The Best Cars for Car Camping [Read Before Buying!]

Buying a vehicle can be a frustrating, stressful experience. Even more so when purchasing one to camp or live in! But don't fret. I've been a full-time nomad since the beginning of 2022, and have seen really awesome car-to-camper conversions in my travels. Based on that, I'll share what I consider to be the top vehicles for car dwelling.

The best cars for car camping are hatchbacks, minivans and SUV's. Due to their larger footprint and cabin room, camping (or even living) in these types of vehicles is easier and more comfortable. The above-mentioned choices are also great for towing smaller teardrop-style trailers, as well as having added cargo space, which is always handy.

Of course, there are many hatchbacks, minivans and SUV's on the market today. So, which is the best of the best for car camping purposes you ask?

Let's find out now...

This list is comprised of vehicles that are known for dependability, affordability and adaptability. All VITALLY important points for nomads. These vehicles have also been "field tested" by many other car campers, as you'll see in the photos below each category.

BEST HATCHBACKS FOR CAR CAMPING AND NOMADS

TOYOTA PRIUS

Without a doubt, the Toyota Prius ranks as one of the best car camping hatchbacks of all time. Don't believe me? Look at the thousands of other nomads on YouTube, Instagram, and countless blogs that choose this vehicle as their rig. Of course...

Just because lots of other people have something doesn't automatically make it "best". So let's examine WHY the Prius is a favorite of vehicle dwellers everywhere.

PROS

• Lots of interior cabin room and storage space

• Hybrid vehicles are great on gas, and the Prius' 46-53 MPG highway ratio is tough to beat

• You can run the air conditioning or heat all night while in "ready" mode, which only turns the vehicle on when the hybrid battery gets low. This means the Prius saves tons of gas even while using the climate control system for extended periods. Dirt cheap a/c & heat!

• Can be configured in countless ways when used as a car camping rig

• If well-maintained, it's common for Prius' to go to 250,000-300,000 miles. This is why so many taxi's, Uber/Lyft drivers and delivery people use Prius'

CONS

• Repairs can be more more difficult to service on hybrid vehicles, as experienced, trustworthy, certified hybrid mechanics are sometimes tougher to find

• Repairs for hybrid vehicles can be VERY pricey, depending on what the issues are. Especially when it comes to the hybrid battery, which frequently goes bad after a number of years. To fix or replace it runs anywhere from $1,000-$3,000

• Prius' command a premium price, even used. The popularity, performance and dependability of these cars drives up the cost. Can be tough to locate a good deal

• Doesn't handle the best in snow or off-road conditions. If you're looking to go camping in the backwoods or other similar places on a regular basis, a Prius probably isn't a great choice

• One of the top five cars targeted for catalytic converter theft. Owners must be vigilant of where they park their vehicle, and try to safeguard against this

MAZDA 3 (HATCHBACK)

PROS

• Like most foreign built cars, Mazda's tend to be very dependable if well-maintained, and can go until 250,000 miles or more

• Smaller, compact vehicle means it's great on gas. Easier to park in tight spaces, too

• Very good engine with lots of pep and a speedy acceleration

• Repairs are relatively inexpensive (depending on issue) when compared to hybrid or electric vehicles

• Used models can be purchased at fair prices

• Minimal interior cabin noise when car is in use

CONS

• Smaller, compact design means less interior room. Storage space will be diminished, and camping with more than a single person in the vehicle will be very tight...or not doable at all

• Not suitable for off-road adventures or using in difficult terrain

• Paint peels and chips very easily

HONDA CIVIC (HATCHBACK)

PROS

• Reliability. It's no secret that foreign cars are generally built better and last longer, with the Civic being among the top in its class

• Civic's are one of the most popular cars of all time, which means parts are readily available in large numbers if needed for repairs

• Excellent re-sale value. Selling a Civic is not only easier based on its sterling reputation, but they do command a premium as well

• Superb MPG performance. Great option for nomads on tighter budgets or those who travel extensively

CONS

• Many Honda Civic's suffer from airbag warning light issues. The lights can can turn off & on randomly, and may (or may not) be a sign of a real problem, when detected by the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)

• Cabin noise while driving can be excessive

• Can be tougher to find a great deal on used models due to popularity and higher re-sale value

BEST MINIVANS FOR CAR CAMPING AND NOMADS

CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY

PROS

• As with all minivans, the Town & Country has a huge interior footprint. This means lots of sleeping room or cargo space for your belongings

• On average, T&C's last until about the 260,000 mile mark. If buying a used model with higher mileage, you should be able to squeeze out at least a few years worth of dependable driving

• Minivans, generally speaking, aren't considered "sexy" or cool vehicles. They're not as in-demand or sought after as other cars. This makes it easier to find a good deal on one, as the resale market isn't as hot

• Great for stealth parking in cities or other highly populated areas

CONS

• Gas mileage isn't the best

• Electrical problems are a common problem in T&C's

• Not suitable for off-road usage or if wanting to get into backcountry locales

CHRYSLER PACIFICA

PROS

• Massive interior space

• Great head room. Excellent vehicle for those who are 6'+

• Perfect for stealth parking in residential/business areas

• Due to its larger footprint, dedicated sleeping & cargo areas are easily achieveable. Plus, (depending upon layout choice) you can still use your passenger seat to accomodate actual passengers, instead of having to fold the seat down

CONS

• Noisy engines are a somewhat common issue, specifically ticking or rattling sounds

• Not great for off-grid adventures or riding in difficult terrain

• Average, to slightly below average MPG performance

TOYOTA SIENNA

PROS

• Sizable cabin space, perfect for vehicle dwellers & nomads

• Able to accomodate many living configurations and set-ups

• Optimal for stealth camping/parking

• First being introduced in 1998, and still being sold today, there are MANY of these vehicles on the road, and finding a great deal on a used model should be rather easy

• Awarded multiple 5-out-of-5 reliability ratings from Consumer Reports

CONS

• Not suitable for off-grid terrain or similar areas

• Common issues with Sienna's are: failure of electric siding doors, faulty oxygen sensors, and loss of vehicle power after deceleration

• Subpar MPG performance. Can be a gas guzzler for active, on-the-move nomads

BEST SUV'S FOR CAR CAMPING AND NOMADS

KIA SOUL

PROS

• Large interior space

• Excellent headroom, terrific for taller passengers

• Back seats fold flat

• Superb vehicle for stealth camping/parking

• Due to its smaller, unusual design, can easily fit in tighter parking spaces

• Fantastic deals can be found on used vehicles

CONS

• Can be an oil hog. Be sure to monitor your oil level fairly frequently

• Below average fuel economy/MPG performance

• Blind spots on vehicle

• Mediocre interior build quality

HONDA ELEMENT

PROS

• Front & back seats fold flat

• Back seats can be easily removed in minutes

• All-wheel drive models are available

• Stain-resistant seats

CONS

• Boxy design makes it less fuel efficient. Subpar MPG performance

• Suicide doors aren't convenient and can be cumbersome

• With a strong cult following, can be tougher to find these easily nowadays, and getting a good deal on one that's in great condition might be challenging

SUBARU OUTBACK

PROS

• Massive amount of interior space

• Great for stealth camping/parking

• Standard all-wheel drive

• Extra ground clearance

• Excellent resale value

• Top-notch safety features

CONS

• Offers a somewhat sluggish drive. Slow acceleration speeds, even without multiple passengers or extra cargo

• Longer size can equal more difficulty when parking

• Below average MPG performance. Can be a gas guzzler

RECAP

• Be certain to FULLY research and inspect ANY vehicle before you buy

• Do NOT purchase any vehicle based upon appearances alone

• In general, the best options for vehicle dwellers and nomads to live out of are HATCHBACKS, SUV'S & MINIVANS

• When buying, remember my 3 GOLDEN GUIDELINES: DEPENDABILITY, AFFORDABILITY & ADAPTABILITY

FINAL THOUGHTS

Whether you just wish to get away for an occasional weekend camping trip, or even if you desire to live permanently as a nomad, having the right vehicle is critical for comfort, safety, and peace-of-mind.

I'm confident that no matter your budget, finding a quality vehicle for these purposes is more than achievable. With a bit of legwork and some imagination, you too can "build" a great camper on wheels.

Being able to hit the road with only a vehicle and a few basic supplies can open up an entire new world, full of sights & sounds you've never experienced before. It's liberating. And if you follow my simple advice, you can even do so on a shoestring budget.

LIVE WISELY, LIVE WELL!