You may have heard the term car camping or know someone who has. In this form of camping, you use your vehicle as a base for your outdoor adventure.

So lets get into it!

What is Car Camping?

Camping in your car can be an enjoyable way to spend time outdoors without investing in expensive camping gear. It is budget-friendly, and you only need to pack the essentials.

There are many things to consider when camping, and it's not as easy as jumping in the car and off your go!

Is Car Camping Legal in the UK?

Car camping in the UK is legal if you follow these two rules:

1 - Parking safely and not breaking any parking restrictions

2 - Not under the influence of drugs and alcohol

If you plan to camp in your car, you should seek out designated campsites and caravan parks to park overnight. If no charging fee is applied, you may also be able to park in supermarkets, pubs, and outdoor shopping centre car parks. As a rule of thumb, it's best to check with the manager or owner of the car park before camping.

Choosing the right Car for Camping

If you're interested in car camping but don't plan on using an existing car, there are a few things to note for successful trips. 

The best cars for camping have plenty of back-seat space, so you can fold down your seats to create a cosy sleeping space. You also want to ensure the vehicle is safe and reliable on and off the road.

Consider purchasing a car with low mileage and good fuel economy. Everything must be in good working order if you are buying a second-hand car. The more weight you add to the car, the lower the fuel economy. Driving on remote routes will give you fewer miles per gallon, and hybrid or electric cars risk the question of where to charge.

Types of Cars Popular with Car Camping

The best cars for car camping depend on your needs, the type of camping you plan to do, and the terrain you'll encounter. Here are some popular vehicles suitable for car camping, along with three advantages.

SUVs: Subaru Outback, Toyota REV4, Honda CR-V, Jeep Cherokee

  1. Ample of cargo space for gear and supplies
  2. Many models offer all-wheel or four wheel drive which is ideal for rugged terrain
  3. Rear seats often fold flat providing enough space for sleeping inside

VANS: Fort Transit, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Pacifica

  1. Lots of interior space, can even stand with some models
  2. Easy to customise with sleeping platforms, storage and even small bathroom and kitchen set ups
  3. Great for families or extended trips

TRUCKS: Ford F-150 Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Silverado

  1. Truck beds can be equipped with camper shells, rooftop tents or bed racks
  2. Reliable for off-road adventures
  3. Plenty of towing capacity for trailers and campers

OFF ROAD: Land Rover Defender, Toyota 4runner, Jeep Wrangler

  1. Built for uneven terrain and remote locations
  2. Often comes with off-road features like skid plates, lift kits and high clearance
  3. Can be outfitted with roof tents, roof racks and other adventure-ready modifications

ELECTRIC AND HYBRID: Telsa Model Y, Rivian R1T, Toyota Highlander Hybrid

  1. Quiet and Eco-friendly
  2. Can be equipped with solar panels or inverters for powering camping gear
  3. Limited by range in remote areas, but excellent for campgrounds with EV chargers
Car Camping Essentials

Car camping essentials will vary widely depending on the type of camper you are, the weather, and your destination. From sleeping and cooking gear to safety items and personal comforts, being well-prepared allows you to focus on the adventure ahead while staying cosy and organised in your car.

Below is our list of Car Camping essentials

  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping mat or air mattress
  • Pillows
  • An extra blanket, if required
  • Cooler
  • Camp Stove or portable grill/BBQ
  • Cookware
  • Utensils
  • Reusable water bottle and bucket
  • Non-perishable foods and snacks
  • Condiments
  • Dishwashing suppliers
  • Headtorch
  • Battery-powered lantern
  • Torch
  • Extra batteries and charging cables
  • First Aid kit
  • List of emergency numbers
  • Notebook and pen
  • Games
  • Multi-tool
  • Camping chairs
  • Foldable table
  • Portable power bank
  • Toilet paper
  • Bin Bags
  • Toiletries
  • Weather appropriate clothing
  • Hats/Gloves/Socks
  • Hiking Shoes or boots
  • Packing cubes or organisers

These essentials ensure that your car camping experience is enjoyable, stress-free, and safe, no matter where you go.

A final note from us

Car camping is an incredible way to connect with nature while enjoying the convenience of sleeping in your car. With some planning and the proper essentials, it offers a balance between adventure and convenience.

Discover all car camping essentials in-store and on our website. If you are ever on sure, give our showroom a call on 01452 742233 or email us on websales@attwoolls.co.uk for expert help and advice.

Header Image from UnSplash by Michael Aleo