Families
Comfortable seats and a shaded spot keep everyone happier, especially little ones who need a rest.
Car Camping Comfort Upgrades That Matter
The car does the heavy lifting, so you can pack for comfort rather than weight. These are the upgrades that make the biggest difference to how you sleep, sit and unwind at camp.
What makes camp more comfortable?
Six upgrades worth the boot space, starting with sleep.
SLEEP
Inflatable and self-inflating mattresses for a softer night.
What to prioritise
Better sleep
Air Mattresses & Camping Mats
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SEATING
Folding chairs and blankets for relaxed evenings at camp.
What to prioritise
Sit back
Camping Chairs & Rugs
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PILLOWS
Inflatable and foam pillows that support your neck overnight.
What to prioritise
Neck support
Camping Pillows
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LIGHTING
Lanterns and head torches to light up camp after dark.
What to prioritise
Easy light
Camping Lamps & Lanterns
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SHADE
Tarps and shelters for shade and cover from rain.
What to prioritise
Stay sheltered
Shelters & Tarps
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LOUNGE
Hammocks for unwinding in the shade between activities.
What to prioritise
Downtime
Camping Hammocks
Shop the RangeWhat to look for
Thickness and insulation
A thicker mattress keeps you off hard, uneven ground. Self-inflating mats add insulation on cooler nights, while air mattresses give more height. Lie on it at home first to check the firmness suits you.
Pack size you can live with
With the car carrying everything, weight matters less, so bigger chairs and double mattresses are fair game. Still measure your boot, because bulky gear adds up quickly.
Quick setup
After a long drive you want gear that goes up in minutes. Built-in or electric pumps, pop-up shelters and folding frames save time and patience.
Rechargeable light
USB rechargeable lanterns cut down on spare batteries. Check the run time on the low setting, since a soft light for hours is more useful than a bright one for minutes.
Who these upgrades suit
Weekend escapers
If you camp a few times a year, a better mattress and pillow turn a rough night into a good one.
Light sleepers
Anyone who finds the ground hard on their back will notice what a thicker mattress and proper pillow can do.
Your comfort checklist
| Item | Why it matters | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Air mattress or self-inflating mat | Comfort and insulation from the ground | Inflate it at home once to check for leaks |
| Pump | Saves breath and time at setup | Pack a hand pump as a backup |
| Pillow | Supports your neck and helps you settle | Bring a pillowcase from home for familiar comfort |
| Camping chairs | Proper back support around camp | Chairs with armrests are easier to get in and out of |
| Lantern and head torch | Light for cooking, reading and the tent | Charge everything fully before you leave |
| Shelter or tarp | Shade by day and cover from rain | Practise pitching it once before your trip |
| Picnic rug or blanket | Soft ground cover and extra warmth | A waterproof backing helps on damp grass |
| Hammock | Somewhere to rest during the day | Check the campsite allows hammocks on trees |
Keep your comfort gear going
- Dry mattresses, tarps and rugs fully before packing them away to prevent mould.
- Store self-inflating mats unrolled with the valve open so the foam keeps its spring.
- Brush sand and grit off chair frames before folding to protect the joints.
- Top up lantern batteries every few months while they sit in storage.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to sleep comfortably when car camping?
Start with what is underneath you. A thick air mattress or self-inflating mat makes the biggest single difference, followed by a proper pillow. Add a sleeping bag suited to the overnight low and you have covered the basics. Light sleepers often find an eye mask helps with early sunrise too.
Should I choose an air mattress or a self-inflating mat?
Air mattresses are usually higher and softer, which suits anyone who finds getting up from the ground hard. Self-inflating mats combine foam and air, so they insulate better on cold nights and feel less bouncy. If you camp in cooler months, insulation matters more than height.
Are camping chairs worth the boot space?
For car camping, yes. You spend a lot of time sitting, from morning coffee to evenings outside, and a chair with a backrest is far kinder than a log or the ground. Low chairs pack smaller, while armchairs with higher backs give more support.
How much lighting do I need at camp?
Most campers do well with one lantern for the shared area and a head torch each for hands-free jobs. Rechargeable lanterns with a low setting last longer and are easier on your night vision. Only use battery or rechargeable lights inside the tent, never a gas or fuel lantern.
Do I need a shelter if I already have a tent?
A tent is for sleeping, while a shelter or tarp gives you a shaded, dry living space outside it. In an Australian summer, daytime shade can matter as much as a good night's sleep. Peg and guy it down securely, and take it down if strong winds are forecast.
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Make your next camp a comfy one
Small upgrades add up to a much better trip. Explore our outdoor range and pack for comfort.
Free delivery on orders over $150. Members get our lifetime warranty.
