vw van with rooftop camper

Car Camping: A Compact Guide To An Exciting Adventure

“Car camping” describes a camping style that allows you to drive your vehicle to your campsite, as opposed to backpacking with all your gear to a non-vehicle-friendly destination.

Many people prefer this type of camping for its convenience, affordability, and complete flexibility. 

Woman traveling by car and having a picnic in the mountains

You can pack your car full of your camping equipment, drive directly to a camping ground or camper-friendly park, and set up your ground tent or rooftop tent while using your vehicle as a storage facility for the duration of your stay.

However, if you’ve never been car tent camping before, it’s difficult to know how to plan for such a trip, especially regarding the best equipment to buy and what you’ll need.

So, if you need a helping hand planning your next car camping adventure, the following information might prove helpful. 

How to Choose a Car Camping Shelter

Where you’ll shelter from the elements is one of the most crucial considerations when you start planning a car camping trip.

If you like the idea of luxury car camping, a rooftop tent from a leading stockist like iKamper might be worth your consideration. 

car camping tent

Rooftop tents can bring a luxury component to car camping. They allow you to free up valuable vehicle space as well!

A rooftop tent keeps you and your possessions elevated off the ground and provides a layer of security that a ground tent generally can’t offer.

In addition, you also free up precious space in your vehicle, since you can store all your bedding and sleeping supplies on the roof rather than in the cabin.

No matter your choice, there are several factors worth factoring into the decision-making process, such as the following: 

Car Camping Tent Size

Tents come in all shapes, sizes, and styles, and not all will suit your needs. Consider how many people will typically form your group, and make your purchase accordingly.

Many of the best rooftop tents have a sleeping capacity of up to four people, which might be more than enough space. 

rooftop tent in snow

When considering the purchase of a rooftop tent, be sure you consider not only how many people will be in your camping party, but also the type of weather you will be camping in.

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Seasons

Most people prefer to camp during the warmer months, but winter camping presents many benefits, such as smaller crowds, fewer bugs, and higher chances of being permitted to light campfires.

Alongside ensuring you have warm clothing to layer, it also might help to consider your camping shelter’s rating for the seasons. 

campfire while car camping

Whether camping in a traditional tent in a rooftop tent, campfires are certainly one of the best parts of a camping trip!

Some shelters are four-season rated for year-round use, while others are better suited to summer and spring conditions. So, be sure to check this information before making your purchase to ensure your comfort at any time of the year. 

Quality

It can be tempting to buy a tent based on its price alone, but a competitive price tag doesn’t always equate to a quality tent. Consider the available features that might contribute to a camping experience that’s memorable for all the right reasons. 

For example, many high-quality rooftop tents come with quilted insulation to reduce condensation, thick poly-cotton canvas to block light, and windows for ventilation.

The more well-made your tent, the more comfortable you might be and the fresher you might wake up for activities like hiking. 

Pros and cons of traditional tents

Benefits of Car Camping

When you see luxury motorhomes pulling up at campgrounds, with the occupants enjoying a comfortable home away from home in nature, you might wonder why you’d choose to go car camping. There can be many desirable benefits associated with this camping style compared to others. 

Woman admiring sunset view while while sitting on chair by camper van at beach

Being away from home doesn’t mean you can’t “camp in luxury.”

Affordability

Even the best traditional or rooftop tent on the market is a mere fraction of the price of a motorhome. So, when you don’t have a large budget, you can revel in the convenience of still being able to go camping, even if you don’t have tens of thousands of dollars to spare. 

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You Don’t Have to Unpack

While hiking or backpacking your way to a camping destination can be rewarding, it can be frustrating having to pack and unpack at each site you visit.

Car camping gives you the freedom to leave all your camping essentials in your car. 

If you have a ground tent, you can keep this within an easy-access part of your vehicle cabin, and if you have a rooftop tent, there’s typically no unpacking required. 

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You Can Carry More

Accessing off-the-beaten path campgrounds can be a rewarding experience for the average hiker, but it can limit how much equipment you take.

Sometimes, you have to choose between comfort and convenience, which might impact your ability to enjoy your experience in earnest.

Car camping allows you to take as much equipment as you can fit in your vehicle, such as sleeping supplies, cooking equipment, and other activities to pass the time. 

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What to Take When Car Camping

vw beetle car camper

Packing for your very first car tent camping experience can be exciting, especially when you’re heading somewhere new. Before you set off, make sure you’ve got the following equipment…

A Form of Shelter

Protection from the elements can be crucial in the great outdoors. Pack a tent that will protect you from wind, rain, UV rays, and wildlife.

Some people prefer the rusticity of ground tents and simple tarps, while others like the comfort and luxury of rooftop tents. 

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Cooking Equipment

sausage and eggs cooking over campfire

You might not be close to any eateries on your camping adventure, so pack equipment you can use to prepare nutritious meals.

A camp stove is essential for beginner and seasoned campers, along with cups, plates, bowls, and cutlery.

Don’t forget the ingredients you’ll need for delicious camp food, like tacos, breakfast sandwiches, campfire nachos, and smores. 

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A Source of Heat

A heat source can be crucial for comfort while camping in colder climes. Check your campsite’s rules on lighting campfires and consider alternative heating sources like camp-friendly heaters, battery-powered blankets, and reusable hand warmers. 

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Bedding

A sleeping bag is essential on any camping trip. Make your purchasing decision based on the elements. For example, a winter-rated sleeping bag can be vital if you’re considering winter camping in the snow to take advantage of ice fishing opportunities.

Extra blankets might also assist with comfort and heat retention. 

It’s also worth considering your sleeping base. A stretcher, foam pad, or air mattress is often necessary for a traditional tent, while rooftop tents typically come with a plush bed pad designed for comfort. 

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Final Thoughts on Car Camping

Car camping can be a fun experience for families, couples, individuals alike (and even pets), especially when you can connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.

When planning your next camping trip, consider the information above to enjoy as many conveniences and comforts as possible.

man skiing in snow with hunting gun

Don’t Let The Cold Win! | How To Layer Clothing For Winter

There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing for the conditions.

While you might think you only need a warm jacket when venturing into the great outdoors to go hunting or fishing during the cooler months, there can be much more involved in keeping yourself warm and comfortable. 

man drilling hole for ice fishing

Hunting, fishing or camping in the cold weather requires a knowledge of how to best layer clothing so that you can stay warm.

When the time comes to plan your next hunting trip into the wilderness, take a moment to consider the following information, so that you can learn all about how to layer winter clothing to feel comfortable enough to explore all that nature has to offer. 

How to Remain Warm in the Great Outdoors

When you put on warm clothing to head outside, your goal should always be to manage moisture, maintain your heat level for comfort, and create a barrier between the elements and your skin. 

man walking to box stand in snow

You might enjoy being alone in the outdoors… you just don’t want to be COLD and alone!

Not all cold-winter clothing is created equal. So, purchasing high-quality outdoor garments from well-known companies like Kryptek and others is a critical component of remaining warm in the great outdoors, but it’s also helpful to understand the science behind retaining your body heat to know how to wear your clothing appropriately. 

mule deer standing in the snow

You may not have the anatomy of a deer to keep you warm in cold conditions, but you can learn to layer clothing in a manner that protects you from the elements.

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A deer has many interesting aspects of its anatomy

During winter, you’re often faced with many challenging elements, such as wind, rain, and cold temperatures. Heat is easily transferred from your body into the environment, and it’s easier to lose heat than it is to retain it. 

So, whether you’re ice fishing or hunting, you need to have knowledge of how sweat affects your body and heat levels. Body heat can be pulled away from your body much faster when it’s wet with perspiration than if it were dry. 

Prevent Moisture to Stay Warm

One of the best ways to stay warm, regardless of how you layer your clothing, is by being cold before you begin your hunting trip in earnest. If you add all your winter layers and then stand in front of a heater before venturing outside, you might start sweating and lose much-needed body heat.   

moisture

Moisture is the enemy when it comes to staying warm in colder weather, as it robs you of body heat.

So, as challenging as it might be to immediately venture outside to start hiking once you’ve put on your multiple layers, it can be essential for giving your body the best chance of retaining its heat. 

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Layer Your Winter Hunting Clothing Strategically

When you’re trying to dress warmly in cold weather, it can sometimes feel like you have to pack an entire closet full of clothing when you go on a winter hunting adventure or that you have to wear multiple layers until you’re no longer comfortable.

However, if you apply the right layering strategy, you might be surprised at how easy it can be to prepare for an outdoor trip. 

Before heading out, read up on the weather conditions you can expect. This allows you to take all necessary precautions with supplies and provides insight into the type of clothing you need to take with you and what to wear when you set off. 

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You’ll need to continually layer up and down on most hunting trips. Take note of how your body is feeling, and when you’re feeling too warm, take off a layer before you start sweating. 

If weather conditions change and rain or snow sets in, you can add more layers from your hunting backpack, including a waterproof jacket to keep your mid layers warm and retain your body heat. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so you may be layering up and down throughout your hunting trip. 

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Adopt the W.I.S.E System

If you’re new to hunting, it may not be immediately apparent which clothing you should buy to remain warm, dry, and comfortable.

However, you might have a much easier shopping experience when you familiarize yourself with the W.I.S.E system. This system involves:

  • Wicking – Next-to-skin base layers
  • Insulating – Mid layers, such as fleece or a down jacket
  • Sheltering – Rain jacket and rain pants
  • Extra – Additional layers in case of an emergency, such as an unexpected snowstorm  
layering WISE system

The W.I.S.E system will give you a fundamental understanding of the basic garments to purchase, but don’t forget to buy wool socks, waterproof boots, hats, and gloves. 

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Choose Your Base Layer

Now that you’re aware of the garments you require for the W.I.S.E system, you can learn more about each layer and how it contributes to your overall warmth, dryness, and comfort.

A base layer is a snug-fitting set of garments designed to wick sweat away from your skin to keep you dry. 

base layer

When choosing a base layer, go with wool, silk or synthetics, rather than cotton (photo credit: Wikihow.com)

While cotton can be a preference for everyday wear, it’s less suitable for outdoor activities like hunting.

Instead, opt for base layers featuring wool, silk, or synthetic fabrics. Your top base layer can be a long or short-sleeve shirt and leggings with these materials, paired with a high-quality pair of synthetic or wool socks. 

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Choose Your Insulating Layer

Equally as important as your base layer is your insulating layer. This layer prevents the outdoor environment from taking your much-needed body heat.

insualting layer

The insulating layer will help maintain valuable body heat while in the cold weather. (photo credit Wikihow.com)

Typically, you would wear a wool or microfleece top, a puffer jacket, and fleece leggings. You can also pair your insulating layer with a wool or fleece hat and neck gaiter, glove liners, and insulating socks. 

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Choose Your Sheltering Layer

If you are going on a hunting or fishing trip, you certainly like to see favorable weather conditions. However, weather conditions can certainly change, and sometimes rapidly.

sheltering layer

Wearing a sheltering layer is critical in protecting the insulating layer underneath. (photo credit: Wikihow.com)

You might be caught out in the rain or snow when you least expect it, and you need to protect your insulating layer at all costs.

Pack a sheltering layer, and you can be prepared for any eventuality. Typically, this layer consists of a pair of rain pants and a rain jacket, both of which need to be waterproof to remain effective. 

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Best Materials for Winter Outdoor Clothing

When there are so many different types of outdoor and hunting clothing for sale, it can be hard to know what will be the most comfortable and practical. While there are many desirable options, some stand out more than others. 

For example, merino wool, a natural fiber sourced from sheep, is a moisture-wicking base layer that is odor-resistant and temperature regulating.

Don’t neglect your feet! [stay warm]
snow on evergreen trees

When adventuring outdoors in colder weather, merino wool is a great moisture wicking base layer that is also odor resistant.

You might also consider synthetic fleece as a mid layer option, which is both affordable and warm. Although, it’s not an ideal wind-resistant layer. 

Synthetic and down jackets can be an effective insulating mid layer, while nylon is ideal for keeping you dry. Some manufacturers create special membranes for nylon to form waterproof jackets for winter use. 

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Final Thoughts On Layer Clothing For Cold Weather

Layering winter clothing is an integral part of preparing for any outdoor adventure or hunting trip.

so, before you begin planning your next trip, take the time to make sure you’ve got a full closet of winter options to keep you warm, dry, and protected from the elements.

Remember the W.I.S.E. system and have fun outdoors!

part of the grand canyon national park

Incredible! The Best Camping In The U.S. | 8 Must-See Destinations

Camping is one of the best ways to truly see the natural world in all of its glory.

Camping in some of the most gorgeous areas in the world will give you a new perspective about some of the amazing places you can find and visit in an otherwise “regular” life.

But what about in your own “backyard?” What are the best camping spots in the United States?

vw van full of camping gear

There are so many locations in the U.S. that have fantastic camping adventures awaiting you. So, before you back up the vehicle, let’s take a look at 8 of the tops spots!

Throughout all 50 states, there are certainly many amazing areas to explore. Although we cannot get to all 50 states in this article, we’ll cover some awesome camping opportunities for you to consider below.

So, without further adieu, let’s cover the best camping locations in the U.S. right now!

Click any location in the list below to jump straight to it!

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park boasts not only majestic mountain views, but 13 campgrounds as well.

Located in the Rocky mountains of Montana, Glacier National Park is one of the most underrated camping destinations in the country. With incredible mountain landscapes and other natural features, everywhere you look, you will be surrounded by beauty.

Throughout this huge national park, there are 13 campgrounds and hundreds of individual sites to enjoy. So, there is plenty of room for everyone. And, If you like hiking, there are over 700 miles of hiking trails stretching through many areas and ecosystems.

Overall, Glacier National Park is a quiet, serene location to camp in the United States that has tons of fun opportunities and so much scenery to enjoy.

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Arches National Park

Arches National Park

Arches National Park, in Utah, is famous for its beautiful natural rock structures and great hiking.

Due to the natural rock structures and mountainous areas, Arches National Park is a site to behold. This is one of the more exclusive opportunities as there are only 50 campsites at the Devils Garden campground.

However, Moad, Utah is known for its other camping opportunities, but they will be off the main property. The park gets its name from the natural rock arches that are all over the property. This is a great place to hike and explore while taking in this area’s natural beauty.

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Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon National Park is an absolute must-see location, but be sure to plan ahead!

No list of the best camping locations in America is complete without mentioning one of the natural wonders of the world. The Grand Canyon is certainly one of the most impressive places in the entire world.

Camping in Grand Canyon National Park can happen in four developed campgrounds. If you would rather rough it, you can enter the backcountry on a permit if you are able to secure one.

Now, all of these opportunities fill up quickly, so the earlier the better in terms of planning.

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Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park has over 100 individual campsites.

Joshua Tree National Park is a great destination to camp in for a number of reasons. The biggest of which is the location. Located in California, this park is a few hours drive from cities like Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Phoenix.

When you can get away from the big cities easily and access natural beauty like this, it is a game changer.

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In terms of parking at the actual park, there is plenty of room. There are over 100 individual sites with a few off-site places offering spots as well.

Temperatures in this part of the country get insanely high in the summer, so you might consider planning your trip during the other three seasons to get the best experience possible.

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Assateague Island

horses running on assateague island

Looking for an island with wild horses… Assateague Island is the place to see! (photo credit: National Park Service)

Located off the coast of Maryland sits Assateague Island. This is a natural paradise with nearly 40 miles of coastline and plenty of beach camping available.

Assateague Island is a place not too many people away from the east coast know about, so it is a bit of a hidden gem, at least on the national level.

A super unique factor of Assateague Island is the population of wild horses that inhabit it. These are gorgeous horses that roam the island and frequent the various campgrounds on the beach. This is a really unique experience that does not happen much in the United States, especially on the east coast.

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Biscayne National Park

Biscayne National Park

The Florida Keys may not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering camping locations, but they are home to the beautiful Biscayne National Park (photo credit: Biscayne National Park Institute)

Further down the east coast and around the tip of Florida sits Biscayne National Park in the Florida Keys.

The Florida Keys is a series of gorgeous islands and land masses connected with one major road down from the mainland. As you work your way down, there is so much natural beauty to enjoy.

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One of the focal points along the way is Biscayne National Park. There are not many areas where you can see a large city and also have the natural features such as this park. With downtown Miami off in the distance, you can pitch a tent and enjoy southern Florida life all in one location.

There are two campgrounds in the park, but both are on individual keys and have to be accessed by boats.

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Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park is a great location for backpacking and seeing incredible views like this.

In order to make the Top U.S. Camping Spots list complete, we need an entry or two in the midwest. One of the most impressive of which is Badlands National Park in South Dakota. This is a large park that harbors incredible views and hiking opportunities.

In terms of camping, there are two campgrounds on the property and one of them is only accessible through the backcountry. So, if you would like to do some backpacking, you are covered in areas that cannot be reached by RV travellers and others.

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Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore has three drive-in campgrounds. (photo credit: Tim Trombley)

Michigan is a very underrated destination when it comes to natural beauty. However, it’s home to the beautiful Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Here, there are three picture-esque campgrounds that are actually drive-in sites. This means that you pull your vehicle into a spot and enjoy the park.

Between the three campgrounds, there are a total of 65 sites and each one requires a reservation to secure the spot. The gorgeous rocks pictured above are only a short paddle or boat ride away.

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Closing Thoughts On Best U.S. Camping Locations:

Although these are several of the top locations to camp in the United States, this really only scratches the surface as to what there is to explore. However, this is a great starting point.

Each of these locations brings something unique to the table, and camping on-site puts you in the very best position for enjoying it all fully, whether solo camping or with friends and family.

Enjoy these best locations to camp in the United States! Good luck, and happy camping.