Are you a fan of weekend getaways and spontaneous road trips? Transforming your SUV into a camper is the ideal solution for those who love going on adventures.
Choosing the best SUV for van life with a camper conversion can be a challenge, especially with the multitude of models available on the market. If you don't know where to start, compare the different models and select the one that best suits your needs.
In this guide, we will help you make the right choice based on your criteria:
Features to consider when choosing an SUV
Based on our experience and what our customers have told us, certain SUV features can make all the difference in maximizing comfort and efficiency of the layout.
Here are some things we recommend you keep in mind while shopping. Depending on your needs and preferences, some will be more important than others.
Height for head clearance
The height of the clearance between the mattress and the vehicle's roof is an important factor in comfort when sleeping inside your SUV for extended periods. Models with a higher roof offer a more comfortable sleeping environment.
Panoramic sunroof
The panoramic sunroof creates a feeling of openness and offers breathtaking views of the sky. This feature adds comfort to your camping experience by providing a sense of space and airiness.
Space and storage
Look for SUVs that offer generous interior space, such as those that can accommodate 7 to 8 passengers and removable rear seats that allow you to maximize storage.
Fuel consumption
Choose an SUV that combines power and fuel efficiency, allowing you to drive further without frequent stops for gas. Hybrid or electric SUVs are an excellent option for those looking to save on fuel while still enjoying the drive.
Vehicle technology
Look for features such as built-in navigation, air conditioning, and plenty of power outlets to charge your devices. These features make camping easier and give you more comfort and independence on the road.
The best SUV for van life and camping
Each SUV model has its own advantages, and some share similar features. The right choice depends on your needs and priorities, such as interior space, fuel economy, or preference for a specific dealership. With so many options on the market, here's a list of SUVs that are perfect for car camping:
Honda CRV
The Honda CR-V is a popular choice for car camping due to its reliability and efficiency. While its cargo space is smaller than some SUV models, our conversion kit is designed to maximize every inch of space, making it comfortable and functional for sleeping and storage. The CR-V is ideal for weekend getaways and short road trips.
Honda Pilot
For those needing more space, the Honda Pilot is an excellent option. Able to accommodate up to eight passengers, this SUV offers a spacious cabin with plenty of room for both passengers and gear. If you don't need them, you can remove the second-row seats to create additional cargo space.
For those looking for a The Kia EV9, an electric vehicle, offers an alternative to traditional SUVs. As an electric vehicle, it is both sustainable and efficient, while its spacious interior is perfect for conversion into a camper. Able to accommodate up to eight passengers, the EV9 offers ample space for gear, making it ideal for extended trips.
The Mitsubishi Outlander is an excellent option for those seeking versatility and durability. With the hybrid model option, it combines the best of both worlds: eco-friendly fuel efficiency for long journeys and the power needed for off-road exploration.
The Toyota RAV4 is another great option for camper conversions. Its compact size allows it to easily navigate narrow roads while still offering ample space for gear. Known for its reliability, the RAV4 is an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of comfort, storage, and maneuverability for their outdoor adventures.
Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent is an ideal option for families or groups needing extra space, with seating for up to eight passengers. Known for its rugged construction, the Ascent is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to tackle off-road terrain.
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is an all-wheel-drive vehicle, perfect for off-road adventure enthusiasts. Its robust design, combined with its generous length, provides ample cargo space. For this vehicle, we offer the Conversion kit for hatchback , which is slightly more compact than the SUV kit, but offers more clearance space for greater comfort.
With seating for up to 8 passengers, the Toyota Highlander is perfect for families or those who need plenty of storage space. Its height provides extra sleeping comfort, and removing the second-row seats creates even more storage space for all your gear.
Equipment to enhance your SUV camping experience
Once you have chosen the SUV best suited to your needs, you can optimize your car camping experience with these accessories.
Read our article for storage tips for your SUV conversion kit.
Roof box and roof tent
One of the easiest ways to add storage space is to install a roof box. For sleeping more than two people, consider a roof tent. Available in hard-sided or canvas versions, these tents come in various sizes to suit different needs and budgets.
Organize your camping gear with a Car seat organizer. We recommend the 5-section model, which allows you to store small personal items such as your toothbrush, sunscreen, headlamp, or a deck of cards. For more spacious storage, the 2-section model is perfect for clothes, blankets, towels, or even a laundry basket. These organizers help maintain a tidy space inside your SUV, making it easy to access everything you need while on the go.
The Roadloft SUV camper conversion kit is designed to be modular. This universal and adjustable kit ensures that even if you decide to change your vehicle in the future, there's a good chance the kit will still be compatible. See our compatibility page for more details.
With just a few minor adjustments, such as changing the kit height, you can have your new SUV ready for adventure in no time. This adjustment process is quick and easy, taking no more than 20 minutes.
A kit designed by vanlife experts
After more than nine years of living and traveling on the road, we know exactly what a good conversion kit should offer. With the Roadloft SUV camping kit, we share our simple solution for comfortable travel.
To fully enjoy simplified van life, your conversion must:
- Minimize daily handling as much as possible.
- Provide quick and easy access to all your belongings,
- To offer an open design to remain connected to the outdoors and the landscapes,
- To be ultra-lightweight, for easier installation and removal from the vehicle,
- And be made from robust materials, specifically chosen to withstand the realities of the road.
With Roadloft, every detail has been designed to offer you more freedom, comfort and fluidity in your adventures.