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Car camping evokes images of crackling bonfires, toasted smores, and nights spent gazing at the stars.
Patchareeporn Sakoolchai via Getty Images
The rightcar-camping gearcan take your outdoor adventures to the next level.
You either pitch a tent at the campground or you sleep in your vehicle.
However, although tent camping requires a more extensive setup, it is much more comfortable for most people.
Thebest camping tentsallow you space to spread out, stand up, and relax after a long day.
Read on for our picks of sleeping gear, cooking gear, and other car camping essentials.
If youre tent camping, youll need to add a tent into that mix.
This down quilt from Therm-a-Rest is lofty, warm, and provides queen-size coverage.
These camp kitchen products below fit the bill.
I use a Coleman stove that was passed down to me, Cama explained.
I feel like those things just last forever.
you could also use it on a camp stove or over an open flame.
Aeropress Coffee and Espresso Maker
The Aeropress is a go-to coffee maker for many car campers.
Its small and portable and an easy way to make coffee, Cama explained.
you’ve got the option to make coffee a few different ways.
It even passes my partners coffee snobbery.
Hydro Flask Mug (12 oz.)
Its my go-to camping mug, but I use it all the time at home too.
It has excellent ice retention and is safe to use in bear country.
A bear-resistant cooler is crucial, Cama explains.
We would keep it away from the car because bears can break into vehicles.
The 2-in-1 system comes with both a durable cutting board and a stainless steel serving platter.
It comes with a fork, knife, and spoon and collapses to fit in a tiny tin container.
Plus it will help you stay fire aware and responsible during bad fire seasons.
It packs down small so it doesnt take up too much space in the car.
It also has armrests (for added comfort!
), a cup holder, and a pocket to stash a book or snacks.
Just break it down and store it in the compact carrying case for easy transport.
Eno DoubleNest Hammock
REI
Set up a hammock at your next campsite for ultimate relaxation.
This portable shower has strong water pressure, raves Ramsdell.
I use it to wash dishes and to clean off my dirty feet after hiking.
Its also sturdy enough to stand up to some moderate winds and rain.
If you have a good system and know where everything is, you dont waste as much time.
We slept in the back of the car, so this functioned as our trunk.
They loaded it up with waterproof bins to store all their kitchen gear, clothes, and everyday essentials.
Reserwa Car Backseat Organizer
This backseat organizer is crucial when youre spending time on the road.
Cama uses it to quickly access everyday items like toothbrush, face wash, and toilet paper.
Ramsdell works remotely from her vehicle and swears by it to provide all-day power.
Here are some items you shouldnt go without.
And one of the most common car issues while camping is a dead battery.
