25 Car Camping Hacks for Beginners

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Why These Car Camping Hacks Matter

If you’re new to spending the night outdoors, car camping is the perfect place to start. But even simple trips can feel overwhelming without the right tips. These 25 beginner car camping hacks will save you time, money, frustration, and help make your first adventures smoother and more enjoyable.

If you’re brand new to camping, you may also want to read my Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Car Camping for a full overview of how to get started.

1. Pack Your Gear in Clear Storage Bins

Clear bins help you see everything at a glance, making packing and unpacking so much easier. One bin for kitchen gear, one for bedding, one for food. I like these cheap ones from Lowes.

And if you’re building your packing list, don’t miss my Car Camping Checklist with everything you need for a stress-free trip.

2. Use an Air Mattress for Better Sleep

New campers often underestimate how thin camping pads can be. A simple air mattress turns your sleep from “okay” to “amazing.” Don't forget a small air pump to quickly fill the air mattress straight from your car.

If you ever end up sleeping inside your vehicle, this guide on how to sleep in your car comfortably and safely is super helpful.

3. Bring a Headlamp (Not Just a Flashlight)

Headlamps give you hands-free lighting for cooking, setting up camp, or walking to the restroom at night. Try to find one that has a red light as well as a white light to preserve your night vision and not blind your neighbors while walking around.

4. Pre-Freeze Water Jugs to Use as Ice Packs

Frozen gallon jugs keep your cooler cold for days and provide drinking water once they melt. If your cooler isn't large enough for gallon jugs, you can use Ziplock bags full of frozen water.

5. Keep Cooking Supplies in a Grab-and-Go Camp Kitchen Bin

Include:

• One pot

• One frying pan

• Tongs

• Spatula

• Cutting board

• Knife

• Lighter

• Dish soap

• Trashbags

• Ziplocks (for left overs)

• Plates/Bowls (can be paper or enamel)

• Silverware (metal or plastic)

This keeps everything organized and ready for your next trip.

6. Pack a Small Folding Table

Not all campgrounds have tables, and even when they do, the extra space helps with food prep and organization.

7. Use a Sleeping Bag Liner for Warmth and Cleanliness

It adds extra insulation and keeps your sleeping bag cleaner for longer.

8. Keep a “Last-Minute Bag” by the Door

Fill it with things easy to forget, like:

• Phone charger

• Toothbrush

• Medications

• Snacks

• Bug spray

• First aid kit

9. Bring Slip-On Shoes for Getting In and Out of the Tent

You’ll thank yourself when you need to run to the bathroom at 2 a.m. Flipflops or crocks can work really well for this!

10. Prep Your Meals at Home

Pre-cut veggies, pre-season meats, and pack pre-made snacks to reduce mess and time spent cooking at camp.

For simple and delicious meal ideas, check out these easy camping meals for beginners — no complicated cooking required.

11. Use a Windshield Sunshade to Create Privacy

Put it up in your car at night if you’re storing food or sleeping inside. It also can help keep the car a little cooler during the day. This cheap one from Amazon has worked great!

12. Use a Collapsible Sink or Bucket for Washing Dishes

Makes cleanup much faster and keeps water contained.

13. Bring Two Light Sources Minimum

A lantern + a headlamp = perfect combo for cooking and nighttime visibility.

A lot of these hacks came from trial and error — here are 10 things I wish I knew before my first car camping trip.

14. Use a Portable Power Bank for Charging

Especially helpful if you rely on your phone for maps, photos, or music.

15. Bring Cozy Layers for Nighttime

Even warm days can turn into chilly nights. Pack:

• Fleece

• Warm socks

• Beanie

• Hoodie

Staying warm is one of the biggest challenges for beginners, so here’s my full guide on how to stay warm while car camping, even in colder weather.

16. Use Microfiber Towels (They Dry Fast)

Perfect for showers, dishwashing, or drying off after hikes.

17. Store All Food Inside Your Car Overnight

This keeps animals away and keeps your campsite cleaner and safer. You'll also want to keep your trash in your car a night for the same reasons.

18. Bring a First Aid Kit (Even a Small One)

Include bandages, ibuprofen, tweezers, and basic meds. This is a great little kit that comes in a small bag. I keep it in my car all the time.

19. Keep Trash Bags Handy

Use one for actual trash and one for dirty or muddy gear.

20. Use a Rubber Welcome Mat Outside Your Tent

This keeps dust, dirt, and mud from getting tracked inside.

21. Bring a Camp Chair You Actually Like

It’s worth it—this is where you’ll spend your evenings relaxing, stargazing, or enjoying the fire.

22. Use a Fire Starter That Works in All Conditions

Beginners often underestimate how tricky damp firewood can be. A reliable fire starter saves the night. Don't forget matches or a lighter!

23. Pack Extra Batteries

Especially for lanterns, headlamps, and small fans.

24. Keep Toiletries Simple and Travel-Sized

Bring only the essentials:

• Toothbrush

• Toothpaste

• Face wipes

• Sunscreen

• Bug spray

• Hand sanitizer

25. Have a Backup Plan for Rain

Even simple waterproof gear like tarps or easy-up canopies can make a big difference in morale when conditions change.

Final Thoughts

Car camping doesn’t need to be complicated—these beginner-friendly hacks help simplify your trip, make you more comfortable, and keep the experience enjoyable. As you camp more, you’ll naturally start to customize your setup and discover which hacks work best for your style.

If you start with these 25 tips, your first few trips will be smoother, calmer, and a whole lot more fun.

Bringing your pup along? Here’s a full guide on camping with dogs to help keep your pet safe and comfortable outdoors.