Wesley Littlefield 07.10.25
I love camping, whether in an RV, a tent, or an SUV. Each has benefits and drawbacks that make it better in specific situations. Today, we’ll focus on the similarities and differences I’ve discovered after years of SUV camping vs. tent camping.
What Is SUV Camping?
SUV camping can take several different forms, including combining it with tent camping (rooftop tents). I consider SUV camping to be using the SUV as your primary form of transportation and lodging. I generally lie the back seat down, toss an air mattress in, and sleep in my SUV, but that’s by no means the only way to do it.
What Is Tent Camping?
Tent camping is when you set up a tent and sleep in it. You can pack it up each night, move spots, or set it up in a location and use it as a home base (much like you’d do on a backcountry hunting trip).
SUV Camping Pros & Cons
Camping in your SUV has many benefits and drawbacks, such as:
Pros
- Better protected from the weather and dangerous animals
- Less setup/tear-down time
- Less gear needed
While camping with my dad a few years ago, I experienced just how great SUV camping is when bad weather rolls in. I was dry and comfortable in the back of my 4Runner, while my dad was soaked in a tent. He’d even tried to waterproof it as best he could because we knew the rain was coming, but it still didn’t stop the water from eventually finding a way in and soaking him and his gear. He conceded and joined me in my SUV. Camping in my SUV is also safer than sleeping in a tent in bear country. Yes, bears can still get into a vehicle, but it’s less likely, especially when you take the proper precautions.
I’ve never enjoyed how much time it takes to set up and tear down camp, especially while tent camping. The great thing about SUV camping is that time is drastically reduced because your sleeping quarters are already set up. However, I’m not saying it’s instantly ready; SUV camping requires some initial setup.
SUV camping is so intriguing to beginners because of the lack of gear needed. You don’t have to have a tent or RV to sleep in; all you need is your current SUV. You’ll still need some camping essentials, but you’ll save money on a place to sleep.
Cons
- Fewer options for places to camp
- Must pack up everything whenever you want to drive somewhere
- Less than ideal for families
One of the biggest drawbacks for the adventurous spirit is the lack of places to SUV camp. Yes, overlanding is an option if you live out west. However, most of the US is restricted to RV sites or just off the beaten path.
I might be exaggerating a little when I say you must pack up everything, but you do need to pack up more than you typically would while tent camping, just to drive down the road to the trailhead or a quick run into town for supplies you forgot.
I’ve camped in a tent with several people at once, but it would be a struggle to SUV camp with my family of four, so if you have a large family, SUV camping probably isn’t the solution to go camping. You might want to look into a large tent or an RV.
Tent Camping Pros & Cons
I grew up tent camping and have experienced the many upsides and downsides of tent camping, like:
Pros
- More places to camp
- Better for families
- Have a home base
Camping in a tent opens up your options for camping. You can hike in and set up a tent deep in the woods or mountains, or you can pop your tent up in a state park.
When tent camping, you can also get a larger tent (6-8 person tents are very common) so you can bring the entire family. Unless you have a giant SUV, you’re extremely space-limited and can only accommodate a few people.
I appreciate that you can set up a tent at a location and easily venture off from there, without having to break camp (but the option to break camp and set up somewhere else is still there).
Cons
- Need to purchase and pack more gear
- Less protected from the environment
Figuring out all the gear you will need on your first few tent camping trips can be a bit overwhelming because there’s a lot. Once you’ve taken a few camping trips, you’ll be better prepared and know what to pack and what to leave at home.
As I mentioned, tents are not the ideal protection from the environment, but as long as you get a quality tent and understand what you’re getting into, it’s a fun way to enjoy the outdoors.
Final Thoughts: SUV Camping Vs. Tent Camping
Now that you know the differences and similarities of SUV camping and tent camping, it’s time to come to a final verdict on which is better.
Tent camping is the way to go for the more adventurous. However, for those who prefer to stay a little closer to civilization and don’t have a large family, SUV camping is ideal.
Just because you choose one type of camping on one trip doesn’t mean you’re stuck doing it forever. I tent and SUV camp throughout the year, depending on who’s with me and how much time I have for adventures.
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