An SUV can be the perfect vehicle for a great camping adventure in Canada's exhilarating wilderness, allowing you to get around rugged terrain with ease while at the same time enjoying the comforts you're used to while traveling.
With SUV camping, you can take as much gear with you as you like, due to ample storage space in the middle and back sections. And in the evenings, the rear of the vehicle can transform into your sleeping area, as you stretch out for a good night's sleep, safe in the knowledge that you are protected from wildlife, like bears, that may come wandering to your campsite.
In this article, we will look at the best ways to go about SUV camping, so you're sure to have the most enjoyable time possible when in the great Canadian outdoors.
Why Choose SUV Camping?
Using a Sports Utility Vehicle, or SUV, to get around in the oftentimes challenging environment of the Canadian wilderness means you almost never have to worry about mishaps. That's because they're higher off the ground and typically feature 4x4 capability -- all four wheels are powered by the engine, instead of the back two, as with a car.
So with an SUV and its four-wheel drive, you get vastly improved traction in scenarios where a two-wheel vehicle might not perform and leave you stuck. Muddy roads, rocky terrain and icy conditions all need special consideration when driving on them, and an SUV will give you the added grip you need to keep on going. Otherwise you risk having to dig or push your way out of mud or rocks or even sliding off a freezing road and having an accident.
Apart from providing a sheltered sleeping space and lots of room for camping gear, an SUV is a cost-effective solution compared to purchasing an expensive RV or campervan. You already have your RV for traveling and sleeping in, so there's nothing more to buy. You’re all set to pack your SUV up and head to some of Canada’s most beautiful natural wonders.
Preparing for an SUV Camping Adventure
As you may be going far off-grid on your SUV camping adventure, you need to thoroughly check it before you leave home. If something goes wrong out in the wilderness, you might not be able to fix the problem, or call for help, potentially leaving you in a dangerous situation.
Check the oil, brake fluid and radiator water levels, and pack supplies of all three in case you need them. You certainly also won't want a flat battery when you're starting out in the morning and are far from home. So use a voltmeter to see what its charge is -- it should be around 12.6 volts. If it's under 12.4 volts, the battery will need a recharge.
You should also check your SUV's brakes, as they may be under more strain than usual while on rough and hilly terrain in the wilds. You can give them a visual inspection, looking for any signs of excessive wear, but it's a good idea to take your SUV to an auto repair shop so a mechanic can carry out a proper inspection and replace any brakes as needed.
Essential Gear for SUV Camping
You will want to pack plentiful supplies of food, water, cooking equipment, bedding and more for your days and nights on the road when you might be far from shops and even civilization. Take more than you might need, in case of emergencies, like storms, where you might find you can't drive and have to stay put for a few days.
For sleeping, you'll have several options: in the rear of a vehicle, under an awning connected to your SUV or in a tent -- either beside your vehicle or on top of it, as a rooftop tent offers more safety from nocturnal animals and better ventilation and views.
Consider taking a portable power station with you, for lighting, cooking and possibly heating too. And to keep your cellphones, GPS devices and laptops fully charged so you don't run into trouble. Finding yourself lost and with gadgets that don't work because their batteries are dead could mean you can't find your location, don't know how to find your way home and can't call family, friends or emergency services for help.
A compact and sturdy portable power pack like the BLUETTI AC180 Solar Portable Power Station is the answer to staying powered up and connected when on an SUV camping trip. You can capture the sun's energy with solar panels and enjoy all the power you need to relax in comfort at night. Plus, these kinds of power units are eco-friendly, and don’t give off harmful emissions or make noise when running.
Then you’re all packed and fully prepared for an excursion into breathtaking Canadian nature.
FAQs
Why Is It Called an SUV?
It's a Sports Utility Vehicle and made to cope with difficult terrain like rocky, muddy or icy roads, as well as steep inclines and declines. That's due to its 4x4 capability that gives it additional grip on the road.
Can I Sleep in an SUV?
Even smaller SUVs should have ample space for two people to sleep. You may want to bring along an air mattress for added comfort.
What Is the Difference Between an SUV and RV?
RVs are usually bigger than SUVs, as they have an additional living area and a small restroom. SUVs are designed for transport only, although you should be able to sleep in them.
How Does an SUV Tent Work?
An SUV tent connects to one side of your vehicle, and can be used along with an awning. You can also opt for a rooftop tent on your SUV, for added security at night.
