6 Best Cars For Camping In 2023: Gearing Up For Outdoor Fun

May 30, 2023

Are you looking for the best cars for camping? As the allure of the great outdoors continues to captivate adventure seekers, camping has become an increasingly popular recreational activity. With the right vehicle, you can explore scenic landscapes and immerse yourself in nature’s embrace.

This blog post will delve into the five best cars for camping in 2023. They offer comfort and practicality, allowing you to travel off the beaten path and enjoy the serenity of the wilderness.

So, let’s dive in and discover the top contenders that will make your camping trips truly remarkable!

What Are Cars For Camping?

Cars for camping can be used for camping and other outdoor activities. They generally lack the living space and luxuries of a traditional motorhome or camper. However, they can still be good options for your adventures.

These cars typically have extra storage space, elevated seating, and larger tires, enabling them to traverse more rugged terrain. Furthermore, these models are generally large and can carry all the essential camping items, from tents to cooking utensils.

Why Is It Important To Select The Right Vehicle For Camping? 

1. It Affects Passengers’ Comfort

A larger vehicle can provide you with much more space for passengers. If you have a bigger family of over five members, SUVs are the perfect choice to accommodate everyone. You’ll have a greater capacity for transporting your luggage, camping supplies, and stock.

2. It Ensures Safety

Safety measures are essential to reduce the likelihood of accidents and minimise the severity of any resulting injuries.

Cars over 30 may have drawbacks because they might lack modern safety features such as airbags and anti-lock brakes. This type of vehicle may also need to meet current federal safety standards due to its age. Additionally, smaller and lighter vehicles may come with difficulties when driving off-road.

3. It Helps Save Money And Reduce Environmental Impact

It’s best to choose fuel-efficient cars for camping to save money on gas and minimise carbon footprint. Hybrid and electric cars are typically more fuel efficient when compared to regular gasoline-powered vehicles. These types of automobiles offer much higher efficiency, using innovative technologies that allow them to consume less fuel over long distances.

Things To Consider Before Selecting A Car For Camping

Seats

Depending on the size of your camping party, you need a vehicle with enough seating capacity. So, better consider SUVs with a seating capacity of five to seven.

Opt for vehicles with fold-flat or removable seats. This lets you customise the interior layout according to your needs. It also allows for leisure activities like camping trips or weekend getaways.

Entertainment Options

Most modern family cars, such as sport utility vehicles, have an integrated entertainment system. If you have kids, consider investing in a model with a built-in interactive gaming feature. This would keep them engaged and entertained during long trips or commutes.

Examples of in-car entertainment systems include:

• Apple CarPlay or Android Auto: Hand-free car technology allows drivers to focus on the road instead of checking their phones. This is a significant benefit in terms of safety because it reduces the risk of potential road accidents.
• Rear passenger car entertainment system: Rear seat entertainment includes devices for passengers’ amusement in the car’s back seats. They can enjoy various web streaming applications, including Netflix and Disney Plus.
• Connectivity modules: Modern cars have various technologies, including Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth modules. These connect the system to external networks and other devices, such as navigation systems. Additionally, the system enables smartphone integration, allowing for further convenience when using the infotainment system in the car.
• Advanced vehicular functions: In-vehicle infotainment systems contain daytime running light indicators, parking assistance, and climate control to manage system functionalities. These advanced vehicular functions make driving more convenient.

Fuel Efficiency

When looking for an economical and suitable car for family trips, it is essential to consider fuel efficiency. This pertains to the amount of gas the vehicle consumes per mile driven, which can add to your expenses.

By opting for a more fuel-efficient car, you won’t have to worry about running out of gas too often. Vehicles with a fuel economy rating of less than 6 litres per 100 km are deemed economical.

Off-Road Capabilities

It is important to consider a vehicle with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) system. These vehicles can traverse various terrain and manage different weather conditions with ease. An AWD or 4WD system can securely get through most road conditions.

Roof Racks

Roof racks are indispensable car accessories beneficial during long drives. This equipment lets you store bulky items securely above the vehicle, giving you extra storage space.

Types Of Roof Racks

• Towers: Towers are designed to attach to factory roof racks or tracks. These are tailored for certain vehicles and mount securely onto those mounting points.
• Crossbars: Crossbars are horizontal bars affixed to the towers and offer a secure foundation for attaching any necessary equipment. They provide an ideal solution for anyone looking to store their belongings in a convenient place.
• Baskets: Baskets are a convenient and effective way to increase the storage capacity of your roof rack. These handy devices attach easily to the crossbars, creating a reliable foundation for larger items like duffel bags and coolers.

Best Cars For Camping

The best camping car will depend on your own unique needs and preferences. Here are our best picks.

2015 Toyota Landcruiser Prado KDJ150R MY14 Altitude Wagon 3.0L Diesel Turbo

• Drive Type: 4WD
• Seating Capacity: 7
• Fuel Consumption (Combined): 8.0L/100km
• Towing Weight Braked: 2500kg

The Land Cruiser Prado KDJ150R from 2015 has a 3.0L Diesel Turbo motor and provides strength, endurance, and luxury. This SUV is the ideal representation of power merged with comfort.

It features a 4WD drive type with a seating capacity of seven. It offers a thrilling journey wherever you go, perfect for adventurers seeking memorable moments.

Boasting a braked towing capacity of 2500kg, this vehicle easily tows camping trailers or boats, providing more opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Whether traversing rugged terrains or transporting your gear for a weekend getaway, this vehicle can make your camping adventures remarkable. Its superior performance, robust build quality, and outstanding maneuverability will give you a dependable, thrilling ride that won’t disappoint!

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe DM Highlander

• Drive Type: 4WD
• Seating Capacity: 7
• Fuel Consumption (Combined): 7.3L/100km
• Towing Weight Braked: 2000kg

The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe DM Highlander is the perfect car for camping trips. With its spacious seven seats and two-litre diesel engine, the Santa Fe is capable of carrying a large family and their gear on long trips. The four-wheel drive and six-speed automatic transmission ensure that the car can handle rough terrain with ease. The car also has a towing capacity of 2000kg, allowing it to easily haul a caravan or trailer.

The Santa Fe is also economical, with an average fuel consumption of 7.3L/100km, making it an efficient choice for family camping trips. The car also has a sporty automatic gearbox, providing a smooth and responsive ride.

It also has a range of safety features, including ABS brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control, making it a great choice for those who value safety. With its spacious interior, efficient engine, and range of safety features, it’s the perfect car for family camping trips.

2015 Jeep Cherokee KL MY15 Limited

• Drive Type: 4WD
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Fuel Consumption (Combined): 5.8L/100km
• Towing Weight Braked: 2393kg

The Jeep Cherokee KL MY15 Limited Red is ideal for anyone looking for a chic and reliable 4WD. When braked, it provides optimum comfort and a towing capacity of 2393 kg. With enough space for five passengers, this vehicle will take you wherever you go.

The Cherokee KL MY15 Limited Red offers an outstanding fuel consumption rate of 5.8L/100km, making it powerful and fuel efficient. Its nine-speed sports automatic transmission ensures seamless gear shifts and improves the overall driving experience through smooth accelerations and decelerations.

The MY15 Limited Red Cherokee KL Jeep of 2015 has a dazzling red tone that entices excitement, creating an incredible allure. This car is aesthetically pleasing and offers a perfect blend of style and performance in a conveniently compact size.

2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque L538 MY12 SD4 CommandShift Prestige White 6 Speed

• Drive Type: 4WD
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Fuel Consumption (Combined): 6.5L/100km
• Towing Weight Braked: 1800kg

The 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque L538 MY12 SD4 CommandShift Prestige is an SUV with luxury, power, and practicality. Its sleek exterior and powerful silhouette are admirable.

This SUV has a CommandShift 6-speed transmission and SD4 engine, providing a smooth and powerful driving experience. With its 4WD drive type, you can enjoy off-road capabilities, making it perfect for taking on any terrain.

Boasting a remarkably impressive fuel consumption rate of 6.5L/100km, the Evoque offers potent power and ideal fuel efficiency. In addition, its extraordinary towing capacity of 1800kg allows easily for transport of trailers or bulky equipment.

2012 Subaru XV G4X 2.0i AWD Wagon

• Drive Type: 4WD
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Fuel Consumption (Combined): 7.0L/100km
• Towing Weight Braked: 1400kg

The 2012 Subaru XV G4X 2.0i AWD Wagon is an excellent choice for camping. This vehicle has a powerful 2.0-litre engine, combined with a 6-speed Constant Variable transmission and All-Wheel Drive, that provides plenty of power and the ability to tackle any terrain.

The inside of the car offers plenty of room for up to five passengers, and the large trunk can easily fit all of your camping gear. The car also has a towing capacity of 1400kg, making it an ideal choice for towing a camper or trailer.

The fuel economy of the car is also excellent, with urban fuel consumption of 8.9L/100km. An extra urban fuel consumption of 5.9L/100km and a combined fuel consumption of 7L/100km. This means that you can enjoy your camping trips without worrying about the cost of fuel.

Overall, the 2012 Subaru XV G4X 2.0i AWD Wagon is an ideal car for camping trips. With its powerful engine, great fuel economy, and roomy interior, it is sure to provide a comfortable and enjoyable drive.

2012 Kia Sorento XM Sports Automatic Wagon

• Drive Type: 4WD
• Seating Capacity: 7
• Fuel Consumption (Combined): 7.4L/100km
• Towing Weight Braked: 2000kg

The 2012 Kia Sorento XM MY12 6 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon is an ideal car for camping. With its 5 doors and 7 seats, it’s great for accommodating a larger group of people.

The car is powered by a 4-cylinder 2.2-litre diesel engine and is equipped with a 6-speed sports automatic gearbox which provides a smooth and comfortable ride. The 4WD drive type also makes it suitable for tackling tougher terrain.

The fuel consumption of 9.5 litres/100km for city driving and 6.1 litres/100km for extra urban driving means that you won’t be spending too much money on fuel. Additionally, the wagon offers a braked towing weight of 2000kg, which is perfect for carrying any additional gear you may need for your camping trip.

Overall, the 2012 Kia Sorento XM MY12 6 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon is an excellent car for camping trips. With its combination of comfort, power, fuel efficiency, and towing capacity.

FAQs

Are There Any Affordable Camping Cars?

Yes, there are several affordable camping cars on the market. The price tag associated with a camping car can differ significantly depending on its size and features. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available that offer great value for money without breaking the bank. One option to consider when saving money is purchasing used cars.

Where Can I Find Used Cars I Can Take On Road Trips?

It is possible to find used cars for road trips from various places. These include car dealerships, online car marketplaces, and private sellers. Mad Man Motors is a car dealership in Wangara, Western Australia, where you can find affordable cars starting from $9990.

Can I Go Camping In A Sedan?

While there may be more commonly-selected options for camping, it is feasible to go camping in a sedan. However, given the limited space, you must pack wisely and carefully consider the best camping gear.

Wrapping Up the Best Cars For Camping in 2023

Camping vehicles have revolutionised how we experience outdoor adventures. These versatile vehicles offer the perfect combination of mobility, comfort, and flexibility. Ultimately, the best for your camping adventure will depend on your specific preferences. And the options we selected are a great place to start.

Mad Man Motors has earned a stellar reputation for its dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Our range of camping cars can ensure every trip becomes an extraordinary experience.

Visit our website or contact us today to explore our stock list and find the perfect one for your next adventure!