Imagine waking up to the smell of pine trees, the sun just peeking over the mountains. You reach for your coffee, but wait – where did you pack the mug? Car camping is amazing, but a few missing items can turn a dream trip into a clumsy scramble. Have you ever gotten to your campsite, only to realize you forgot the perfect pillow or the lantern that actually works?
Choosing the right car camping accessories feels overwhelming. Stores pack shelves high with gadgets promising the ultimate outdoor experience, and it’s tough to sort the must-haves from the nice-to-haves. You want comfort, convenience, and gear that won’t break the bank or take up your entire trunk space. Wasting money on gear you never use is frustrating!
This guide cuts through the noise. We will show you the essential, game-changing accessories that truly upgrade your roadside adventures. You will learn exactly what gear to prioritize for better sleep, easier cooking, and maximum campsite chill. Get ready to transform your next trip from just “okay” to absolutely unforgettable. Let’s dive into the gear that makes all the difference.
Top Car Camping Accessories Recommendations
No. 1
Heated Blanket - 12-Volt Electric Blanket for Car, Truck, SUV, or RV - Portable Winter Car Accessories for Camping or Travel by Stalwart (Black Plaid)
- CAR BLANKET - This Stalwart travel blanket is made of soft polyester fleece in a stylish black plaid pattern and heats up quickly to keep you nice and warm. It folds for easy storage in a trunk, on a back seat, or packed in a bag or to use as a pillow.
- TRAVEL READY - The fleece blanket is powered by the 12V auxiliary power outlet in your car, truck, SUV, or RV, so it’s great for using on the go. It’s perfect for a chilly commute, camping, or tailgating, and essential for your car emergency kit.
- LONG CORD - Equipped with a 60-inch-long cord, this heated throw blanket can reach all seats in most vehicles, ensuring that even back seat passengers stay warm. This cozy blanket is an ideal way to maintain comfort during long road trips on cold days.
- COZY GIFT - Give the gift of warmth with this plaid blanket. This heated throw is great for anyone who likes to stay toasty during cold weather travel, including truckers, tailgate partiers, campers, or college students who drive home for visits.
- PRODUCT DETAILS - Materials: Polyester. Dimensions: (L) 59" x (W) 43"; Cord Length: 60". Care: Spot Clean Only. Do Not Machine Wash. Includes: Storage Case with Handles. Color: Black and White Plaid.
No. 2
Set of 3 Car Window Shades - 95% Light Blocking Sunshades, 1 Privacy Divider Curtains & 2 Side Window Covers, Wide Sedan SUV Accessories for Kids Baby Travel Camping Nap Sleeping
- Set of 3 Car Curtains: This complete set includes one full-length rear seat divider, two side window curtains, and a storage bag. Designed to provide reliable shade and privacy, it helps keep the back seat cooler and creates a comfortable, enclosed space for passengers to relax during every ride
- 95% Light Blocking Performance: Crafted from premium memory fabric, this car window cover blocks up to 95% of sunlight to reduce glare and heat effectively. The fabric offers better blackout performance than ordinary synthetic materials while remaining durable and machine washable for easy everyday care
- Private and Restful Space: Ideal for road trips, camping, long drives, or caring for a baby, these window screen curtains help block sunlight and outside views. They create a calm, private area for napping, overnight car sleeping, changing clothes, breastfeeding, or giving your baby a shaded environment
- Thoughtful and Practical Design: The rear divider car camping curtain features a hook and loop connection in the center for flexible use. When not needed, slide the curtains aside and secure them with built-in ties. Come with a storage bag for neat and convenient in-car storage
- Wide Vehicle Compatibility: The rear divider measures 67 x 31.5 inches, and each side curtain measures 39.4 x 25.6 inches. With a wider and larger fit than standard options, this set works well with most sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks, and installs easily by following the product images
No. 3
Car Bed for Ford Explorer, Foldable Non-Inflatable Memory Foam Camping Mattress, Thickened Portable SUV Trunk Sleeping Pad, Air Mattress Upgrade for Camping & Travel Essentials, With Storage Bag, Gray
- 【Folding Bed for Ford Explorer】This folding bed is designed to fit the Ford Explorer trunk, providing a stable and practical sleeping area when the rear seats are folded down. It’s a convenient option for car camping, weekend trips, or long road journeys. Its foldable design makes it easy to store and use as needed, offering a comfortable and functional solution for rest.
- 【No Inflation No Leaks】Say goodbye to air pumps and overnight inflation. This non-inflatable car bed stays firm and comfortable, eliminating the common issues of leaks and sagging found in traditional inflatable beds. Set up in just 3 seconds and rest immediately—no more worries about leaks.
- 【Eco-Friendly Materials】The top layer is skin-friendly flocked fabric, the breathable anti-slip bottom and soft foam provide a comfortable sleep surface. Non-toxic and odorless, unlike PVC materials, this car bed is safe for pets and babies, ideal for family camping or road trips.
- 【Easy to Use】This folding bed is simple to set up and fold away, taking up minimal space in your SUV trunk. It features adjustable straps and detachable zipper sections for flexible DIY use, and includes a small pocket for your phone or essentials. Every detail is designed to provide a more comfortable and enjoyable experience on the road or during camping.
- 【Reliable After-Sales Support】Our professional support team is available 24/7 to assist with any questions or issues. We provide a 90-day worry-free guarantee—if the mattress is uncomfortable or has any problems, we hope to offer you timely and thoughtful assistance.
No. 4
QUICTO 2PCS Car Seat Storage Hanging Bag, Multi-Pocket Seat Side Organizer, Multifunctional Mesh Net Pocket, Can Hold Mobile Phone, Wallet, Glasses, Suitable for Cars, SUVs, Trucks
- PREMIUM FABRIC: This car organizer is made of high sewing density, tear resistant fabric. It is durable and resistant to wear and tear, more waterproof, breathable and thicker. So it can be used for a long time.
- SIZE OF THE BAG: The size is: 17.7"×5.5". The stretchable, elastic storage bag perfectly covers both sides of the car seat, comfortable fit, does not take up too much space and is universally suitable for most cars and SUVs.
- SIMPLE SETUP: This seat side organizer is easy to use. It has a durable strap that allows you to secure it to the bottom area of the front passenger seat in seconds and keep it from wobbling.
- MULTI-POCKET DESIGN: This car organizer includes three pockets, two mesh pockets and one zippered sealed pocket. Large storage space to meet your various storage needs. Including maps, cell phones, snacks, wallets, sodas, etc.
- APPLICATION: Suitable for most cars, SUVs, trucks, etc., the car storage bag can store most items and keep your car clean and tidy. It can be used as a must-have item when you travel and drive around.
No. 5
Kaskawise Upgrade Car Ceiling Cargo Net Pocket,31.5"x21.6" Double-Layer Car Roof Storage Organizer,Overhead Net for Truck,SUV & Van Camping,Travel Road Trips,Van Life Essentials
- 【Upgraded Car Ceiling Cargo Net】4th generation car ceiling cargo net,engineered for storage and organization during car camping, road trips, and daily van life.Featuring 9 reinforced straps,an added pocket within the double-layer mesh,and a dual-end zipper design,this overhead storage net allows easy access and secure item placement.Perfect as a truck or SUV roof storage solution.Note: Installation may vary by vehicle model. For the best fit, please measure the space on your car roof before purchase
- 【Extended fixed rope & suitable for vehicles with 4 handles】 Kaskawise car ceiling storage net comes with extended 66cm (25.98 inch) fixing ropes,designed to fit most vehicles with four roof handles—including cars, Jeeps, and SUVs. Measuring 31.5 x 21.6 inches, this car organizer is ideal for long-distance travel, camping trips, and van life essentials. It’s the go-to car ceiling storage solution for a clutter-free cabin Note: Ensure your vehicle has four handles before ordering
- 【Save Space & Large Capacity】The upgrade SUV car ceiling storage net pocket has 4 fixing buckles,baby quilts, children's toys,paper towels and other lightweight sundries can be placed in the SUV ceiling storage net the design can help to place many irregularly shaped objects, transparent mesh design, then you can find your things easily instead of crawling to the car rear seats, looking for them in the trunk
- 【Easy to install & Need Car with four handles】 The Kaskawise ceiling storage bag has 4 fixing buckles,which can be used to fix the car storage organizer.You only need to hold the fixed buckle and fasten the belt.The car storage manager is on the top of the head. In addition, it is strong enough to support ordinary items without damage.(Note:Three Handles Car Ceiling Cargo Net-ASIN:B0CQRBZNY5)
- 【Durable double mesh bag& Ideal Gift】The car ceiling cargo net mesh bag is made of high-quality polyester mesh fabric that is both durable and easy to carry.This Cargo net pocket is very suitable as a gift for your friend and family .Perfect car accessory for long road trip during camping and vacation
No. 6
YEEKORO Car Rear Seat Mattress Extension Plate, Foldable Car Back Seat Extender，Portable Mattress for Sleeping, Increase Travel Trunk Space and Car Bed Camping Space for Cars, SUV, Model Y/3
- ✔ LIGHTWEIGHT & PORTABLE DESIGN: With a gross weight of 2.5 lbs, fully expanded dimensions of 48.03 x 16.14 x 0.78in, and stowed dimensions of 16.14 x 11.81in, it ensures ultimate portability. Whether loaded in a vehicle or hand-carried to a campsite, its lightweight and easy to fold features are portable and easy to store.
- ✔ ECO-FRIENDLY AND DURABLE: This car rear seat extension plate is made of PP board as the core, supplemented by EVA fabric, which is not only environmentally friendly, but also odorless and friendly to children and pets. The wear-resistant and easy-to-clean surface material ensures a long service life and always looks brand new.
- ✔IMPROVE SLEEP QUALITY: The car extension board well fills the gap in the middle of the rear discharge of SUVs, and the design cleverly connects the trunk mattress with the rear seats, effectively expanding the mattress space and sleeping area, and also preventing items from falling out of the gap, which is convenient for people to sleep and use in the outdoors or on long trips, and makes outdoor travel rest more enjoyable. Perfect combination with YEEKORO car air mattress (not included).
- ✔EASY INSTALLATION: The non-destructive installation realized by the Velcro on the back is fast and no need to worry about damaging your car. Its wide compatibility means it can seamlessly fit into a wide range of vehicles, including SUVs, BMW X5, DODGE JCUV, RAV4, CRV and Tesla Model Y/3, to meet the needs of different users.
- ✔GENERAL PURPOSE: Whether it's a daily commute in the city or an adventurous trip in the wilderness, this extension plate provides extra comfort and practical functionality. Its diverse uses make it ideal for self-driving enthusiasts, wherever and whenever they want to enjoy the convenience it offers.
No. 7
AWELTEC 1000W Power Inverter for Vehicles,DC 12V to AC 110V Car Charger with USB-A Fast 24W&Type-C PD24W and Battery Inverter Cables,Converters for for Road Trips Camping Emergencies
- ✅【High Rated Power】With a rated power of 1000W, the AWELTEC power inverters for vehicles can easily handle multiple devices, providing reliable performance whether you're on the road or in need of backup power.
- ✅【Versatile Power Solution】The AWELTEC power inverter for vehicles seamlessly converts DC 12V or DC 24V to AC 110V, making it an essential car inverter for all your road trips,camping adventures and or during emergencies.
- ✅【Fast Charging Technology】 Equipped with a USB-A fast charging port (24W) and a Type-C PD 24W port, this car power inverter ensures that your devices stay charged quickly and efficiently during emergencies and outdoor activities.
- ✅【Convenient Battery Inverter Cables】This package includes battery inverter cables, allowing for easy connection and enhanced flexibility, perfect for both casual users and those who require more substantial power access.
- ✅【Safety Features】This 12 volt power inverter built-in protection mechanisms safeguard against overheating, overloading, and short-circuiting, ensuring safe operation whether you’re on a camping trip or handling emergency situations.
No. 8
HOTOR Car Trash Can with Lid and Storage Pockets - 100% Leak-Proof Organizer, Waterproof Garbage Can, Multipurpose Trash Bin for Car, 2 Gallons, Black
- ✔ADJUSTABLE STRAP & COLLAPSIBLE SHAPE – The car trash bag features an adjustable strap that allows it to be attached on both front and back headrest as well as the center console for easier access for all around. Coupled with the collapsible design, you will greatly benefit from functional convenience of this auto trash container.
- ✔MAGNETIC SNAPS: There are 4 metallic magnetic snaps inside of HOTOR car trash can for fastening the extra trash bag. Compared with traditional car trash cans, those 4 little snaps make the replacement of car trash bags easier. Simply unsnap the magnetic snaps to replace the used trash bag with a new one. Then snap shut the magnetic snaps to fix the extra trash bag. Just 2 steps and and it's all set.
- ✔DURABLE LEAKPROOF INNER LINING – This garbage can for car adopt waterproof and leakproof material, easy to clean and wash. No more worry about food spills or other stubborn stain.
- ✔MULTIPURPOSE – This car garbage bin can be used as storage bag to keep items such as cups, toys, and other accessories. Additionally, the waterproof advantage also makes it an excellent car cooler of the maximum value for money.
- ✔GREAT COMPATIBILITY – An effective solution for people with the needs of neat and organized car interior. Perfectly fits a variety of types including sedans, SUV, truckers, etc. HOTOR takes every conceivable possibility into account.
Your Essential Guide to Car Camping Accessories
Car camping is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors without lugging heavy backpacks miles into the wilderness. You drive right up to your campsite! To make your trip comfortable and fun, you need the right gear. This guide helps you pick the best car camping accessories.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for car camping gear, certain features make a big difference in your comfort and convenience.
Size and Packability
- Space Matters: Since you are driving, you don’t need the lightest gear, but you still need it to fit in your trunk. Look at the packed size.
- Quick Setup: Choose items that set up fast. You want to start relaxing, not wrestle with poles after a long drive.
Durability and Weather Resistance
- Strong Build: Gear needs to handle real outdoor use. Check the weight rating for chairs and the thickness of tent floors.
- Waterproofing: Even if rain isn’t forecast, good water resistance protects your investment. Look for high waterproof ratings (measured in millimeters, or ‘mm’).
Comfort Enhancements
- Insulation (for sleeping): If you sleep in a car or roof tent, insulation keeps you warm when the temperature drops at night.
- Ergonomics: A chair that supports your back feels much better after hours of sitting.
Important Materials for Longevity
The materials used determine how long your gear lasts and how well it performs.
Sleeping Gear (Mats and Bags)
- Foam vs. Air: Closed-cell foam pads are very tough and never deflate, but air mattresses offer more plush comfort. Many campers use a combination.
- Fabric Fill: Sleeping bags often use synthetic fill or down. Synthetic is better when it gets damp; down is lighter and warmer for its weight.
Shelter and Furniture
- Aluminum vs. Steel: Tent poles and chair frames are usually aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lighter; steel is often stronger and cheaper.
- Canvas and Polyester: Tents and tarps use heavy-duty polyester or nylon. These fabrics resist tearing well. Higher denier (D) fabric means thicker, tougher material.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the brand name. Pay attention to these details.
Quality Boosters
- Double Stitching: Seams that are stitched twice are much less likely to rip open under stress. This is a sign of quality construction.
- Heavy-Duty Zippers: Large, sturdy zippers (often YKK branded) operate smoothly for years. Cheap, small plastic zippers break quickly.
Quality Reducers
- Thin Coatings: If waterproofing is applied too thinly, it will flake off after just one season of use.
- Flimsy Poles: Thin, wobbly tent poles or chair legs mean the item will fail the first time you encounter a strong breeze or uneven ground.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about *how* you plan to camp. This dictates your needs.
The Basecamp Setup (Comfort Focus)
If you plan to stay in one spot for several days, prioritize comfort. You need large, comfortable camp chairs, a big outdoor rug to keep dirt out of the tent, and perhaps a portable power station for charging devices.
The Road Trip Stopover (Efficiency Focus)
If you move every night, speed is key. Invest in a rooftop tent or an instant-setup shelter. Focus on simple cooking systems that pack down small, like a two-burner propane stove.
Cooking and Food Prep
A good cooler is critical. High-end coolers use thick insulation to keep ice frozen for days. For cooking, a simple two-burner stove setup is often the best balance of power and portability for car camping.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Car Camping Accessories
Q: Do I need a specialized car tent?
A: Not necessarily. Many people use a standard ground tent, but car-specific tents that attach to your open hatch offer great covered space right next to your vehicle.
Q: What is the most important piece of gear for sleeping comfort?
A: A quality sleeping pad or air mattress. You lose more heat to the cold ground than to the cold air. Good insulation underneath you is vital.
Q: How much space do I need in my car?
A: This depends entirely on your style. A minimalist camper needs little space. A family focused on comfort needs a large cargo box or roof rack to store large chairs and coolers.
Q: Is it okay to use cheap camping chairs?
A: Cheap chairs are fine for short trips, but they often have weak fabric and frames. For regular use, spending a bit more on chairs with steel frames and padded fabric lasts much longer.
Q: How do I keep bugs out of my sleeping area?
A: Always choose a tent with fine mesh netting on all doors and windows. Also, use a bug-repellent spray on the outside of your tent fabric before you leave home.
Q: What is the difference between a tarp and an awning?
A: A tarp is a large, simple sheet of waterproof material you string up. An awning is usually attached directly to your vehicle or tent structure, offering a more permanent, dedicated shade area.
Q: Should I buy a propane stove or a liquid fuel stove?
A: For car camping, propane stoves are usually better. They are simpler to use, cleaner, and the fuel canisters are easy to find and store.
Q: What makes a cooler “high quality”?
A: High-quality coolers have thick insulation foam walls and tight rubber gaskets around the lid. These features keep the cold air trapped inside for multiple days.
Q: How important is having a portable power source?
A: It’s very important if you rely on phones or need to run small fans. Look for a power station that recharges easily from your car’s 12V outlet.
Q: What should I look for in a camp table?
A: Look for a roll-top aluminum table. These tables fold up incredibly small but offer a surprisingly large, stable surface when set up for cooking or eating.