The Ultimate Guide to Camping in an Electric Vehicle
Electric vehicles are changing the game for car camping, bringing a new level of innovation and sustainability to the way people get outdoors. With companies like Rivian introducing self-leveling, overnight climate control, campfire TV, and panoramic sunroofs - camping in your car under the stars has never been more cozy. Their ability to power essentials – like electric skillets for morning pancakes (hello, breakfast in bed!) – makes them the ultimate travel companion. Add in a rapidly expanding network of charging stations, and EVs make it easier than ever for road trip enthusiasts to explore more. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a cross-country adventure, this guide will equip you with everything you need to hit the road confidently and adventure like a pro in your EV.
Why EVs are the Future of Vehicle-Based Camping
Electric vehicle brands like Rivian are leading the charge (pun intended) when it comes to more adventure-focused electric vehicles. Once you go to electric, a whole new world of perks opens up when you don’t have to rely on running your gas engine. These are just a few of the best road-tripping and camping features we’re seeing from EVs on the market today:
Charging Ports
Convenience store runs are no more when you can plug in a camp fridge into your Rivian’s built-in outlets and have ice-cold drinks waiting for you at the trailhead. Want to bring that electric skillet with you to make some pancakes while camping? Well, now you can have 110V outlets that can power appliances and USB outlets everywhere to charge smaller devices. The possibilities are endless and the best part is, no emissions!
Camp Mode
Camp mode is so extensive we had to give it its own category. Within this mode, you’ll find some innovative features:
- Self-Leveling: Enjoy a comfortable night's sleep with self-leveling technology in spite of the most uneven terrain.
- Camp Courtesy Mode: A feature that turns off exterior lights, sounds, and proximity locking to minimize disturbances when camping near others.
- Climate Control: This feature offers the ability to run AC and heating when plugged in, including overnight, allowing for comfort in all conditions. Ideal for areas with high humidity like the Southern States, Midwest, and East Coast.
Ambient Features
Throw a crackling fire on the main display to add an extra level of cozy cabin vibes when camping.
Regenerative Braking
This feature extends range on hilly terrain, allowing longer trips to remote destinations. This works by using your car’s own momentum while breaking to turn it into extra energy.
Sky Views
The Rivian R1S takes comfort up a notch with auto-tinting glass that seamlessly adjusts to lighting conditions. Those large panoramic moonroofs even provide unobstructed views of the stars when sleeping in your vehicle at night!
Built-in Camp Accessories
More EVs are being packed with built-in camp essentials including integrated flashlights like the one in Rivian doors, an on-board air compressor to air down your tires on the go, and removable speakers to set the mood at the campsite. It’s the perfect home on wheels!
Storage Space
One of the many alluring aspects of camping in an electric vehicle like a Tesla or Rivian is that you have room in your “frunk” or front trunk for all of your extra goodies. No engine means you get extra storage plus flat cargo areas thanks to the inherent battery design of the EV being beneath the cabin area.
Fun fact
Road-tripping with pets has never been easier! Need to make a pitstop and the pup can’t join? Engage Pet Comfort Mode in your Rivian so the cabin stays automatically to a temperature of 72 degrees when this feature is engaged and keeps the area climate-controlled.
Tips for Successful Trips in Your EV
Camping in an EV offers a unique way to explore the great outdoors. From national parks to your local campgrounds, there’s no limit to the adventures you can have! To make your exploration even better, we’ve gathered our top tips and tricks to help you prepare for road trips so that you can hit the road confidently and sustainably.
Tip #1: Plan Your Route Accordingly
We like to think that while road trips thrive on a level of spontaneity, their success really depends on how well you plan. A little preparation goes a long way in making your adventure seamless! Here are 5 apps that can help you enjoy the freedom of the open road without the stress:
Rivian App: Map out your journey and even set an arrival range to keep your journey smooth. Connect with over 32,000 public chargers along the way — no guesswork required!
Roadtrippers: Chart your course with must-see sites, quirky stops, and local attractions to make the drive as fun as the destination.
iOverlander: To find campsites off the beaten path, some of which can only be accessed with AWD.
Gaia GPS: Check cell coverage on your route so you’re never left in the dark
National Park Service: Easily locate EV charging stations at national parks with this map, so you’re always powered up for adventure.
Additionally, with the growing number of EV-friendly parks, you can recharge your vehicle while recharging your own battery before your next adventure.
5 National Parks With Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Marvel at this iconic wonder without worrying about running out of charge.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
America’s oldest national park leads the way with over a dozen chargers from Old Faithful to Mammoth Hotsprings, and this park has announced its plan to add more EV charging stations.
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
From alpine meadows to rainforests, Rainier offers plenty of scenery to explore – and EV chargers.
Zion National Park, Utah
Charge up at Watchman Campground or right at the visitor center before exploring epic canyons.
Yosemite National Park, California
California’s EV-friendly vibe shines at Yosemite, with more chargers than most parks and breathtaking views from Half Dome and El Capitan.
Tip #2: Must-Have Gear For EV Camping
Safety First: Always be prepared with essentials like an air compressor for air-downs, a reliable first aid kit, and an extension cord for emergency power-ups.
Cozy Comforts: Make your EV feel like a mountain lodge on wheels! Cozy up with the Ignik Topside Heated Blanket – just plug it into your built-in outlet and stay toasty all night long while enjoying the twinkle of Luno’s Camping String Lights.
Cloud-Like Accessories: Bring a taste of home to the great outdoors with our ultra-comfy Packable Camp Pillow. Lightweight and portable, it’s proof that camping comfort doesn’t have to compromise luxury.
Storage Essentials: If your frunk isn’t cutting it and you’re looking to level up with gear designed specifically for car camping, our adventure-ready accessories have you covered. Like our Gear & Shoe Storage Bags that attach to the outside of your vehicle using microfiber-lined magnets, or our nifty Cargo Hammock – a portable, packable, fully featured gear shelf for your adventure mobile.
Sleep Solutions: EVs may offer cutting-edge tech, but without a good night’s sleep, even the coolest gadgets can’t save your trip. The Luno AIR+FOAM PRO Vehicle Mattress is tailored to your vehicle type, crafted with ultra plush materials, and features an R-value of 11+. It’s the perfect piece of gear to ensure the ultimate rest on the road year-round.
Our Top EV Picks:
- Rivian R1S
- Ford Mach-E
- Tesla Model Y
- Honda Prologue
- Kia EV6
- Chevy Blazer EV
- Subaru Soltera
P.S Luno Mattresses fit in all of these 😉
The Future is Bright For EV Camping
Electric vehicles are quickly becoming the future of camping and with good reason! The future of camping is cleaner, smarter, and more connected than ever before.
With some thoughtful planning, the right gear, and a touch of creativity, you can make your next camping experience unforgettable. EV camping proves that the journey can be just as rewarding as the destination. Are you charged up for your next adventure yet? Hope to see you on the backroads!
