Are you craving some outdoor fun after being stuck at home? Dreaming of wilderness adventures now that travel restrictions have eased? Choosing the right vehicle can make or break your Australian camping experience. Let’s explore the best camping vehicles that combine off-road capability, sleeping comfort, and Aussie-tested reliability.
Best Camping Vehicles At A Glance (2024 Australian Edition)
| Vehicle | Sleep Capacity | Towing (kg) | Ground Clearance | Fuel Economy | AU Price Range |
| Honda Element | 6 | 680 | 17.6cm | 10.7L/100km | Discontinued |
| Jeep Wrangler | 4 | 1587 | 27.4cm | 12.4L/100km | $55-80K |
| Subaru Outback | 4 | 1225 | 22.1cm | 7.3L/100km | $42-52K |
Analysis of top competitors revealed missing specs that Australian campers need – we’ve added ground clearance and fuel economy metrics.
1. Honda Element – The Ultimate Family Camper
The Honda Element remains a cult favourite among Australian campers despite being discontinued. Its genius lies in the stain-resistant, washable interior (perfect for sandy feet after beach camping) and modular seating system. The optional tent attachment transforms this compact SUV into a six-person shelter – ideal for family adventures along the Great Ocean Road or Flinders Ranges.
Why Aussies Love It:
- Dual-layer flooring drains sand/water effortlessly
- Suicide doors create 1.5m wide opening for gear loading
- Aftermarket support keeps parts available nationwide
2. Jeep Wrangler – The Off-Road Specialist
The Jeep Wrangler dominates Australian 4WD tracks while doubling as a capable camper. Its Rubicon variant’s 4:1 low-range gearing and front/rear lockers conquer everything from Cape York’s red dirt to Tasmania’s muddy trails. The removable roof and doors transform it into the ultimate fair-weather tourer for exploring Kakadu or the Kimberley.
Pro Tip: Wrangler Camping Mods
- Roof tents: ARB Australia offers Jeep-specific models with 270° awnings
- Drawer systems: Keep gear organized on corrugated outback tracks
- Snorkel kits: Essential for NT wet season water crossings
- Portable showers: Bushman’s 12V systems fit in the cargo area
Maintain your Wrangler between trips with waterless car wash products Australia 4WD owners trust – especially useful in water-restricted areas.
3. Subaru Outback – The All-Rounder
The Subaru Outback delivers legendary Symmetrical AWD performance across Australia’s diverse terrain. Its 213mm ground clearance rivals many 4WDs, while the 2.4L boxer engine sips fuel at just 7.3L/100km – crucial for remote outback journeys. The 75.7 cu.ft cargo space (seats folded) fits all your camping essentials plus recovery gear.
Sleeping Comfort:
- Luno Air Mattress ($299 AUD) creates flat sleeping surface
- Rear space measures 203cm long – fits 95th percentile males
- Standard rear privacy glass eliminates need for window covers
4. Honda Ridgeline – The Truck Camper
The Honda Ridgeline revolutionizes ute-based camping with its unique lockable trunk (perfect for adventure gear storage) and independent rear suspension that smooths out corrugations. Australian aftermarket companies like Ultimate Campers offer custom canopies that transform the 1.5m bed into a weatherproof sleeping pod – no tent required.
Unique Advantages:
- In-bed audio system (400W) for campsite entertainment
- Dual-action tailgate folds down or swings open
- Class-leading cabin noise reduction (62dB at 100km/h)
5. Toyota 4Runner – The Overland Legend
The Toyota 4Runner’s body-on-frame construction and part-time 4WD system make it indestructible on the Gibb River Road or the Simpson Desert. Its 2.8L turbo-diesel (available in Australia) delivers 500Nm torque for towing camper trailers up to 2,268kg – perfect for extended outback expeditions.
Australian-Specific Features:
- KDSS suspension optional for better articulation
- Standard full-size spare (essential for remote travel)
- ARB-compatible front bumper for bull bar installation
Australian Camping Vehicle Comparison
| Feature | Beach Camping | Outback Travel | Family Trips | Solo Adventures |
| Best Choice | Jeep Wrangler | Toyota 4Runner | Honda Element | Subaru Outback |
| Key Reason | Short wheelbase floats on sand | Diesel range (1,000km+) | 6-seat capacity | Fuel efficiency |
| Essential Mod | Sand flag | Long-range fuel | Rear seat organizers | Window insulation |
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
- Mitsubishi Pajero Sport ($45-55K AUD): Reliable 4WD with 7 seats and 3,100kg towing
- Ford Ranger ($33-80K AUD): Aussie-built with 800mm wading depth
- Subaru Forester ($35-45K AUD): X-Mode handles muddy trails effortlessly
Camping Vehicle FAQ
What’s the best 4WD for beach camping in Australia?
Jeep Wrangler’s short wheelbase and 4:1 low-range gearing make it ideal for soft sand. Always carry MaxTrax ($299 AUD) and reduce tyre pressure to 18psi.
Can I sleep comfortably in a Subaru Outback?
Absolutely! With rear seats folded, it provides 2.1m of sleeping space (fits 2 adults). Use thermal window covers in winter and a 12V fan in summer.
What’s the most reliable camping 4WD?
Toyota 4Runner leads in reliability surveys, with many Australian examples exceeding 500,000km. The 1VD-FTV diesel engine is virtually indestructible with proper maintenance.
Whichever vehicle you choose, remember that Australia’s best camping memories happen when preparation meets adventure. Pack your essential gear, plan your route, and embrace the journey – the outback awaits!
