Whether you're sleeping in your car, camping out of your truck, or setting up beside your vehicle, we'll help you find the gear to sleep comfortably, carry what you need, and make camp feel like home. Not sure where to start? Choose what you're working on below.
CAR CAMPING GUIDES & HELP
REAL-WORLD CAR CAMPING EXPERIENCE
Car camping looks different depending on what you're driving and how you like to camp. You might sleep inside your SUV, set up a tent off the back, camp in your truck bed, or use your vehicle as home base for the campsite. At etrailer, we use and test tents, mattresses, awnings, cargo systems, camping gear, and other car camping equipment so you can see how it fits, how it sets up, and what to expect when you get to camp.With more than 75 years of helping neighbors, 35,000+ installations, and over 1 million photos and videos, we've worked with vehicle and camping setups firsthand and can help you find what works for your vehicle and the way you camp.
What do I need to start car camping?
Start with where you're going to sleep. Depending on your vehicle, that could mean sleeping inside on an air mattress, using an SUV or truck tent, or adding a rooftop tent. From there, think about seating, lighting, cooking, power, and how you'll carry and organize your gear.
How can I make more room for camping gear in my vehicle?
Start by keeping the things you'll need during the drive and at camp easy to reach. Interior organizers can help with smaller gear, while roof boxes, baskets, cargo bags, and hitch cargo carriers can move bulky equipment outside the passenger area. The best setup depends on what you're bringing and your vehicle's available roof or hitch capacity.
How can I make my car camping setup more comfortable?
Start with a comfortable place to sleep, then think about the space around your vehicle. A car awning can add shade or shelter, while camping chairs, a table, outdoor mat, and lighting can make the area beside your vehicle more useful for eating, relaxing, and spending time outside.
How can I stay clean while car camping?
Portable showers and toilets can make camping easier when facilities aren't nearby. Camping towels, toiletries, and a simple handwashing setup can also help. What you need depends on where you're camping, how long you'll be there, and what facilities you'll have access to.For ultimate convenience and hygiene, check out etrailer's Portable Bathroom page.
What should I bring when car camping with a pet?
Think about both the drive and the campsite. Bring food and water, a way to keep your pet secure at camp, and anything they need to sleep comfortably. Inside the vehicle, seat covers and pet barriers can help protect the interior and keep your setup organized.
Need Help Choosing?
Tell us what you're driving, how you plan to sleep, and what you want your campsite to look like. Call, chat, or send us a message, and we'll help you find car camping gear that works for your vehicle and the way you camp.
