How Do You Camp a Car on a Road Trip?

By Michael Ferguson

Road trips are a great way to explore new places, create memories with friends and family, and experience the beauty of nature. Camping is an excellent way to enhance the road trip experience, especially if you want to save money on accommodation or want to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. In this tutorial, we’ll go over how to camp a car on a road trip and provide some tips on how to make it an enjoyable experience.

What is car camping?

Car camping refers to the practice of camping in your vehicle instead of using a tent or other shelter. It’s an excellent option for those who don’t want to carry around heavy equipment or who prefer the convenience of sleeping in their car. Car camping can be done in any type of vehicle, from sedans to SUVs, and can be done at designated campsites or even in urban areas.

Preparing Your Vehicle

Before you hit the road for your car camping adventure, you’ll need to prepare your vehicle. Here are some things you should consider:

  • Clean out your car: Remove any unnecessary items from your car before you start packing for your trip.
  • Create a sleeping area: Depending on the size of your vehicle, you may need to create a sleeping area by folding down seats or removing them altogether. You can then add blankets, pillows, and other comfortable items to make it cozy.
  • Storage: Since you’ll be living out of your car for a few days or weeks, it’s essential to have ample storage space. Consider investing in storage containers that fit comfortably in your trunk or back seat.
  • Cooking supplies: If you plan on cooking during your trip, make sure you have all the necessary supplies such as a portable stove, pots and pans, utensils, and food storage containers.

Choosing a Campsite

When car camping, you have the option of camping at designated campsites or finding free camping spots. If you’re looking for a designated campsite, make sure to research and book ahead of time, especially during peak season. Many campsites offer amenities such as showers, toilets, and fire pits.

If you’re more interested in free camping spots, there are many resources available online that can help you find them. However, keep in mind that these spots may not have amenities and may require permits or permission from the landowner.

Staying Safe

While car camping can be a fun and convenient way to camp on your road trip, it’s essential to stay safe. Here are some tips:

  • Park in safe areas: When choosing a spot to park your car for the night, make sure it’s well-lit and in a safe area.
  • Lock your car: Make sure to lock your doors and windows before going to sleep.
  • Watch out for wildlife: Depending on where you’re camping, wildlife such as bears or coyotes may be present. Make sure to store your food properly and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Stay connected: Let someone know where you’ll be camping each night and check-in regularly.

Conclusion:

Car camping is an excellent way to enhance your road trip experience while saving money on accommodation. With proper preparation, choosing the right campsite, and staying safe, you can have an enjoyable and memorable trip.

Remember to pack all necessary supplies such as cooking equipment and storage containers while keeping safety measures in mind. Happy Camping!