Road trips and camping are without a doubt two of Aussies’ most favorite holiday activities. But there’s one important element Australian families should never neglect if they’re planning to go on countless road trips and camping holidays: the need for the most reliable cars for camping.

That being said, there’s no need to worry because you’re already on the right page. We just might help you find the perfect car for your upcoming camping trips. 

And hold your horses, you don’t even have to shell out a big sum of money just to get your family the best car for your camping holidays. We’re here to help you realize that even used or second-hand cars are still very much capable of bringing you to all the awesome places in the country.

To understand what we exactly mean, check out some of these used cars that we’ve carefully hand-picked for singles and families that are so fond of doing camping trips:

Unearth the Best Used Cars for Camping

Hey, before we dive into our top 6 camping cars, let’s talk about what makes a car perfect for camping. Basically, you need a ride with a strong roof that can handle some weight and enough storage room. So, smaller cars might not cut it.

Having an AWD or 4WD is a big plus for car camping since it lets you venture off-road and explore those hidden places.

Oh, and if you’re thinking about towing something along, you might want to consider a car camper that can handle that too.

Toyota Rav-4 (2006 – 2012 models)

If you’re looking for an SUV with a roomy interior for your growing family, a Toyota Rav-4 is your best bet for your limited budget. Not because it is Toyota’s smallest off-roader that means it couldn’t address all your roadtrip and camping needs. Because it has a good reputation for reliability, whether you’re planning on camping out on the beach, in a forest, or in the dry outback, you surely wouldn’t complain with Rav-4’s plenty of cargo space, anti-skid brakes, great fuel economy, comfortable riding experience, and not to mention lots of handy storage compartments.

Hyundai ix35 (2010 – 2015 models)

You may be used to seeing the Hyundai ix35 at school drop-offs, sports events, or supermarket parking lots. But you must know that this SUV is also popular for Aussie holiday camping trips. 

With its 2.0L turbo-diesel or 2.4L petrol engines and a suspension system like no other, going on a planned or unplanned camping trip is truly a breeze. It can amazingly withstand all kinds of Aussie traffic and weather conditions, on- and off-road. Furthermore, what families love most about the Hyundai ix35 are its upmarket perks like dual zone air conditioning (perfect for the summer), cruise control, panoramic glass roof, keyless entry, and more. 

What we personally love about this SUV is that it isn’t difficult to find spare parts for it, just in case yours has already had its fair share of wear and tear.

Mazda CX-5 (2012-2017 models)

Yes, you may have a bit of a hard time finding a second hand Mazda CX-5 at a good price, but look at it on the bright side. Because not too many choose to sell their CX-5, that just means its reliability, durability, and efficiency is simply impressive. So if you’re lucky enough to spot one, give yourself a pat on the back because this ride is truly one of the best medium-sized SUVs out there. 

Now when it comes to road trips and camping holidays, all its features surely won’t disappoint. The perks your family will enjoy are its excellent climate control, plenty of leg room and cargo space, large boot opening, top-quality infotainment system, and exceptionally quiet ride. Apart from all these, it also has top-notch safety features that will really give you peace of mind whenever you go and explore Australia’s wonders. It has 6 airbags, Dynamic Stability Control, lane departure warning, Emergency Brake Assist, and a lot more.

Toyota Prado Grande (2006 – 2010 models)

If you’re more inclined to choosing bigger and more heavy-duty vehicles, a 4WD like the Toyota Prado is perfect for you. It is not only perfect for urban escapes but for occasional off-road camping trips as well. 

The Toyota Prado Grande boasts of its rock-solid reliability, superb (2500-kilogram) towing capacity, tall and robust exterior, and impressive off-road abilities. And if you’re a bit concerned about fuel costs, Toyota has still got a solution for you. You may choose the 2006 diesel versions so that long journeys will never be as heavy on your pockets. 

Existing owners of these 2006 to 2010-model Prado Grandes just love how all kinds of road trips are stress-free. Besides being capable and economical, it also promises a more comfortable ride for everyone.

We truly recommend this ride for camping trips of families, co-workers, groups of friends, and more.

Nissan X-Trail (2007 – 2013 models)

Now if your top priority is fuel economy, going with a Nissan car is the smartest choice you could make – almost everyone, if not all, in the car world knows this. So, you want a second-hand vehicle that’s great for camping and wouldn’t burn a hole in your pockets with fuel costs? Choose the Nissan X-Trail. It is simply one of the most reliable SUVs that provides excellent value for your money, brand new or used.

Nissan has made it so easy for families, singles, and groups to on camping because apart from being fuel efficient, it also prides itself for having the least noise, vibration, and harshness during the ride. Its 2.0L diesel as well as its 2.5L petrol engine are both perfect for any kind of land shenanigan – beach trips, dirt bush trails, forest hikes, and the like. Hence it’s name, right?

So if you want an affordable camping ride with great towing capabilities, super comfortable ride, amazingly large leg room and cargo space, and high driving position, then go ahead and find an X-Trail in the best price now.

Honda CRV (2007 – 2013 models)

It is without a doubt that the Honda CRV is simply one of the best-selling SUVs all over the world. CRV owners just can’t help but brag that it’s price is truly worth it. If you’re one who is in need of a great family car but wouldn’t want to sacrifice style and comfort, then you’ll never go wrong with the Honda CRV. 

Not only is it a winner when it comes to looks, style, and modern features, but more importantly, it’s definitely as competent as its rivals. It can easily tackle any road or weather condition, any terrain, any surface, any distance. So regardless of where you’re planning on camping out, the Honda CRV will definitely perform at its best.

Its standout features great for camping and road trips include great driver visibility, Electronic Stability Control, impressively roomy, stylish and comfy interiors, and great air conditioning.

We know what you’re thinking. Why are all the cars in this all SUVs? Well, even though there are sedans or compact cars that can be used for these kinds of trips, we want to be more honest to you. SUVs are simply the best vehicles you can use to take your family and friends to the beach, to the desert, to the forest, to the countryside, to simply anywhere. So there you have it, Advance Auto Parts’ top picks of used cars perfect for Aussie camping getaways.