Car camping combines the joy of outdoor adventure with the convenience of having your vehicle nearby. It’s the perfect opportunity to disconnect, unwind in nature, and still enjoy many of the comforts of home. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the experience, having the right gear can make all the difference between an enjoyable trip and one filled with unnecessary discomfort.

Here’s a guide to the best car camping gear to ensure you're prepared for a cozy and memorable outdoor adventure. From sleeping essentials to cooking tools, we’ve got you covered!

1. Sleeping Gear for a Restful Night

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential when camping, especially after a day filled with outdoor activities. Car camping allows you to pack bulkier but more comfortable sleeping items than traditional backpacking.

Sleeping Pad or Air Mattress

  • Look for a thick, durable sleeping pad or inflatable air mattress designed for outdoor use. Brands like Therm-a-Rest or Exped offer high-quality options that provide excellent insulation and cushioning against uneven ground.
  • If you have extra space in your vehicle, consider a self-inflating mattress like the REI Camp Bed 3.5, which combines comfort with ease of setup.

Sleeping Bag

  • Choose a sleeping bag suited to the season and location of your camping trip. A three-season sleeping bag with a temperature rating around 20°F, like the Marmot Trestles 30, is versatile and reliable.
  • For added comfort, consider a sleeping bag liner, which can provide extra warmth and make cleaning easier.

Pillow

  • Don’t skimp on a good pillow! Options like the Nemo Fillo combine memory foam with a compact design for both comfort and portability.

2. Cooking Essentials for Delicious Campfire Meals

One of the joys of camping is cooking and eating in the great outdoors, but it’s important to have the right tools to make the process enjoyable and efficient.

Camping Stove

  • A portable camping stove is a must for car camping. The Coleman Classic Propane Stove is a popular choice with two burners and excellent heat output, perfect for cooking multiple dishes at once.
  • For a more advanced option, the Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System offers superior performance and compact storage.

Cookware and Utensils

  • Invest in a durable cookware set like the GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Camper Set, which includes pots, pans, plates, and utensils designed for camping.
  • Don’t forget utensils, including spatulas, tongs, and a can opener. A compact all-in-one utensil like the OXO 3-in-1 Camping Tool can save space.

Cooler

  • Keep your food fresh with a reliable cooler. YETI coolers, such as the YETI Tundra 45, are known for their ice retention and durability, making them a great investment for car camping trips.

Cleaning Supplies

  • Bring along a collapsible sink, biodegradable soap, and a sponge to make cleanup easy. The Sea to Summit Kitchen Sink is a portable, space-saving option.

3. Lighting for Your Campsite

Adequate lighting is important for safety and convenience during your trip. Whether you’re navigating your campsite or reading before bed, the right lighting gear makes all the difference.

Lanterns

  • A reliable lantern is essential for illuminating your campsite. The Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 Lantern is rechargeable and provides adjustable brightness for different scenarios.
  • For a budget-friendly option, the Black Diamond Moji Lantern offers compact and bright lighting that’s perfect for car camping.

Headlamps

  • A hands-free option like the Petzl Actik Core Headlamp is great for setting up a tent in the dark or walking to a nearby restroom. Look for one with multiple brightness settings.

String Lights

  • Add ambiance to your campsite with outdoor string lights like the REVEL GEAR Trail Hound Lights. They’re lightweight, USB-powered, and create a cozy atmosphere.

4. Comfort Gear to Enhance Your Experience

Part of the appeal of car camping is bringing items that make your outdoor stay more comfortable. These extras can significantly improve your overall experience.

Camp Chairs

  • A comfortable chair is a must for enjoying a campfire or relaxing under the stars. The Helinox Chair One is lightweight and packs down small, or opt for the REI Co-op Camp X Chair if you prefer a sturdier, budget-friendly choice.

Camp Table

  • If your site doesn’t include a picnic table, a foldable camp table like the ALPS Mountaineering Eclipse Table provides an easy-to-carry solution for meals and games.

Blankets

  • Layer up with a cozy outdoor blanket like the water-resistant Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket for extra warmth on chilly evenings.

Bug Control

  • Keep pests at bay with products like Thermacell Patio Shield, which creates a mosquito-free zone, or citronella candles for a pleasant and bug-free experience.

5. Organizational Tools

Staying organized can simplify your camping experience and help you focus on having a good time.

Storage Bins

  • Plastic bins with snap-on lids are perfect for storing food, cooking supplies, and other gear in your vehicle. Label them for easy access.

Roof Box

  • For those traveling with limited trunk space, a rooftop cargo box like the Thule Motion XT provides extra storage for bulky items.

Packing Cubes

  • Keep clothes and smaller items organized with packing cubes, which make finding what you need a breeze when car camping.

6. Personal Care and Safety

It’s essential to stay comfortable, clean, and safe during your camping adventure.

Portable Shower

  • A portable camping shower like the Nemo Helio Pressure Shower provides refreshing cleanup options, especially if you’re camping for multiple days.

First Aid Kit

  • Accidents can happen, so it’s crucial to have a well-stocked first aid kit like the Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series for minor scrapes and injuries.

Portable Toilet or Privacy Tent

  • For added convenience, include a portable toilet setup or a pop-up privacy tent for changing or showering.

7. Entertainment and Extras

Adding a few fun items to your gear list can make your camping trip even more enjoyable.

Games

  • From classic card games to portable outdoor options like bocce ball or cornhole, bring activities everyone can enjoy.

Books or Journals

  • Capture memories or relax with a good book by the campfire. Lightweight and portable options, like a field journal, double as entertainment and keepsakes.

Portable Speaker

  • Bring a Bluetooth speaker, like the JBL Flip 5, to enjoy music or podcasts responsibly at your campsite.

Car camping is a fantastic way to explore the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. With the right gear, you can enjoy a cozy sleeping setup, delicious meals, and a welcoming campsite.