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The ultimate car camping guide
There’s a special kind of freedom in hitting the road with everything you need in the back or on top of your car. With a few clever accessories, car camping turns every journey into a cosy, stress-free escape.
Accessories
EX90
A couple sets up their roof tent on their EX90.
Explore the EX90Few things beat a night under the stars. Pitching a tent is definitely a classic, but swapping the tent for your car has become a popular and convenient alternative. With the right setup, your car becomes a cosy base for exploring the great outdoors. No hassle, just adventure.
At Volvo, we have a range of cars ideal for car camping, designed for comfort, safety and memorable nights under the open sky.
Choosing the right Volvo for car camping
The best car for camping depends on how you like to travel. Whether you're packing up for a family or heading out on a solo escape, there's a Volvo to match your style:
- Volvo XC90: Our largest SUV provides ample space. It’s ideal for large families or campers who have a lot of gear.
- Volvo XC60: A mid-size SUV that’s perfect for couples or small groups. This car is compact yet spacious, and it provides an ideal balance of comfort and practicality for a memorable trip.
- Volvo V90: Estate cars are an underrated choice for camping – they’re more spacious than you think. With the rear seats folded down, the V90 offers a generous, flat load floor. Room enough for two.
- Volvo EX30 Cross Country: Is perfect for city driving but rugged enough for those outdoor adventures. Our first fully electric Cross Country a perfect balance for smooth transitions between urban landscape and muddy roads.
Each of these models is available with features like all-wheel drive and Hill Descent Control for challenging terrains. All of our cars have Safe Space Technology and are designed to help keep you safe on every journey.
For more information on each of these models, explore our SUV range or discover our estate cars.
Preparing your Volvo for car camping
Check that your Volvo is ready for adventure before hitting the road.
- Maintenance and safety: Check your tyres and make sure you have a spare or a repair kit. A quick visit to a Volvo service centre can help ensure everything is in top condition for your journey.
- Cleaning and comfort: A thorough cleaning of your car’s interior makes it more inviting and comfortable, especially if it’s the place you’ll be calling ‘home’ for the next few days.
- Essential tools: Pack a basic toolkit, first aid kit and emergency items like a torch and mobile charger – just in case.
The right preparation can help ensure a smooth journey and lets you focus on enjoying your camping adventure.
Two people stand by their EX90, enjoying the view and standing with their cycles.
Essential gear for car camping
Pack smart to make your camping trip as comfortable as possible:
- Sleeping setup: A good night’s sleep makes all the difference. A car mattress, roof tent, cosy sleeping bags and pillows can turn your Volvo into a restful retreat.
- Cooking essentials: A portable gas stove, plates and cutlery make it easy to prepare meals wherever you park.
- Coolbox: Keep food and drinks fresh with an electric coolbox powered by your car’s 12V outlet. It’s especially handy during warmer seasons.
- Chargers and power: Stay connected with portable solar chargers or 12V chargers to keep your devices powered on the road.
These essentials can turn your Volvo into a comfortable home on wheels, for however long you want your adventure to last.
"At Volvo, we have a range of cars ideal for car camping, designed for comfort, safety and memorable nights under the open sky."
Car camping accessories from Volvo
Still need a few more things to prepare for your camping adventure? From load carriers and mud flaps to kayak holders and seat covers, we’ve got plenty of products that’ll enhance your next adventure. Take these practical accessories, for example, that can help make your car camping trip even better:
- Roof tents: Get a room with a view from the roof of your Volvo.
- Roof boxes: Maximise storage for larger gear.
- Cycle racks: Bring along the bicycles and explore nearby trails whenever you like.
- Fold down the seats: Create a flat surface for sleeping. Models like the V90 and XC60 offer ample space.
- Add comfort: Lay down a car mattress, sleeping bags and pillows.
- Organise gear: Use storage compartments to pack away your cooking equipment, clothes and essentials.
- Stay powered: Use the 12V power outlets to charge devices or run small appliances.
- Create ambience: Open the panoramic roof for cinematic stargazing, or bring portable lighting for cosy evenings inside your car.
Our accessory packs help make life on the road easier. The Travel Pack offers simple transport options, while the Outdoor Pack is great for those who love spending time outside. Choose the one that fits your adventures best.
Step-by-step car camping setup
Transforming your Volvo into a cosy camping haven is simple:
A couple embracing the outdoors in their roof tent with sea views.
Why your next camping adventure should be in a Volvo
Your Volvo is designed for versatility and safety, perfect for exploring the great outdoors.
Here’s how your Volvo is ready for the journey:
- Safe Space Technology: Drive with confidence with advanced safety features like collision avoidance systems, lane keeping aid and run-off road mitigation.
- Panoramic roofs: Take in the views by day and stargaze from your seat at night.
- Off-road capabilities: Tackle challenging roads with the help of all-wheel drive and high ground clearance, available in most models.
Car camping is a great way to experience nature from the comfort of your car. With the right accessories – and the right Volvo – you're ready to hit the road with your gear packed and loved ones set for adventure.
Explore our range of family cars that’ll bring you on all your adventures.
Car camping FAQs
Can you sleep in your car in the UK?
Yes, you can sleep in your car in the UK, provided you follow local laws and regulations. It’s important to park in designated areas or private land with permission to avoid fines.
How do I set up my car for a car camping adventure?
Start with a clean interior. Fold down the seats and add a car mattress and sleeping bags. Follow our preparation tips in the article above.
What accessories can enhance car camping?
Accessories like a roof tent or a bicycle holder can help bring you closer to nature on your adventures. A roof box is also a great choice to keep your sleeping area and your luggage storage separate. Read all about our accessories and find the right ones for your next camping trip.
Is car camping safe?
Car camping can be safe and secure when done correctly. Choose well-lit, legal, and low-traffic areas to park overnight, such as designated campgrounds, rest areas or trusted spots recommended by fellow campers.
How do you sleep comfortably in a car?
Fold down seats fully, use a supportive mattress and bring soft pillows. Compact models like the XC60 are surprisingly spacious for two.
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