How To Go Camping With A Small Car

 

Kelly Marrison investigates size solutions when camping with a small car.

 

Hello, happy camper! As you’ve probably seen, most camping enthusiasts are kitted to the hilt. They’ve got their RV with e-bikes mounted on the back, shade awnings, recliners, a fridge, a hob for cooking, gas bottles, and so much more.

Then you get ladies like us. The minimalistic solo travelers who like to test our limits and camp in teeny-tiny cars like the iconic VW Beetle while enjoying a bit of nature therapy. The truth is, you can camp in a Beetle and even be comfortable! I’ve even gone camping with a motorbike, but that’s a story for another time.

So, whether you’re curious or serious about a minimalistic approach to camping, this guide has everything you need. Are you and your little car ready for an adventure?

 

Assess Your Car’s Space and Capabilities

 Not all Beetles are equal when it comes to size and interior space. The classic two-door Beetles have less door padding and smaller consoles but are small with stiff, vinyl seats that immediately transport you back to the twentieth century. The newer-shape model Beetles are more spacious and offer more comforts, like the pre-2011 bud vases (great for storing your toothbrush while camping).

Whatever the size of your little car, assess its storage capacity. Take out unnecessary clutter, but keep your essential emergency kit accessible in case of a breakdown. You can also do a trial packing session using empty storage boxes and luggage bags to see what can fit and where you have wasted space.

 

 

Planning Your Small Car Camping Trip

 Before you hit the road, planning as meticulously as possible is helpful. Here are some considerations when planning a small car camping trip:

 

Pick Your Destination

When you choose your camping spot, consider one suitable for small cars. Some sites may have restricted access, where only a 4WD or car with high ground clearance can navigate the road.

 

Check the Weather

Once you’ve selected a destination, check the weather forecast for the duration of your camping trip. Camping in a small car is an adventure, but not if you’re stuck in it due to inclement weather or impassable roads.

 

Compile a Packing List

Start making notes and lists in advance so you can begin gathering your supplies. Consider what you must take along and what you can get on site (if anything) to pack wisely. If you need help figuring out where to start, create a camping checklist and highlight what you’d like to take along.

 

 

Selecting Your Camping Gear

 When choosing your camping gear, look for space-saving and lightweight options to fit into your small car. Below are some examples of camping gear to take along:

• A compact tent
• Tarpaulins for a ground sheet and shade
• Sleeping bags, pillows & mattress
• Cooking essentials
• Storage solutions
• Camping chairs and table
• Appropriate camping kit

 

Packing and Organization

 When it comes to camping, wasted packing space is a cardinal sin. You need to switch to Tetris mode and pack the heavy stuff at the bottom and everything else on top. Bonus points if you can pack what you need in order of use!

Consider the following storage solutions for your small car to help you organize and pack like a pro:

• Clear, stackable storage containers
• Collapsible crates
• Vacuum storage bags
• Roof racks for rooftop storage
• A cargo net for ceiling storage

 

 

Campsite Setup

If you have a choice of sites, select one that’s convenient and offers shade and easy access to the ablution facilities. Ensure the ground is as level as possible, and then park your little car strategically so you can set up camp.

Try to assess the prevailing wind direction, and park your car so it can be a windbreak for your leisure area or tent. Positioning your car and tent in a U- or L-shaped configuration helps to create a semi-private and sheltered space for your leisure or cooking area.

 

Stay Safe and Legal

 You undoubtedly plan on having a good time on your camping trip, but that doesn’t mean you should let down your guard or go completely feral. Being away from city life’s jostle helps you to relax and unwind. However, you need to stay safe and follow the law.

Taking basic precautions can help you to avoid a disaster, and include ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy,  your tires are in good condition, and that you have a spare. You also need to ensure you have access to emergency supplies and gas en route.

Legal considerations include if and where you can make fire, what fish you’re allowed to catch, and if you’re allowed to take a car on specific routes in wildlife areas.

 

Tips and Tricks for Comfort

 Camping in a small car can be very uncomfortable, especially if you’re tall or suffer from afflictions like lower back pain. However, you can dodge discomfort with these tips and tricks:

• Minimize your clutter: Less is more. Make a list and stick to it. Wherever possible, find items that are multi-use, such as a shade cloth you can also use as a ground cover when the sun goes down.
• Privatize your sleeping space: For privacy, you can use a car sunshade to block your front and rear windshield. If you want to block your side windows, use a towel and close the edge of it in the window when wound all the way up.
• Stay organized: Keep your gear organized by packing things away when you’ve finished using them. This will help you find items faster and also make packing up easier.
• Protect yourself from bugs: Remember to keep your windows closed or covered with fly screens to keep the creepy crawlies out of your car. Also, consider using insect repellent to keep bugs from biting or stinging you.

 

 

Small Car Camping, Big Adventures!

 Camping in your Beetle or small car is an utterly fantastic idea if you’re embarking on a solo or duo camping trip. Like all camping trips, it requires planning. However, given the limited space, you should take a minimalistic approach to packing. Limit your gear to the essentials and downsize consumables to travel-sized portions.

That way, you can camp comfortably and enjoy the simpler things in life while making wonderful memories in your little vehicle!

 

Have you been camping with a small car?

Do you have any past experience adventuring in a small car? Are you planning a trip on the road? Share your views in the comments below.