Best Vehicles For Camping in 2023: Vans, Truks, SUV & Trucks

Camping is an age-old hobby many love to indulge in, yet it also comes with significant responsibilities. Spending time in nature is crucial to our overall health, so ensure a memorable camping experience using quality gear, such as The Best Vehicles For Camping.

Selecting The Best Camping Van:

There are various factors to consider when selecting the optimal camping van, including size and type, number of passengers using it and amenities desired.

Size should be taken into consideration when purchasing a camping van. If you have a large family or group camping, finding one large enough to house all comfortably will be essential. Van sizes vary from small cargo vans to full-sized passenger vans; select one that meets all your needs while remaining manageable for easy manoeuvring.

Finding a Camping Van

Your choice of camping van should depend on your individual needs and preferences. Cargo vans can be great for hauling gear but may not provide as comfortable a sleeping space as passenger vans. Meanwhile, passenger vans typically provide more room with features like captain’s chairs and rear air conditioning, though these might cost more. Select one suitable for your trip!

Consideration must also be given to how many people will use the van, especially if travelling as part of a large group or family. Vans typically accommodate seven to 15 passengers, so choose one appropriate for your group size.

Once again, decide the amenities you require in your camping van. If you plan on spending a lot of time outside, an outdoor kitchen could come in handy; or for maximum relaxation, look for one equipped with features such as a television and music player. Choose the features most important to you and your family members.

Gear You Need For Van Camping:

Before venturing out into van camping, there are certain essentials you’ll need to have a pleasant and satisfying experience: here is a short list of gear that may come in handy:

• Attractive sleeping arrangements could include an air mattress, sleeping bag and pillows;
• an efficient stove or campfire grill for cooking purposes;
• a cooler to prevent food and drinks from spoiling;
• as well as plenty of storage containers to house food, cooking gear, clothes and personal effects.
• Basic cleaning supplies include wipes, a small broom, a dustpan, and garbage bags.
• Also essential is an emergency first-aid kit in case any accidents arise.
• Activities and games to keep everyone entertained.

A comfortable van sleeper to accommodate you as you store all your gear will make for a smooth van camping adventure, but with some planning and preparation, you should be all set for a fantastic adventure.

Selecting a Van Based on Your Camping Trip

When planning a camping trip, one of the first considerations should be what kind of camping trip it will be – staying put or moving frequently. Your camping type will ultimately dictate which vehicle would best serve as transportation on this adventure.

An RV or trailer would be ideal if you plan to stay put for an extended period. They offer all the comforts of home while still giving you access to nature – plus, there are various sizes so that your group can find one that best meets their needs.

If you travel between locations, a van or SUV would be an ideal way to transport your gear quickly and without worrying about parking it all in one place. Furthermore, taking advantage of scenic drives and off-the-beaten-path campsites makes your travel more enjoyable!

No matter the nature of your camping adventure, there is a vehicle explicitly tailored to meet its needs. By doing your research before choosing one, you can ensure an unforgettable experience wherever your travels may lead you.

Best Trucks For Camping

Best Trucks for Camping To be suitable for camping, a pickup truck requires solid attributes across the board: strong towing capacity, wide bed space and an effective set of tires with a comfortable seating capacity for five. These are among the finest models on offer today.

1. Ford F-150

The iconic F-150 truck is one of America’s best-selling models and one of the premier camping vehicles. As one of the Best Vehicles For Camping, its size and strength allow it to comfortably navigate any campsite, while its 50″ bed accommodates four-wheel ATVs easily. There are five seats inside, which fold into an expansive sleeping area for two. Thanks to its immense popularity, modifications and upgrades can also be done more affordably with this classic F-150.

2. Chevrolet Colorado ZR2

The Colorado ZR2 from Chevy is their top camping truck. With two inches taller suspension than its original model and plenty of potential off-road mods available, making this versatile vehicle. Although its mid-size bed offers less storage space than others on this list, it still tows 1,300 pounds and boasts one of the more spacious back seats among pickups.

3. Honda Ridgeline

The Ridgeline is an SUV among pickup trucks, offering similar handling and seating space as other SUVs on this list. Furthermore, its sizable truck bed includes waterproof trunk storage to make heavy packing easy; Honda also provides each model with a fitted camping tent that fits inside its mattress for car camping adventures.

4. Jeep Gladiator

The Gladiator stands up to Jeep’s reputation of producing exceptional off-road vehicles and handles like a classic pickup. It comes with features you’d expect from one, including removable doors, a detachable roof and a fold-down windshield – plus, you can make many mechanical adjustments before or post-purchase to meet your outdoor needs.

Best Vans For Camping

For groups with more than five people camping together, vans with great fuel economy and ample storage capacity are the optimal vehicle choice. Here are three minivans (and one cargo van) suitable for such an expedition.

1. Chrysler Pacifica

When it comes to minivans, few can compare with the Chrysler Pacifica for its all-wheel drive (AWD) ability and up to 25 MPG highway mileage. Furthermore, when equipped with stow-and-go seating (if applicable), this vehicle provides ample sleeping area with its second and third-row fold-down seats providing space.

2. Toyota Sienna

The Sienna is another van equipped with AWD capabilities and slightly higher ground clearance than its Pacifica counterpart. Additionally, climate control settings make this model the most comfortable car for sleeping on our list, while hybrid models provide enough electricity to power any devices that might be necessary.

3. Honda Odyssey

The Odyssey is much larger than its counterparts, offering plenty of space for storage, seating, and sleeping. Furthermore, due to its popularity, proper preventive maintenance is easy and affordable, making this model an excellent option for experienced campers looking to convert vans into mobile homes.

4. Ford Transit Connect

The Transit Connect is an unrivalled cargo van when it comes to seating and storage space compared to minivans, making it ideal for four sleepers comfortably. Although adults won’t be able to stand upright comfortably while riding, its seating and storage capabilities still allow four sleepers. Many may hesitate to buy cargo vans because of high fuel consumption costs. Still, the Transit Reach can reach 29 mpg on highways while remaining much more cost-effective than comparable vehicles from Dodge, Mercedes-Benz or other manufacturers.

Best SUVs For Camping

There are many excellent SUVs on the market, but we narrowed it down to seven that are suitable for camping. They provide reliable off-road capabilities, exceptional gas mileage and provide enough space for sleeping quarters.

1. Toyota 4Runner

The 4Runner has been one of the best all-around outdoor adventure vehicles available. Boasting four-wheel drive (4WD), 5,000-pound towing capacity and legendary durability, this four-door vehicle can withstand decades of use with 300k+ miles on its odometer before needing major maintenance work or replacements.

2. Subaru Outback

Subaru’s Outback is their finest camping vehicle to date, boasting AWD, generous ground clearance, minivan-like storage space and additional safety features that provide all you need for camping trips. When its back seats are folded down for sleeping space for two, making this vehicle ideal as both highway and off-road travel companions.

3. Jeep Grand Cherokee

Jeep’s Grand Cherokee Trailhawk model is one of the premier off-road vehicles available today. Skilfully handling rugged terrain and towing capacity to an incredible 7,200 pounds maximum capacity. Furthermore, one of the few remaining vehicles in its class to feature a powerful V8 engine gives extra power when traversing through mud or climbing steep hills.

4. Nissan Pathfinder

The Pathfinder stands out with its aerodynamic frame and top-class navigation. Capable of towing up to 6,000 pounds, three rows of seating make it a top pick among prominent families. At the same time, more modern versions feature cutting-edge telematics systems to improve safety and efficiency – Nissan’s creative team knew exactly what they were doing when they named this vehicle “Pathfinder.”

5. Volvo V90 Cross Country

The Volvo V90 may be one of the more luxurious SUVs on this list, yet it still belongs among well-known outdoor vehicles. Equipped with its B6 powertrain and all-wheel drive capabilities, it can handle virtually any off-road environment. At the same time, its spacious and comfortable five-seat interior make for a pleasant riding experience. In terms of ground clearance alone, it tops all other SUVs.

6. Rivian R1T

We wanted to include at least one all-electric vehicle, and the Rivian R1T is an excellent option. Offering two battery options of 400 and 314 miles respectively – generous amounts among electric SUVs – its AWD feature provides different drive modes to cover sand, snow and other terrain types; its built-in camp stove accessory completes this impressive package.

7. Volkswagen Golf Alltrack

The Golf Alltrack stands out among SUVs by being smaller, which only works to its advantage. As its name implies, its AWD and 4WD features offer superior handling in any environment, turning dirt roads into suburban drives. Perfect for solo or couples adventuring trips alike!

Best Van Camping Destinations

Joshua Tree National Park in California offers an ideal destination for van camping due to its abundance of camping sites, hiking opportunities and other recreational pursuits. Additionally, its mild weather makes for comfortable van camping over extended periods.

Olympic National Park in Washington State provides another excellent van camping destination. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery, there are several camping sites to choose from here, making this a fantastic spot to camp and explore. Even during rainstorms, it remains an enjoyable place for camping and sightseeing!

Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area provides an ideal experience if you prefer rustic van camping. An expansive network of lakes and rivers, there are primitive campsites throughout its expanse. Also popular among paddlers for canoeing and kayaking adventures, this natural habitat makes an excellent place for adventure on the water!

Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most memorable van camping destinations. Offering an abundance of camping sites and activities like hiking, biking and horseback riding; not to mention some historical sites dotted throughout; these mountains make an incredible setting for van camping adventures!

Be it to escape daily stressors or explore and learn new things, there is sure to be an ideal van camping site for you.

How To Find the Campervan Parking?

Finding parking spots for a campervan may prove challenging, so here are a few strategies that should help:

• Before your trip, research campervan parking options in your desired destinations. Look out for campsites, RV parks or any other designated spaces which accommodate campervans as a possible parking solution.
• Utilize Camping Apps: There are various camping apps that can assist in the search for suitable campervan parking spots. These applications offer information regarding nearby campsites, RV parks and parking areas that could suit you perfectly.
• Confirm with Local Authorities: To check any regulations or restrictions surrounding campervan parking in a given location, check with local authorities such as city councils, tourist information centers or police departments.
• Search for free parking areas: Some cities or towns may provide designated free parking areas for campervans; keep an eye out for signs indicating this or get in touch with local authorities to find these spaces.
• Consider Overnight Parking: Some truck stops, rest stops and Walmart parking lots offer overnight camping spaces; it is best to check before parking overnight in these establishments.
• Be respectful: When parking your campervan, always show consideration for both its surroundings and fellow campers. Adhere to any rules or regulations posted and refrain from parking it anywhere that’s not designated specifically for campervans.

Finding parking for a campervan requires some careful thought and research. Utilize camping apps, check with local authorities, and be respectful to the environment to locate suitable spaces for parking your campervan.

Find a Vehicle to Enhance Your Camping Experience

Experienced campers and outdoor enthusiasts form close bonds with their vehicles. Their cars serve as protective barriers against harsh elements, transport them to new territories, and help them cross items off their bucket lists. If you want an unforgettable camping adventure, look closely at these trucks, vans, and SUVs.

Finally, here is a wonderful video by Living Van Life youtube channel explains the van camping and guide you to your safe camping process.

Author Bio: 

Jack Shaw is an avid writer and regular contributor to Modded.com, a men’s lifestyle site. In his free time, Jack enjoys kayaking and reading.