Camping has many forms, from ultralight backpacking to tent camping and, of course, car camping. Car camping can have a few different meanings. For avid backpackers, car camping may mean any form of camping where you drive to a campsite rather than walk. To the team at Camp N Car, Car camping is the act of camping inside your car instead of a tent or trailer. Car camping can be as simple as spending a single night curled up in your box seat to escape nasty weather or as complex as living out of your car on a cross-country road trip. Whether you’re an avid camper who wants to streamline your sleeping arrangement for your next adventure or are entirely new to camping and feel more comfortable sleeping in your car than in a tent, we’re here to help. Continue reading below for The Camp N Car Guide to DIY Car Camping Conversions.
Car Camping Conversion Essentials
A car camping conversion isn’t nearly as time-consuming or costly as a van conversion. It can be as simple as folding down your back seats and laying out a sleeping pad or as complex as installing a custom-made sleeping platform and storage unit. Car camping essentials can be divided into four categories: Sleeping Essentials, Storage essentials, Cooking Essentials, and Campsite Essentials.
Car Camping Sleeping Essentials
Sleeping Bag
At a minimum, you’ll need a sleeping bag to car camp. If you don’t have a sleeping bag, shop for a sleeping bag with a temperature rating to suit your destination’s weather. Sleeping bags are either filled with down feathers or polyester fiber. Down sleeping bags have a superior warmth-to-weight ratio, making them ideal for cold-weather camping and backpacking. Polyester camping bags are more budget-friendly and moisture-resistant.
Sleeping Pad, Mattress, or Sleeping Platform
Level up from sleeping in your back seat and use a sleeping pad or mattress to maximize comfort while car camping. To make the most of your car camping setup, combine a sleeping platform with a mattress pad. Our Trunk Bunk is a great option for vehicles of all shapes and sizes.
Pillows and Blankets
While a pillow is not necessarily a camping essential, it makes things much more pleasant. Since you’re sleeping in your car, likely on a sleeping platform, you can add additional comfort, like extra pillows and blankets.
Window Shades
While they’re not completely necessary, window shades can add another level of privacy to your car camping setup.
Car Camping Storage Essentials
Cooler/ Food Storage
To store your food while car camping, you’ll need a cooler for cold food and a storage box or drawer for dry food. Some car camping builds feature shelves or a combination of shelves and drawers, which are also great options. We love our under-bunkside drawer for efficient storage.
Portable Stove
A portable stove is a must-have for car camping, allowing you to cook meals easily. Opt for a compact and reliable model that uses readily available fuel canisters. This will make preparing hot meals easy.
Cookware and Utensils
If you’re car camping, you’ll need basic cookware and utensils. Pack a lightweight pot, pan, and a set of utensils, including a spatula, spoon, and tongs. Don’t forget a sharp knife and a cutting board for food preparation.
Water Storage and Filtration
Water storage is a must if you’re dispersed camping or camping at sites without potable water. Adequate water storage is vital for cooking, drinking, and cleaning. Bring along water jugs or containers to store fresh water.
Car Camping Campsite Essentials
Camping Chairs
Comfortable camping chairs can make all the difference after a long day of adventuring. Choose chairs that are foldable and easy to store.
Lighting
It’s easy to get away with just a headlamp when camping, but proper lighting can take your campsite to the next level. If you want to add some ambiance to your camping experience, bring an LED lantern and string lights to illuminate your space.
Tarp or Awning
Escape the heat and inclement weather with a well-placed tarp or awning. Set one up over your cooking area or use it to create an outdoor living space. Shade is a hot commodity in the outdoors.
Camp N Car is your one-stop shop for all things car camping. Whether you’re a first-time camper or an experienced adventurer, our car camping conversion kits will help you make the most of your time in nature.