Overlanding has captured the imagination of many outdoor enthusiasts with its promise of the open road, adventurous trails, and nights under the stars. However, instead of spending tens of thousands on expensive conversion setups, we show how you can achieve a comfortable and functional campground, right from your vehicle for under $1,000. Prioritizing simplicity, affordability, and portability, this guide explores key items you would need for a comfortable sleep setup, practical kitchen setup, and honorable mentions to add to your car camping setup.
Sleeping Setup
A major component of this budget-friendly setup is the sleeping arrangement. For our setup, we have primarily used the Exped MegaMat Auto, which, despite being on the higher end of the budget, is highly versatile and comfortable. This thick, warm sleeping pad is well designed to fit into most crossovers and SUVs, providing an excellent sleep solution, currently available at REI for a discounted price of around $319.96. An additional cost-effective component is the inclusion of 0-degree sleeping bags and window screens. The bags ensure warm nights in colder temperatures, whilst the screens allow for crucial ventilation and keep mosquitoes at bay.
Kitchen Setup
Keeping it portable and compact yet efficient, our kitchen setup includes a range of items, such as the Overland Kitchen and the Blackstone Adventure Ready 17″ Tabletop Outdoor Griddle. The Overland Kitchen is a foldable setup that’s easy to install and uninstall as per requirement, although it could be replaced by a table when camping with more people. On the other hand, the portable, compact griddle is perfect for cooking meals and cleaning up quickly, and is very affordable at around $97.
Additionally, an essential part of an efficient kitchen setup is the BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator. It’s lightweight, compact, and efficiently cools food and drinks using a 12V DC power source, like a car battery or portable power station. It’s priced at $199.99. Also included is a 5-gallon water jug and rechargeable spout for easy drink dispensing, ensuring you stay hydrated during your camping adventures.
Honorable Mentions
Among our honorable mentions is the Jackery Explorer 300, a portable power station offering a reliable source of electricity for camping. Available for $229, this device can power lights, fans, and small appliances. It’s silent, eco-friendly, and provides essential modern amenities seamlessly in the wild.
Our setup is designed so you can take on overlanding without unnecessarily burning a hole in your pocket. By choosing functional and affordable equipment, it’s easier to upgrade based on your specific needs. This approach saves both money and ensures that if living out of your car isn’t your cup of tea, you’d still have gained some valuable camping experience without overspending. Happy camping!
Easy Storage and Cleaning
All these items can be easily stored in your car and swiftly set up when needed. The sleeping setup can be rolled up and stored when not in use, and the kitchen equipment is compact and light. Once your trip is over, a quick cleanup restores the car to its standard setup, making this a great, versatile option for those spontaneous weekends in the wild.
Best for Budget Conscious Adventurers
This guide is excellent for budget-conscious adventurers or those just starting on their overlanding journey. Starting small with essential, budget-friendly components allows you to discover what you really need from your setup and avoid costly mistakes. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy overlanding and catering for two people; it proves that you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy the great outdoors.