Car Camping Essentials: 2025 Guide to Packing Smart
In Canada, car camping is more than just a summer hobby—it's a gateway to adventure. Whether you're exploring Banff’s alpine views, Ontario’s cottage country, or a secluded lakeside trail in Nova Scotia, car camping lets you enjoy the great outdoors with a bit of comfort and flexibility.
In this guide, we dive into the must-have car camping essentials. From shelter and comfort to cooking, safety, and a few luxury extras, we cover everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable getaway. Dive into our car camping essentials list now and pack like a pro!
Shelter and Sleeping Comfort
Staying dry, warm, and well-rested is the foundation of any successful car camping trip. These car camping checklist essentials will ensure your basecamp is cozy and protected, whether you’re sleeping in your vehicle or next to it.
Ground Tent or Car Awning Tent
For those not sleeping directly inside their vehicle, a spacious ground tent or car awning tent creates a sheltered space for sleeping and car camping gear storage. Look for waterproof fabrics, easy-setup frames, and good ventilation. Car awning tents extend off your trunk, making use of your vehicle as a windbreak. Consider a model with mesh windows, gear lofts, and a weatherproof vestibule for added comfort and gear organization.
Sleeping Bag and Mattress
Choose a sleeping bag rated for the coldest overnight temperature expected, ideally down to -5°C for spring and fall trips. Pair it with an inflatable sleeping pad, foam mat, or portable air mattress to elevate your comfort. Self-inflating pads offer better insulation from cold ground. Compression sacks help save space, and sleeping liners can improve warmth and hygiene.
Extra Blankets and Window Covers
Bring fleece or down throw blankets for layering or lounging around camp. For added privacy and insulation, use reflective window covers or magnetic shades if you sleep in your vehicle. They also help regulate temperature and block out early morning light.
Portable Air Conditioner
Managing temperature while car camping is key to staying comfortable, especially in enclosed tents or vehicles. A portable air conditioner helps regulate the heat, making it easier to sleep, relax, and enjoy downtime, whether you're escaping the summer sun or taking the edge off a chilly evening.
The EcoFlow WAVE 3 Portable Air Conditioner stands out with its 6100 BTU cooling and 6800 BTU heating capacity, up to 8 hours of wireless use, 44dB quiet sleep operation, multiple charging options, and hassle-free installation in various outdoor scenes, ideal for year-round comfort for your outdoor adventures.
EcoFlow WAVE 3 Portable Air Conditioner
Clothing and Personal Items
Once your shelter is set, it’s time to think about what you’ll wear. The right clothing and personal items help you stay comfortable, dry, and protected in changing conditions. Here are the things you’ll need:
Layered Clothing
Pack in layers: moisture-wicking base layers, fleece or wool for warmth, and a waterproof shell for rain or wind. Even summer nights can get chilly in the backcountry, so don't skimp on a warm jacket and extra socks. Hats, gloves, and buffs are lightweight but essential in cooler months.
Footwear
Bring hiking boots for rugged terrain, sandals or camp shoes for lounging, and extra socks to keep your feet dry. Waterproofing is a plus, especially in muddy or dewy conditions. Consider compression socks for long drives or hikes to help with circulation.
Toiletries and Hygiene
Include biodegradable soap, toothpaste, a microfiber towel, and hand sanitizer. A compact mirror, wet wipes, and a small shovel or trowel for digging a cat hole are also great additions for off-grid trips. A hanging toiletry bag and collapsible sink help keep things tidy.
Camp Kitchen Setup Items
With shelter and clothing sorted, it’s time to turn your focus to food. A reliable camp kitchen setup ensures you can cook, clean, and eat comfortably wherever you go.
Camp Stove or Portable Grill: Choose a compact, propane-fueled camp stove or foldable grill for reliable cooking. Look for models with multiple burners or flame-control knobs for greater versatility.
Cooking Gear: Pack lightweight pots, pans, and utensils like spatulas, knives, and tongs. Collapsible or nesting cookware sets save valuable space.
Food Prep Essentials: Bring a cutting board, mixing bowls, measuring cups, and zip-top bags or containers for prep and storage.
Portable Fridge Freezer: Skip the hassle of melting ice with a portable fridge freezer. It keeps perishables fresh and drinks chilled for days without the mess of a cooler. For example, the EcoFlow GLACIER Classic 55L Portable Fridge Freezer offers a dual-zone design, 35L to 55L variable sizes, up to 43 hours off-grid operation, and multiple fast charging options, ideal for extended trips or off-grid camping.
Dishwashing Kit: Include a collapsible sink, biodegradable soap, scrub brush, and microfiber towel. Don’t forget a drying rack or mat.
Folding Table & Chairs: Create a clean, elevated space for meal prep and dining. A sturdy table and portable chairs enhance comfort and convenience.
Storage Bins & Trash Bags: Keep dry goods, utensils, and cooking gear organized in stackable bins. Bring plenty of trash and recycling bags to leave no trace.
EcoFlow GLACIER Classic 55L Portable Fridge Freezer
Safety and Navigation
Comfort is key, but so is caution. These safety and navigation items ensure you're equipped to handle unexpected challenges and stay on course, even in remote or unfamiliar terrain.
First Aid Kit
Carry a well-stocked kit including gauze, bandages, antiseptic, tweezers, antihistamines, and pain relievers. Consider including blister pads, insect bite relief, and a cold compress for longer trips. Make sure everyone in your group knows where it is.
Flashlights and Headlamps
Hands-free lighting is essential for cooking, hiking, or setting up camp after dark. Pack headlamps with extra batteries and consider solar-powered or rechargeable flashlights for backups. Lanterns with adjustable brightness help light up larger spaces.
Paper Maps and Compass
GPS is great, but signal loss happens. Always carry a paper map of the area and a compass. Mark your route or known landmarks if you're exploring remote trails or campsites. A waterproof map case protects it from rain and dirt.
Emergency Beacon or Whistle
In remote areas, a GPS emergency beacon or even a loud emergency whistle can be vital for alerting help if you're lost or injured. A backup power bank or portable charger also keeps your phone usable in emergencies.
Recreation and Extras
Once you’re safe and settled, it’s time to enjoy what camping’s really about. These comfort and entertainment extras help you kick back, have fun, and savour the outdoor experience.
Hammock
A lightweight, portable hammock is perfect for relaxing in the shade or under the stars. Look for one with tree-safe straps and bug netting if you’re in mosquito-prone areas. Double hammocks are great for lounging with a partner or child.
Games and Entertainment
Pack a deck of cards, a Bluetooth speaker, or travel-friendly games. Books, binoculars, sketchpads, or a camera help capture or reflect on your experience. Bring a small telescope for stargazing in dark sky zones.
Solar String Lights or Lanterns
Add ambiance to your site with solar-powered string lights or lanterns. They recharge during the day and provide soft illumination for meals or games after dark. Some even double as USB chargers or bug zappers.
Portable Power Station
For longer trips or multi-device setups, pack with a portable power station to ensure enough power supply for your various electronics or appliances. A good suggestion is the EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max Portable Power Station. With a 2–6kWh expandable capacity, 2400W total AC output, and multiple output ports, it powers everything from smartphones and speakers to LED lanterns and portable air conditioners, ideal for keeping your camping running smoothly off-grid.
EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max Portable Power Station
Conclusion
Car camping in Canada is an unbeatable way to explore nature while enjoying the convenience of your vehicle. Whether you're in the Rockies, near the ocean, or parked at a forest trailhead, being well-prepared helps you make the most of your adventure.
From essential shelter gear like tents to power solutions like portable power stations, these car camping essentials cover everything you need. With the right setup, you'll stay safe, comfortable, and ready to enjoy every starry night and sunlit morning.
FAQs
What to buy to sleep in a car?
To sleep comfortably in a car, invest in a quality sleeping bag, an inflatable or memory foam mattress, window covers for privacy and insulation, and extra blankets. Consider a neck pillow or travel pillow for support, especially if you’re not lying fully flat.
How can I sleep comfortably in my car?
Level your sleeping surface by folding down seats or using a platform. Add a supportive mattress and temperature-appropriate bedding. Use window shades to block light and insulate, and crack a window slightly for airflow. Keep essentials like water and a flashlight within reach.
Do I need to open the window when sleeping in a car?
Yes, cracking a window slightly helps with airflow and prevents condensation buildup overnight. Use mesh screens or magnetic window covers to keep bugs out. Proper ventilation is especially important if you’re using heating or cooling devices inside the vehicle.
What is the most forgotten item when camping?
Commonly forgotten car camping necessities include headlamps, bug spray, extra batteries, and a first aid kit. Other often-missed essentials are trash bags, waterproof matches, and phone chargers. Creating a checklist before packing helps ensure you don’t overlook small but important gear.