Camping Gear Checklist by Car Size
See what fits in a compact car, midsize SUV or full-size vehicle, with an example kit for two using listed Amazon prices.
Compact car
Civic, Corolla, Prius
- A tent that packs down to a duffel - no cabin tents.
- A cooler of 35 quarts or less - a family-size cooler does not fit beside the rest of the kit.
- Backpacking-style chairs and air or folding pads, which pack small.
Midsize SUV or wagon
RAV4, CR-V, Outback
- A tent that packs down to a duffel - no cabin tents.
- Any cooler up to the 52-quart family size fits.
- Compact or standard quad chairs - nothing oversized.
The kit for a couple: 9 items, ~$963
Find your car
Full-size vehicle
minivan, truck, full-size SUV
- Any tent, cooler or chair we list fits - nothing has to pack small.
The kit for a couple: 9 items, ~$963
Find your car
Common questions
Can I car camp with a small sedan?
Yes, with compact gear: a tent that packs small, air or folding pads, compact chairs, and a cooler of 35 quarts or less. Measure your trunk and the packed gear before buying.
What is the best car size for car camping?
A midsize SUV or wagon usually has room for a standard kit and a larger cooler. If you want to sleep inside, measure the cargo floor with the seats folded first.
Do I need a truck for family camping?
No. A midsize SUV can carry a family kit if you pack carefully. A minivan, truck or larger SUV gives you more room for extras.
How do I measure my cargo space?
Length, width and height of the trunk with the seats up and down, against the gear's packed size: most tent bags are 20-28 inches long, a 52-quart cooler about 26 x 14 x 15 inches, a quad chair 36 inches folded.
Not a couple, or not warm weather?
Start with a ready kit, then adjust the group, car, season and quality tier.
Build my kit →