Avid travelers who frequently venture off to the beaten path, exploring remote destinations, will require an automobile that is specifically designed for outdoor and camping activities. Such cars offer a reliable performance, are comfortable, and have ample space to support off-road adventures. Such vehicles may also be designed to carry heavy camping gear and resist extreme weather conditions. When choosing a car for outdoor enthusiasts, various factors—including cargo capacity and fuel efficiency—must be considered.
1. Subaru Outback
This midsize crossover SUV is a popular option for individuals seeking durable cars for outdoor and camping trips. One of the main highlights of the Outback is its tough and reliable body which can withstand the rough and tumble of various off-road activities. This automobile’s all-terrain ability is aided by its 8.7-inch ground clearance. Additionally, it comes with a spacious, family-friendly, and comfortable cabin with enough seating space and support for occupants and luggage space for camping equipment.
The Outback’s backseat lies perfectly flat to open up napping space for travelers. This vehicle also has several safety features such as an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), airbags, and Eyesight Driver Assist Technology that optimizes cruise control and alerts drivers when they sway outside the lane. The Outback’s mileage range is an impressive 26 MPG (in city) to 32 MPG (on highway). Prices for the Subaru Outback begin at around $28,395.
2. Toyota 4Runner
Several Toyota SUVs possess incredible off-roading credentials and are well-suited for camping retreats and adventure drives. While the 4Runner comes with a slightly steep price tag, its myriad of positive attributes justify that and make the vehicle one of the most popular outdoor adventure cars for campers.
This vehicle’s optional 4X4 drivetrain—combined with its tall body structure, flexible suspension, and powerful 4.0-liter V6 engine—lends the 4Runner the capability to go through any terrain and inclination. Numerous in-built systems, such as the electronic locking rear differential and a gas- and brake-managing “Crawl Control” setting assist drivers with steering the vehicle through challenging surfaces without the vehicle’s tires getting stuck. Certain features, such as obstacle-scoping cameras on the side of the 4Runner’s exterior, enable drivers to keep their eyes on the terrain that surrounds them while off-roading. Despite all these electronics on board, this vehicle returns a respectable mileage range of 16 to 19 MPG.
The 4Runner’s vertical tailgate opens up to reveal the spacious 89.7 cubic feet of storage space for the two-row model and 88.8 cubic feet for the three-row model. Users can modify the cargo capacity by altering the seating configuration and using the vehicle’s sliding rear cargo deck if necessary. The towing capacity of this vehicle is 5000 lbs. The prices of the 4Runner start at around $43,000 and go up to $66,900, depending on the optional extras included and the trim chosen.
3. Chevrolet Blazer
Those looking for spacious vehicles for outdoor enthusiasts can choose this crossover SUV. This 2-row seater comes with a large cargo area. Its towing capacity is an equally impressive 1500 pounds (expandable to about 4500 pounds depending on the towing equipment). Campers can place their mountain bikes and large camping gear on the roof of the Blazer, too. The roof carriage capacity of this vehicle is 220 pounds when roof rails are attached.
This vehicle is also incredibly economical when it comes to using fuel to run. Its fuel efficiency numbers range from 22 mpg in the city to around 29 mpg on highway roads. The mileage heavily depends on factors such as usage pattern, configuration, and the amount of luggage being carried or towed. Prices for the Chevrolet Blazer begin at $36,795 and go higher based on the optional features included.
4. Toyota Sienna
Priced at around $37,685, the Sienna is one of the most affordable all-terrain cars for outdoor activities. This car has enough space to seat 7-8 passengers comfortably. Other highlights of the Sienna include its hybrid powertrain featuring a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that combines with two electric motors to produce around 245 horsepower. That is enough power to tow up to 3,500 pounds when goods are properly loaded.
Some of the Sienna’s camping-friendly features include all-wheel drive, up to 7 inches of ground clearance, and its household-style power outlet, which helps occupants charge their phones and blow up air mattresses.
5. Jeep Wrangler
This large and tough off-roader is one of the most versatile outdoor adventure cars for campers. Priced reasonably at around $32,000, this vehicle offers highlights such as a powerful standard V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower, a large ground clearance of 9.7 inches to protect this vehicle’s underbelly from tough terrain, standard 4-wheel drive, a useful 35.6 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats (users who do not need the second row can fold the seats to unlock the full 77.6 cubic feet of cargo room which is more than adequate to store large camping equipment and luggage bags), safety features such as adaptive cruise control, airbags, and stability control system, and a long list of features including dual-zone climate control, adjustable seating, and an intuitive infotainment screen on the vehicle’s dashboard for easy access to all of its systems and features.
When it comes to all-terrain cars for outdoor activities, there are several other alternatives one can consider, including the Volvo V90 Cross Country, Mazda CX-5, RAM 1500, Rivian R1T, and the Ford Bronco. But, it is important to prioritize factors such as one’s driving needs, storage facilities, and fuel efficiency before choosing an automobile.
