping vehicles

Get outdoors in style in one of our fantastic campers! We offer brand new vehicles, custom converted to give you a care-free trip with modern comforts, everything you need for camping, full insurance, and so much more. Explore the Caucasus in its best form: by staying right in the middle of the diverse nature.

Currently we have three different types of cars, so there is always a model that fits. Going alone or with the whole family? Looking for that old Soviet-vibe, or rather have a more luxurious ‘glamping’ experience? We’ve got you covered for your once-in-a-lifetime road trip through Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan .

Here you will find a short introduction to our vehicles. For the full description or a list of everything that comes with the cars, go to the vehicle-specific pages.

UAZ Buhanka Campervan

• The classic Overlando road trip mobile
• Old Soviet chic, with modern comforts
• Adventure on the road guaranteed
• Reach the most remote places

The UAZ is a campervan suitable for 4 persons. It features a complete kitchen with fridge, stoves, dual battery system and all equipment you need for camping. This is a tough Russian off-road vehicle with a lot of charm, it throws you 60 years back in time. She will bring you everywhere though, if you handle her with care.

From €65-99/day

Insurance, taxes and camping gear included

Toyota Hilux Expedition Camper

• The glamping option: a luxurious beast
• Ideal for families or a group of friends
• For all seasons
• Outdoor shower
• Roof top tent included

This Expedition Camper is for those who seek a little more luxury and comfort. It is suitable for up to 4 adults and 1 child, features a complete kitchen, big awning, heater and outdoor shower. The camper unit provides you a comfy sleeping cabin and shelter on rainy days. Built on the famous Hilux platform, it is a very capable off-road car.

From €98-169/day

Lada Niva Camping Car

• Another classic Soviet that can go everywhere
• Ideal for a solo traveller or a couple

The Lada Niva is a camping car, suitable for 2 persons. With the roof top tent, you create a comfortable sleeping area in a few seconds. In the trunk we put everything you need for a fun road trip! The AC keeps you cool on those hot days, driving this car is real fun!

From €44-76/day

KIA Bongo Micro Camper

• Off-road capabilities combined with modern comforts
• A cozy setup, inspired by teardrop caravans
• Ideal for couples and small families
• Well insulated cabin

A true micro camper with off-road capabilities. It is suitable for up to 2 adults by default, and 4 when adding a roof top tent. It features a complete outdoor kitchen, awning, running water and a cosy sleeping space inside.

The KIA Bongo is a versatile vehicle, it effortlessly combines the ruggedness of an off-road vehicle with the comforts of a daily driver. It has a heavy-duty chassis, 4×4, low-gear and all-terrain tires, this camper is built to tackle the diverse landscapes of Georgia.

More photos and information will follow soon!

From €76-128/day

KIA Bongo with roof top tent

• Comfy roof top tent included

The KIA Bongo is a versatile vehicle, it effortlessly combines the ruggedness of an off-road vehicle with the comforts of a daily driver. Matched with the roof top tent, heavy-duty chassis, 4×4, low-gear and all-terrain tires, this camper is built to tackle the diverse landscapes of Georgia.

Throw your bags on the backseat – and enjoy a camping trip of a lifetime!

From €54-87/day

Availability calendar

We have multiple vehicles of the same type. ‘Almost full’ means that there is at least one still available. Fully booked means that all vehicles of this type are booked.

Compare all campers

So what are you waiting for .

• Sales (360) 218-0303 Service (564) 200-3406
• [email protected] [email protected]
• Sales: Mon - Fri: 8:00a - 3:30p Service: Mon-Thur 7:30a - 5:30p

25 Epic Overland Camping Locations For Your Next Road Trip

The US is a massive playground for outdoor lovers, and off-road camping is where it’s at when you want to really experience the best of the backcountry. With a overland camper van, you’ve got the ultimate freedom to tackle gnarly trails, climb steep hills, and venture off the grid to places where most folks wouldn’t dare to go. And the best part? You’ll stumble upon hidden gems where you can camp for free, surrounded by nature’s finest views.

One of the sweetest perks of off-road overland camping is finding free dispersed campsites on public lands managed by folks like the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the US Forest Service. These spots are usually in some of the most gorgeous locations in the country, giving you an epic backdrop for that perfect campfire photo op. Plus, with your overland camper van, you’ll have all the comforts of home while sleeping under a blanket of stars.

Let’s dive into the top 25 off-road overland camping spots, including over 125 specific camping sites, in the US with scenic views. Some of the spots can be accessed by any vehicle, but others are more remote and adventurous, requiring a 4×4 vehicle. Exploring these destinations in an overland camping van, such as those offered by Grit Overland , will undoubtedly enhance your off-road experience to its fullest potential.

Get ready to fire up your sense of adventure, plan the most epic off-grid getaway, and soak in the beauty of America’s great outdoors.

25 Epic Overland Camping Locations

Quartzsite, arizona.

Quartzsite, Arizona , is a dream destination for off-road enthusiasts and free-spirited campers looking to explore the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert. The area is known for its vast BLM land, offering plenty of off-road trails and dispersed camping opportunities to satisfy your wanderlust. One of the most popular spots to camp is Plomosa Road, where you’ll find ample space to set up camp and enjoy the breathtaking desert landscape. Another great option is Dome Rock Mountain, located west of Quartzsite, offering more dispersed camping sites with picturesque views.

The best time to visit Quartzsite is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is cool and mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60 to 70°F. This is a welcome change from the scorching summer heat, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and camping. Keep in mind that January is the busiest time in Quartzsite due to the annual gem and mineral shows, attracting thousands of visitors. Outside of the shows, the crowd levels are generally low, giving you the tranquility and solitude you seek in the desert.

During your stay in Quartzsite, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including unique rock formations, vibrant desert flora, and diverse wildlife. With an abundance of off-road trails and free camping options, you’ll find yourself immersed in the beauty and adventure of the Sonoran Desert. So, pack your 4×4 camper van and head to Quartzsite for an unforgettable off-grid experience.

Specific locations around the Quartzsite area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Plomosa Road : A popular dispersed camping area on BLM land with vast desert landscapes, free of charge, and generally low crowd levels outside of Quartzsite’s peak season.
• Dome Rock Mountain : Located west of Quartzsite, this area offers free dispersed camping sites with striking mountain and desert views, attracting moderate crowd levels during the winter months.
• La Posa Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA) : A seasonal option for extended stays at $180 for a 7-month permit or $40 for a 14-day permit, featuring basic amenities and a close-knit community of campers with higher crowd levels.
• Road Runner BLM Area : This spot south of Quartzsite provides free dispersed camping and opportunities to explore off-road trails in a serene desert setting, with low to moderate crowd levels.
• Hi Jolly BLM Area : Located just north of Quartzsite, this area offers free dispersed camping amidst picturesque desert scenery and historical sites, with low crowd levels for a peaceful experience.

Alabama Hills, California

Alabama Hills, California, is a captivating destination nestled between the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains and the small town of Lone Pine. This surreal landscape is famous for its unique rock formations and has been the backdrop for numerous Hollywood movies. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), it offers a plethora of free dispersed camping spots, providing an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and off-road campers alike.

The most popular camping area is along Movie Road, where you’ll find numerous sites tucked between the distinctive rock formations. Tuttle Creek Campground is another option, offering developed campsites for a small fee and access to Alabama Hills’ incredible scenery.

The best time to visit Alabama Hills is during the spring and fall, when the temperatures are pleasant, making it perfect for hiking, photography, and stargazing. The area can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so arriving early or visiting during weekdays is recommended for a more peaceful experience. Keep in mind that summer temperatures can be scorching, so take necessary precautions if you choose to visit during this time.

Specific locations around the Alabama Hills area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Movie Road Dispersed Camping : A free camping area with numerous sites nestled among the iconic rock formations, attracting moderate to high crowd levels during weekends and holidays.
• Tuttle Creek Campground : A developed campground with a $8 per night fee, offering access to Alabama Hills’ scenery and attracting moderate crowd levels.
• Lone Pine Campground : A forested campground located nearby, costing $14 per night, and providing a quieter experience with low to moderate crowd levels.
• Whitney Portal Campground : Situated at the base of Mount Whitney, this campground has a $24 per night fee and sees moderate crowd levels due to its proximity to the popular hiking trail.
• Grandview Campground : A higher elevation option located in the nearby White Mountains, offering free camping and attracting low crowd levels for a more secluded experience.

White Rim Road, Utah

White Rim Road, Utah, is a thrilling 100-mile off-road adventure that takes you through the heart of Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky District. The journey offers a breathtaking blend of dramatic canyons, towering sandstone cliffs, and panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. Permits are required for camping along the White Rim Road, ensuring a more controlled and enjoyable experience.

Some of the best camping spots along White Rim Road include the picturesque Airport Campground, offering sweeping views of the surrounding canyons, and Murphy Hogback, a campsite perched atop a dramatic sandstone ridge. Other options include the scenic Gooseberry Campground and the secluded Candlestick Campground.

The ideal time to visit White Rim Road is during the spring and fall when temperatures are moderate, making it perfect for off-roading, hiking, and exploring the breathtaking scenery. Summer months can be scorching, while winter can bring snow and ice, making the road impassable. It’s essential to plan your visit during the off-peak season or on weekdays to avoid high crowd levels, as permits are limited and the area can get busy during weekends and holidays.

Specific locations around the White Rim Road area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Airport Campground : A picturesque campsite with sweeping canyon views, requiring a permit ($30 per night) and attracting moderate crowd levels due to its stunning scenery.
• Murphy Hogback : Perched atop a sandstone ridge, this campsite offers dramatic vistas, requires a permit ($30 per night), and experiences moderate to high crowd levels during peak seasons.
• Gooseberry Campground : A scenic camping location nestled among the canyons, requiring a permit ($30 per night) and attracting moderate crowd levels.
• Candlestick Campground : A secluded campsite providing solitude and spectacular views, requiring a permit ($30 per night) and experiencing low to moderate crowd levels.
• Potato Bottom Campground : Located along the Green River, this campsite offers riverside camping and unique rock formations, requires a permit ($30 per night), and attracts moderate crowd levels.

Engineer Pass, Colorado

Engineer Pass, located in the heart of the San Juan Mountains in Colorado, is a spectacular off-road destination along the renowned Alpine Loop Scenic Byway. As you navigate the rugged terrain and steep inclines, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of towering peaks, colorful wildflower meadows, and remnants of historic mining sites.

When it comes to camping near Engineer Pass, there are several options for dispersed camping along Mineral Creek Road, where you’ll find picturesque sites nestled in the forest. Another great option is Animas Forks, a well-preserved ghost town that offers nearby dispersed camping and easy access to the pass.

The prime time to visit Engineer Pass is during the summer months, typically from late June to early September, when the snow has melted, and the high-altitude road is passable. Keep in mind that the area can experience moderate to high crowd levels during weekends and holidays, as the Alpine Loop is a popular off-roading destination. For a more peaceful experience, plan your visit during weekdays or at the beginning or end of the season, when the crowds are thinner.

Specific locations around the Engineer Pass area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Mineral Creek Road Dispersed Camping : A picturesque forested area with free dispersed camping sites, attracting moderate crowd levels during peak season.
• Animas Forks Dispersed Camping : Near the historic ghost town, this free dispersed camping location provides easy access to Engineer Pass and experiences moderate to high crowd levels on weekends and holidays.
• South Mineral Creek Dispersed Camping : Located along South Mineral Creek, this area offers free off-road dispersed camping sites with beautiful scenery and moderate crowd levels during peak season.
• Cinnamon Pass Dispersed Camping : A remote area near Cinnamon Pass, offering free dispersed camping sites with stunning mountain views and low to moderate crowd levels.
• Ophir Pass Dispersed Camping : Situated near the challenging Ophir Pass, this location features free dispersed camping spots and attracts low crowd levels for a more secluded experience.

Hole-in-the-Rock Road, Utah

Hole-In-The-Rock Road , located in southern Utah, is a 62-mile backcountry route that takes you through the heart of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. This rugged, unpaved road offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure, providing access to some of the region’s most stunning landscapes, slot canyons, and unique geological formations.

For camping along Hole-In-The-Rock Road, you’ll find numerous dispersed camping spots with no facilities, available for free on a first-come, first-served basis. Popular areas include Devils Garden, with its striking rock formations, and Dry Fork Trailhead, which provides access to the famous Peek-A-Boo and Spooky slot canyons.

The best time to visit Hole-In-The-Rock Road is during the spring and fall when temperatures are moderate, and the weather is generally dry. However, be prepared for unpredictable weather and always check road conditions before heading out, as rain can make the road impassable. Crowd levels can vary, with weekends and holidays attracting more visitors. Plan your trip during weekdays or shoulder seasons to enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Specific locations around the Hole-In-The-Rock Road area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Devils Garden : A striking area with unique rock formations, the only developed campground in the area, attracting moderate to high crowd levels during peak season.
• Dry Fork Trailhead : A popular free camping spot providing access to Peek-A-Boo and Spooky slot canyons, with moderate to high crowd levels on weekends and holidays.
• Harris Wash : A picturesque location along the banks of Harris Wash, featuring free dispersed camping sites and low to moderate crowd levels for a more secluded experience.
• Egypt Trailhead : A remote and lesser-known spot with free dispersed camping, serving as a starting point for backpacking trips and attracting low crowd levels.
• Sooner Rocks : A historic site with free dispersed camping options, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape and attracting low to moderate crowd levels.

Ocala National Forest, Florida

Ocala National Forest , located in central Florida, is a lush and diverse ecosystem covering over 600 square miles. Home to the largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest in the world, it boasts an array of natural wonders, including crystal-clear springs, lakes, and unique wildlife such as the Florida black bear.

For camping in Ocala National Forest, there are a variety of options. For those seeking a more off-grid experience, dispersed camping is available throughout the forest. Popular developed campgrounds include Juniper Springs, Salt Springs, and Alexander Springs, each offering access to beautiful springs and a range of recreational activities.

The best time to visit Ocala National Forest is during the cooler months, from November to March, when temperatures are more pleasant and mosquitoes are less prevalent. Keep in mind that winter is the peak season, so campgrounds may be more crowded during this time. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting during weekdays or exploring the more remote dispersed camping areas.

Specific locations around the Ocala National Forest area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Big Scrub Campground : A primitive campground with a $10 per night fee, offering secluded off-road camping among the sand pines and attracting low crowd levels.
• Farles Prairie Dispersed Camping : A free dispersed camping area near Farles Lake, providing off-road access and low crowd levels for a peaceful experience.
• Lake Delancy West : A primitive and off-road accessible campground with a $6 per night fee, nestled along the shores of Lake Delancy and attracting low to moderate crowd levels.
• Blue Sink Dispersed Camping : A remote, free dispersed camping area near a unique sinkhole, offering off-road adventure and very low crowd levels for a secluded getaway.
• Wandering Wiregrass Dispersed Camping : A free off-road dispersed camping area along the Florida National Scenic Trail, experiencing low crowd levels and offering hiking opportunities.

Mojave Road, California

Mojave Road , located in the vast Mojave National Preserve in California, is a historic 138-mile route that traverses the heart of the desert. This off-road journey offers an unparalleled experience with stunning vistas, unique geological formations, and remnants of the past, such as the Mojave Road Mailbox and the historic Fort Piute.

Camping along Mojave Road is available at several designated sites within the preserve, as well as dispersed camping in nearby Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Some popular spots include the Mid Hills Campground, Hole-in-the-Wall Campground, and Afton Canyon Campground, each offering a unique desert experience.

The best time to visit Mojave Road is during the cooler months, from October to April, when temperatures are more moderate and suitable for off-roading and camping. Summer months can be scorching and potentially dangerous due to the extreme heat. Crowd levels are generally low along the Mojave Road, but weekends and holidays may see more visitors, so plan your trip during weekdays for a more peaceful experience.

Specific locations around the Mojave Road area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Mid Hills Campground : A high-elevation campground with a $12 per night fee, providing cooler temperatures and attracting low to moderate crowd levels.
• Hole-in-the-Wall Campground : A scenic desert campground with a $12 per night fee, surrounded by unique rock formations and experiencing low to moderate crowd levels.
• Afton Canyon Campground : A BLM-managed campground with a $6 per night fee, situated along the Mojave River and attracting low crowd levels for a peaceful experience.
• Kelso Dunes Dispersed Camping : A free dispersed camping area near the striking Kelso Dunes, offering off-road adventure and low crowd levels for a secluded getaway.
• New York Mountains Dispersed Camping : Free dispersed camping in the foothills of the New York Mountains, providing off-road access and very low crowd levels for a remote experience.

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Great Sand Dunes National Park , located in southern Colorado, is a truly unique destination that boasts the tallest sand dunes in North America. Surrounded by a diverse landscape of grasslands, wetlands, forests, and alpine tundra, the park offers a wide range of recreational activities such as sandboarding, hiking, and stargazing.

Camping options within the park include the Piñon Flats Campground, a well-maintained site offering amenities and easy access to the dunes. For a more off-the-grid experience, you can obtain a free backcountry permit for dispersed camping in the designated Sand Dunes Preserve area or explore the nearby Zapata Falls Campground on BLM land.

The best time to visit Great Sand Dunes National Park is during spring and fall when temperatures are mild and more comfortable for exploring the dunes. Summer months can see soaring temperatures, making daytime activities more challenging. The park can experience moderate to high crowd levels during weekends and holidays, so consider visiting during weekdays or shoulder seasons to avoid the crowds.

Specific locations around the Great Sand Dunes National Park area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Sand Dunes Preserve : Obtain a free backcountry permit for dispersed camping within the designated preserve area, and expect low to moderate crowd levels for a more remote experience.
• Zapata Falls Campground : A BLM-managed campground with a $12 per night fee, located near the stunning Zapata Falls and attracting low to moderate crowd levels.
• Medano Pass Primitive Road Dispersed Camping : Free dispersed camping sites along this 4×4 trail, offering a challenging off-road adventure and low crowd levels for a secluded experience.
• San Luis Lakes State Wildlife Area Dispersed Camping : A nearby wildlife area with free dispersed camping options, providing a peaceful atmosphere and low crowd levels.
• Lake Como Road Dispersed Camping : Free dispersed camping along the challenging Lake Como Road, offering off-road opportunities and very low crowd levels for a truly remote getaway.

Black Gap Road, Texas

Black Gap Road , located within Big Bend National Park in Texas, is a 28-mile primitive road offering a challenging off-road adventure for experienced 4×4 drivers. The road traverses rugged and remote terrain, showcasing the stunning landscape of the Chihuahuan Desert, including vast expanses, deep canyons, and unique wildlife.

Camping along Black Gap Road is limited, as dispersed camping is not allowed within the park. However, there are designated primitive campsites accessible along the road, such as Glenn Springs and Mariscal Mine. Reservations for these sites can be made in advance, and they require a backcountry permit, which costs $12 per group.

The best time to visit Black Gap Road and Big Bend National Park is during the cooler months, from October to April, when temperatures are more comfortable for off-roading and camping. Crowd levels at the primitive campsites along the road are generally low due to the challenging nature of the terrain. However, the park itself can be busier during weekends and holidays.

Specific locations around the Black Gap Road area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Glenn Springs Campsite : A primitive campsite along Black Gap Road, accessible for $12 per group with a backcountry permit and typically experiencing low crowd levels.
• Mariscal Mine Campsite : A remote campsite near the historic Mariscal Mine, costing $12 per group with a backcountry permit and attracting low crowd levels.
• Twisted Shoe Campsite : A secluded spot along Black Gap Road, requiring a $12 backcountry permit per group and offering low crowd levels for a peaceful experience.
• Rice Tank Campsite : A primitive campsite with a desert landscape, accessible for $12 per group with a backcountry permit and experiencing low crowd levels.
• La Noria Campsite : A more easily accessible primitive campsite near Black Gap Road, costing $12 per group with a backcountry permit and typically attracting low crowd levels.

Titus Canyon Road, California

Titus Canyon Road , located within Death Valley National Park in California, is a 27-mile one-way dirt road that provides a thrilling off-road adventure through a striking desert landscape. The road passes through a narrow canyon with towering walls, offering an unparalleled experience of the park’s geologic wonders, such as Red Pass and the ghost town of Leadfield.

Camping options within the park are limited, as dispersed camping is not allowed. However, nearby campgrounds include Mesquite Springs, Stovepipe Wells, and Furnace Creek, which cater to a range of preferences and budgets.

The best time to visit Titus Canyon Road and Death Valley National Park is during the cooler months, from November to March, when temperatures are more suitable for off-roading and camping. The park can be quite busy during peak season, especially during weekends and holidays. However, Titus Canyon Road generally experiences low to moderate crowd levels due to its remote location and challenging nature.

Specific locations around the Titus Canyon Road area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Mesquite Springs Campground : A quieter campground with a $16 per night fee, located in the northern part of the park and attracting low to moderate crowd levels.
• Stovepipe Wells Campground : A first-come, first-served campground with a $14 per night fee, situated near the famous sand dunes and experiencing moderate to high crowd levels.
• Furnace Creek Campground : A popular campground with a $22 per night fee, offering amenities and attracting high crowd levels during peak season.
• Emigrant Campground : A small, free, tent-only campground at higher elevation, providing cooler temperatures and experiencing low to moderate crowd levels.
• Wildrose Campground : A free, high-elevation campground with cooler temperatures and attracting low crowd levels, but accessible only to off-road vehicles with good ground clearance due to rough road conditions.

Steens Mountain, Oregon

Steens Mountain , located in southeastern Oregon, is a massive fault-block mountain that offers incredible views, diverse wildlife, and unique geological features. The area is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures such as hiking, bird watching, and off-roading along the Steens Mountain Backcountry Byway.

Camping options in the area include South Steens Campground, Jackman Park Campground, and Page Springs Campground. For a more remote experience, you can also find dispersed camping opportunities on BLM land surrounding the mountain. Each campground offers varying amenities, from primitive sites to those with potable water and restrooms.

The best time to visit Steens Mountain is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is most suitable for outdoor activities, and the snow has melted, allowing access to higher elevations. Crowd levels at Steens Mountain are generally low to moderate, with the most popular months being July and August. However, due to its remote location, the area remains relatively uncrowded even during peak season.

Specific locations around the Steens Mountain area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• South Steens Campground : A well-maintained campground at the base of Steens Mountain, with a $6 per night fee and low to moderate crowd levels.
• Jackman Park Campground : A high-elevation, primitive campground located off Steens Mountain Loop Road, attracting low crowd levels and requiring a $6 per night fee.
• Page Springs Campground : A peaceful campground near the Donner und Blitzen River, with a $8 per night fee and low to moderate crowd levels.
• Fish Lake Dispersed Camping Area : A free, dispersed camping area near Fish Lake, offering a remote experience and attracting very low crowd levels.
• Riddle Brothers Ranch Dispersed Camping : A historical site on BLM land with free dispersed camping opportunities, providing a unique experience with low crowd levels.

Imogene Pass, Colorado

Imogene Pass , located in the stunning San Juan Mountains of Colorado, is a breathtaking high-altitude off-road route connecting the towns of Ouray and Telluride. At an elevation of over 13,000 feet, it offers awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and abandoned mining structures, making it a popular destination for off-road enthusiasts.

Camping options in the area are plentiful, with nearby campgrounds such as Thistledown Campground, Amphitheater Campground, and Matterhorn Campground, providing various amenities and levels of seclusion. Dispersed camping opportunities can also be found along Forest Service roads and in the Uncompahgre National Forest.

The best time to visit Imogene Pass is during the summer and early fall months, from June to September, when the pass is free of snow and safe to traverse. Crowd levels in the area can vary, with weekends and holidays attracting more off-roaders and campers. Generally, the dispersed camping sites offer a more secluded experience with lower crowd levels than the established campgrounds.

Specific locations around the Imogene Pass area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Thistledown Campground : A picturesque campground along the Uncompahgre River, with a $20 per night fee and moderate crowd levels during peak season.
• Amphitheater Campground : Located just outside Ouray, offering stunning mountain views with a $24 per night fee and attracting moderate to high crowd levels.
• Matterhorn Campground : A well-maintained campground near Telluride, with a $24 per night fee and moderate crowd levels during peak season.
• Lower Bird Campground : A dispersed camping area along Forest Service Road 853.1B, offering free camping with low crowd levels and a more secluded experience.
• Caddis Flats : A serene riverside campground offering fishing opportunities, with camping fees at $20 per night and moderate crowd levels during the peak season.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks , a chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, is a popular destination for beach lovers, off-roading enthusiasts, and history buffs. With its pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and iconic lighthouses, the Outer Banks offers a truly unique coastal experience.

Camping options are abundant in the area, ranging from established campgrounds like Oregon Inlet Campground, Cape Hatteras KOA, and Frisco Campground to dispersed camping options on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Some campgrounds accommodate off-road vehicles, allowing you to drive right onto the beach for a memorable experience.

The best time to visit the Outer Banks is during the late spring, summer, and early fall months, from May through October, when the weather is warm and ideal for beach activities. Crowd levels can be high during peak season, especially around popular tourist spots and campgrounds. However, dispersed camping sites and less-populated areas tend to have lower crowd levels, offering a more secluded experience.

Specific locations around the Outer Banks area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Oregon Inlet Campground : A beachfront campground that allows off-road vehicle access to the beach, with fees starting at $28 per night and moderate to high crowd levels during peak season.
• Cape Hatteras KOA : A full-service campground with off-road vehicle beach access, fees starting at $50 per night, and high crowd levels during peak season.
• Frisco Campground : A scenic beach campground with off-road vehicle access, fees starting at $28 per night, and moderate to high crowd levels during peak season.
• Cape Point Campground : A beachfront campground with off-road vehicle access, fees starting at $28 per night, and moderate to high crowd levels during peak season.
• Freeman Park : A beach camping area in Carolina Beach, allowing off-road vehicle access with a daily permit of $40 or an annual permit of $200, and attracting high crowd levels during peak season.

Dalton Highway, Alaska

The Dalton Highway , stretching over 400 miles through remote Alaskan wilderness, offers an unparalleled off-road adventure for those seeking solitude and unspoiled natural beauty. The highway, originally built as a supply route for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, traverses diverse landscapes, including boreal forests, the Arctic tundra, and the Brooks Range, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and off-road campers.

Camping options along the Dalton Highway are primarily dispersed, with several informal pullouts and established campgrounds, such as the Marion Creek Campground and the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center campground in Coldfoot. These campgrounds provide basic amenities like fire rings and vault toilets.

The best time to visit the Dalton Highway is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is relatively mild, and the road is more accessible. Crowd levels along the highway are generally low, with dispersed camping sites offering an even more secluded experience.

Specific locations around the Dalton Road area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Marion Creek Campground : A well-maintained campground with 28 sites, charging a $10 per night fee and attracting low crowd levels due to its remote location.
• Arctic Interagency Visitor Center Campground : A small, basic campground in Coldfoot with free camping and very low crowd levels, offering a secluded experience.
• Galbraith Lake Campground : An undeveloped BLM campground with no fees, providing a remote and scenic camping spot with very low crowd levels.
• Five Mile Camp : A free, dispersed camping area near the highway at mile marker 60, offering low crowd levels and a peaceful setting.
• Arctic Circle Campground : A unique campground located at the Arctic Circle charging $10 per night, offering a true wilderness experience with low crowd levels due to its remote location.

Schnebly Hill Road, Sedona, Arizona

Schnebly Hill Road , located near the picturesque town of Sedona, Arizona, is a popular off-road destination, offering stunning red rock vistas and a chance to experience the unique beauty of the Coconino National Forest. This rugged, 12-mile stretch of road climbs over 2,000 feet in elevation, providing ample opportunities for off-road and dispersed camping, as well as hiking, mountain biking, and photography.

While there are no designated campgrounds along Schnebly Hill Road, dispersed camping is allowed in designated areas within the Coconino National Forest. Some popular spots include the Merry-Go-Round Rock and areas around Vista Point. Always follow the Leave No Trace principles and adhere to local regulations when camping in these areas.

The best time to visit Schnebly Hill Road is during the spring and fall months when temperatures are mild, and the area is less crowded. Summer can be hot, and the winter months may see road closures due to snow or muddy conditions. Crowd levels can vary, with weekends and holidays being busier, but dispersed camping areas generally provide a more secluded experience.

Specific locations around the Schnebly Hill Road area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Merry-Go-Round Rock : A popular dispersed camping spot with stunning views of Sedona’s red rocks, offering free camping and moderate crowd levels, especially on weekends.
• West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping : 8 camping areas with over 200 dispersed camping sites. Moderate to low crowds.
• Munds Mountain Wilderness : A rugged, remote area along Schnebly Hill Road where dispersed camping is allowed, providing free camping and low crowd levels for a more secluded experience.
• Schnebly Hill Vista Overlook : A picturesque spot for dispersed camping with impressive views, offering free camping and moderate crowd levels during peak seasons.
• Bear Wallow Canyon : A beautiful canyon area near Schnebly Hill Road, perfect for dispersed camping with free camping and low crowd levels.

Magruder Road Corridor, Idaho/Montana

The Magruder Road Corridor is a remote, rugged, and scenic 101-mile route that stretches between Idaho and Montana, offering an authentic backcountry experience for adventure-seeking travelers. The road traverses through the Bitterroot National Forest and the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, providing stunning views of untouched wilderness and abundant wildlife.

For a video tour of this road, including the hike to the fire lookout, check out this video from SUV RVing .

There are numerous dispersed camping spots along the Magruder Road Corridor, with several located near the Selway River, Deep Creek, Burnt Knob, and Observation Point. These spots typically offer primitive facilities, and campers should come prepared with their own water, food, and waste disposal supplies.

The best time to visit the Magruder Road Corridor is from late June to October, depending on snow conditions. The road is generally impassable during the winter months due to heavy snowfall. Crowd levels along the corridor are typically low, as the remote nature of the route attracts fewer visitors compared to more accessible and popular destinations.

Keep in mind that the Magruder Road Corridor is a challenging and potentially hazardous route, with narrow, winding sections and steep drop-offs. A high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended, and travelers should be prepared for self-sufficiency, as there are no services or cell phone reception along the corridor.

Specific locations around the Magruder Road Corridor area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Burnt Knob Lookout : Discover breathtaking panoramic views at dispersed campsites in the area, with free camping and low crowd levels due to its remote location.
• Elk Mountain Trailhead : Set up camp near this trailhead for easy access to hiking trails, scenic vistas, and free camping with low crowd levels.
• Red Mailbox Campsite : Enjoy the serene setting and picturesque views at this unique campsite, where camping is free and crowd levels are generally low.
• Salmon Mountain (Fire Lookout): Find stunning views of the surrounding landscape at dispersed campsites near this trailhead, with free camping and low crowd levels owing to its off-the-beaten-path location.
• Hell’s Half Acre Lookout : Take in the awe-inspiring vistas from dispersed camping sites near this notable vantage point, offering free camping and typically low crowd levels. 

Inyo National Forest, California

Inyo National Forest , located in eastern California, is a picturesque destination offering a diverse range of landscapes, from high desert to alpine meadows and rugged mountains. The area is home to numerous dispersed camping spots, perfect for those looking for an off-the-grid adventure.

Some of the best camping spots in Inyo National Forest include the Grandview Campground, which offers stunning views of the White Mountains and Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest; Horton Creek, a peaceful spot near a babbling creek and surrounded by towering trees; and Big Pine Creek, which provides access to beautiful mountain trails and serene lakes. For a more remote experience, consider exploring the many dispersed sites along the rugged Coyote Flats Road.

The best time to visit Inyo National Forest is from late spring to early fall when temperatures are mild and the snow has melted from higher elevations. However, summer months can be busy, so if you prefer less crowded camping conditions, consider visiting in late spring or early fall. During these shoulder seasons, you’ll still enjoy pleasant weather, but you’ll encounter fewer people, allowing you to experience the serenity of Inyo National Forest to the fullest.

Specific locations around the Inyo National Forest area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Grandview Campground : Enjoy breathtaking views of the White Mountains and Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest at this free campsite with moderate crowd levels during peak season.
• Horton Creek : Find tranquility near a flowing creek surrounded by lush foliage and mountain views at this picturesque camping area, with free camping and generally low to moderate crowd levels.
• Big Pine Creek : Set up camp near scenic mountain trails and serene lakes, offering free camping and moderate crowd levels during the busy summer months. Trails access to nearby glacial lake.
• Coyote Flats Road : Experience a more remote adventure at various dispersed campsites along this rugged road, with free camping and typically low crowd levels. Requires 4×4 vehicle.
• Taboose Creek Campground : Take in the dramatic views of the Eastern Sierra while camping at this picturesque spot, with a nominal camping fee and moderate crowd levels during peak season. Roads are easy to access. 

Hartman Rocks Recreation Area, Colorado

Hartman Rocks Recreation Area , located in Gunnison, Colorado, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning over 14,000 acres, the area boasts a variety of activities, including mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing, all amidst stunning rock formations and vibrant wildflower meadows.

Some of the best camping spots in Hartman Rocks Recreation Area include the free dispersed sites found throughout the area, such as the Aberdeen Loop and Powerline Road, which offer beautiful views and easy access to nearby trails. Another popular option is the BLM-managed Hartman Rocks Campground, which features designated campsites and basic amenities.

The ideal time to visit Hartman Rocks Recreation Area is from late spring through early fall when the weather is mild and the trails are clear of snow. During the summer months, the area can get quite busy, especially on weekends, so visiting during weekdays or in the shoulder seasons can help you avoid the crowds.

Specific locations around the Hartman Rocks Recreation Area area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Aberdeen Loop : This free dispersed camping area offers scenic views and easy access to nearby trails; expect moderate crowd levels during peak season.
• Powerline Road : Another free dispersed camping location with picturesque surroundings, Powerline Road can be less crowded than other spots, but still attracts a fair number of visitors during peak season.
• Hartman Rocks Campground : Managed by BLM, this campground features designated campsites and basic amenities, and can get busy during the summer months; fees may apply.
• Gold Basin Campground : Located on the edge of the recreation area, Gold Basin Campground offers a more secluded experience, with stunning views and reasonable fees.
• Jack’s Cabin Cutoff : This off-road camping location provides a mix of scenic views and solitude; free dispersed camping spots can be found along the road, attracting a moderate number of visitors during peak season.

Gooseberry Mesa, Utah

Gooseberry Mesa, located in southern Utah, is a remarkable destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy scenic vistas, mountain biking, and off-road camping. The area is famous for its slickrock trails, which provide a thrilling experience for mountain bikers of varying skill levels. The best time to visit Gooseberry Mesa is during the spring and fall months when temperatures are more moderate, and the weather is generally pleasant.

Several free dispersed camping spots can be found along the Gooseberry Mesa Road, offering stunning views of Zion National Park and surrounding areas. One notable spot is White Trail Camp, a popular site with breathtaking views that can get busy during peak season. Another option is the Gooseberry Mesa Dispersed Camping Area, which offers a more secluded experience and easier access to biking trails.

While visiting Gooseberry Mesa, you can also hike along the mesa’s edge or explore the many rock formations scattered throughout the area. The crowd levels can vary, but during peak season, you may find more visitors, especially on weekends. It’s a good idea to arrive early in the day to secure a prime camping spot and explore the area before the crowds arrive.

Specific locations around the Gooseberry Mesa, Utah area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Gooseberry Mesa Road Dispersed Camping : Free dispersed camping along Gooseberry Mesa Road offers easy access to biking trails and incredible views, but expect moderate crowds during peak season.
• White Trail Camp : This popular free camping spot boasts stunning views of Zion National Park and the surrounding area, but can get busy during peak times.
• South Rim Dispersed Camping : Located near the South Rim Trail, this free dispersed camping area provides solitude and spectacular views, with fewer visitors compared to other spots.
• Windmill Dispersed Camping : A more secluded option with free camping near an old windmill, offering picturesque views and a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.
• North Mesa Dispersed Camping : Set on the northern side of Gooseberry Mesa, this free camping spot offers striking views and a quieter experience, ideal for those seeking a more remote getaway.

Mendocino National Forest, California

Mendocino National Forest , located in Northern California, is a picturesque destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The forest, spanning over 913,000 acres, offers a plethora of dispersed camping opportunities, providing a range of scenic and secluded spots for campers.

Popular camping spots include Paskenta Dispersed Camping Area, where campers can enjoy peaceful moments alongside fishing and hiking opportunities. Grizzly Flat Dispersed Area offers access to scenic trails and a quiet, remote camping experience, while Middle Creek Campground is a popular option for families thanks to its picnic tables and fire rings. Hammerhorn Lake Campground is a high-elevation site with picturesque views and opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Fouts Springs Youth Camp is ideal for groups and youth organizations, offering facilities for group camping and access to outdoor activities like hiking and swimming.

The best time to visit Mendocino National Forest is from spring through fall when the weather is most favorable. Crowd levels can vary depending on the specific location, but generally, the forest is less crowded compared to other more popular California destinations. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, off-roading, fishing, and wildlife watching in the expansive forest, providing an unforgettable outdoor experience for adventurers of all skill levels.

Specific locations around the Mendocino National Forest area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

Pogie Point Campground : Located near Lake Pillsbury, this remote campground offers free dispersed camping with stunning lake views and generally low crowd levels.

Hammerhorn Lake Campground : A small, quiet campground situated next to Hammerhorn Lake, with a nightly fee of $12 and moderate crowd levels during peak season.

Howard Lake Campground : Found near the scenic Howard Lake, this $12 per night campground offers a serene atmosphere, with moderate crowds during the summer months. Requires a vehicle with clearance.

Pine Mountain Lookout : Perched atop Pine Mountain, this lookout offers panoramic views and a unique camping experience with a rental fee of $65 per night and low crowd levels due to its remote location.

Penny Pines Campground : Nestled among tall pine trees, this free dispersed camping spot offers a peaceful retreat with generally low crowd levels.

North Maine Woods, Maine

North Maine Woods is a sprawling, privately-owned expanse of wilderness in northern Maine that covers over 3.5 million acres. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking solitude, tranquility, and an opportunity to reconnect with nature. There are many camping options available within the North Maine Woods, from remote, dispersed sites to more developed campgrounds such as Round Pond Recreation Area and Churchill Dam Campground.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in this vast region, with activities including hiking, fishing, hunting, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The area is home to an abundance of wildlife, including moose, black bears, white-tailed deer, and various bird species. Birdwatchers, in particular, will enjoy spotting loons, warblers, and the elusive spruce grouse.

The best time to visit North Maine Woods is during the late spring, summer, and early fall months when the weather is more pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. However, it is worth noting that the black fly and mosquito populations peak in late spring and early summer . As a result, many visitors prefer to plan their trip for late summer and early fall when these pests are less bothersome. The North Maine Woods is a vast area, and while some of the more popular campgrounds may be busier during the peak season, the overall crowd levels tend to be relatively low, allowing for a true wilderness experience.

Specific locations around the North Maine Woods area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Round Pond Recreation Area : This campground offers a mix of developed and dispersed campsites with beautiful waterfront views, moderate crowds during peak season, and fees starting at $15 per night.
• Seboomook Wilderness Campground : Located on the shores of Moosehead Lake, this campground offers both developed and dispersed campsites, low to moderate crowd levels, and fees starting at $20 per night.
• Big Eddy Campground : Situated along the Penobscot River, this campground offers a more rustic experience with dispersed camping, low crowd levels, and fees starting at $10 per night.
• John’s Four Season Accommodations & Campground : This location offers both cabin rentals and more secluded, off-road campsites with low to moderate crowd levels and fees starting at $20 per night for camping.
• Big Moose Campground : Providing a remote camping experience on the shores of Big Moose Pond, this campground features low crowd levels, dispersed sites, and fees starting at $15 per night.

Goler Wash/Mengel Pass, California

Goler Wash/Mengel Pass , located in Death Valley National Park, California, offers a unique off-road experience for those seeking adventure. The area features multiple dispersed camping spots, with some of the best being found near Barker Ranch, Warm Springs Camp, and the Geologist’s Cabin at Striped Butte Valley. These sites offer an immersive experience in the rugged desert landscape, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Visitors to Goler Wash/Mengel Pass can enjoy a variety of activities, such as off-roading, hiking, exploring the numerous abandoned mines and cabins, and taking in the breathtaking scenery of Death Valley National Park. The area is also known for its rich history, including the infamous Barker Ranch, where Charles Manson and his followers were captured.

The best time to visit Goler Wash/Mengel Pass is during the cooler months of October to April, as temperatures during the summer can become dangerously hot. Despite being located in the popular Death Valley National Park, Goler Wash/Mengel Pass tends to have lower crowd levels due to its remote location and challenging off-road access. This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a true wilderness experience.

Specific locations around the Goler Wash/Mengel Pass area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Barker Ranch : This historic site offers dispersed camping opportunities in a remote area with low crowd levels, providing an immersive desert experience at no cost.
• Warm Springs Camp : Located in a picturesque desert valley, this free dispersed camping area features remnants of an old mining camp and usually has low to moderate crowd levels.
• Geologist’s Cabin at Striped Butte Valley : This scenic location offers free dispersed camping near a historic stone cabin with outstanding views and low crowd levels.
• Butte Valley : Offering stunning views and free dispersed camping, Butte Valley is a popular off-road destination with moderate crowd levels, especially during the cooler months.
• Anvil Spring : This free dispersed camping spot is nestled in a remote canyon with a seasonal spring, providing a peaceful desert experience with low to moderate crowd levels.

Maah Daah Hey Trail, North Dakota

The Maah Daah Hey Trail in North Dakota offers an incredible mix of scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. This 144-mile non-motorized single-track trail passes through the rugged Badlands, crossing grassy plateaus, winding through colorful canyons, and traversing the Little Missouri River. Camping options along the trail range from established campgrounds to dispersed camping spots, providing visitors with the chance to choose their ideal setting. Some popular campgrounds along the trail include Cottonwood Campground, Elkhorn Campground, and Bennett Campground, while dispersed camping can be found near Devil’s Pass and Long X Trail.

Activities along the Maah Daah Hey Trail include hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as wildlife watching and photography. The trail is divided into sections, offering varying degrees of difficulty and lengths, allowing visitors to choose their preferred adventure.

The best time to visit the Maah Daah Hey Trail is from late spring through early fall when temperatures are moderate, and the risk of severe weather is lower. During this time, you can expect moderate crowd levels, especially in the campgrounds, while dispersed camping sites tend to be less crowded. Early mornings and weekdays generally see fewer visitors, providing a more peaceful experience in this stunning landscape.

Specific locations around the Maah Daah Hey Trail area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Cottonwood Campground : Located near the southern end of the trail, Cottonwood Campground offers a picturesque setting with a mix of established sites and dispersed camping, attracting moderate crowds during peak season.
• Elkhorn Campground : This smaller campground provides a more intimate experience for campers, featuring both developed sites and dispersed camping areas, with generally lower crowd levels compared to other nearby campgrounds.
• Bennett Campground : Situated in a remote area of the Maah Daah Hey Trail, Bennett Campground offers a mix of established sites and dispersed camping opportunities, providing a peaceful setting with minimal crowds.
• Magpie Campground : Nestled in a serene location along the Maah Daah Hey Trail, Magpie Campground boasts both established sites and dispersed camping options, providing a tranquil atmosphere with moderate crowd levels during peak season. Closest campground to the must-see Devil’s Pass Trail .
• CCC Campground : Located near the Long X Trail, this camping area provides easy access to the Maah Daah Hey Trail and surrounding attractions. Expect moderate crowds.

Pryor Mountains, Montana

Pryor Mountains , located in south-central Montana, offer a diverse landscape of canyons, limestone cliffs, and lush forests, making it a desirable destination for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most popular camping spots in the area is the Big Ice Cave Campground, which provides easy access to the scenic Big Ice Cave. Another option is the Sage Creek Campground, situated in a quiet, wooded area perfect for relaxation and wildlife sightings.

In terms of activities, visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, wildlife watching, and off-roading on the numerous trails that wind through the mountains. The Pryor Mountains Wild Horse Range offers a unique opportunity to observe the area’s wild horses in their natural habitat, while rock hounds can explore the rugged terrain searching for unique geological formations and fossils.

The best time to visit the Pryor Mountains is during the summer months, from June through September, when the weather is warm, and the wildflowers are in full bloom. During this time, the area can attract moderate crowds, especially on weekends and holidays, so planning ahead and arriving early is advised to secure a camping spot. However, even during peak season, the Pryor Mountains maintain a relatively low-key atmosphere, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in nature’s beauty.

Specific locations around the Pryor Mountains area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Big Ice Cave Campground : A popular campground with scenic views, providing easy access to the impressive Big Ice Cave, expect moderate crowd levels during peak season and a small camping fee.
• Sage Creek Campground : Located in a quiet, wooded area, this campground offers a serene setting and is ideal for wildlife watching, with a small camping fee and moderate crowds during peak season.
• Bear Canyon Campground : A more remote option for off-road enthusiasts, offering dispersed camping and fewer crowds, with no camping fees.
• Barrys Landing Campground : Located near Bighorn Canyon, this campground offers stunning views of the canyon and the Bighorn River, with light to moderate crowds during peak season.
• Bad Pass Trailhead Campground : Situated near the Bighorn Canyon, this location offers access to hiking trails and a peaceful camping experience with minimal crowds.

Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho

Sawtooth National Forest , located in Idaho, is a stunning destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities and scenic beauty. With over 80 campgrounds scattered throughout the forest, there is no shortage of camping options. Some of the top campgrounds include Redfish Lake, Alturas Lake, and Stanley Lake Campgrounds, each providing visitors with unique amenities and access to various recreational activities.

In Sawtooth National Forest, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and more. The area is known for its towering peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The forest also has a number of designated wilderness areas, such as the Sawtooth Wilderness and the White Clouds Wilderness, which offer more remote and rugged experiences.

The best time to visit Sawtooth National Forest is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and the majority of the trails and roads are accessible. Fall is also a great time to visit, as the changing colors of the foliage create a picturesque landscape. During the peak season, campgrounds can become quite busy, particularly at popular spots like Redfish Lake, so it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance or explore more remote campgrounds for a quieter experience.

Specific locations around the Sawtooth National Forest area for camping spots with costs and crowd levels:

• Outlet Campground : A popular and picturesque campground with views of Redfish Lake with a range of amenities, it can get busy during peak season, so reservations are recommended; fees range from $16 to $32 per night.
• Alturas Lake Campground : This beautiful lakeside campground is less crowded than Redfish Lake, offering more solitude and affordable camping fees of $15 per night.
• Stanley Lake Campground : With stunning mountain and lake views, this campground is moderately busy with fees starting at $16 per night.
• Iron Creek Campground : A more remote option with access to several hiking trails, it provides a quieter experience and has camping fees of $16 per night.
• Boundary Creek Campground : Ideal for off-road enthusiasts and offering dispersed camping sites, this campground is less crowded and has a camping fee of $10 per night.
• Mountain View Campground : Offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, this more secluded campground is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet, with camping fees at $15 per night.
• Redfish Overflow Campground : A great alternative to Redfish Lake Campground, this nearby overflow site offers similar views and access to the lake, with camping fees at $12 per night and moderate crowd levels during peak season.

Did any of these locations inspire you to want to adventure to more off-road locations? Have you visited any amazing spots you think should be added this this list?  Let us know in the comments below! 

Happy exploring! 

– The Grit Overland Team

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Adventure and joy in 4x4 convoys: Going overland will satisfy your wanderlust

Tuesday, 23 Apr 2024

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Convoy of Suzuki Jimny cars travelling in Thailand.

Going overland – driving long distances on adventures with parts of the journey on dirt trails plus even a few nights of car-camping – greatly satisfies one’s wanderlust. And when a group of friends goes overland together, two factors are apparent:

1. Everyone loves the driving part, to be in control of the vehicle and negotiate the off-road trails.

2. Everyone has a lot of stuff to bring – outdoor “toys” to play with – so there is not much room in the vehicle for carpooling.

As such, these “overlanders” go in a 4x4 convoy. They travel in a group of 10 four-wheel-drive vehicles or even more, each one having only a lone driver or at most one passenger while the other vehicles are chock-full with gear.

“So although we are driving alone in our cars, we are actually safe because we are in a convoy. One experienced driver in a well-equipped vehicle is always the sweeper, staying in the rear to support any other convoy member who gets in trouble,” said Angus Lai, who recently went on an overland trip to Thailand in a 10-car convoy.

Lai is a member of the Malaysia Jimny Club (MJC), which has about 10,000 members on Facebook, so his 10-car convoy to Thailand were all Suzuki Jimny drivers.

First rolled out in 1970, the Suzuki Jimny was meant to be a “mini 4x4” for Japanese farmers to traverse narrow, undulating trails.

The car has gone through many generations of upgrades to mirror the changing times; its lines are now sleeker, the interior comfort levels have improved since its infancy as a utilitarian 4x4 to the point that it is today a lifestyle vehicle for adventurers.

“We love going outdoors in a small 4x4 like this. It is nimble, agile and light. Narrow trails and small wooden bridges are no problem for us,” said Johnsen Phoon, one of the founding members of MJC.

The Suzuki Jimny weighs about 1.4 tonnes; a full-sized 4x4 pickup truck can weigh close to three tonnes.

By the merit of weight alone, this allows such a small 4x4 to cross a muddy trail with ease.

Should it truly get stuck in a rut, its light weight makes it easier to winch the vehicle out of the trap.

Phoon said it was easy to manoeuvre through tight spaces between trees and shrubs, and its tight turning radius makes driving in congested urban settings a breeze.

“I love how we can swerve in and fit it into a tight parking spot,” Phoon laughed.

But not everyone is into convoys; entrepreneur Christy Chow from Selangor owns a Suzuki Jimny solely because she loves going camping alone or just with her husband.

She has been doing it for about five years and used to drive a mini hatchback.

“It was a little difficult driving steep uphill dirt trails. So I changed to a Jimny and even had it painted pink,” she laughed.

Besides the car, Chow confesses to spending about RM20,000 on her camping gear, including a small fridge with a portable power station.

“We choose managed campsites on hilltops in Selangor, Pahang and Perak.

“It will be quite chilly and relaxing at night, though during the day, it can still be hot so we need to bring our large fly sheet to shade our car and some space at the rear to stay cool,” she said.

Chow enjoys using a roof tent atop her Jimny for a good night’s sleep away from creepy crawlies on the ground.

Come next month, a special treat is in store for these Jimny owners: durians will start dropping in orchards in Penang and it will be time for them to look for orchards that will let them drive off-road amidst the trees to feast on freshly-fallen durians.

“This is what is special about small 4x4 cars; we can drive into orchards without harming trees and with little damage to the ground because our cars are light.

“We park in clearings, set up our camp chairs and tables, boil coffee and enjoy freshly fallen durians,” said Mah Guo Dong, a Penangite and member of MJC.

If outdoor adventures by car are your cup of tea, you will have the chance to test drive the latest Suzuki Jimny at The Great Outdoor Expo 2024 at Setia City Convention Centre from May 31 to June 2.

Get behind the wheel of a Suzuki Jimny at the expo, experience its nimbleness and responsiveness, and you can visualise the sort of outdoor adventures you can have in this car.

Celebrate the great outdoors

PROUDLY presented by Star Media Group, The Great Outdoor Expo 2024 is set to be the largest outdoor event in Malaysia.

The expo invites attendees to embark on a journey of discovery and adventure. From adrenaline-pumping activities to attractive booths and popular brands, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast to enjoy.

Attendees can look forward to exploring a diverse range of exhibits showcasing the latest in outdoor gear, equipment and technologies.

Whether you’re passionate about hiking, off-roading or water sports, you’ll find everything you need to fuel your outdoor pursuits.

The Great Outdoor Expo 2024 is more than just a showcase of products – it’s a celebration of the great outdoors and all it has to offer. Visitors can connect with like-minded individuals, learn from experts and discover new destinations and experiences to add to their bucket list.

Exhibitors will enjoy a selection of multiple booth sizes, be interviewed by StarTV on the uniqueness of their products and services, and be able to make use of dedicated zones for product demonstrations.

There will also be an open stage for brand presentations, while brand owners will get online coverage on The Star website and social media channels.

Early bird exhibitors will enjoy huge savings of up to RM20,000 (terms and conditions apply).

Mark your calendars and join us for a weekend of adventure, inspiration and discovery.

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Roadtrip Madagascar | Drive Your Own Adventure

• The self-drive specialist
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Planning your Madagascar roadtrip? Our team at Roadtrip Africa provides cars, camp gear and routes for the independent and adventurous traveller. Your self-drive adventure in Madagascar begins with us!

Choose your roadtrip in madagascar.

And explore the beauty of Africa on your terms.

Roadtrip Africa is the first company in Madagascar to specialize in car & camp gear rentals for self-drive holidays. We own all our rental cars and never subcontract from third parties, ensuring you can freely explore Madagascar. 

Our fleet consists of two types of 4x4 cars: the Nissan Navara and the Nissan NP300. 

Looking for the ultimate freedom and flexibility on your road trip in Madagascar? Hire a rooftop tent or ground tent. Its supplied with a full set of quality camping gear, including a mattress, sleeping bag, headlights, cooking equipment, table, chairs and everything else you need for your camping adventure in Madagascar.

Start planning your Madagascar roadtrip and hire a 4x4 from €79/day! All our car rentals include comprehensive insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, a road map, and a Bradt travel guide. 

Car rental with local driver

Do you want to enjoy the freedom of the open road but are you unsure about driving your 4x4? Then rent a car with a local driver! A driver-guide will facilitate and ease your roadtrip in Madagascar, yet you remain in charge of your holiday and itinerary.  

Besides enjoying a more relaxed experience, being accompanied by a driver-guide will teach you more about the local culture and wildlife in Madagascar while you travel. He can also help you fine-tune your itinerary along the way. 

The costs for a local driver are €30 / day. This is an all-inclusive price and caters for all expenses incurred by the driver, including meals and accommodation. All suggested roadtrips and itineraries on our website can be booked as a guided tour with driver.

Suggested roadtrip itineraries in Madagascar

Getting excited about planning your roadtrip in Madagascar? Take a look at our suggested routes to get a better understanding of distances and driving times, and build your trip from there. Our team at Roadtrip Africa knows all corners of Madagascar and is happy to point you in the right direction as you prepare for your self-drive holiday.

This classic one-way route will whisk you from Antananarivo down to Tuléar along the famous RN7, a smooth asphalt road. The sheer variety of national parks along the RN7 is incredible: enjoy the rainforest at Ranomafana, the mountains at Andringitra National Park and the desert and canyons at Isalo. Finish off your Madagascar roadtrip with relaxing beachtime at Ifaty before you fly back to Antananarivo.

The Undiscovered Northeast

With the newly restored RN5a, travelling Madagascar overland towards the stunning SAVA region (Sambava, Andapa, Vohemar, Antalaha) is now possible once again. The breathtaking area is known as the Vanilla Coast, and it's here where the waters of the Indian Ocean meet the dense jungle.

This is an incredibly scenic and beautiful off-the-beaten-track self-drive itinerary covering the northeast of Madagascar. It involves modest driving hours, hardly any other travellers, and lots of variation.

The Grand Circuit

Do you love the beach? Are you an experienced off-road driver? Then you can see it all in Madagascar! The interior highlands of Madagascar are distinctively Asian, while the west coast is truly African. Visit remote Vezo fishing villages with colourful boats, enjoy pristine beaches, view the bizarre limestone pinnacles of Tsingy de Bemaraha, and explore the most beautiful lodges. All while meeting just a handful of other travellers. This is our most popular Madagascar self-drive itinerary. And for good reason!

The Western Route

Madagascar's most striking landscape is found in the west - the Tsingy limestone pinnacles. Climb the well-constructed steps, ladders, cables and bridges in the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, marvel at giant baobab trees and enjoy relaxing beach days along the beautiful west coast. Recommended as a one-way rental trip.

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We had Madagascar on our bucket list for a long time, but we knew that if we were going to do it, it would have to be as self-drivers. We searched for a long time to find a car hire company that would rent us a suitable vehicle (without a driver)....

Madagascar 4WD trip

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Roadtrip Africa were exceptional, from the first enquiry and all the questions while planning the trip up until after we returned the vehicle. We had booked a pick-up for 24 days in Madagascar and can truly say it was a trip of a lifetime. The bac...

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It was a great trip, with a great car. Road Trip Africa communicates really quick as well prior to our trip as in Madagascar. They are really helpful and experienced themself and really willing to give you the best road trip experience in Madagasc...

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4×4 Road Trips

4x4 Road Trips - Self-drive Uganda and East Africa

4×4 Road Trips, self-drive Car hire in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania. Go for African Road Trips and Overlanding tours by renting a 4×4 Car for holidays on self-guided Tours. We deliver the vehicle to you at the airport. Your self-guided safari can start in Uganda and end in Dar es Salaam – Tanzania . These tours have so much to offer for those visitors of independent spirit. Opt for a One-way car rental from Entebbe in Uganda to Kigali in Rwanda . Plan for camping holidays (with rooftop tents) and save more on your African self-drive tour. A self-drive holiday is ideal for savoring the highways and these exceptionally diverse parts of East Africa. Whether it be a wildlife experience that may lead to National Parks and Game Reserves , or cultural and ethnic diversity, self-driving safaris in East Africa provide something for tourists. The scenic beauty draws visitors back repeatedly, boasting contrastingly spectacular environments such as magnificent coastlines, impressive mountain ranges, and semidesert landscapes that are occasionally transformed into spectacular “oceans” of wildflowers. The fascinating topography is set against the backdrop of a vibrantly developing country whose strength lies mainly in its richly diverse communities’ combined goodwill and friendliness.

Why Self-drive (4×4 Road Trips)

• Because it’s your preference.
• It’s cheaper than a guided tour.
• Good roads, and sophisticated infrastructure.
• You are a returning visitor who appreciates how it’s easy
• You prefer the freedom of your own decisions.
• Long distances covered easily, and quickly!
• Safe as any sophisticated country on major routes.
• Outside the cities, extremely low, almost boring.
• The fuel price is affordable – in many regions of Africa.
• One-Way Rental Safaris through East Africa

Safaris Africa and One-way Rental

Choose 4×4 Road Trips for East Africa self-drive safaris. These safaris are the most done in the region because of safety and flexibility in terms of cross-border and accessibility. You can drive from Kigali to Kampala and all this way through is so interesting. You have a lot more to see and experience throughout this road trip. From Rwanda, through Uganda Kenya, and Tanzania. One-way rentals coupled with camping will save you a couple of dollars which will elongate the trip. Our 4×4 cars are designed for such trips, and we have a team that will always guide you in the preparation process before you decide on the routes to take.

Book a Prado for Camping Safaris in Uganda. Choose a single or a two double tents for budget Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. We have great deals for long term rentals.

Go for safaris in Rwanda on a self-drive. Book a 4x4 Land Cruiser for off-road tours and overlanding Safaris, it's an auto-transmission a great deal for 4 persons

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The experience

Be part of the African experience Safari Adventure holidays and Self-drive Tours. 4×4 Road Trips offers Cross-country tours and one-way rentals as the best way to maximize your time. Select a combination of countries for multi-safari trips. These overland tours are exciting because they have much more to offer you. Combine Gorilla tours to countries like Uganda in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Rwanda in Volcanoes National Park, and the Virunga in DR Congo. Hike Kilimanjaro’s highest mountain in Tanzania, the great Ngorongoro, and the famous Masai-Mara Game Reserve in Kenya. On the other hand, South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. With a variety of wildlife, South Luangwa National Park is exceptional. The Luangwa Valley is the only home to subspecies such as the Thornicroft’s giraffe, Cookson’s wildebeest, and Crayshaw’s zebra. Premier photographic opportunities not only with the mesmerizing landscape but with the large concentrations of the game present.

We do the following

• Booking of accommodation.
• Booking of the rental vehicle.
• Booking of internal air flights if necessary.
• Assistance with pre-planning before arrival.
• Country-wide support network for rental vehicles.
• Booking of activities, e.g., side excursions, golf, etc.
• Provide basic framework itinerary and travel vouchers.
• Advice and suggestions to help the itinerary pre-planning.
• Ongoing advice and support during the duration of the holiday.

Get the real African experience with a great team. We are a team of Safari Guides dedicated to creating an adventurous holiday for you during your stay in East Africa. We will always guide you where to go and the best places of your interest.

Go for East African safaris and Self-drive tours to Rwanda and Uganda and track the endangered Mountain Gorillas in Mgahinga, Bwindi and Volcanoes National Parks respectively. Depending on your budget and the experience you would like to take on, choose a destination for this excursion.

This is the most common activity for any traveler to East Africa. With many national parks and reserves in the region, you will spot hundreds of mammal species around this region. The most profound ones are in Serengeti and Lake Manyara in Tanzania, although there are more interesting places.

Hiking safaris in Tanzania to the most famous Kilimanjaro and Meru, Mount Kenya in Kenya, the great Rwenzori Mountain in western Uganda, and the Virunga Mountain ranges of Bisoke, Gahinga, and Muhabura in Rwanda are some of the most interesting hiking adventures you can choose from.

Overlanding Safaris Africa (Self-drive)

Go for overlanding Safaris in East Africa and Camping with our 4×4 Jeeps. Book an East African holiday with our budget friendly rates. Drive East Africa through Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. We have options on one-way rental where the vehicle is insured for all the mentioned destinations.

Car Hire Africa – Rent a Car in East Africa for Self-drive Tours

4×4 Road Trips offers you low-cost car rental services in Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya. With 4×4 Road Trips (rent a car for Self-drive) you get one of the lowest prices on your Africa Holiday and global car rental market combined with superb service. It only takes a few minutes to contact a team member to reserve a car for a cross-country road trip. Whilst 4×4 Road Trips understands the convenience and relaxing nature of driver-guided schedules, we also fully appreciate the need to offer an alternative service for those visitors who prefer to conduct their independent itinerary on a self-drive basis. To fulfill this, need we partner with other recognized vehicle hire companies, who have some of the most competitive rates currently on offer, together with 24-hour service and on-the-road assistance that only the infrastructure of a well-established and organized company can offer. The fleet is both modern and extensive, with a choice of vehicles to suit all preferences and budgets, and the few pictures shown provide only an indication of what is available

Benefits include:

• Delivery and pickup service
• Pickup, Drop off points, and Full Back up services around East Africa
• All Insurances, with no excess payment in the event of accident damage
• Unlimited mileage
• Traveler’s Companion – emergency contact numbers, agent support.

Overland Expeditions

• Additional Services
• Tours Calendar

Epic Russian Drive

35-day road trip: st.petersburg to vladivostok.

Expose yourself to the diversity of ethnic minorities and the multitude of languages spoken in distant areas, absorb the culture, learn the history of Russia through its architecture and nature. Take the chance to feel the determination of the original Trans-Siberian pioneers.

In short, just tag along with your own rig or book one of our SUVs, and join the team for the journey of a lifetime!

Duration: 35 days / 35 nights

Driving distance: 12, 000 km

Type of tour: Self drive overland expedition

Vehicles: Your own vehicle or UAZ PATRIOT (for rent)

Minimum driver age: 21

Group size: from 10 to 25 pax

Accommodation: Best hotels on the way (Twin/Double occupancy) and camping sites

Meals: Full board

Best time: July - August

Part 1. Saint Petersburg - Moscow. Distance: 1700 km

We decided on St. Petersburg to be the starting point of our grand expedition. While the team members arrive one by one, we spend the day strolling around the magnificent metropolis of the imperial times on the Neva River. Founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 2003, the city is a magnificent collection of architecture masterpieces in all possible styles of 1700-1800s. Your chance to experience its sheer elegance; millions of guests fall in love with this marvel of a city every year. The participants get acquainted with each other and DTR crew. It is here the epic overland expedition across Russia starts.

In order to warm up a little and shape the team, we decided to drive north first (rather than east), and see one of the most beautiful parts of Russia, the charming Karelia. Daily runs will be moderate; we learn to drive in a convoy, understand each other's driving habits, get used to the cars and their character, and bond with each other to form a real team.

This part of the road will be the most intense in terms of the number of cities that we visit. Here, the Russians have been historically intertwined with their closest neighbours from Northern Europe. And it shows, both in the toponyms and the architecture. We will admire Veliky Novgorod, dating back to 859, one of the first Russian cities mentioned in medieval chronicles, with the age-old church domes and classic white monastery walls. We will visit the place where the Great Russian River, the Volga, starts as a modest creek, and we’ll drive past countless gorgeous lakes.

Moscow is where this segment ends. Russia’s capital is a delight, combining the hoary antiquity with the vibrance and grandeur of a modern megapolis with 12,5 mln inhabitants. Explore the medieval Kremlin and cathedrals, snap some pics for your Instagram against the background of the high-rise buildings in the business district, feel the rhythm of this magnificent city.

Day 1. St. Petersburg

The participants arrive in the ‘northern capital’ of the Russian Federation, the city of Saint Peter. Check-in to a splendid hotel in the vicinity of the Palace Square. Meet the team members and introduce yourself. Preparation and verification of vehicles.

Drive to Russia crew presents the details of the upcoming expedition. Final discussion of the route specifics.

Day 2. St.Petersburg - Sortavala. Distance: 300 km

Today we start our grandiose journey, and our first destination is Karelia. The convoy heads to Lake Ladoga, the largest in Europe! Our accommodation tonight is in the vicinity of the Ruskeala Mountain Park. We will take a guided tour along the picturesque slopes of the canyon that used to be a granite quarry.

Day 3. Sortavala - Novaya Ladoga via Mandrogi. Distance: 430 km

We will drive to the opposite (southern) shore of Ladoga Lake, and we’ll stop at the fabulous village of Upper Mandrogi on the way. The village hosts many traditional crafts and the colourful log houses are quite a view. We will spend the night in a tent camp on the shore of the Ladoga lake.

Day 4. Novaya Ladoga - Veliky Novgorod. Distance: 200 km

Our goal for today is Veliky Novgorod. One of the most ancient cities in Russia, and perfectly preserved, by the way. The main gift of the day is an incendiary folk show; enjoy the traditional Russian songs and dances along with a pleasant dinner of national cuisine.

Day 5. Veliky Novgorod - Lake Seliger. Distance: 370 km

We drive towards Lake Seliger, an enormous system of lakes linked by effluents, with lots of small islands, surrounded by pine and deciduous woods. Our cars will test the road conditions of the Valdai Upland, we will enjoy the magnificent views and also visit the source of the Volga. In several days, we will have the opportunity to admire the greatness of this tremendous 3,500 km long river - this is where it starts. In the evening, we will enjoy the fascinating sunset on the shore of the lake.

Day 6. Lake Seliger - Moscow. Distance: 390 km

Driving to Moscow. Part of the way will include a challenging dirt road,compensated by the beautiful views. We visit the Nilo-Stolobenskaya hermitage (a prominent Orthodox monastery, founded in the late 1500s) and the city of Torzhok.

In the evening, We will stay in the very center of Moscow and enjoy its eclectic architecture, wonderfully lit for the night.

Part 5. Irkutsk – Vladivostok. Distance: 3850 km

This part is probably dedicated to overcoming the huge expanses of Russia. Every day of this segment might seem a challenge, you are in for a great accomplishment. Different types and conditions of terrain, the weather may change rapidly, as well as the colours of landscapes - in short, you are now the true masters of conquering distances and surmounting obstacles.

We are approaching the Far East… the edge of the continent.

Day 26. Irkutsk – Ulan-Ude. Distance: 450 km.

Next destination is Buryatia - the land that is close to Mongolia and China, with a population quite different from what would expect in Russia.

Part of the road will be driven along Lake Baikal, and some awesome views are guaranteed. In addition, we will pass a small Baikal city, known for its famous ski resort, Mount Sobolinaya, in winter, and it delicious strawberries in summer.

We pay a visit to the Baikal Museum, where loads of information about the lake are stored.

Day 27. Ulan-Ude - Chita. Distance: 580 km

The Buryats practice Buddhism, which is rather unique for Russia. In the morning, we will go to Ivolginsky Datsan, the most renowned place of worship in these parts, and take a tour of the vicinity.y

It will take us another 9 hours to get to Chita, located deep in Siberia, surrounded by hills on the shore of a lake. It was here that the Decembrists (followed by their wives) were exiled in 1827 after the failed coup in St.Petersburg, and many places here are also associated with the legend of Genghis Khan. It is also home to Mount Pallas, which marks the watershed between the Arctic and Pacific Oceans.

Day 28. Chita - Chernyshevsk. Distance: 310 km

Today we are heading to Chernyshevsk, an ordinary Russian town with a population of only 12,000 people. This is what most cities in this area look like; small houses, questionable roads and wild surroundings… Still, they definitely have their own charm.

Day 29. Chernyshevsk - Skovorodino. Distance: 620 km

A meditative road among the picturesque hills - another long day to endure. We’ll have some decent rest in the evening.

Day 30. Skovorodino - Uglegorsk. Distance 445 km

Today, we will drive towards one of the most mysterious cities in Russia, Uglegorsk (‘city of coal’). Surprisingly, coal has never been mined here. This name was given to fool the potential enemy, covering the construction of missile silos, disguised as coal mining.

On December 30, 2015, the city was renamed Tsiolkovsky (in the name of a renowned scientist), as the new Vostochny (Eastern) spaceport was constructed nearby. The city's infrastructure is developing rapidly to become one of the most modern settlements in the Amur region, serving the needs of the spaceport personnel and their families.

Day 31. Uglegorsk – Khabarovsk. Distance: 770 km

The longest part of the road. We may call it ‘rising to the challenge’. We have to overcome about 800 km, so as we arrive to Khabarovsk, most people on the team will probably only dream about dropping in bed and sleeping it off. We are now officially in the Far East.

Day 32. Rest in Khabarovsk

We will spend the whole day walking around the city. A cruise along the Amur River is obviously a must. In general, we will enjoy the penultimate city on our long journey

Day 33. Khabarovsk –Vladivostok. Distance: 756 km

The last of the long bits we need to cover, once again driving for more than 700 km (approximately 8-10 hours). We finally reach the shore of the Pacific Ocean late in the evening. Vladivostok welcomes us with true oriental hospitality.

Day 34. Vladivostok - Russky Island - Tokorevsky lighthouse. Distance: 60 km

The complex terrain, the port, the salty sea air, all of this makes each coastal city unique and different from the rest. Vladivostok was included in the list of ten cities with the most beautiful views of the sea by the National Geographic magazine.

Vladivostok is gorgeous during the day — in sunny weather, it impresses with the bottomless blue sky and the bright sun. The bridge over the Golden Horn Bay is a definite symbol of development and progress. Vladivostok at night is fascinating, as thousands of lights are reflected in the water surface.

To mark the end of our journey, we will cross the Eastern Bosphorus strait by the marvelous bridge with a central span of 1,104 metres (3,622 feet), the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world, to reach Russky Island and make sure we have reached the easternmost region in Russia that could be reached by car.

We return to the city and end our journey at the Tokarevsky Lighthouse, a landmark we chose to symbolise hope for future amazing experiences.

Days 35. Vladivostok

We are resting, sharing the emotions and wishing farewell to the members of our glorious, who depart one by one. It is also time to ship our vehicles back home*.

We wish you a safe journey home and hope to see you again on another fantastic adventure in Russia.

(*please contact us by phone/email for shipping details and procedures)

The cost includes:

• Route planning and research
• Support car with all the necessary equipmentt
• Support team to lead the way and take care of the details:
• - Mechanic- instructor
• - English-speaking guide
• Accommodation: best hotels in Moscow and SPb city center, coziest available hotels and camping sites on the road (list of hotels provided when booking the program)
• Meals: full board (from day 1 to day 34)
• Activities to make the experience truly memorable
• Day tours in St.Petersburg/Moscow/Kazan/Novosibirsk/Irkutsk/Vladivostok
• Souvenirs and memory gifts from the DTR crew
• Visa support
• Road books, maps and wireless radio sets for every vehicle
• Assistance in registration and shipping of your vehicle

The cost does not include:

• Vehicle and petrol (except guests who rent cars from DTR)
• Your international or domestic flights
• Meals and drinks not specified in the program
• Alcoholic beverages
• Vehicle servicing, repairs, traffic fines or parking penalties (applies to guests with own vehicles)
• Insurance and documentation costs such as travel insurance
• Single supplement and Early check-in
• Any hotel, subsistence or other costs incurred prior to the official start date of the expedition and after the official end date of the expedition
• Vehicle shipment from Vladivostok
• Additional programs and services
• Personal expenses
• Visit to Vostochny spaceport (*to be announced separately)

Car rental price includes:

• UAZ Patriot (UAZ Patriot 2018-2019), specifically designed for driving tours. One vehicle for 2-3 people
• Vehicle shipment from Vladivostok to Moscow
• Vehicle insurance

A grandiose journey, one of the most desirable for the most experienced road travelers! Definitely for the faint of heart – one needs to be brave and courageous to embark on such a long trip, crossing the enormous country from West to East and to conquer 12,000 km long way and 7 time zones. Should you dare to undertake this heroic deed, Russia will open her soul to you

To begin with, we will plunge into the beauty of the Karelian landscapes, enhanced a hundredfold by the white nights. We will see the two greatest capitals: St. Petersburg and Moscow. We will delve into the medieval Russia in Veliky Novgorod and Suzdal.

The thousand-year old Kazan will surprise you with a huge mosque in the heart of a seemingly Christian Russia. We will challenge the Ural Mountains, crossing into Asia. Siberia will no longer seem a mystery and a harsh land to us, some might even fall in love with it. And Lake Baikal will win our hearts forever. We will hopefully visit the brand-new Vostochny Cosmodrome (spaceport).

Our journey finishes at the lighthouse on the Pacific Ocean. Who amongst you is willing to take up this ultimate challenge?

* Shipment of vehicles after the end of the expedition. We will help you in organizing the shipment of your vehicle from Vladivostok to Europe, Moscow or St. Petersburg. Get in touch for assitastance with shipping rates and other the formalities.

** Visas to Russia for more than 30 days: for this expedition, we will arrange an invitation for a business visa to each participant. Please note, if you are getting a business visa to Russia for the first time, you can only get a one-time visa for 90 days.

Additional information on Russia

• Rules of the road in Russia
• Condition of entry and exit from/to Russia on foreign cars
• Visas in Russia
• Cancellation Terms and Conditions
• Booking Terms and Conditions
• FAQ - Answers to frequently asked questions

Best overland tours In Russia and CIS countries

Fly and drive.

Unique tours of the great cities, unknown places, winter and summer drive experiece

We provide: logistics, paperwork, escort and local guide services

THE 10 BEST 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

4wd, atv & off-road tours in riyadh.

• Hiking & Camping Tours
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• Up to 1 hour
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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