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Best Car Camping Essentials In 2023

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Car camping with the right equipment and gear can easily bring the comfort of your home to your next camping adventure! Enjoy our review of our favorite car camping gear and equipment in 2023.

Outdoorsy Escapod Topo Series

Photo courtesy of Outdoorsy.

Don’t want the full commitment of buying a camper van or trailer? Look no further than Outdoorsy! They are the best resource to experience the magic of the outdoors by providing top of the line RV, camper van, or trailer rentals. With each rental you’ll have 100% free roadside assistance, delivery to your location prior to your adventure, and many options to fit your needs and comfort! The Outdoorsy Escapod Topo Series 2021 will get you 100 miles / day for free and can be rented for a reasonable $140 / night. The rental is equipped with bedding, cooking, and dining essentials, a Yeti cooler, and more. The trailer is fully insulated so you won’t have to worry about staying warm on those chilly fall camping adventures. To learn more and reserve your rental visit here:

[$140/night at outdoorsy.com]

Rent It Now!


Roofnest Condor Rooftop Tent

Photo courtesy of Roofnest.

Car and Rooftop camping are becoming increasingly more popular due to the user-friendly options. One rooftop tent to consider as you prep for your next car camping trip is the Condor tent from Roofnest. The Condor tent is the company’s first fold-out style hard shell tent, perfect for smaller vehicles or over a truck bed. This tent has it all – compactable size when closed, but large comfortable sleeping area with easy set-up. The tent can easily sleep two adults and one child (or dog). The Condor tent features almost luxury accessories such as the Annex to accommodate for a solar panel, an awning, and a detachable LED light. Roofnest provides the best quality camping tents, and the Condor Rooftop tent should absolutely be considered!

[$3,395 at roofnest.com]

Get It Now!


Dometic CFX3 45 Powered 12 volt Cooler, 46L

Dometic

The award winning powered cooler for weekend camping, the Dometic CFX3 45 electric cooler has the same footprint as the 35, but is 2.75 inches taller. Powered by AC (110-240), DC (12 volt / 24 volt), or solar, the car fridge freezer reaches temperatures as low as -7°F, while using less power than a 60W light bulb. Its lightweight fender frames and strong aluminum alloy handles are designed for rough backroads, while the high-performance compressor is constructed to isolate noise and reduce vibrations. The CFX3 car cooler series connects to a phone app, allowing easy temperature adjustments via Bluetooth.

[$1,049.99 at dometic.com]

Get It Now!


Osprey STRATOS 34 Backpack

Photo by Osprey.

For day hikes where you need to be prepared for anything and pack accordingly, the mid-volume Stratos 34 makes for a reliable choice. If you’re car camping and plan on taking some day hikes from the campsite, consider the Osprey STRATOS 34 day Backpack. This bag is a combination of quality and innovation: its adjustable AirSpeed ventilated back system, heavily breathable mesh fabric, and ventilation provide increased comfort regardless of weather. The STRATOS 34 has enough capacity to store spare clothing, food, and any other necessary gear. It comes with an emergency whistle, integrated rain cover, trekking pole attachment, and more.

[$140 at osprey.com]

Get It Now!


Dometic Bamboo Large Table Camping Table

Photo by Dometic.

The Dometic Bamboo Large Table is the perfect addition to any outdoor trip. With adjustable legs and weight spreading feet to fit uneven terrain, this table is designed with both campers and tourers in mind. Its lightweight aluminum frame and waterproof bamboo top provide maximum durability and support. All of these features, plus its compact design that allows for easy storage and transport, make the Dometic Bamboo Large Table a must have for all your adventures.

[$161.99 at dometic.com]

Get It Now!


Jackery Solar Generator 1500 Pro (Explorer 1500 Pro + SolarSaga 200W)

Photo by Jackery.

Jackery Solar Generator 1500 Pro stands out with its ultra solar charging and fast charging capabilities. Recharging your generator can be done within two hours due to its maximum 1,400W solar power input and six 200W solar panels. This powerful, reliable and durable device has passed the highest UL requirements, with the outer shell made of 94V-0 fireproof material, and has exceeded safety drop standards. Weighing just 37.4lbs, it is 20% lighter than similar products with the same capacity and is fitted with a foldable handle for easy portability. Experience power on the go with Jackery Solar Generator 1500 Pro.

See our gear review of the Jackery 1500 Solar Generator from our winter trip to Yellowstone National Park.

[2,099.00 at jackery.com]

Get It Now!


Dometic GO Hydration Water Jug 11L H

Photo by Dometic.

The Dometic Hydration Water Jug offers an efficient way to store and pour your water needs. It can be brought with you on your vehicle or campsite, giving you a safe and convenient water supply of 11 liters. Hydration is always important when heading outdoors, especially when you’re car camping, and the amount of water you need may surprise you. That’s why the Hydration Water Jug was conceptualized with a volume-maximizing design that fits two jugs in the size of a 20 liter jerry can – allowing you to make the most of your cargo space. This is the ideal water jug for your car camping trips.

[$69.99 at Dometic.com]

Get It Now!


ROVR ROLLR® 45 Cooler

Photo courtesy of RovR.

This cooler will be all the envy among your adventure friends! Similar to RovR’s popular coolers, the RollR 60 and 80, the RollR 45 is designed with packing efficiency in mind – which is all what we need when packing up the car for a camping trip. The same superior level of cooling and organizational engineering was not spared when making this fun sized cooler! The Rollr 45 cooler is bear resistant, making it safe to leave outside during your car camping trip. Eight days of ice retention to hold a variety of your fun items. A Deep Freeze Removable Dry Bin with 2 compartments can be removed allowing for various amounts of capacity. Coming in 5 different vibrant colors, this cooler is sure to be a hit on your next adventure.

[$399.99 at rovrproducts.com]

Get It Now!


Icemule Classic™ Medium 15L

Photo courtesy of Icemule Coolers.

Icemule Coolers’ goal is to give you freedom of taking your cooler anywhere without the hassle of carrying a clanky cooler and keeping your hands free. The Icemule Classic™ Medium 15L cooler is the perfect companion that can comfortably strap to your back keeping your drinks and food chilled for 24 hours. When you’re done with the cooler it’s shape and material – similar to a drybag – can be rolled up and compactly stowed away until your next adventure. The Icemule Classic™ Medium 15 liter cooler is available in a variety of fun colors, check them out now!

[$69.95 at icemulecoolers.com]

Get It Now!


Luno Air Mattress 2.0

Photo courtesy of Luno.

If you haven’t heard of Luno, you absolutely need to check them out! One of the most trusted leaders for all of your car camping gear. If you’re planning a fall car camping trip, Luno is where you’ll find the best equipment to give you comfortable on your adventure. Your first purchase should be the Luno Air Mattress 2.0 – their #1 selling car camping air mattress. A quality mattress will give quality sleep – something we all desire after a long day of hiking, exploring or any activity during your camping trip. The mattress inflates and deflates in a matter of minutes and is big enough for 2 campers to fit comfortably. The mattress was designed with two separate air chambers so each person can adjust to their firmness preference. The team at Luno thoughtfully tested the mattress to make sure it could fit in more than 1,800 vehicles!

[$329.99 at lunolife.com]

Get It Now!


Luno Seatback Organizer 2.0

Photo courtesy of Luno.

Another great item from Luno that is a necessity for car camping is their Seatback Organizer 2.0. Once your Luno Air Mattress 2.0 is set up, you’ll need a spot to keep your flashlight, phone, water bottle, etc. handy. The Seatback Organizer 2.0 will be your designated car camping “nightstand”. Complete with a micro-fiber lined pocket for your phone, a headlamp or flashlight pocket with translucent fabric to provide a dim reading light, and additional pockets to keep items like car keys, wallet, or a book safe and secure. The Seatback Organizer 2.0 is designed to easily fit to the back of any car set – check it out here!

[$44.99 at lunolife.com]

Get It Now!


MiiR 32-oz Wide Mouth Bottle

Photo courtesy of MiiR.

MiiR designs and produces quality water bottles, coffee mugs, and wine & beer tumblers – all made for your outdoor adventure. In celebration of Earth month, they created the 32oz wide mouth bottle, with a creative design for a pop of color on the bottle and the double wall vacuum will keep any beverage hot or cold for hours.

MiiR’s Wide Mouth collection covers every level of thirst and is perfect for that on-the-go lifestyle. Thoughtful design features make it easy to stash ice, carry and clean. Featuring their Thermo 3D® double wall vacuum insulation, the Wide Mouth Bottle keeps any beverage hot or cold for hours on end.

[$39.95 at miir.com]

Get It Now!


Nemo Stargaze™ recliner luxury chair

Photo courtesy of Nemo Equipment.

Yes, while a fall car camping trip means sleeping in your car – that doesn’t mean you can’t set up camp outside the car and enjoy stargazing, sipping your morning coffee, or reading a book. The Stargaze™ recliner luxury chair is the perfect seating option for any of these activities! Features include an adjustable headrest, recliner, padded armrest, cup holder, and secure footing for any surface. The Stargaze™ recliner is easy to set up and pack up when you’re done. This chair is a no-brainer if you want luxury comfort on your next camping trip!

[$249.95 at nemoequipment.com]

Get It Now!


Rumpl Sherpa Puffy Blanket

Photo by Rumpl.

As you cozy up for the night after a fun day of adventuring during your car camping trip, you’ll want to make sure it’s with the Sherpa Puffy Blanket from Rumpl! With a Sherpa fleece bottom this blanket is guaranteed to keep you warm even on the coldest fall nights. The blanket rolls up and secures with a clip for easy packing after a good night’s sleep. The Woven Daydream design is a featured design from the RAD artist collaboration that celebrates Native artists, and a portion of the Sherpa Puffy blanket sales will support the First Peoples Fund. Get cozy now!

[$169 at rumpl.com]

Get It Now!


Regatta Canvas Bell Tents

13′ Regatta Bell Tent. Photo by White Duck Outdoors.

White Duck’s canvas bell tents are meticulously designed for quick setup and functionality. The Regatta Bell Tent is a versatile, functional, affordable bell tent that’s perfect for your camping trips, glamping setups, hunting excursions, events or anywhere else you need a cool, durable tent. Regatta tents come with windows, doors, bug mesh, flooring, poles, and a tool kit. The Regatta comes in three colors – beige, olive and brown – and several sizes.

Shop Now!


Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill

Takibi Fire and Grill. Photo by Snow Peak.

This portable fire pit and grill from Snow Peak will truly elevate your culinary game on your next fall car camping trip! Made from durable stainless steel, this portable and easy to set up grill can cook your favorite camping meals by fire or by charcoal. Contents of the fire pit and grill set up include a Grill net, grill bridge, pack and carry fireplace, baseplate, and a carrying case for easy transport. With these items you won’t have to worry about not getting a fire started at your campsite, you’re minutes away from a roaring fire and cooking a great meal with the Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill.

[$319.95 at snowpeak.com]

Get It Now!


Snow Peak Takibi Gathering Set

A four-piece bundle, the Takibi Gathering Set is designed to create a comfortable lounge when hosting Takibi Time. Photo by Snow Peak.

To round out our favorite Snow Peak picks to make for a great campsite set up, you’ll want the Takibi Gathering Set – pair it with the Living Lodge for a comfortable seating area to enjoy all your meals! Or place the Takibi Gathering Set around the Fire and Grill to enjoy conversation over a delicious meal cooked over the fire. The set includes two beach chairs, an ottoman, and a table – all built with the durable stainless steel and designed in Japan – promising lasting quality. You can view the Takibi gathering set here!

[$521.95 at snowpeak.com]

Get It Now!


Hitch Fire FORGE 15 Tailgating Bundle

Photo courtesy of Hitchfire.

Car Camping is kind of like an extended tailgate, right? Well in that case, then you will absolutely want the Forge 15 Tailgate Bundle from Hitch Fire! This bundle features everything you need for a grill get up that conveniently attaches right to your tailgate. You’ll get the Forge 15 Pivot Swing Arm to move the grill set up, Forge 15 Cover, a 5lb refillable growler for propane, and a propane adapter hose. This set up is compact, lightweight, and easy to attach to your tailgate hitch! To check it, and browse other Hitch Fire add-ons, visit here!

[$679 at hitchfire.com]

Get It Now!


SylvanSport GO camping trailer

Photo courtesy of Sylvan Sport.

Don’t have a car big enough to sleep in for your car camping trip but don’t want to buy a full RV? The Sylvan Sport GO camping trailer is your solution! The GO camping trailer can haul your gear, equipment and provide spacious shelter for your camping adventure! The lightweight pop-up tent camper can comfortably sleep 4 people, includes a gear deck, equipment rack and storage box – all thoughtfully designed and built to make your car camping trip comfortable and convenient! You’ll be able to bring your bikes, paddle board, even canoe on your adventure! With 165 lbs. of hauling capacity the GO camping trailer can do it all! Vehicles of any size, even smaller vehicles can tow this awesome set-up! For more information on how to schedule a demo, click here!

[$11,995 at sylvansport.com]

Get It Now!


Skyblue Featured Video: DOMETIC | On the GO with @NavajoMylo, The Fowlers

Mylo Fowler (@navajomylo) grew up with his grandparents in the heart of the Navajo Nation, living off the land and learning respect for it. Today, the photographer is known for capturing miraculous moments in nature. He’s passionate about his work, about his family, about the outdoors, and about helping people who need it.


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