The Ultimate Guide to Sleeping Comfortably in Your Vehicle: Luno vs Competitors

The Ultimate Guide to Sleeping Comfortably in Your Vehicle: Luno vs Competitors Description:Camping has evolved, and for many outdoor enthusiasts, sleeping in a vehicle is becoming the preferred method for comfort, convenience, and protection from the elements. Whether you are new to car camping or transitioning from rooftop tents or ground tents, choosing the right camping mattress system is critical. In this guide, we’ll break down why purpose-built car mattresses are worth considering, compare Luno to other popular brands, and answer common questions to help you make the right choice. Mattresses Made for Vehicles Luno is unique in that it focuses exclusively on gear for sleeping in vehicles, whether trucks, SUVs, or vans. Every product is purpose-built, rigorously tested, and intentionally designed to fit into vehicle interiors seamlessly. Luno mattresses are plug-and-play, requiring no platforms, leveling systems, or modifications, unlike many other options. Other brands approach vehicle camping differently.  Hest produces extremely comfortable foam mattresses but they are not tailored to maximize vehicle space.  Deepsleep offers only a handful of vehicle-specific models and relies on less refined materials.  Exped has one vehicle-style mattress, but it is one-size, non-dual-sided, and not truly purpose-built for cars.  Traditional home air mattresses or inexpensive Amazon car camping mattresses are generally unreliable, low-quality, and too large for vehicle use. Luno makes it easy to get the right mattress for your car with their make, model, and year selector, eliminating the need for guessing or measuring and guaranteeing a perfect fit.   Show Vehicle Compatibility Comparison Chart Feature Luno Hest Deepsleep Traditional Air Mattress Exped Vehicle-Specific Design ✅ Purpose-built for all vehicles 🔴 Not tailored 🔴 Limited vehicle models ❌ Not vehicle-specific 🔴 One-size Plug & Play ✅ No modifications needed ❌ Requires leveling/fit adjustments ✅ Ready to use ❌ Unusable ❌ Requires adjustments Dual Sided Customizable Comfort ✅ Yes ❌ No 🔴 Some ❌ No ❌ No Travel Efficiency ✅ Patented Head Support and packs small ❌ Large foam limits space and doesn’t pack well ❌ Inefficient packing ❌ Poor ❌ Large pack size Comfort and Adjustability Vehicle sleeping is most comfortable when mattresses are designed to adapt to your body and maximize the sleeping space in your vehicle. Luno excels in this area, offering both AIR Pro (all-air) and AIR+FOAM Pro (hybrid) mattresses. Dual-chamber adjustability allows each side to be customized for firmness, and patented Head Support Bridges suspend the mattress over the footwell to provide extra sleeping space and storage. The dual chamber design also allows two campers to adjust their firmness or inflation level separately from each other for individual comfort. Luno AIR Pro is lightweight, portable, and ideal for warmer weather and extremely durable. Luno AIR+FOAM Pro combines air and foam, offering insulation, insane comfort, and a higher R-Value of 11 for cold-weather camping. Other brands:  Hest is plush and comfortable, but it is foam-only, meaning you don’t get firmness adjustability that a hybrid or all air mattress offers.  Deepsleep mattresses are limited to a few vehicles and are made from less durable materials. Plus, they do not connect in the middle to join two halves like Luno does with a center zipper.  Exped offers a hybrid mattress, but it is one-size and not dual-chambered, so comfort and fit may be compromised. Especially if you’re planning to sleep alone or travel with a lot of gear. Traditional or Amazon air mattresses are inconsistent, prone to leaks, and rarely optimized for vehicle use.   Show Comfort & Adjustability Comparison Chart Feature Luno AIR Pro Luno AIR+FOAM Pro Hest Deep Sleep Traditional Air Mattress Exped Adjustable Firmness ✅ Dual chambers ✅ Dual chambers ❌ Fixed foam ❌ Single chamber ❌ Single chamber 🔴 Some Cold-Weather Comfort 🔴 Moderate ✅ Excellent R-value: 11 ✅ Acceptable R-value: 8.8 ❌ no info provided ❌ Minimal ✅ Acceptable R-value: 8.1 Patented Features ✅ Multiple patented features ✅ Head Support Bridges ❌ None ❌ None ❌ None ❌ None Mattress Construction: AIR vs AIR+FOAM Hybrid construction is the sweet spot for vehicle campers. The Luno AIR+FOAM Pro mattress combines air chambers for adjustability and stability with foam for insulation and long-term comfort, while the Luno AIR Pro provides a lightweight air-only option for optimal support and portability. Compared to competitors:  Hest is foam-only, which is comfortable and doesn’t risk leaking air, but it is much larger when rolled up and takes up more space when packed away.  Deepsleep options are offered in a hybrid construction, but it isn’t super clear on the foam type used, and it will have less packability than Luno.  Exped is a hybrid, air plus foam construction, but one-size, non-dual-chambered, and not designed to fit any specific vehicle, and will not maximize your sleeping space. Cheap Amazon air mattresses are often unreliable, prone to leaks, provide no customer support, and are generally uncomfortable.   Show Mattress Material Comparison Chart Feature Luno AIR Pro Luno AIR+FOAM Pro Hest Deepsleep Traditional Air Mattress Exped Type Air only Air + Foam Foam only Air only Air only Hybrid Durability ✅ Reinforced air, puncture-proof ✅ Hybrid foam + air, extremely comfortable and customizable ✅ Foam; no deflation risk 🔴 Limited ❌ Poor ✅ Air + Foam Durability, Warranty, and Quality All Luno mattresses are designed and tested in Bend, OR, constructed to endure repeated car camping use, pets, and gear. They come with durable carry cases, pumps, and accessories. Each mattress comes with a 3-year warranty as standard, with optional lifetime coverage. When it comes to sustainability, Luno has a buy-back program for upgrades and an upcycle program that transforms defective mattresses into functional goods, reducing landfill waste. Competitors: Hest is foam with no risk of deflation, but it is heavier and bulkier than Luno. Hest comes with an integrated wrap to contain the mattress when packed up, while Luno mattresses roll up, compress with included straps, and stow away in a dedicated protective carry case.  Deepsleep is made with 30D material, which is less durable than Luno 300D.  The Exped vehicle camping mattress is rugged but not dual-sided or tailored fit for specific vehicles.    Show Comparison Chart Feature Luno AIR Pro Luno AIR+FOAM Pro Hest Deepsleep Traditional Air Mattress Exped Durability ✅ 300D Lightweight, puncture-resistant ✅ Hybrid foam + air, highly durable ✅ Foam; no deflation risk 🔴 30D ❌ Poor 🔴 50D Warranty ✅ 3-year included, optional lifetime ✅ 3-year included, optional lifetime ✅ 5-year 🔴 2 year with limitations ❌ Limited ✅ 5-year Sustainability ✅ Buy-back & upcycle programs ✅ Buy-back & upcycle programs ❌ None ❌ None ❌ None 🔴 Some Luno as a Brand Luno is the first brand solely dedicated to car camping gear. From bedding, storage, privacy, airflow, and creature comforts, Luno is easy to set up and start camping, a one-stop shop for turning your commuter into a camper.  Award-winning Gear: Rated 8/10 from Gear Junkie, Best Mattress For Couple of 2025 from Outdoor Life, Featured in Men’s Health Gift Guides, “Game Changer” from Popular Mechanics, Outside’s List of Best Sleeping Pads, Featured on Good Morning America Designed and tested in Bend, OR, by campers, for campers. Offers a full vehicle sleep ecosystem: mattresses, window screens, storage solutions, pillows, comforters, fans, and more, all purpose-built for vehicle camping Style and aesthetics: modern, sleek, and minimal Buy-back and upcycle programs keeping gear in use and out of the landfill FAQ: Sleeping Comfortably in Your Vehicle Q: What is the most comfortable mattress for sleeping in a car during cold nights? A: Hybrid mattresses combining air chambers and foam offer the best comfort and insulation, with foam adding comfort and warmth, while air chambers provide adjustable firmness and support. Look for an R-value of 9+ for extremely cold temperatures. Q: Can I use a car mattress in a tent or outside my vehicle? A: Yes, most vehicle mattresses are versatile enough for tents and provide better comfort than cheap ground pads. Q: How do I know if a mattress will fit my car? A: Vehicle-specific mattresses with make, model, and year guides ensure proper fit without guesswork. Luno is the only brand that offers a make and model and year selector, along with a guaranteed fit. Q: Are air mattresses reliable for car camping? A: Budget air mattresses are prone to leaks and poor insulation. High-quality or hybrid mattresses are more durable and better suited for vehicle interiors. Q: Do I need extra platforms or modifications? A: Purpose-built car mattresses are plug-and-play, no extra platforms needed, and dual-chamber or hybrid designs increase comfort and adjustability. Q: Can foam mattresses work for cold-weather camping? A: Foam-only mattresses can stiffen in cold conditions. Hybrid options perform better for stability and insulation. Q: What should I consider for maximizing space? A: Suspended mattress sections over footwells and dual-sided inflation help create extra sleeping room and storage. Q: How important is adjustability? A: Adjustable mattresses let each side be tuned independently, reducing motion transfer and increasing comfort. Q: Are there mattress systems suitable for dogs or pets? A: Durable, reinforced, washable mattresses are best for pets and long-term use. Q: Why would I want to sleep in my car rather than a rooftop tent or on the ground? A: Sleeping in your car offers protection from the elements, superior comfort and stability, fast setup, added security, and maximized space. Q: Is sleeping in your car more expensive than gear for tent camping? A: No. While high-quality car mattresses may have an upfront cost, they often replace multiple items like pads, insulation, leveling gear, and tents, making car sleeping potentially more cost-efficient and less bulky overall.Q: Is car camping safe?A: Yes, car camping is safe when done responsibly. Park in designated or well-lit areas, lock your doors, and follow basic camping safety practices. Sleeping inside your vehicle offers more protection from weather and wildlife than a tent and it provides a hard walled shelter to lock yourself in. Q: Is car camping legal?A: Car camping is allowed on most National Forest and BLM lands, in national parks, and at almost every campground. However, many cities restrict sleeping in vehicles on public streets but there are exceptions. Always check local rules or use apps like iOverlander or Campendium to find approved spots. Fun fact: almost all Walmarts allow overnight car camping in their parking lots. Q: How do you car camp for free?A: Look for dispersed camping on National Forest or BLM land—most allow free overnight stays. You’ll need to be self-sufficient, but apps like The Dyrt or IOverlander make finding free, legal spots easy. Quick Competitor Summary To help you make a fast comparison, here’s a concise summary of each competitor compared to Luno: Luno vs Hest Luno: Purpose-built for vehicles, dual-sided inflation, hybrid option for cold weather, patented features like Head Support Bridges, plug-and-play, compact and portable. Hest: Foam-only, very comfortable, packs large and bulky in size, not tailored to maximize vehicle space. Luno vs Deepsleep Luno: Vehicle-specific, plug-and-play, durable hybrid or air options, full sleep ecosystem, tested in Bend, OR. Deepsleep: Limited vehicle models, less durable materials, some single-sided options, and less warranty. Luno vs Traditional Air Mattresses Luno: Reliable, purpose-built for cars, dual-chamber adjustability, I-beam construction, premium perforated open cell foam, insulated options for cold weather, and long-term durability. Traditional or inexpensive Amazon Air Mattresses: Generally cheap, unreliable, prone to leaks, poor insulation, no customer support, not vehicle-compatible, and at the end of their short life, they end up in a landfill. Luno vs Exped Luno: Tailored fit, dual-sided hybrid or air, patented features, full accessory ecosystem, plug-and-play with no modifications. Exped: One vehicle-style mattress, one-size only, hybrid construction, limited dual-sided adjustability, not truly purpose-built for vehicles, lower r-value. Conclusion Sleeping in a vehicle offers unmatched convenience, protection, comfort, and security compared to rooftop tents or ground camping. Purpose-built mattresses like the Luno AIR Pro and the Luno AIR+FOAM Pro deliver tailored fit, dual-chamber adjustability, hybrid construction, and smart storage solutions that maximize vehicle space. Add durability, plug-and-play design, full accessory ecosystems, and sustainability programs, and it becomes clear why vehicle-specific sleep systems are revolutionizing car camping. Whether you are looking for a lightweight, portable air mattress or a hybrid system for ultimate comfort, choosing a mattress designed for your vehicle ensures you get the most comfortable, practical, and reliable sleep setup possible, every time you hit the road.

How to Turn Your Subaru Outback Into the Ultimate Weekend Adventure Vehicle

How to Turn Your Subaru Outback Into the Ultimate Weekend Adventure Vehicle Description:If you just picked up a Subaru Outback, or finally decided to take yours beyond trailhead parking lots, welcome to the club! The Outback is one of the most capable, practical, and adventure-ready vehicles on the road, and with a few smart upgrades, it can become a fully functional basecamp for weekend escapes, surf missions, and week-long road trips. Whether you’re transitioning from tent camping, downsizing from a rooftop tent, or just want a more comfortable, stealthier, and simpler camping setup, this guide will walk you through exactly how to turn your Outback into a cozy, dialed-in adventure rig you’ll love. Watch as Chase R. dives deep into his Outback build, sleep setup, tips, tricks, and more in the video here 👇 Why the Subaru Outback Makes an Amazing Adventure Vehicle Before we get into gear, let’s acknowledge what makes the Outback so perfect for this lifestyle: All-wheel drive + great clearance = surprising off-road ability Fuel efficient compared to trucks or vans Wide hatch + long cargo space = ideal for sleeping setups Roof rails & crossbars make gear hauling effortless Car-like comfort makes long drives and daily life easiest It’s basically the adventure sweet spot: rugged enough to get you out there, refined enough to enjoy every mile. Why Transition From Tent or Rooftop Tent to Sleeping in the Outback? If you're used to ground tents or rooftop tents, here’s what you’ll love about moving inside the vehicle: Shorter setup time — just park and sleep. You can even set your bed up in your driveway at home so its ready when you park at your campsite. Weatherproof comfort — protection from wind, rain, and cold temps. No more dealing with cold hands putting away a soaking wet and muddy tent. Stealth camping freedom — great for road trips or late arrivals Better warmth — your car insulates better than a tent and you can always run the AC/heater for a brief time to get comfortable. Total security — lock the doors and relax. Better protection from prying eyes and wildlife. Car camping often ends up being simpler, faster, and more comfortable than any other method. You already have a vehicle in your driveway that can become your home on wheels. Core Setup: Your Perfect Subaru Outback Camping Build Below is the essential gear and structure you’ll want for a fully usable, organized, and comfortable car-camping system. 1. DIY Storage Drawer System A drawer system is a game changer in the Outback. It keeps the cabin clean, maximizes storage, and doubles as the “platform” your mattress rests on. Why you should consider building one: Keeps cooking gear, tools, recovery items, and miscellaneous camp gear tucked away Creates a flat sleeping surface Lets you pack once and never unload between trips Helps you stay organized without feeling cramped A simple plywood drawer build works perfectly and can be customized to your exact needs. Many Outback owners include: 1–2 rollout drawers Side cubbies for misc. items A hinged top that opens for larger storage 2. Luno AIR+FOAM Pro Vehicle Mattress This mattress is made specifically for cars like the Outback. The blend of air and foam construction gives you adjustable firmness and insulation—critical for cold nights, better packability than all foam alternatives, and maximum comfort. What makes it ideal for the Outback: Fits the cargo area perfectly Packs down small Adds insulation from the cold floor Durable enough for long-term use Way more comfortable than tent pads or inflatable camp mattresses If you're switching from tent or rooftop tent camping, sleeping inside your car will feel like discovering cheat mode. 3. The Importance of Roof Storage Roof boxes are basically superpowers for weekend warriors. They give you: Space for bulky gear (sleeping bags, camp chairs, helmets, boots, etc.) Easy access without unloading your whole car A cleaner interior for sleeping A more dialed, minimalist feel inside It’s especially valuable if you're storing most of your “garage items” in the Outback build. 4. Surfboard Racks If your weekends revolve around chasing swell, board racks are essential. They allow you to: Carry one or multiple boards securely Free up cabin space Keep sandy gear outside the car Organize road-trip and surf trip loads easily Whether you use hard racks, soft racks, or a combination depends on your quiver. 5. Utilize Unused Space with a Cargo Hammock This extra ceiling storage is shockingly useful. Use a Luno Cargo Hammock and take advantage of that under-utilized space for: Puffy jackets Towels Extra blankets Wet gear you want to dry Lightweight camp layers It keeps the “stuff explosion” from taking over your sleeping area and makes the rig feel bigger than it is. Safety Essentials for Weekend Warriors Your Outback is capable, but emergencies still happen. Adding these items ensures you’re ready for almost anything: Fire Extinguisher Mount it where it’s accessible from the driver’s seat and sleeping area. Ensure it is a vehicle specific fire extinguisher meaning it is designed to put out automotive fires. A home fire extinguisher usually isn't designed to put out vehicle fires that involve electronics, plastics, and flammable liquids. Backup Food & Water (even more important in the winter) Always have 1–2 days of: Non-perishables - canned food or freeze dried camping meals Extra hydration High-calorie snacks First-Aid Kit Include blister kits, trauma supplies, and meds you use frequently. This is something that can live in your car full time whether you'r commuting to work or on a backcountry road trip. Portable Power Station Having a portable power solution gives you the ability to charge your devices over night, run small electronics like a portable fan, and avoids putting extra strain on your car's battery. There are hundreds of options out there now so get what works for you in your budget. Recovery Gear Even AWD cars can get stuck. At minimum: Folding shovel - both for winter and summer Traction boards Tow strap so someone else can pull you out or you can help someone else. These are all relatively small but incredibly helpful and should live in your car. Navigation Backup A physical map or offline GPS (like Gaia or OnX) is a must in areas without service.  Extra Gear to Take Your Outback Build Further These are not required, but they'll transform your comfort: Luno Fitted Sheets for better warmth and sleeping directly on the mattress Packable camp pillows Window screens for ventilation without bugs String lights to make the interior feel homey Insulated blanket or sleeping bag comforter Build a General Camping Essentials Bin Think of this as your “grab-and-go” kit — a small bin or tote that always stays packed with the items you need every single trip, no matter the season, destination, or type of adventure. Keeping these core essentials in one place saves time, prevents forgotten items, and makes setup at camp way easier. What to include in your essentials bin: Headlamp (plus spare batteries) Fire starters (multiple types: wax cubes, cotton + Vaseline, etc.) Lighter + backup lighter Compact first-aid kit Multi-tool or knife Phone charger + power bank Toiletry basics (toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes, deodorant, etc.) Duct tape + repair tape Paracord or lightweight rope Small microfiber towel Hand sanitizer Trash bags (for leave-no-trace) Snacks or emergency calories (bars, nuts, jerky, etc.) Backup water or purification tabs Gloves (for firewood, cold mornings, or repairs) 📍Pro Tip:Keep this bin near the hatch so it’s accessible the moment you arrive at camp. No digging. No chaos. Just everything you actually need, right where it should be. You can even opt to leave this in your car year round. Wrap-Up: Build Your Outback Into Something You’ll Actually Use Your Subaru Outback is already a killer starting point, but adding a few intentional upgrades—like a drawer system, a Luno AIR + FOAM Pro mattress, roof storage, and safety items—will turn it into a true adventure machine. Whether you're chasing surf, heading into the mountains, or just planning easy weekend escapes, this build ensures you're always ready to go. Pack once, keep things organized, sleep comfortably, and enjoy the freedom that comes with a fully functional adventure vehicle.

Roadmap to Responsibility: Fall 2025 Newsletter

Roadmap to Responsibility: Fall 2025 Newsletter Description:Welcome to Luno’s Roadmap to Responsibility newsletter, where we’ll share highlights of our journey towards a business dedicated to helping people and the planet.  “Act Responsibly & Thoughtfully”: Living a Luno Core Value in the Design Room At Luno, one of our guiding core values is to “act responsibly and thoughtfully.” This principle shapes the way we work, design, and interact with the world around us. To see how this value comes to life in our product development process, we sat down with Lillian Simon, Luno’s Product Development Associate, who embodies this value both personally and professionally. Lillian lives her daily life conscious of her impact on the environment. Whether she’s carrying a reusable mug, repurposing glass jars instead of purchasing plastic tupperware, or DIY-ing beeswax wraps, acting responsibly and thoughtfully is second nature to her. Out on the trail, she’s just as intentional; she avoids picking wildflowers, stays on marked paths, doesn’t disturb rocks or natural features, and makes it a habit to pack out any trash she finds. This mindset directly influences the way she approaches product design at Luno. “When we kick off a new product, one of the first things we do is create a project brief to guide the development process,” says Lillian. “I always make sure we include a focus on the end-of-life of the product. It’s important to me that we design with longevity in mind and look for ways to make products repairable from the start.” A great example of this is the head support bridge technology found in our AIR+FOAM Pro and AIR Pro mattresses. Instead of using a plastic buckle to secure the webbing, the team chose a G-hook. “Peter (Luno’s Founder and CEO) brought up a great point – a buckle is more prone to breaking and harder to repair, while the metal G-hook is built to last a lifetime, and easier to fix if something happens to the webbing.” Lillian and the product team also take a thoughtful approach to prototyping. “Whenever we can, we prototype in-house to cut down on shipments between us and our suppliers,” she explains. “It helps us reduce transportation-related emissions and lets us work out design issues early, so we need fewer sample rounds overall.” But Lillian’s commitment to responsible design doesn’t end when a product ships. She collaborates closely with the customer success team to troubleshoot gear issues and support customers in making repairs. From filming step-by-step repair videos to hand-sewing extra materials for unique fixes, Lillian is deeply involved in helping keep Luno gear in use and out of landfills. Through every stage of the design process, Lillian exemplifies what it means to act responsibly and thoughtfully. Her approach is a powerful reminder that even small decisions, whether it’s swapping a buckle or reusing a jar, can have a meaningful impact. Car[e] Camping Partner Spotlight: Vámonos Outside We’re proud to support Vámonos Outside as a part of our 2025 Car[e] Camping program.  Vámonos Outside’s mission is to connect the local Latine/BIPOC community to the outdoors in Central Oregon. To learn more about their impact and get a closer look at their work, check out this interview with Wesley Heredia, Vámonos Outside's Program Manager. 1. What is your role at Vámonos Outside? - I am a Program Manager with Vámonos Outside. I primarily lead our teen programs, but like many on a small team, I wear a lot of other hats too. That includes supporting events, mentoring youth, and helping build partnerships in the community. 2. How long have you worked there for? - I have been with Vámonos Outside since 2021, and it has been an incredibly meaningful experience to grow alongside the organization and community. 3. What is your favorite part of working at Vámonos Outside / Do you have a favorite memory of Vámonos Outside? - My favorite part is seeing the joy and confidence that youth gain through our programs. One of my favorite memories is seeing past participants come back as volunteers. That is when you know our programs are helping build the kind of community we want to see in the outdoors. It shows the long term impact of our work and how it creates a cycle of support and leadership. 4. Why is Vámonos Outside important to the Central Oregon community? - We create spaces where youth and families can feel supported and empowered in the outdoors. These are places where they can grow as individuals, try new things, and make new connections. These experiences help foster a sense of belonging and confidence that extends into all areas of life. 5. How can people get involved if they want to support Vámonos Outside? - There are many ways to get involved. You can volunteer, donate to support our programs, partner on projects, invite us to events or fundraisers, or help spread the word. We also encourage people to share our information with outdoor brands and organizations that share our values. Every action helps us grow our impact. To learn more about Luno’s Car[e] Camping initiative, visit our website here. To learn more about Vámonos Outside, visit their website here.  Happy 2nd Birthday, Project ReRoam! In August 2023, we launched Project ReRoam – our upcycling initiative that transforms the rare defective mattress into new, functional gear. From gear totes and dog bowls to ground mats and beyond, we’ve already diverted 4,321 pounds of material from landfills. That’s nearly the weight of a Toyota 4Runner! Now, as we celebrate Project ReRoam’s 2nd anniversary, we’re thrilled to share the next chapter in our efforts to eliminate waste.  Currently, all ReRoam gear is handcrafted just 13 miles from our HQ by Tailgate Industries in Bend, Oregon. When a defective mattress gets returned to our HQ, Tailgate picks up the materials and upcycles them into the ReRoam products you know and love. Starting in early 2026, we’ll be expanding our upcycling efforts by partnering with our overseas manufacturers. These partners will begin creating ReRoam gear using excess mattress material scraps and mattresses that didn’t pass quality control inspections. This ensures that these materials are repurposed, not wasted. With this expanded initiative, we’re proud to be tackling waste on both ends of the production cycle. Thank you for supporting Project ReRoam. Here’s to more innovation and less waste! Thank You! Thanks for joining us on this pit stop on our Roadmap to Responsibility! If you have any questions or ideas for things you’d like to see from Luno’s journey towards being a business dedicated to improving people and the planet, send us a message at hello@lunolife.com.

2025 Gift Guide: Holiday Gifts for Car Campers, Vanlifers, and Road Trippers

2025 Gift Guide: Holiday Gifts for Car Campers, Vanlifers, and Road Trippers Description:Holiday shopping is a lot like road-tripping: you can navigate solo, but having a solid map makes the journey smoother. To guide you this season, we turned to our team of car camping pros for their top gear picks. Below, you’ll find 23 gift ideas perfect for car campers, van-lifers, road trippers, and adventurers alike! We've created a video and a full blog post going over each and every product, but both have slightly different product selections. Make sure to check both out for even more gift ideas. 🎥🍿 Cozy up and watch our full in-depth guide here:  Stocking Stuffers ($25 and under) For the Coffee Lover: Campers Blend Instant Craft Coffee ($18) Meet your new adventure fuel: the Luno x Doma Campers Blend Instant Craft Coffee. Small in size but big on taste and convenience, this travel-friendly coffee is the perfect companion for life on the go. Every sip delivers rich notes of brown sugar, dark chocolate, and caramel. No need for a grinder—just mix with 10 oz of hot or cold water and enjoy an instant craft coffee experience, anywhere, anytime. It's sweet, smooth, and balanced, great on its own or with a splash of cream. For the Casual Sipper: HydroFlask 6 oz Mug ($23) The Hydro Flask 6 oz insulated stainless steel mug is designed for the perfect pour. With a closeable, splash-resistant lid, it keeps your drink hot for hours, making it ideal for those cozy sips by the campfire or on the go. For the Night Navigator: Black Diamond Astro 300 Headlamp ($25) Compact and lightweight, the Astro 300 is a handy light to have for unexpected situations, whether it's navigating dark trails or making your way down a surprise rappel. With 300 lumens of brightness, it provides reliable lighting without weighing you down. For the Classic Sock Gift: Darn Tough Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock ($25) Socks are a staple of any holiday gift-giving experience – buy your person socks they’ll actually use for a lifetime of adventure. Trusted by countless thru-hikers year after year, this rugged sock is designed to withstand the toughest trails, and even if they don’t, Darn Tough socks come with an unconditional lifetime guarantee that covers free replacements for socks that rip, tear, lose their fit, or are not the most comfortable, durable, or best-fitting socks you've ever owned. Radical–and Reasonably Priced–Car Camping Accessories ($25-$75)  For the Camp Vibes: Camping String Lights ($45) Illuminate your adventures with our versatile LED Camping String Lights, designed to cozy up your nights outside. Featuring seven variable light modes and adjustable brightness, you can create the perfect ambiance for any occasion. This kit includes a rechargeable USB-C battery pack that provides nine hours of continuous use, a translucent storage bag that doubles as a lantern, and suction cups if you want to hang the lights on your adventure rig. The lights have a flexible clear protective coating to prevent tangles. For the Breeze Chaser: Luno Car Window Screens ($60, set of 2) Everyone loves to sleep in their car with the windows open, but no one wants to turn into a mosquito buffet. We get it. Luckily, there’s a solution to the problem: our Car Window Screens. These mesh, stretchy screens are easy to pop into place over a car door frame. Once installed, you can roll the windows down without fearing that hordes of buzzing bloodsuckers will storm your campground castle. Not only do these screens allow you to enjoy nature’s AC (read: the breeze), but they also block sunshine and, perhaps even more annoying than incessant mosquitos, the gaze of nosey neighbors. For the Black Hole Back Seat: Headrest Organizer ($40): Transform the back of your seat into an organization station in seconds with our easy-to-install Headrest Organizer. Featuring five compartments and a removable pouch, it's perfect for keeping small essentials tidy and within reach on the road. Two integrated pockets (one large, one small) handle the basics, while the removable pouch adds a spacious main pocket, an internal mesh pocket, and an external mesh pocket for extra versatility. For The Coffee Enthusiast: AeroPress Coffee Maker ($50) Part French Press, part Pour-Over, part Espresso, AeroPress combines all three and uses air pressure and micro-filtration to brew faster so coffee doesn't over-extract, giving you a well‑balanced cup with bold flavor and zero grit while being easy to pack for camping. They even have a travel friendly version, the Go for on even more convenient coffee on the go. For the Earth Conscious Camper: Medium Outdoor Ground Mat ($45): Upcycled from old mattresses, our new, Medium Outdoor Ground Mat is perfect for those who like to keep their space clean. Same construction but as our best-selling Large Outdoor Ground Mat but with a smaller footprint, this multi-purpose medium mat adds a durable layer of separation between you and dirt or dust, sand or snow, gravel or granite. For those Who Love A Tidy Campground: Gear and Shoe Storage Bag ($55): The Luno Gear and Shoe Storage Bag is the perfect companion for your travels, offering a waterproof, easily accessible storage solution. It’s great for keeping shoes tidy or doubling as a small trash bin. Made with water-resistant fabric and scratch-free magnets, this versatile bag helps you stay organized and ready for anything. Car Camping Extras Every Road Tripper Will Love ($75-$150) For the Creature Comforts: Packable Camp Pillow ($70): Revolutionize your camping sleep experience with the Luno Packable Camp Pillow. Combining portability with luxury, it offers the comfort of your home pillow in a compact design. With a plush fabric cover and memory foam filling, this pillow ensures you’ll wake up well-rested, no matter where your adventures take you. For the Birdwatcher, Wave-Chaser, Climber, Etc.: Nocs Binoculars ($100) Binos aren’t just for birdwatching. A solid pair of binoculars is an underrated road trip and camping essential. Scope wildlife, climbing routes, surf breaks, ski lines, and more with these affordable yet high-performance binoculars from Nocs Provisions. We love the wide field of view, simple controls, and compact design–they can easily stash in your console or Seatback Organizer until you need them. For the Cuddle Bugs: Kelty Low Loveseat ($130) The ultimate campfire cuddle spot! Kelty’s double chair seats two and comes with adjustable arms and dual beverage holders. Get cozy and enjoy the great outdoors together. For the Hands are Always Cold: Ripple Rechargeable Hand Warmers The Ripple is the future of on-the-go instant heat, built for those who live and play out in the cold all winter long. Crank up the heat with Turbo Mode for extra frigid days or switch to Efficiency Mode for lasting warmth on the long haul. Need heat for the whole crew? Pack extras in your pocket for backup. The Ripple’s quick-charge USB-C dock lets you power up multiple warmers at once—fast, easy, and hassle-free. Plus, they come zipped up and secure in a rugged travel case. The days of cold hands and wasteful single-use hand warmers are over. For the Stylish and Cozy: Teva ReEmber ($90) Your feet will seriously thank you for these. The perfect cold weather go-to, Teva's ReEmber Camp shoe cues up cloud-like comfort with a puffy, quilted upper. Equally at ease at base camp and supportive enough for all-day wear, this versatile outdoor shoe employs a grippy rubber sole, an adjustable strap closure, and collapsible heel for easy on/off. Nothing like changing out of your stinky hiking shoes into cozy slippers at camp. Game-Changing Gifts for Car Campers and Vanlifers ($150+) For the Gearhead: Devos Lightranger 1200 ($175) Devos created the Lightranger to be a high-powered, rechargeable LED lantern comes with a telescoping pole, tripod, and ground stake. It delivers powerful overhead lighting for camping, backyard gatherings, power outages, or even home improvement projects. For the Storage Friend: Rux 70L Gear Storage Container ($298) Meet the ultimate gear hauler. With 70 liters of capacity, the Rux container packs like a gear box, carries like a tote or backpack, and collapses flat when not in use. It’s weatherproof, field-repairable, and built to last a lifetime, so your gear stays safe, dry, and organized on every adventure. For the Ourdoor Dining Enthusiast: Dometic GO Compact Camp Table ($199) Maximize your camp space with Dometic’s versatile GO Compact Camp Table. Adjustable to three heights, it suits all your camping needs—whether prepping meals at standard height, giving kids their own dining spot, or dropping it down to coffee table level for snack time. For the Culinary Explorer: Gerber ComplEAT 16-piece Cookset ($219) The 16-piece ComplEAT Cook Set has everything you need to easily feed a group of hungry campers. This camping cookware set features a stock pot and sauté pan with generous cooking surfaces and 3-ply base construction for even heat distribution. The tableware set assists during prep work and makes room for generous portions once the meal is ready. When campers are full, everything packs together in the storage bag for safe and compact storage between trips. For the Bold Brewers: VSSL Nest Pour Over Kit + Java G25 Coffee Grinder Bundle ($245) The most integrated adventure-brewing system now comes with the world’s most rugged and refined hand coffee grinder, enabling you to brew the finest cup of pour over coffee -anywhere and everywhere. The VSSL Nest Pour Over Kit + Java G25 Grinder allows you to enjoy a premium cup of coffee anywhere. The set’s 80% recycled stainless steel construction features a 6-piece system that nests together into a compact unit. Inside, you’ll find two double-walled mugs, a splashproof lid, and the Java G25 grinder for freshly brewed perfection on the go. For the Camp Chef: Messermeister Adventure Chef 6-Piece Summit Set ($250) For the camp cook in your life, there’s no better gift than this Messermeister Adventure Chef 6-Piece Summit Set. This California-based, German-inspired, female-owned brand isn’t known for its adventure gear–it’s known for its high-quality cutlery. The Summit Set takes that history of hammering out chef-approved stainless steel blades and slims it down into a camp-ready, compact package. The highlight of the set is a folding 6” chef’s knife that’s so well-made we sometimes use it at home, too. What’s more, the kit includes a folding 6” fillet knife (perfect for preparing the catch of the day), a folding utensil set, a folding peeler & parer with fish scaler, and a folding cutting board, all housed in a rugged, handsome waxed canvas case. For lovers of good grub and the great outdoors, this gift earns two Michelin stars and four Michelin tires. For the Seasoned Camper: Luno AIR+FOAM Pro Vehicle Mattress ($499) Sleep like a pro with our comfiest sleep system yet. The AIR+FOAM construction offers plush, pillow-like support, ensuring restful nights wherever you travel. Designed to fit around vehicle wheel wells, the Luno AIR+FOAM Pro Vehicle Mattress maximizes your sleeping area with precision. For solo trips, a center zipper allows you to remove half of the mattress, saving space and weight while freeing up room in your vehicle.