Best Volkswagen Models to Go Camping in 2025

If you plan to go camping this summer, you’ll need a vehicle that can take on the challenge. Luckily, the Volkswagen lineup features many compelling camping vehicles that can transform your outdoor adventures into one-of-a-kind experiences. Whether you’re planning a short weekend getaway to Honeymoon Island State Park or a cross-country family trip, you’re guaranteed to find a model that suits your needs.

In this article, our team at Lokey Volkswagen explores the best Volkswagen models for camping. But first, let’s go over why you should consider a Volkswagen for your upcoming camping trip.

Why Choose a Volkswagen for Camping?

Volkswagen is a brand that understands how to blend everyday practicality with the freedom of outdoor adventure. Each model in its line has been thoughtfully engineered to make camping adventures fun and effortless. Their engines deliver remarkable performance, whether you’re cruising on highways or navigating mountain roads. Meanwhile, their adjustable seats provide ample room for passengers and camping essentials. All models in the Volkswagen line also feature in-vehicle tech that make every trip unforgettable.

Top 2025 Volkswagen Models for Camping

Volkswagen offers an array of adventure-ready models that you can trust to enliven and elevate your camping trips. Here are our top selections for 2025.

Volkswagen Atlas: The Family Camping Champ

If you enjoy camping out with family and friends, you can’t go wrong with the VW Atlas. With three rows of seating, it comfortably seats seven passengers while leaving ample room for tents and chairs. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces a remarkable 269 horsepower, delivering up to 5,000 pounds of towing strength for your camper or boat. Standard 4MOTION all-wheel drive gives you the confidence to tackle muddy trails or gravel roads.

Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport: The Sporty Adventurer

The Atlas Cross Sport is a compelling pick for those seeking the Atlas’s impressive capabilities in a compact and sportier package. While it shares the Atlas’s engine, it offers two rows of seating. This trimmed-down seating opens up more space for cargo. Despite its smaller size, it provides ample head- and legroom across both rows. You can expect superb comfort during longer journeys.

Volkswagen Taos: The Budget-Friendly Camper

As the most affordable SUV in the Volkswagen lineup, the Taos is an excellent choice for budget-conscious campers who don’t need much space. Despite its lower price, it has the essential features for a successful camping trip. Its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers enough power for highway commutes, while the trunk gives you enough space for a weekend’s worth of gear for two people.

Volkswagen Tiguan: The Compact and Versatile Camper

The VW Tiguan should be at the top of your list if you’re seeking a balance between size and performance capabilities. While smaller than the Atlas, it seats up to seven passengers. It’s outfitted with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, producing 201 horsepower and up to 221 pound-feet of torque in models with 4MOTION all-wheel drive.

With up to 7.0 inches of ground clearance, the Tiguan can navigate rocky terrain better than most competitors. You can also slide the rear seats back for comfort or forward to stash more gear.

Volkswagen ID.4: The Electric Camping Innovation

The Volkswagen ID.4 redefines how you experience the outdoors. Its fully-electric powertrain provides instant torque and can travel up to 290 miles on a single charge. Its quiet cabin provides a serene driving experience, while its flat load floor makes loading up super easy. Charging has also become simpler with the expanding infrastructure across campsites and highways.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Car for Camping Trips

Selecting the right vehicle for camping can drastically change how you experience the outdoors. However, every camper has unique needs, so it’s important to consider a few key details before deciding which model to buy.

Gear and Space

Every camper packs differently. While some bring only survival basics on camping adventures, others prefer carrying complete setups, including cooking gear and extra seating.

If you like to travel light, the Taos and Tiguan provide ample space for your essentials. However, if you’re traveling with a large group or taking a longer family trip, the Atlas offers ample cargo capacity and flexible seating to keep everything organized.

Where You’re Headed

Your destination plays a significant role in what kind of car you need. Smooth roads are easy for most vehicles to handle. However, if your path includes dirt trails or muddy sections, you should consider a Volkswagen model with 4MOTION all-wheel drive. This advanced drivetrain, standard on models like the Atlas Cross Sport and Tiguan, delivers steady traction and control on slippery, rocky, and uneven roads.

Budget

A good camping car should fit your wallet as well as your lifestyle. While the entry-level VW Taos starts lower than most models in the Volkswagen line, it still gives you all the features and capabilities you need for a successful camping trip. The Tiguan, which sits in the middle, offers a great balance of cost and value, while the Atlas, with a higher price tag, delivers maximum space and premium features. Remember to factor in ongoing costs, such as fuel and maintenance, alongside the sticker price when shopping for your next camping vehicle.

Volkswagen Camping Accessories and Mods

A wide range of accessories is available to prepare your vehicle for camping. Consider getting these to transform your Volkswagen into a fully-equipped adventure vehicle.

• Factory accessories: Volkswagen offers official accessories that fit your vehicle perfectly. Durable floor mats and cargo organizers included.
• Roof racks: A roof rack is one of the most valuable additions. It allows you to mount cargo boxes, bike racks, or even a rooftop tent, freeing up valuable interior space.
• Interior organizers: Smart storage solutions like overhead nets and seat-back organizers help keep your gear tidy and easy to find.
• Aftermarket mods: Upfits and modifications such as solar panels, auxiliary batteries, and custom-built sleeping platforms can turn your VW into a comfortable home on wheels.

Get Ready for Your Next Adventure With a Volkswagen

Choosing the right vehicle makes all the difference in your camping adventures. At Lokey Volkswagen, we want to match you with the perfect ride ahead of your next camping trip. Browse our Volkswagen inventory to see what’s available. Once you find a model you like, our finance team will help you explore convenient financing options to make your new VW purchase as stress-free as possible. Contact us today to get started and see our current VW offers.