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Guys need time to unplug and connect with nature. What if you want to get outdoors without being far away from your truck or SUV? Whether you drive a Toyota Prius or a Ford F-350, you need the essentials for car camping. Here are 12 gear recommendations for your adventures.
1. KAMPKEEPER SUV Car Tent
Sleeping in your car can be cumbersome, especially if you’re tall. The backseat can barely fit one person, much less a whole family! Get this KAMPKEEPER tent for SUV camping because it creates a 110-square-foot shaded area for your campground. Installing the equipment takes just 10 minutes, making it easier for beginners.
2. MalloMe Sleeping Bags
Good sleep is essential, especially when you’re on vacation. Quality rest helps your energy levels and improves mood, so you need comfortable arrangements. Get the MalloMe sleeping bags for warm and cold weather adventures. The lightweight and strong composition provides a solid boost if you don’t have a mattress when car camping.
3. Pro Chaser 400W Power Inverters
Your car camping trip may include electronics and chargers, so electricity sources become must-have essentials. Get the Pro Chaser 400W power inverters to make your outdoor adventure more convenient. These outlets easily power camp stoves and phone chargers, so you can rest in your chair with peace of mind.
4. YETI Tundra 65 Cooler
What’s a vacation in the woods without your favorite drinks? If you want ice to improve your shakes or beer as cold as the Rockies, the YETI Tundra 65 has your back. This cooler holds up to 58 pounds of your belongings, so stuff the food and beverages from your car camping checklist inside. Treat it like your fridge, which keeps food under 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Garmin eTrex SE
Some guys prefer staying on established sites, whereas others want the rugged backcountry setting. Regardless, your campsite might have difficulty showing up on the GPS. Bring a Garmin eTrex SE to have a handheld navigation system by your side. This device has 168 hours of battery life in standard mode, so it’s one of the essentials for long car camping trips.
6. NOCO Boost GB40
Car troubles aren’t welcome on your camping trip, especially when the vehicle is your tent. The last thing you want is a dead battery when you need to stay cool or warm during the night. Get the NOCO Boost GB40 to jump-start your motor with 1,000 amps of lithium power. Any 12V vehicle can connect, and you can connect smartphones.
7. True Mechanic 303-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
A dead battery isn’t the only car problem you may encounter. Road trips could produce flat tires or brake issues, so it’s wise to be prepared for any incident. True Mechanic’s 303-piece set provides the car camping essentials for maintenance and mechanical work. From wrenches to screwdrivers, this kit has it all.
8. ZATOOTO Side Window Sun Shade
Sleeping in your car is terrific until the sun makes your interior too warm. Alternatively, the bright lights could wake you after pulling an all-nighter with your friends. Get ZATOOTO’s sun shades to block the sunshine and increase privacy. Experts say sunlight can cause repeated awakenings, so use the kit on four of your windows.
9. Elite Gourmet EDB-302BF Countertop
Imagine waking up from your car camping sleeping pad and smelling fresh bacon on the stove. Make these dreams come true with Elite Gourmet’s electric hot plate with a double burner. The cookware is compact and portable, easily fitting in your car, truck or SUV. Spend less time cleaning, as the plates are nonstick and only need a damp cloth.
10. Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife
Knives are car camping essentials, whether you’re cooking or administering first aid. Smith & Wesson ensures you get a quality tool through the stainless steel composition and lightweight design. Each knife only weighs 3.5 ounces and readily fits in your pocket, making access quick and convenient. While these tools can be dangerous, the company has a liner lock to prevent blade slippage.
11. Stalwart 12-Volt Heated Blanket
A heater might not fit in your car, so you need warmth sources for your camping trip. Get this Stalwart heated blanket to stay cozy all night despite the cold temperatures. The comforter seamlessly plugs into a 12V aux outlet thanks to the 78-inch cord. The premium flannel and polyester Sherpa keep you toasty, though you can change the settings as needed.
12. CampLand Outdoor Folding Table
Crumbs in the car are a no-go unless you want ants, so tables are camping essentials for your trip. Get this outdoor setup from CampLand for its lightweight design and adjustability. You can put up to 66 pounds of goods on the table, so there’s plenty of room for food and glasses. CampLand builds these masterpieces with convenient storage spaces to prevent nosy bugs and animals.
Getting Car Camping Essentials for Your Adventures
Camping in the car is a unique experience, so every guy should try it at least once. This activity is open to outdoor enthusiasts, beginners and families, so take your crew to a fun spot! Make your experience even more fun by traveling to multiple campsites on the same trip. Once you see the star-filled skies, you won’t soon return to the city.
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Author
Jack Shaw is a senior writer at Modded. Jack is an avid enthusiast for keeping up with personal health and enjoying nature. He has over five years of experience writing in the men's lifestyle niche, and has written extensively on topics of fitness, exploring the outdoors and men's interests. His writings have been featured in SportsEd TV, Love Inc., and Offroad Xtreme among many more publications.
