Best Used Cars for Camping (Awesome Adventure Vehicles)

Best Used Cars for Camping – In our ever-evolving world of remote work and social distancing, the allure of hitting the open road and camping under the stars has never been stronger. But not everyone is ready to dive headfirst into the world of RVing.

Enter car camping – a more accessible and budget-friendly alternative that’s gaining popularity among adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Forget any preconceived notions of roughing it in a beat-up old van. Today’s car camping scene is all about comfort, convenience, and cutting-edge innovation.

Picture this: sleek SUVs equipped with rooftop tents that rival luxury accommodations, vehicles towing compact yet cozy campers behind them, and SUV interiors transformed into cozy sleeping quarters for nights under the stars.

With these options, car camping has transcended the traditional notion of pitching a tent and roughing it.

But with so many options available, the burning question remains: What are the best-used cars for camping?

Let’s hit the road and embrace the adventure that awaits!

List of the Best Used Cars for Camping

Finding the best-used cars for camping is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the most versatile rides for roughing it, ensuring that your camping trips are as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Honda CRV

The Honda CRV has long been a favorite among car campers for its versatility and nimble performance. With roof weight capacity ranging from 125 to 150 pounds, the CRV allows you to mount a variety of rooftop accessories, including tents and cargo carriers.

Inside, the CRV offers ample storage space behind the seats, and if you’re traveling with just a companion, you can fold down the back seats to create even more storage or sleeping space.

Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options, the CRV is well-suited for a variety of camping environments. However, its limited towing capacity of around 1,500 pounds may not be sufficient for those planning to tow a small camper.

2017 GMC Acadia

For larger families who love camping, the 2017 GMC Acadia is an ideal choice. With seating for up to seven passengers and nearly 80 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats down, the Acadia offers ample room for both passengers and gear.

Available in all-wheel drive configuration, the Acadia is well-equipped to handle off-road adventures.

With towing capacities ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 pounds, depending on the configuration, the Acadia can easily tow small to medium-sized campers.

Despite its initial selling price of around $29,995, you can now find used 2017 Acadia models for anywhere between $25,000 and $38,000, making it a cost-effective option for camping enthusiasts.

Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is a standout choice for camping trips with larger groups, thanks to its reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable seating for up to eight passengers.

With a roof weight capacity of up to 165 pounds and a substantial cargo area, the Pilot can accommodate even the largest rooftop tents and camping gear.

Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, the Pilot is well-suited for a variety of terrain.

With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, the Pilot can even tow a small to medium-sized camper, making it an incredibly versatile option for camping enthusiasts.

Honda Ridgeline

The Honda Ridgeline stands out as one of the best trucks for camping, thanks to its spacious cargo bed, versatile design, and innovative camping accessories.

Built on a crossover SUV frame, the Ridgeline combines the utility of a pickup truck with the comfort and drivability of a car. With a roof weight capacity of 110 pounds and a sealable truck bed that can effectively turn into a large trunk, the Ridgeline offers ample space for all your camping gear.

Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, the Ridgeline is well-equipped for both on-road and off-road adventures.

With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, the Ridgeline can handle a wide range of campers and trailers, making it an excellent choice for camping enthusiasts.

Toyota 4Runner

Since its inception, the Toyota 4 Runner has been a staple in the world of car camping, thanks to its legendary off-road capabilities and spacious cargo area.

With a roof weight capacity of up to 300 pounds and enough cargo space to fit a large air mattress with the seats folded down, the 4 Runner is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.

Available in rear-wheel drive (RWD), all-wheel drive (AWD), or 4×4 configurations, the 4 Runner can tackle even the toughest terrain with ease.

Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, it’s capable of hauling all your gear and then some.

2016 Honda Odyssey

While it may not be the first vehicle that comes to mind when thinking about camping, the 2016 Honda Odyssey is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts.

With nearly 150 cubic feet of cargo space, the Odyssey offers plenty of room to haul all your gear, making it perfect for camping trips with the whole family.

Plus, with Honda’s reputation for reliability, you can trust that the Odyssey will stand the test of time, ensuring many memorable camping adventures for years to come.

Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma is another top contender for the title of best camping vehicle, thanks to its nimble size, off-road capabilities, and substantial weight capacities.

With a roof weight capacity similar to that of the Honda Ridgeline, the Tacoma can easily accommodate a rooftop tent, providing you with a cozy place to sleep under the stars.

Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds when properly equipped, the Tacoma is more than capable of hauling all your camping gear and then some.

Nissan Xterra

While Nissan may have stopped production of the Xterra in 2015, this rugged SUV remains one of the best and most affordable options for camping enthusiasts.

With a roof weight capacity of 150 pounds and a spacious cargo area similar to that of the Toyota 4 Runner, the Xterra is perfect for hauling all your camping gear.

Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, it’s more than capable of handling whatever adventure you have in store.

Jeep Wrangler

It’s impossible to talk about camping vehicles without mentioning the iconic Jeep Wrangler. With its legendary off-road capabilities and rugged design, the Wrangler has been a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts for decades.

Equipped with a hardtop roof weight capacity of 150 pounds and available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 4×4 configurations, the Wrangler is well-suited for tackling rough terrain and navigating through challenging environments.

While the cargo area may be slightly lacking in older models, newer versions have made significant improvements in available storage space.

Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, the Wrangler is more than capable of hauling all your camping gear.

Jeep Gladiator

A relative newcomer to the market, the Jeep Gladiator builds upon the success of the Wrangler and takes it to new heights. With its beefed-up suspension, powerful engine, and spacious truck-bed-style storage area, the Gladiator is a force to be reckoned with in the world of camping vehicles.

Featuring a hardtop roof weight capacity of 165 pounds and available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 4×4 configurations, the Gladiator offers unparalleled versatility for outdoor adventures.

The truck bed can hold a tremendous amount of cargo, making it perfect for hauling all your camping gear.

Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped, the Gladiator is more than capable of handling whatever challenges come its way.

2016 Ford Expedition

For those in need of a vehicle that can comfortably accommodate a large family and tow a camping trailer, the 2016 Ford Expedition is an excellent choice.

With seating for up to eight passengers and a towing capacity of up to 6,600 pounds, the Expedition is perfect for family camping trips.

However, it’s worth noting that the gas mileage may be a bit on the lower side, with only 16 miles per gallon in the city and 22 on the highway.

Despite this, the Expedition remains a solid buy for camping enthusiasts who require plenty of seating and towing capacity.

2016 Kia Soul

Don’t be fooled by its compact size; the 2016 Kia Soul packs a punch when it comes to camping capabilities.

With a ground clearance of 6.7 inches, the Soul can navigate rugged terrain with ease, making it the perfect companion for your next camping trip.

Plus, with gas mileage of up to 31 miles per gallon, you’ll spend less time at the pump and more time enjoying the great outdoors.

Best of all, you can find these cars at budget-friendly prices, making them an excellent choice for camping enthusiasts on a tight budget.

Subaru Outback

A perennial favorite among camping enthusiasts, the Subaru Outback offers ample cargo space, AWD performance, and impressive weight capacities.

With a roof weight capacity of 165 pounds and a spacious cargo area, the Outback is perfect for hauling all your camping gear.

Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, you can bring along all your favorite toys for the ride.

Nissan Pathfinder

Much like the Honda Pilot, the Nissan Pathfinder offers reliability, space, and comfort in equal measure.

With a roof weight capacity of 150 pounds and a spacious cargo area, the Pathfinder is perfect for camping trips with the whole family.

Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped, you can bring along everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

Subaru Crosstrek

If nimbleness is what you’re after, look no further than the Subaru Crosstrek. With its compact size and AWD drivetrain, the Crosstrek can navigate tight urban environments and rugged backroads with ease.

While not as spacious as the Outback, the Crosstrek still offers plenty of cargo space for all your camping gear.

Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds, you can bring along a bike rack or small cargo trailer for added convenience.

Chevy Blazer

Recently redesigned and re-released as a modern crossover SUV, the Chevy Blazer offers a cavernous cargo area, sporty handling, and ample weight capacities.

With a roof weight capacity of 220 pounds and a spacious cargo area, the Blazer is perfect for camping trips of all sizes.

Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped, you can bring along all your favorite toys for the ride.

Conclusion

Choosing the best vehicle for your camping adventures, there’s no shortage of options to consider. So why wait? Start planning your next outdoor adventure today and make memories that will last a lifetime!

So, before you hit the road for your next outdoor excursion, be sure to weigh your options carefully and choose the best-used car for camping that fits your lifestyle and preferences.

Finding the best-used cars for camping requires careful consideration of factors such as cargo space, towing capacity, and off-road capability.