Not every camping trip starts with a backpack and a tent. Sometimes, it starts with the right vehicle. In 2025, your camping experience depends not just on where you go—but what you drive to get there. From the snow-packed trails of Colorado to the sunny deserts of Arizona, one car doesn’t fit all. So, what’s the best ride for your adventure? Let’s understand it in detail.
Not everyone wants to own a camping-ready vehicle year-round. In fact, many Americans in 2025 are renting or leasing adventure vehicles, especially in cities like Denver, Portland, and San Diego.
- Renters: These are often weekend warriors or first-timers. They rent SUVs or camper vans from companies like Outdoorsy, Escape Campervans, or even car dealerships offering short-term leases.
- Leasers: Many remote workers and digital nomads now choose 12-24 month leases on vehicles like the Subaru Outback or Ford Transit camper conversions. These let them live a semi-nomadic lifestyle without full-time van life commitment.
Tip: If you’re just trying camping for the first time, rent. If you’re planning multiple trips or a long road journey, leasing might make more financial sense.
What About the Back Trailer Life?
You’ve probably seen it on Instagram—small trailers with rooftop tents or pop-out kitchens. They look cool, but are they practical?
Yes, camping trailers are booming in 2025—especially compact ones that can be towed by SUVs or mid-size trucks. They’re ideal for people who don’t want to sleep in their vehicle but still want a mobile setup.
- Teardrop trailers: Easy to tow, often under 2,000 lbs. Great for couples.
- Overland trailers: Built for rough roads, often used in places like Utah and Nevada.
- Pop-up campers: Expandable living space, lightweight, and family-friendly.
Who uses them?
Young families, retirees, and solo travelers who want to keep their main vehicle separate from their living space.
Pros:
You can park the trailer at a site and drive off for errands or exploring.
Cons:
You need good towing capacity, and tight mountain roads can be tricky.
So, which car should you choose to rent or lease? Let’s understand based on the location!
Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington):
Best Pick: Subaru Outback Wilderness
Why it works:
This region is known for rain, thick forests, and muddy logging roads. You need a car with grip, decent clearance, and enough space to wait out a storm.
Who rents or buys this?
Solo campers, couples, or pet parents who want a low-profile, comfortable setup without going full vanlife.
Features that help:
- 9.5″ ground clearance
- AWD as standard
- Water-resistant seats
- Fold-flat rear seats for sleeping
- Roof rails for kayaks or bikes
Optional trailer to pair:
Light teardrop trailer like Oregon Trailer DoDrop Alpha.
2. Rocky Mountains (Colorado, Montana, Wyoming):
Best Pick: Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter (2025 model)
Why it works:
Rugged terrain, steep climbs, snow-covered paths. Here, off-road is the default, not the option.
Who drives this?
Adventure junkies, overlanding YouTubers, or folks who camp in the backcountry without marked trails.
Why it stands out:
- Off-road tuned suspension
- Factory lift + all-terrain tires
- Built-in air compressor
- Hybrid powertrain
- Storage-friendly truck bed
Optional trailer to pair:
Off-grid overlanding trailer like the Opus OP2.
East Coast Forests (Appalachians, Adirondacks):
Best Pick: Ford Bronco Raptor
Why it works:
The East is all about tight forest roads, muddy hill climbs, and quick weekend escapes. The Bronco Raptor is wild but nimble.
Who uses this?
Weekend campers, off-road enthusiasts, or groups of friends hitting state parks.
Cool features:
- Front + rear differential lockers
- Removable roof and doors
- Small enough for tight trails
- Water fording ability
Optional trailer to pair:
A pop-up camper trailer like the SylvanSport GO.
Great Plains (Dakotas, Nebraska, Kansas):
Best Pick: Hyundai Santa Cruz
Why it works:
Flatlands, long highways, and fewer off-road challenges. What you need is comfort, fuel efficiency, and a truck bed for tools or gear.
Who it’s for:
Light campers, farmers who weekend camp, or young families driving to state parks.
Why it’s smart:
- Car-like driving comfort
- Truck bed with built-in storage
- Available AWD
- Lockable gear bin under bed
- Tows up to 5,000 lbs
Optional trailer to pair:
Mini popup camper or lightweight teardrop.
Note Before You Pick a Car
These suggestions are not hard-and-fast rules. They are based on terrain types, common user behavior, and vehicle reliability in 2025. If a vehicle works for you—even if it’s not on this list—go for it. Camping is personal, and so is your ride.
Also, we’ve skipped electric vehicles on purpose in this list. While EVs like the Rivian R1S and Ram 1500 REV are gaining popularity, many campers still prefer traditional engines for longer trips, easier refueling, and better performance in remote areas with limited charging.
Camping Vehicles rental and lease estimate
| Region | Best Camping Vehicle | Lease Estimate (Monthly) | Rental Estimate (Per Day) | Lease Mileage Limit | Fuel Economy (MPG) | Cargo/Storage Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific Northwest | Subaru Outback Wilderness | $450–$550 | $90–$120 | ~12,000 mi/year | 21 city / 26 hwy | 75.6 cu.ft. (with rear seats folded) |
| Rocky Mountains | Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter | $500–$600 | $100–$140 | ~10,000–12,000 mi/year | 18 city / 23 hwy | 51.8 cu.ft. (5-ft bed) |
| Southwest Deserts | Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab | $439 (39 mo., $3,692 down) | $110–$150 | ~12,000 mi/year | 20 city / 25 hwy | 61.5 cu.ft. (5’7” bed) |
| East Coast Forests | Ford Bronco Raptor | $1,340 (48 mo., $10,092 down) | $180–$250 | ~10,500 mi/year | 15 city / 16 hwy | 83 cu.ft. (rear seats folded) |
| Great Plains | Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL Crew Cab | $427–$542 | $80–$110 | ~12,000 mi/year | 22 city / 26 hwy | 52.1 cu.ft. (bed + underfloor storage) |
car lease calculator
If you’re planning to lease a car for your next adventure, you can easily get an estimate using our Car Lease Calculator. Whether you’re looking for a novated lease in Australia, or trying to figure out your monthly payments in California, Texas, or Florida, this tool helps you calculate exactly what you can expect to pay. With just a few details, you’ll get a clear estimate of your car lease, including interest rates, down payments, and more. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to compare different car lease options, and it’s simple enough to use whether you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle. Try it today and plan your next move with confidence!
