Turn Your Toyota RAV4 into a Camper: Tips and Gear for an Epic Road Trip

The Toyota RAV4 is one of the best-selling SUVs in America, and it turns out it’s also great for car camping. With a RAV4, you’ve got a reliable, spacious (but not too big) vehicle that can take you to the trailhead and also serve as your bedroom on wheels. Whether you’re planning a cross-country journey or a weekend at the state park, here’s how to set up your RAV4 for comfortable camping.

RAV4 Camping Perks: The RAV4 hits a sweet spot in size.  It’s large enough that two people can sleep in the back, but small enough to be easy to drive daily and decent on gas. In fact, one avid RAV4 camper noted that at 5’8” and 5’10”, they (and a partner) could sleep side by side in the back of a 2016 RAV4 with no problem (jaceyoutwest.com). It’s a snug fit, but definitely doable. You get roughly the width of a full-size bed (maybe a few inches shy) between the wheel wells, and with the rear seats folded, the cargo floor length is around 5.5 to 6 feet. Plus, the RAV4’s boxy shape means you can load it up with gear – fold the seats and you have ample cargo room for bikes, kayaks (on the roof), or whatever adventure toys you have in mind. The ground clearance and available AWD on many RAV4 models also let you venture down dirt roads confidently.

Setting Up the Sleeping Area: The RAV4’s rear seats fold nearly flat, but not perfectly – there’s a slight angle and a bit of a bump where the hinge is. If you just toss a sleeping pad or air mattress in, you might feel that unevenness. Here are some options to get a flat, comfy bed:

• Thick Mattress or Pad: A high-quality car camping mattress can compensate for minor floor bumps. For example, the Exped MegaMat Duo (a 3-4 inch self-inflating foam/air mattress) is a popular choice that fits nicely in the RAV4. One camper said it “changed the game” for them in terms of comfort (and it fits perfectly in the back) according to their experience. The key is to get something thick enough to smooth out that slight slope.

• Platform Bed: If you’re handy, build a simple sleeping platform. You can make it in two pieces (so it’s easier to install/remove). One part sits in the cargo area, and a smaller extender can fold out over the folded seat backs to lengthen the bed. Underneath, you can have slide-out drawers or just open space for bins. There are YouTube videos and forums full of RAV4 platform designs – ranging from basic plywood sheets to elaborate drawer systems. A platform ensures you have a perfectly flat sleeping surface and can increase your storage.

• No-Build Approach: Not up for construction? Use the gear-you-have method. Fill in the low spots with bags or gear (for example, place your duffel or a pillow under any dip in the folded seats). Then layer a couple of sleeping pads or a folding foam mattress. You might be surprised how well a few backpacking mats and blankets can adapt to the space. On a budget, some folks start with just their camping pads and find it “good enough” for a few nights, then upgrade their setup as they go.

Remember, the rear cargo area of the RAV4 is not perfectly level (slight downward slope towards the back). If you notice you’re sliding a bit, try parking with the nose of the car slightly uphill, which can help counteract the angle. Or, if you build a platform, you can design it to be level (add an extra inch or two of height on the back supports).

Storage and Gear: The RAV4 is a champ at storing gear. If you build a platform, you’ll have a big hidden compartment for storage under your bed – great for stashing cooking equipment, food, and even emergency items like a tool kit or air compressor. Even without a platform, you can use the back seat footwells to hold items overnight (water jugs, shoes, etc.). Many RAV4 campers also utilize rooftop storage. The factory roof rails can take a cargo box, which is perfect for lightweight but bulky stuff (sleeping bags, tents, etc.), or things you don’t need daily access to.

On the outside, you can attach a rear hitch cargo rack or even a bike rack if you’re bringing bikes. Just be aware to secure everything; off-roading with external gear requires good tie-downs. Inside, use organizers: seat-back pockets, gear hammocks that attach to the roof (some people string a mesh cargo net on the ceiling to store jackets or light items). Since the RAV4 has decent cabin height for a crossover, you have room to sit up and rummage through a duffel bag when the bed is rolled up – a small, but nice convenience.

Camping Comforts: A few small additions can make your RAV4 “camp” much more comfortable:

• Bug Nets & Ventilation: Get those mesh window screens for your front windows (or DIY with magnets). This lets you crack windows at night for airflow without inviting mosquitoes in. The RAV4’s rear hatch can also be opened for ventilation – there are even “tailgate mesh screens” you can velcro on if you want to sleep with the hatch up bug-free, though that’s more common in vans.

• Window Shades: Privacy is crucial if you’re at a trailhead or parking lot. Cut reflective insulation (Reflectix) to pop into the RAV4’s windows, or use blackout curtains (you can tension-rod a curtain behind the front seats to separate the front cabin and back, and similar for rear side windows). This keeps the light out and also helps regulate temperature.

• Lighting: Keep a battery-powered LED lantern or some fairy lights in the car for a cozy ambiance at night. It’s safer than using the car’s dome light for extended periods (to avoid draining the battery).

• Cooking Setup: The RAV4’s cargo edge can act as a little table. Some campers cook on a camp stove right on the tailgate area (with the hatch open) – just be cautious of any overhead clearance. Always ventilate if cooking near the car and be mindful of fire safety. Alternatively, bring a small folding camp table to set up your kitchen outside.

• Morning Routine: One trick – designate a small corner of your storage for “morning essentials” (camp stove, coffee kit, etc.). That way, you can wake up and make a cup of coffee without tearing apart your whole packing system. You’ll thank yourself when you can easily greet the day with a warm drink in hand.

RAV4 Camper Conversion Kits: The DIY route isn’t the only way. Companies like Compass Camper produce conversion kits for the Toyota RAV4 that include a modular bed platform and storage, custom-fit to the RAV4’s dimensions. This can be a great option if you want a clean, no-fuss solution. The kit basically turns your RAV4 into a little camper with a professionally built bed system – no guesswork on measurements, and it often requires no permanent modifications (it can bolt in using existing tie-down points, for example). It’s a bit of an investment, but if you plan to camp often, a kit can pay off in convenience and comfort.

Hit the Road: Once your RAV4 is set up for camping, you’re free to roam. Pull up to that lakeside overlook and you’ve got both your transportation and accommodation in one. One of the best parts of car camping in an SUV like the RAV4 is the freedom – if you fall in love with a spot, stay another night. If the weather turns or plans change, just drive on to the next destination. Your camper goes where you go. Enjoy the journey in your RAV4 camper, and may you find many a beautiful place to park, sleep, and wake up refreshed for adventure.