Car Camping 101: What to Pack, Where to Go, and How to Sleep Comfortably
Car camping is a flexible, low-cost, and gear-friendly way to explore the outdoors. You don’t need to condense your equipment into fancy backpacks, eat freeze-dried meals, or spend money on hotels!
Whether you're hitting national parks, remote beaches, or forested campgrounds with your trusted car companion, knowing how to plan, pack, and get high-quality sleep in your vehicle can make all the difference between a rough night and a restful escape.
Here are our best tips to prepare for an unforgettable journey ahead.
How to Plan a Car Camping Trip
Make the planning process straightforward by breaking it down into these simple steps. Use this as your checklist to save time and mental energy.
Choose Your Destination: Select a general location or region in Canada you want to explore. Depending on your comfort level and interests, consider national or provincial parks, forest roads, or dispersed camping areas. It will help you mark your route and pick out stops along the way.
Check Weather and Road Conditions: Look up the forecast for your destination and any road alerts or closures. This will help you pack the right gear and determine whether you'll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle or special equipment. Always pack for unexpected changes, even if the forecast shows sunny and dry weather. Bring that rain fly, umbrella, warm jacket, and gloves.
Research Camping Rules: Each area has its own regulations. Confirm whether car camping is allowed, if reservations are required, and what amenities (if any) are available. For dispersed camping, learn the rules for where and how long you can stay.
Make Reservations (if needed): If you’re heading to a popular campground, reserve your site as early as possible through local park websites or other online booking platforms. First-come, first-served spots can fill quickly, especially on weekends. This is where advanced planning becomes an asset.
Map Your Route: Plan your driving route and download offline maps because you may lose cell service at some point. Be aware of fuel stops, especially in remote areas, and always begin with a full gas tank. Avoid letting your tank get too close to empty so you don’t find yourself stuck somewhere without gas.
Plan Your Meals: Create a day-by-day meal plan. Choose easy-to-prepare foods and organize ingredients into bins. Prepare as much as you can ahead of time to save energy and time while camping and make eating convenient, not burdensome. A little forethought minimizes waste, saves space, and ensures you pack just what you need.
Pack Strategically: Use stackable bins or soft-sided bags to categorize your gear: sleep system, kitchen supplies, hygiene items, clothing, and power solutions. Label everything for quick access and pack it so you can see most labels from your trunk or back seat view, avoiding anything being out of sight or reach.
Test Your Gear Before You Go: Set up your sleeping area, power station, stove, and any new equipment at home to make sure it all works and fits in your vehicle. Don’t let your first night of the trip also be the first time you’ve attempted to set up your tent.
Let Someone Know Your Itinerary: For safety, share your travel plans with a friend or family member, especially if you’ll be camping in remote areas without reliable service. Give them a map with all your stops marked, and write their number on paper and store it somewhere safe so you can reach them even if your phone dies.
Prepare for Emergencies: Bring a basic first aid kit, a flashlight or headlamp, a multi-tool, and backup power for your phone. A roadside emergency kit with jumper cables and a tire inflator is also a good idea.
How to Pick a Campsite Suitable for Car Camping
Not every campsite is car-camping friendly. Look for established campgrounds with designated car camping spots, where you can park directly at your site. National and provincial parks often have reservable sites with picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms nearby.
If you want more freedom than designated parks provide, dispersed camping in national forests or Crown Land (federally owned land) may be an option. These areas allow vehicle camping with fewer amenities, so be prepared to pack everything you need in (and out), and always follow Leave No Trace principles.
When choosing your spot, prioritize level ground for sleeping comfort, shade to keep your car cool during the day, and proximity to clean water sources. Avoid low-lying areas that may flood during rain, and check for local fire restrictions.
How to Sleep Comfortably While Car Camping
Comfortable car camping starts with a good sleep setup. You can always sleep in a tent, but for those who want a true car camping experience, it’s possible to get quality sleep from the comfort of your car’s interior.
Each car’s design is different, so you’ll have to work with the space and configuration you have. Fold down the back seats or remove them to create a flat surface. Then, build a base layer with an inflatable mattress or foam pad that cushions the hard surface. Some campers use plywood or a platform to level uneven spaces in the back of an SUV or hatchback.
Your bedding should match the season, so choose a sleeping bag rated for the expected weather, or bring soft sheets and blankets in warmer months.
Blackout curtains or reflective sunshades provide privacy and help regulate temperature. If you're sensitive to noise or light, pack earplugs and an eye mask for uninterrupted rest. Cracking a window slightly ensures airflow, but make sure you install mesh window covers to keep insects out. In hot climates, the EcoFlow WAVE 3 Portable Air Conditioner can cool the car’s interior without needing shore power, ensuring you sleep well even in summer heat.
Don’t overlook your sleeping position. Some people sleep best lying flat, while others may prefer reclining seats. Test out your configuration at home before hitting the road. You may even consider spending a preemptive night in your car to see if your setup passes the test.
What to Pack for a Car Camping Trip
Before you head out on your journey, don’t forget to pack these car camping essentials:
Cooking
Portable stove or propane grill to cook meals at each campsite
Fuel canisters to keep the above stove running
Lighter and matches (waterproof is best)
Cookware, like a pot, a skillet, and any utensil you’ll need
Cutting board and a versatile, sharp knife
Biodegradable soap and sponge for easy cleanup that won’t harm the environment
Portable fridge or cooler with plenty of ice (though you’ll still need to stop for more along the way)
Reusable containers - store leftovers to minimize waste and eating out
Trash bags and paper towels
Sleeping
Sleeping in a car can be an adjustment initially, but these essentials can transform it from cramped to comfortable.
Memory foam topper, sleeping pad, or a blow-up sleeping pad that extends the seat area
Blankets and sheets, or a sleeping bag that matches the expected temperatures
Pillows
Eye mask and earplugs so you can sleep even if it’s noisy or bright
Mesh window screens so you can crack a window and still keep bugs out
Blackout window covers to keep the car cool and provide privacy
Clothing
Moisture-wicking layers
Fleece layers
Waterproof outer layers
Comfortable pajamas
Socks and underwear
Hiking shoes and sandals
Hat and gloves if necessary
Electronics
Charging cables for all your devices
EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank, perfect for phones, tablets, and more when you’re on the go
Headlamps and lanterns with extra backup batteries
A portable hotspot if you want to stay connected in remote areas
Toiletries and Hygiene
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Biodegradable wipes and hand sanitizer for quick, eco-friendly cleanups
Quick-dry towels
Shower shoes if using campground showers
Portable toilet for responsible bathroom use if camping in areas without restrooms
Extra
First aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and basic medications
Prescription medications or medical equipment
Camp chairs and a table
Tarp
Shade canopy for protection from the sun or rain
Books, cards, or downloaded movies or shows for entertainment during downtime
15 Car Camping Tips
Make the best of your journey from the comfort of your car. It’s your vehicle, bedroom, storage unit, and living room all in one. These tips will help make it as comfortable as possible.
Ventilate your car while sleeping. Don’t sleep with all the windows rolled up. Use mesh window screens or crack the windows slightly to prevent condensation and allow airflow.
Practice your sleep setup in advance. Trying it out at home ensures you’ll know how to set it up quickly in the dark or rain and guarantees it’s comfortable!
Store food securely. In bear country, use bear-proof containers or stash food in your trunk. Never leave it in the open or inside your sleeping area.
Use bins for easy access. Label containers and organize gear by category (sleep, kitchen, hygiene) for faster setup and teardown. Minimize loose items.
Bring a portable jump starter. Powering electronics can drain your car battery, but a portable jump starter backup can save your trip. Remember, when dispersed camping, there may not be another car nearby to jump you!
Hang a shoe organizer. Over-the-seat organizers or hanging pouches can store essentials like chargers, snacks, and toiletries within arm’s reach. It’s the perfect way to store small items while keeping them visible and organized.
Don’t rely on GPS alone. Download offline maps or bring a printed road map if you lose service in remote areas. Always be prepared for the worst-case scenario.
Use reflectors on windows. They keep heat in during cold nights and block sunlight during the day. If you’ll be living in your car, you might as well make it comfortable!
Pack car-specific tools, such as jumper cables, a flat tire kit, and a flashlight, in case of emergencies.
Keep a go-bag. Have a small pack with water, snacks, a light, and basic first aid ready in case you need to leave your vehicle quickly.
Rotate your gear seasonally. Keep cold-weather essentials in winter and swap in fans, cooling towels, and bug netting for summer. You don’t need to bring unnecessary items from the wrong season.
Track your mileage and fuel. Look for gas stations, especially in remote areas, and top off regularly to avoid getting stranded without fuel.
Create a morning routine. Set aside a bin or bag with everything you need to make coffee, brush your teeth, and get moving. It will help you start your day on the right foot.
Test your gear before the trip. Inflate your mattress, fire up your stove, and set up your power station to ensure everything works.
Invest in comfort. Luxuries like a real pillow, seat-back cushions, and insulated mugs can make car camping feel like home. It’s worth the minor upgrades for a big impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Car Camping Allowed in Canada?
Yes, car camping is allowed in many areas of Canada, especially provincial and national parks or Crown Land. Ensure you follow all posted regulations, pack in and pack out everything you bring, and camp only in areas where it’s legal.
Do You Need to Crack the Window When Sleeping in a Car?
Yes, you should always crack the window when sleeping in a car to allow for fresh airflow and prevent condensation from building up inside the vehicle. Crack the window and use a mesh screen to ensure air circulation while keeping bugs out.
Final Thoughts
Car camping is the perfect compromise between rugged outdoor hiking and convenient travel. All you need is the right gear, a well-planned route, flexibility to manage the unexpected, and a good attitude. Car camping allows you to go farther and explore more while staying comfortable.
Smart packing is key. For added convenience and peace of mind while on the road, consider upgrading your power setup with the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus, a portable power station that can run everything from coffee makers to phones, GPS, and more. Embrace the freedom to camp just about anywhere without sacrificing all the comforts of home.