Choosing the right vehicle for a camping trip can be just as important as picking the right tent. The best cars for camping are the ones that can get you and your gear to the campsite safely and comfortably, whether that's a paved spot at a national park or a remote clearing down a dirt road. This means looking for vehicles with ample and flexible cargo space for everything from coolers to sleeping bags, and in many cases, the added confidence of all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) to handle unpredictable weather and terrain. A good camping vehicle should also offer a comfortable ride for long journeys and practical features like durable interiors and roof rails for extra storage.
This guide showcases a wide variety of vehicles that excel in different camping scenarios. For those who need to haul heavy gear or tow a trailer, a pickup truck like the Ram 1500 or the adventurous Jeep Gladiator might be the perfect fit. If maximizing secure, weather-proof interior space is the priority, a minivan like the Kia Carnival or a versatile cargo van such as the Ford Transit offers cavernous room for families and equipment. For adventurers looking to get off the beaten path, rugged SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner and Subaru Outback provide the necessary ground clearance and off-road technology to reach remote destinations. There are even options for those who prefer a sportier drive, like the AWD Subaru WRX, proving you don't always need a large vehicle to enjoy the great outdoors.
To help you find the perfect match for your adventures, we've compiled this list based on a comprehensive set of criteria. Our recommendations are rooted in the detailed testing and expert ratings of our automotive journalists. We also incorporate real-world feedback from thousands of owners who live with these vehicles every day. Finally, we analyze market data from CarGurus listings to identify models that consistently offer a high percentage of "Good" or "Great" deals. This combined approach, which generates our Overall CarGurus rating, ensures our guide highlights vehicles that deliver on performance, reliability, and value.
Best Cars for Camping
- Ram 1500
- Toyota 4Runner
- Kia Carnival
- Dodge Durango
- Hyundai Santa Cruz
- Ford Transit Cargo
- Subaru WRX
- Volvo XC40
- Subaru Outback
- Jeep Gladiator
FAQs What Makes CarGurus Best Cars Guides Different Shopping Tools Related Topics
1. Ram 1500
CarGurus expert rating: 8.0 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 33.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Multiple powertrain options | Advanced safety features are not standard |
| Premium interior materials in high-end models | No base two-door work truck |
| Luxurious and off-road-ready models offered |
When it comes to camping, the 2026 Ram 1500 is purpose-built to deliver the space, comfort, and capability you need for your next adventure. With a choice of 10 trim levels and four different powertrains—including the return of the legendary 5.7-liter Hemi V8 producing 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque—there’s a Ram 1500 to suit a wide range of camping lifestyles. The Crew Cab configuration offers abundant head, shoulder, and legroom for four adults, ensuring everyone stays comfortable on long hauls to the campsite. The available RamBox cargo management system adds waterproof, lockable storage in the bed—ideal for keeping camping gear, muddy boots, or firewood dry and secure without sacrificing cabin space.
Inside, the Ram 1500 features smart storage solutions and tech that make camping trips easier. The center console is large enough to stow a 16-inch laptop, jackets, and gloves, while the available 12-inch touchscreen keeps navigation and entertainment at your fingertips. The Multifunction Tailgate and optional RamBox make loading, unloading, and organizing gear a breeze, especially after a long day in the great outdoors. Towing is another strong suit, with maximum ratings of up to 11,320 pounds (with the Hemi V8), so hauling a camper or trailer is well within reach. Add in a comfortable ride, available off-road models, and practical tech like wireless charging and multiple USB ports, and you’ve got a camping companion that’s as versatile as your weekends.
The CarGurus Verdict: "There’s a lot to like about the 2026 Ram 1500, including its characterful Hemi V8. But if you’re looking for the best version of Ram’s popular pickup, you should think long and hard about how you plan to use the truck. With 10 trim levels and two cab sizes and bed lengths to go along with its four powertrain choices, there are plenty of ways to configure a Ram truck to your exact needs." - Jeremy Korzeniewski
Read our most recent Ram 1500 review
2. Toyota 4Runner
CarGurus expert rating: 7.7 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 32.7% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Limited rear-seat space |
| Excellent off-road abilities | |
| Relatively fuel efficient |
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is purpose-built for outdoor adventures, making it a top pick for camping enthusiasts who want to get off the beaten path. Its rugged body-on-frame construction, available four-wheel drive, and trims specifically engineered for off-roading (like the TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter) mean you’ll have confidence tackling dirt roads, steep trails, and remote campsites. With approach angles up to 33 degrees, departure angles up to 24 degrees, and up to 10.1 inches of ground clearance in the most capable trims, you can access campsites others simply can’t. The sturdy factory roof rack can support up to 800 lbs of static load—perfect for mounting an overlanding tent or extra gear.
Practicality is also a strong suit: the 4Runner offers up to 44.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row (42.6 cu ft in hybrid models), which is generous for stowing camping gear, coolers, and adventure equipment. Toyota has designed the interior with usability in mind, featuring chunky controls that are easy to operate with gloves on, and a sliding rear window for quick access to the cargo area—handy for grabbing gear while parked. Modern tech touches include available multi-terrain cameras, wireless smartphone integration, and a robust suite of driver assistance features, making the 4Runner as comfortable navigating remote trails as it is cruising to your favorite state park.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Toyota doesn't throw out the formula with its newly redesigned 4Runner. Instead, the 2025 model keeps many of the features shoppers have loved for over a decade, while also adding a more contemporary selection of four-cylinder powertrains." - Mark Takahashi
Read our most recent Toyota 4Runner review
3. Kia Carnival
CarGurus expert rating: 8.2 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 31.7% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Mixed safety ratings |
| Powerful engine | No hybrid or all-wheel drive options |
| Excellent value for money | Kia doesn’t make folding the seats easy |
Whether you’re heading out for a weekend under the stars or a family road trip to a national park, the Kia Carnival has the versatility to support your camping adventures. Its flexible seating—seven-passenger standard or eight-passenger on upper trims—makes it easy to bring friends, family, and all your gear. The Carnival is especially impressive when it comes to cargo space, offering a class-leading 40.2 cubic feet behind the third row and a cavernous 145.1 cubic feet when both rear rows are folded. The deep cargo well helps secure camping equipment or coolers, though unloading may require a little extra reach. Plus, the Carnival’s sliding doors and low step-in height make loading up sleeping bags, tents, and even bikes a breeze, especially compared to SUVs.
On the road, the Carnival’s 290-hp V6 engine and 262 lb-ft of torque deliver strong, smooth performance—ideal for hauling gear or even towing a small trailer (up to 3,500 pounds). The comfortable ride, quiet interior, and available features like tri-zone climate control and a Wi-Fi hotspot help keep everyone happy on the drive to your campsite. Tech touches like USB ports in all three rows mean everyone’s devices stay charged, and the available cabin intercom lets you keep tabs on the crew in the back. While the Carnival doesn’t offer all-wheel drive or a hybrid option, its value pricing, long warranty, and abundance of family-friendly features make it a standout for camping families.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Carnival offers a great driving experience and excellent warranty, but these upsides are tainted by a lack of all-wheel drive and mixed safety ratings." - Stephen Edelstein
Read our most recent Kia Carnival review
4. Dodge Durango
CarGurus expert rating: 7.2 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 33.5% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning performance | Unquenchable thirst for fuel |
| Roomy, comfortable, and practical interior | Basic package of safety features |
| Modern infotainment system | Unimpressive crash-test ratings |
The Dodge Durango is a powerhouse among midsize SUVs, making it a top contender for families and adventurers who want comfort and capability for camping trips. With seating for up to six and a cavernous cargo area that maxes out at 85.1 cubic feet, the Durango easily swallows tents, coolers, and bulky camping gear. The available 710-hp supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the SRT Hellcat trim delivers a staggering 645 lb-ft of torque, making towing up to 8,700 pounds a breeze—perfect for hauling boats or campers to your favorite outdoor destinations. Even base models provide a practical, well-thought-out cabin with clever storage, a convenient power liftgate, and easy access to all three rows.
Beyond its brute strength, the Durango brings modern amenities to the campsite. Every 2025 model is equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a robust Wi-Fi hotspot—handy for staying connected off the grid. Rear-seat passengers benefit from their own climate controls, USB ports, and even a household power outlet for charging devices. While fuel economy is not its strong suit, the Durango’s versatility and comfort make it ideal for longer road trips and remote camping adventures where space, towing, and passenger comfort count most.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Though the Durango is now 15 years old, it has aged remarkably well and remains a likable if flawed midsize three-row SUV. However, time waits for no vehicle, and the Dodge Durango has reached the end of its road. For now." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Dodge Durango review
5. Hyundai Santa Cruz
CarGurus expert rating: 8.2 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 32.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fun to drive | On-pavement handling with all-terrain tires |
| Impressive technology | Cramped back seat |
| Great warranty | Not much cargo space |
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a smart choice for campers seeking a vehicle that’s easy to live with, both on the road and at the campsite. Built on the foundation of the Tucson crossover SUV, the Santa Cruz combines the comfort and maneuverability of an SUV with the open-bed utility of a small pickup. Its 4-foot cargo bed features a locking in-floor trunk—great for stashing camping gear out of sight—and in higher trims, you’ll find all-terrain tires and a retractable tonneau cover for added security and versatility. Even with a compact footprint, the Santa Cruz offers clever in-cabin storage solutions and a host of tie-downs and adjustable cleats in the bed, making it ideal for hauling everything from coolers to tents.
Where the Santa Cruz truly shines for campers is in its feature-rich cabin and technology. Every trim now comes standard with a slick 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus navigation and Bluelink+ connected services. The ride is comfortable for long drives to your favorite campsite, and the available turbocharged engine (281 hp, 311 lb-ft of torque) makes merging and passing easy, even if you’re hauling gear or a small trailer (up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped). While rear-seat space is a bit tight for taller adults, the front seats are well-cushioned and heated in most trims, and the Santa Cruz’s compact size makes it easy to maneuver into tight camping spots where larger trucks might struggle.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Based on the Hyundai Tucson compact crossover SUV, the Santa Cruz is not about towing the most weight, carrying the largest and heaviest loads, or driving to off-the-grid locations. Instead, it’s perfect for weekend do-it-yourself projects, hauling bulky items home from the big-box store, and carrying adventure gear on day trips. The 2025 Santa Cruz is better at these tasks than ever, thanks to new tech, styling updates, and off-roading enhancements." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Hyundai Santa Cruz review
6. Ford Transit Cargo
CarGurus expert rating: 7.7 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 28.6% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Multiple powertrain options | Fairly pedestrian performance |
| Multiple body styles | Advanced safety features are not standard |
| Comfortable |
If you’re searching for a versatile and comfortable vehicle to transform into a camping haven, the Ford Transit Cargo makes an incredibly strong case. Available in regular, long, and extended wheelbases, plus low-, medium-, and high-roof variants, the Transit can be tailored to fit nearly any camping setup, from minimalist weekenders to full-blown vanlife conversions. Medium- and high-roof versions give most adults enough headroom to stand up inside, making it much easier to cook, change, or just stretch out after a day on the trail. The Transit’s layout is packed with practical storage, including clever cupholders, deep door pockets, and handy dash trays—perfect for keeping your gear organized on the road. Under the hood, the Transit offers a choice between a standard 3.5-liter V6 (275 hp, 262 lb-ft of torque) and an optional 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 (310 hp, 400 lb-ft of torque) for those who want extra muscle for hauling gear or towing a small trailer. The available all-wheel drive and multiple drive modes—including Slippery and Mud/Ruts—make the Transit adaptable for off-the-grid adventures and unpredictable weather. Standard safety features like lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking boost peace of mind, while available upgrades such as heated seats and SYNC 3 infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto help turn your mobile campsite into a comfortable home base.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Ford Transit is a versatile blank canvas for different equipment setups. The Transit also offers available all-wheel drive, newly standard safety technology, and creature comforts that its hard-working drivers could only dream about years ago." - George Kennedy
Read our most recent Ford Transit Cargo review
7. Subaru WRX
CarGurus expert rating: 7.7 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 25.7% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Unintuitive technology |
| Great handling | Poor value for money |
| Manual transmission available | Less cargo space than rivals |
If you're looking for a sporty sedan that can double as a camping trip companion, the Subaru WRX offers a unique blend of performance and practicality. With standard all-wheel drive and a 271-hp turbocharged engine delivering 258 lb-ft of torque, the WRX is ready for everything from winding mountain roads to muddy trailheads. While its 12.5 cubic feet of trunk space is slightly less than some competitors, the WRX makes up for it with a split-folding rear seat and standard roof rack mounts, expanding your cargo-carrying options for tents, coolers, or outdoor gear. The WRX’s excellent outward visibility and comfortable, durable interior also mean you’ll enjoy the drive to your campsite just as much as the destination.
For campers who value tech and safety on the road, the WRX includes the Subaru Starlink infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a suite of advanced driver aids (when equipped with the CVT), including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The WRX earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, so you can head out on your next adventure with confidence. While the trunk isn't the biggest in the class, the WRX's blend of capability, ruggedness, and reasonable fuel economy (up to 22 mpg combined) make it a solid pick for those who want their camping car to be as much fun on the way home as it is on the way out.
The CarGurus Verdict: "A fully loaded WRX GT isn't exactly the fantastic value this model is known for, but it is a well-equipped car with significant bandwidth. It can function as both a practical daily driver and a performance car that lives up to the WRX name, albeit with a less-rambunctious character than previous generations." - Stephen Edelstein
Read our most recent Subaru WRX review
8. Volvo XC40
CarGurus expert rating: 7.5 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 36.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Not much cargo space |
| Multiple powertrain options | Recharge model is expensive |
| Comfortable |
The Volvo XC40 offers Scandinavian style, practical features, and robust safety credentials, making it a strong candidate for camping enthusiasts who want a touch of refinement in the wild. Though compact, the XC40 offers a comfortable interior with supportive seats for long road trips and plenty of thoughtful storage solutions, such as large door pockets and a flexible center console. The power tailgate and available all-wheel drive (AWD) add convenience and confidence for those venturing off paved roads or packing up camping gear. With up to 46.9 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded, the XC40 can fit tents, sleeping bags, and other essentials, though it falls short of the BMW X1 and Audi Q3 in outright cargo capacity. For campers who want versatility, the 2023 XC40 lineup includes both mild-hybrid gasoline engines and the fully electric XC40 Recharge. The B5 AWD model delivers 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, providing enough punch for climbing mountain roads or towing small trailers up to 3,500 pounds. If you choose the Recharge, you get even more muscle—402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque—plus a higher towing capacity of 4,409 pounds and an EPA-rated 223-mile range. Inside, the minimalist cabin design and available panoramic moonroof create a relaxing environment, while standard safety tech and Google-powered infotainment help keep trips to the campsite easy and stress-free.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The 2023 Volvo XC40 is a competent luxury subcompact crossover, boasting the refined driving experience and upscale design expected of a high-end brand... the XC40 still has everything needed in a good entry-level luxury vehicle. Newer doesn’t always mean better." - Stephen Edelstein
Read our most recent Volvo XC40 review
9. Subaru Outback
CarGurus expert rating: 7.2 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 26.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong off-road capabilities | Higher trim levels have diminishing returns |
| Comfortable | |
| Plenty of cargo space |
The 2026 Subaru Outback is an ideal choice for campers and outdoor enthusiasts, blending SUV-like ruggedness with the classic utility of a wagon. Its interior boasts a generous 146.9 cubic feet of total volume and up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded—enough room for tents, coolers, and all your camping essentials. The Outback's roof rack is robust, supporting up to 100 pounds on the move or a whopping 800 pounds when parked, making it perfect for mounting overlanding tents or additional gear boxes. With features like a power liftgate, low cargo floor, and innovative multifunction cargo cover, loading and organizing your camping equipment is easier than ever.
When your campsite is off the beaten path, the Outback's standard all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance (or 9.5 inches in the upcoming Wilderness trim) ensure you can get there with confidence. Both available engines—a 180-hp 2.5-liter boxer-four and a 260-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter—offer capable performance, while the X-Mode system and available all-terrain tires boost traction on rough terrain. Inside, you'll find comfort for the whole crew, large cupholders and door pockets for water bottles, and an interior designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. Combined with strong fuel economy and a suite of advanced safety features, the Outback is ready for any camping trip.
The CarGurus Verdict: "In terms of price, performance, and practicality, we found no notable flaws with the redesigned Outback, making it a top choice for adventure-bound shoppers." - Mark Takahashi
Read our most recent Subaru Outback review
10. Jeep Gladiator
CarGurus expert rating: 5.3 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 36.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Top and doors come off | Poor fuel economy |
| Fun to drive | Uncompetitive towing/payload capacity |
| Impressive off-road | Advanced safety features are not standard |
If camping off the beaten path is your style, the Jeep Gladiator is worth a look for its unique blend of midsize pickup practicality and open-air adventure. The Gladiator offers the rare ability to remove the top and doors, giving you a true outdoor experience whether you're deep in the forest or parked next to a mountain lake. With 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque from its 3.6-liter V6, plus standard four-wheel drive, this Jeep is ready for rough terrain, hauling your gear to remote campsites, and handling bumpy roads that would leave many rivals behind. The five-foot steel cargo bed is ideal for stowing tents, coolers, and outdoor equipment, and available trail-focused trims like the Mojave add even more capability for tackling rugged landscapes.
Inside, the Gladiator is built for active weekends, offering a spacious front seat area and clever options like a locking storage compartment under the rear seat for valuables. While the rear seats are tight, they're typical for a midsize pickup, and amenities like available power-adjustable heated seats and multiple USB ports make longer trips more comfortable. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keeps you connected even when you're off the grid, and optional features like the spray-in bedliner and Trail Rail system help protect your cargo and keep it organized. While fuel economy and on-road refinement aren't strong points, few trucks deliver the same level of open-air freedom and trail-ready versatility for campers.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Unique among pickup trucks, the Jeep Gladiator is an appealing alternative to the status quo. That’s especially true if you value open-air driving or you plan to tackle untrodden territory. But for serious towing and hauling tasks, there are better choices than the Gladiator." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Jeep Gladiator review
Best Cars for Camping FAQs
What's more important for camping: cargo space or off-road capability? This depends entirely on your camping style. If you camp with a large family or have lots of gear and stick to established campgrounds, a vehicle with massive cargo space like the Kia Carnival or Ford Transit is ideal. If your goal is to reach remote, undeveloped campsites, then the off-road prowess of a Toyota 4Runner, Subaru Outback, or Jeep Gladiator is more important.
Can a sedan be a good car for camping? Absolutely. A capable sedan with the right features can be great for camping, especially if most of your driving is on paved roads. The Subaru WRX, for example, comes with standard all-wheel drive for extra traction on dirt roads and has roof rack mounts to expand its cargo capacity for tents and gear.
Do I need a truck for camping? Not necessarily. While a truck like the Ram 1500 offers the utility of an open bed and high towing capacity, it's not a requirement for a great camping trip. SUVs like the Subaru Outback and Dodge Durango offer plenty of enclosed, secure cargo space, while the Hyundai Santa Cruz provides a mix of SUV comfort with small-truck utility, including a clever in-bed trunk.
What features should I look for in a good camping vehicle? Look for a combination of generous cargo space, all-wheel or four-wheel drive, and good ground clearance for tackling varied terrain. A roof rack is a valuable feature for carrying extra gear. Inside, durable materials, plenty of storage cubbies, and modern tech like multiple USB ports and a reliable infotainment system for navigation can make the trip much more enjoyable.
What Makes CarGurus Best Cars Guides Different?
Most car-shopping websites publish lists of the best cars across a variety of categories, with recommendations generally driven by editorial expertise. Here's what makes ours different: In addition to the insights and verdicts of our team of car-testing experts, our best cars guides take into account other factors that we know matter to buyers-real owner experiences and current market value.
Our expert reviewers are among this country's most trusted automotive journalists, also writing for publications including US News and World Report, Edmunds, Digital Trends, J.D. Power, and Car & Driver. They put each car through real-world testing and create detailed reviews of performance in a range of categories, from practicality and driving manners to cost-effectiveness and safety.
We also analyze hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus.com to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of best deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in reviews from owners-people who actually live with these cars every day. Our proprietary Best Cars algorithm then creates a final Overall CarGurus rating combining expert scores, user reviews, and the percentage of listings that have earned the Good or Great Deal rating. This multi-pronged approach reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
The CarGurus market data used in this guide was last updated in February 2026. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.
