Best cars for camping

The popularity of camping holidays has increased in the past few years! More UK travellers are taking advantage of the great outdoors and the slower-paced lifestyle that camping provides. If you’re looking to get out there for the first time or you’re an avid camper, we’re bringing you the best cars for camping!

What makes a good car for camping?

If you’re looking for a good car for camping, there are certain criteria to look out for to make your life easier! The best cars for camping often have large boot spaces, great fuel economy, and even good off-road capabilities.

Large Boot Space. Having a decent-sized boot is really important for cars, especially when carrying camping equipment, or it is even more important if you’re going to be camping in the car. Camping usually does involve a lot of luggage and equipment, no matter which way you choose to use your car for camping. So, ensure you’ve got enough room for everything by choosing a car with a good boot capacity.
Good Fuel Economy. Cars for camping usually have to have good fuel economy for those long weekend road trips. Your car may also be carrying lots of luggage, which can weigh down your vehicle and use more fuel. Choosing a good MPG car can be the key to saving money on running costs.
Off-Road Capabilities. Thinking about cars with better traction can help make your next camping trip that little bit easier. If you’re camping on less-travelled roads or campsites and you’re needing a car that packs a punch, considering All-Wheel Drive or Four-Wheel Drive cars can be good.

Best cars for camping:

Dacia Jogger.
Land Rover Defender.
Kia Niro EV.
Citroen Berlingo.
Skoda Kodiaq

6. Volkswagen Amarok.
7. BMW Series 5 Touring.
8. Volvo EX90.
9. Kia Sorento.
10. Skoda Octavia.

1. Dacia Jogger.

The Dacia Jogger is our budget-friendly choice when considering the best cars for camping. That being said, it doesn’t skimp on quality or space. The easy fold down seats can turn the boot space into a huge 712 litre capacity, making it an ideal choice for car camping or transporting your camping equipment. From new, the Dacia Jogger also has an optional Sleep Pack which includes a mattress, additional padding and black out blinds.

2. Land Rover Defender.

Stepping into the luxury category of cars for camping, we’ve picked out the Land Rover Defender. Mainly for its off-road capabilities and strong suspension, the Defender will make light work of any terrain. The Defender oozes style and comfort and is also really easy to live with. There’s ample space throughout and you’ll have no problems filling it’s 1,232 litre boot space (with the third row folded) with all your required camping luggage!

3. Kia Niro EV.

Best cars for camping, but make it electric? We’ve got you! For many drivers, electric and hybrid cars aren’t usually associated with space or power buying the Kia Niro EV can provide both with ease. You’ll know buying an EV comes with the need for recharging during your journey and the Niro EV comes with an impressive 200-250 mile all electric range. The Niro is spacious, versatile and comfortable. You can also use the handy V2L feature which allows you to power external battery devices through the Niro EV’s own battery.

4. Citroen Berlingo.

The Citroen Berlingo is one of those cars that looks like it was made for camping. Its hugely spacious and you’d have no issues having a good nights sleep in the back. They’re also really easy to drive and handle well. Fuel economy is good too, so you won’t have to worry about spending excess money on longer camping trips. The Citroen Berlingo is a bit of a oldie but a goodie, it’s long been recommended and sone of the best cars for camping and for us, it’s easy to see why.

Did you know? We’ve also recommend the Berlingo as one of the best cars for wheelchair users due to it’s versatility and adaptability!

5. Skoda Kodiaq.

To date, the Skoda Kodiaq is one of the best SUVs you can buy, and SUVs make great cars for camping! The rear seats can be easily folded down to create a larger boot space, but even with passengers on board, the Kodiaq still offers a decent amount of space. Not only that but it also looks great and gets the job done. There’s also an optional all-wheel drive if you’re needing something with a bit more off-road capability.

6. Volkswagen Amarok.

Take your camping game to the next level with the Volkswagen Amarok. It’s a capable and stylish pick up which is great for car camping! It has impressive towing capabilities and is perfect for off-roading. You’ll need to invest in rooftop tents or tent-box to transform your Amarok into a cosy bedroom, but its definitely worth it! Its also great to drive and you’ll no doubt get to your destination with a smile on your face!

7. BMW Series 5 Touring.

The BMW Series 5 Touring is on the more expensive side of the best cars for camping, mainly because it comes with all the luxury you could need. Fuel economy is good, and performance is second to none. The main selling point for camping enthusiasts is the extra large boot space and versatility. With the rear seats folded down, the boot space increases from 570 litres to a very commendable 1,700 litres!

8. Volvo EX90.

Another EV to add to the list of the best cars for camping is the impressive Volvo EX90. It’s a large, fully electric SUV that should not be overlooked. The Volvo EX90 offers an electric range of around 385 miles on a single charge. Granted, you’ll get less with all your camping equipment on board but it’s still impressive. The lots of added extras like intelligent SatNav can make long road trips a doddle and 360° camera makes light work of manoeuvring this beast of a car!

9. Kia Sorento.

The Kia Sorento is a great choice for any camping enthusiast. It’s a 7-seater car that really packs a punch. As you’d expect from a large SUV, it’s got a seemingly endless amount of space and ensures everyone on board is happy. It’s towing capability is around 2,000kg so you’ll have no issues lugging all your equipment around. Muddy campsites are also no match for the Kia Sorento’s All-Wheel Drive system and you’ll be able to go off-road with ease.

10. Skoda Octavia.

And, last but not least on our list of the best cars for camping is the Skoda Octavia. This is one of those cars that seemingly have an endless amount of versatility, from the best family cars to the most fuel-efficient cars, the Octavia features on lots of our blogs. The Skoda Octavia is great value for money and really comfortable to drive. Its a small family car that offers a lot of space and functionality. The Octavia has an impressive boot space of 600 litres with everyone on board and 1,700 with the seats folded down.