Everything You Need to go Car Camping!

Car camping is a really fun and easy type of camping! You stay dry and warm, your campsite is literally on wheels with you wherever you go and you can make your car so cozy! My boyfriend and I have gotten big into the car camping game since I got my Subaru Forester last year. Having an SUV or truck with a cap is ideal but you can still car camp in a smaller car too! 

After spending many nights in the mountains car camping before a fun hike or adventure the next day I have come up with my complete car camping packing list! 

This is the list I follow when I run home from work on a Saturday evening, get everything I need together and head north for the mountains! 

I hope this is helpful! Let’s get into it, 

The essentials 

Sleeping Bag– always use a sleeping bag! It will keep you warmer than just using blankets.

Blanket– bring at least one incase you get cold at night, it nice to have extra layers you can add!  

Pillows– either camping pillows that you can blow up or your regular pillow for extra comfort!

Air Mattress & Pump– try to find one that fits to your car! Camping sleeping pads also work.

Window Inserts– important! This is how you will have privacy!! You can easily custom make them.

Head Lamp– for setting up camp at night, handsfree light is very helpful!  

Fleece– for when it cools down at night and early morning.

Cozy Outfit– you want to be as cozy as possible when you go to bed!

Hiking Outfit– for your adventure!  

Next Day Outfit– for after your adventure, its nice to have something to change into.

Socks– hiking socks and an extra pair.

Birkenstocks– a must!

Hiking Boots– for your adventure!

Toiletries– Face wipes, medication, toothbrush, toothpaste, brush, deodorant, etc.

Sunglasses– for the car ride and adventures!

Hat– a car camping must have!

Day Pack– for your adventure, packed with everything you will need!

Purse– full of the necessities.

Film Camera– to document your adventure!

Water Bottle– another must have!

Car camping

This list is for one full night and into the next day’s adventure! These are the essentials needed for a comfy and cozy car camping experience! 

We recommend checking out the iOverlander App to find free car camping places near where you are exploring. If you can’t find anything on there, Walmart parking lots are a great option as well as ski resorts if you are close to one! Just be sure to check out their website ahead of time and read where they allow car campers to park.

I hope this list is helpful, have fun on your car camping adventure! Follow along with me on Instagram for more car camping content! 🚐⛺️