When I packed my SUV for a weekend camping trip last summer, I realized halfway through loading that I'd run out of space—with my tent and cooler still sitting in the driveway. According to a recent Outdoor Industry Association survey, 69% of campers cite "insufficient vehicle space" as their biggest packing frustration. The right SUV can transform your outdoor experience, eliminating the tetris-like struggle of fitting essential gear. Whether you're a weekend warrior or seasoned adventurer, cargo capacity matters. This guide examines the most spacious SUVs of 2025, specifically designed to accommodate all your camping equipment while maintaining comfort for passengers.
What Makes an SUV Ideal for Camping?
Raw cargo volume numbers only tell part of the story when considering an SUV for camping adventures. While manufacturers prominently advertise cubic feet measurements, these figures often fail to capture the practical usability of the space. The difference between a frustrating packing experience and a smooth departure can come down to how that space is configured rather than its total volume.
Configurable space offers significantly more value than static measurements. An SUV with thoughtfully designed folding seats creates a flat load floor, maximizing usable area. Conversely, even vehicles with impressive cargo volume stats might prove challenging if they feature awkward protrusions, uneven surfaces, or seats that don't fold completely flat. The ability to reconfigure your interior based on passenger count and gear requirements represents a crucial advantage for camping enthusiasts.
Evaluating cargo space requires consideration of your specific camping style. Backpackers might prioritize height for standing gear like backpacks, while car campers could need width for coolers and storage bins. Those who sleep inside their vehicles should measure the actual floor length with seats folded—specifications rarely included in brochures but essential for comfort. Height dimensions become critically important if you plan to use a roof-top tent, requiring robust roof rails and appropriate clearance.
Manufacturer claims frequently diverge from practical packing capacity. The industry standard for measuring cargo volume uses small blocks that can fill every crevice—a method that doesn't reflect how real equipment fits together. Many campers discover their vehicle holds significantly less than advertised when packing irregularly shaped items like tents, cooking gear, and sleeping bags. Before purchase, bring your typical camping load to the dealership for a practical test.
Weight limits and load distribution warrant careful attention, particularly for off-grid adventures. Most SUVs specify maximum payload capacities that include passengers and cargo. Exceeding these limits not only creates safety hazards but can damage suspension components, especially on rough terrain. Proper weight distribution becomes equally important—overloading the rear can affect handling and braking performance. For serious off-roaders, maintaining appropriate weight balance helps preserve traction and maneuverability in challenging conditions.
Top Full-Size SUVs for Maximum Gear Storage
The Chevrolet Suburban stands as the undisputed champion of cargo capacity with its cavernous 144.7 cubic feet of maximum storage. This volume translates to practical advantages through its box-like shape that accommodates bulky camping equipment with minimal wasted space. The Suburban's nearly flat load floor extends over 98 inches with both rear rows folded, creating enough space for two adults to sleep comfortably inside during inclement weather. Power-folding seats convert from passenger to cargo configuration in seconds, while the available power liftgate height adjustment accommodates users of all heights and garage restrictions.
Ford's Expedition MAX approaches cargo management through innovative solutions rather than sheer volume. Its Cargo Management System includes adjustable shelving and dividers that prevent gear from shifting during off-road excursions. The Expedition's folding seat technology deserves particular attention—the second-row seats slide forward while folded, creating additional space without removing them entirely. This SUV further distinguishes itself with a flat load floor achieved through careful engineering of the independent rear suspension, eliminating the central "hump" found in many competitors and making loading irregularly shaped camping equipment considerably easier.
The GMC Yukon XL takes a premium approach to cargo management without sacrificing functionality. Its available power-sliding center console moves 10 inches forward, creating a secure storage area between front and rear passengers for valuable equipment. High-end models feature an advanced cargo management system with configurable rails and tie-downs positioned strategically throughout the cargo area. The Yukon XL particularly excels in electronic integration, with power outlets distributed throughout the vehicle including a 120V household outlet in the cargo area—perfect for charging camera equipment or powering small camping appliances.
Toyota Sequoia balances legendary reliability with thoughtful storage design. Though offering slightly less maximum volume than American competitors, the Sequoia compensates with a sliding and reclining second-row seat that adjusts to prioritize either passenger comfort or cargo space without fully removing seats. The third-row power-folding function operates individually on each side, allowing for flexible configurations when carrying both passengers and gear. Toyota's attention to detail appears in the adjustable cargo tie-down points and a standard multi-level cargo shelf system designed specifically for camping organization.
Jeep Wagoneer L demonstrates surprising versatility despite its luxury positioning. New to the full-size segment, the extended-length Wagoneer combines traditional Jeep capability with sophisticated storage solutions. Its tri-level cargo floor adapts to create separate storage zones, effectively utilizing the vehicle's substantial height. Uniquely, the Wagoneer L incorporates removable cargo bins in the floor, providing weatherproof storage for muddy gear or wet clothing. For camping enthusiasts, the vehicle's robust 10,000-pound towing capacity further expands options for bringing additional equipment.
Mid-Size SUVs With Exceptional Cargo Capabilities
Volkswagen Atlas defies expectations with an interior that rivals many full-size SUVs despite its mid-size classification. The German engineering approach prioritizes space efficiency, evident in the Atlas's 96.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity with all seats folded. This spaciousness comes from thoughtful design elements like second-row seats that fold and slide forward even with car seats installed—a boon for families balancing camping gear with child safety. The Atlas's wide cargo opening and low load height simplify packing heavy coolers and equipment, while its squared-off rear maximizes usable volume compared to competitors with more stylized but less practical sloping rooflines.
Honda Pilot represents the benchmark for intelligent cargo configuration in the mid-size segment. Recent redesigns have introduced a removable floor panel that reveals a deep storage well—perfect for organizing smaller camping items or keeping valuables concealed. The Pilot's "one-touch" folding second row operates with a single button, quickly transitioning from people-mover to gear hauler. Honda's attention to camping needs appears in details like multiple cargo area tie-downs positioned at various heights and a reversible cargo floor with carpet on one side and easy-clean plastic on the other for muddy equipment.
Kia Telluride has rapidly established itself as a premium contender without sacrificing practicality. The Telluride's 87 cubic feet of cargo space features a notably wide opening and flat load floor that easily accommodates standard-width camping gear like coolers and storage bins. Kia's engineers incorporated small but significant details like second-row seats that fold nearly flat without removing headrests—eliminating a common frustration when reconfiguring mid-size SUVs. The available automatic liftgate with height adjustment proves particularly valuable at crowded campgrounds where space behind the vehicle may be limited.
Subaru Ascent brings the brand's outdoor heritage to the three-row segment with cargo innovations specifically designed for adventure. The Ascent features 19 cup and bottle holders—seemingly excessive until you consider their utility for storing small camping items beyond just beverages. The roof rack system deserves special attention, with integrated cross bars that deploy when needed but fold away to reduce wind noise during daily driving. Subaru's attention to detail includes a wide-opening rear gate and low lift-over height that significantly reduces strain when loading heavy equipment, while standard all-wheel drive ensures you'll reach remote camping destinations regardless of conditions.
Hyundai Palisade complements its upscale interior with remarkably practical storage solutions. The Palisade's underfloor storage compartments provide organized space for recovery gear and emergency equipment without sacrificing primary cargo area. The third-row seats fold completely flush with the cargo floor—a feature missing in many competitors where partially folded seats create awkward lips or gaps. Hyundai's roof rack integration deserves particular praise, with flush rails designed to accept a wide range of aftermarket accessories while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency when not in use, reducing fuel consumption on long trips to remote campsites.
Compact SUVs That Maximize Limited Space
Honda CR-V represents an engineering marvel of space efficiency for weekend campers. Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the CR-V offers up to 76.5 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded—rivaling some mid-size offerings. The magic lies in Honda's center-tank layout, positioning the fuel tank under the front seats rather than beneath the rear floor, creating a lower and more usable cargo area. The CR-V's adjustable cargo floor creates two configuration options: raised for a flat load surface or lowered for maximum volume. Weekend campers appreciate the side-hinged rear seats that fold with one motion instead of requiring cushion flipping and headrest removal found in many competitors.
Toyota RAV4 combines versatile cargo design with camping-specific accessories in its Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims. The RAV4's cargo area features multiple configuration points with adjustable height options that create separated storage zones for organizing gear. Toyota's thoughtful engineering includes side panels specifically designed to fit standard-width storage bins available at outdoor retailers. The available 120V power outlet in the cargo area proves invaluable for recharging equipment at remote sites, while factory-approved accessories include custom-fitted cargo organizers and weatherproof mats designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts.
Subaru Forester honors its outdoor heritage through thoughtful storage design optimized for camping applications. Though offering slightly less total volume than some competitors at 74.2 cubic feet, the Forester maximizes usability through its boxy shape and wide hatch opening. The rear gate opens to nearly 90 degrees—wider than most competitors—significantly easing loading of bulky items like coolers and tents. Subaru's attention to detail appears in features like rear seatbacks that fold almost completely flat via a one-touch mechanism, creating a level surface for sleeping in the vehicle when needed. The standard raised roof rails support dynamic weight loads exceeding most competitors, accommodating roof-top tents without requiring aftermarket rail upgrades.
Mazda CX-50 achieves an impressive balance between driving dynamics and practical storage solutions. Designed specifically for outdoor lifestyles, the CX-50 features reinforced roof rails supporting static loads up to 220 pounds—adequate for most roof-top tents. Inside, the cargo area incorporates multiple tie-down points positioned at practical heights for securing gear on uneven terrain. Mazda's designers created a low load floor and wide opening despite the vehicle's relatively high ground clearance, eliminating the awkward lifting required in some adventure-oriented competitors. The CX-50 particularly excels in flexible configuration, with rear seats that fold individually to accommodate both passengers and longer gear simultaneously.
Nissan Rogue demonstrates surprising cargo capacity despite compact dimensions through several innovative features. The Rogue's "Divide-N-Hide" cargo system creates configurable shelving and storage compartments that prevent smaller items from sliding around during off-road driving. The system provides separate spaces for clean and dirty equipment—a valuable feature after muddy hiking excursions. Nissan engineered the rear doors to open nearly 90 degrees, creating unusually wide access to the back seats for loading gear around passengers. The Rogue's motion-activated liftgate proves particularly useful when approaching the vehicle with arms full of firewood or water containers.
Electric SUVs With Impressive Storage Options
Rivian R1S revolutionizes electric SUV storage through its innovative gear tunnel and front trunk design. Unlike conventional vehicles constrained by mechanical components, the R1S exploits its electric architecture to create storage in previously impossible locations. The signature "gear tunnel" provides a lockable, weatherproof compartment running width-wise through the vehicle between the rear seats and trunk—perfect for storing fishing rods, camp chairs, or other long items. The front trunk (frunk) offers 11.1 cubic feet of additional storage—larger than some compact sedans' entire trunks—and includes a drain plug for use as a cooler or for wet gear storage. Rivian's engineering extends to thoughtful details like a powered tonneau cover that shields cargo from view and weather without manual operation.
Tesla Model X maintains remarkable storage capacity despite its aerodynamic design constraints. The Model X's frunk provides 6.6 cubic feet of weatherproof storage—valuable space for items requiring security or protection from elements. Though not specifically designed for camping, the Model X compensates for its sloping roofline through a completely flat rear cargo floor created by the absence of a traditional transmission tunnel. Tesla's minimalist interior approach extends to cargo capabilities with fold-flat second and optional third-row seats that create a continuous loading surface. The Model X particularly excels in towing capability for an electric vehicle, maintaining up to 5,000 pounds of capacity for pulling small campers or gear trailers without significant range impact.
Ford Mustang Mach-E demonstrates creative storage solutions despite battery placement limitations. The Mach-E's front trunk deserves special attention not just for its 4.7 cubic feet of capacity but for its drainable design specifically engineered for camping use—Ford demonstrates this by filling it with ice for beverage cooling. Inside, the Mach-E overcomes the high load floor common in electric vehicles through a multi-level adjustable cargo divider that creates organized storage zones. Ford's engineers created floating dashboard and center console designs that increase perceived spaciousness while providing additional storage beneath these components—unusual in any vehicle category. For longer items, the rear seats fold to create a nearly flat load floor despite battery placement constraints.
Kia EV9 establishes new standards for three-row electric SUV versatility through excellent folding configurations. The EV9's second-row seats not only fold flat but can rotate 180 degrees to face the third row—creating a social space at campsites without leaving the vehicle. With all seats folded, the completely flat floor extends from hatch to front seats, providing space for two adults to sleep inside comfortably. Kia engineered multiple power outlets throughout the cabin including 120V capability with sufficient output to power small cooking appliances or camping electronics. The EV9's vehicle-to-load functionality enables using the main battery to power external devices at campsites without electrical hookups—essentially functioning as a mobile power station.
Hyundai Ioniq 7 incorporates purpose-built camping features directly into its design philosophy. The upcoming three-row electric SUV features a "Universal Island" center console that moves throughout the cabin, functioning as an adjustable table for meal preparation or gear organization. Hyundai's patented vehicle-to-load technology supplies up to 3.6kW of power—sufficient for most camping appliances including electric coolers, cooking equipment, and site lighting. The Ioniq 7 addresses the common complaint about electric vehicle cargo areas through its innovative low-profile battery design that maintains a lower load height than most competitors. The interior features specific accommodation for sleeping with seats that recline completely flat and window coverings integrated into door panels for privacy.
Innovative Cargo Features Worth Considering
Power-folding third-row seats transform cargo space with push-button convenience in modern SUVs. These systems save considerable time and frustration compared to manual mechanisms that often require strength and awkward reaching positions. Advanced systems like those in the Lincoln Navigator allow operation from multiple control points including the rear cargo area, driver's position, and mobile apps—letting you reconfigure your vehicle remotely while finishing breakfast at the campground. The most sophisticated systems incorporate obstacle detection, automatically stopping if gear shifts during folding to prevent damage. Though once limited to luxury models, this technology has democratized, now appearing in mainstream vehicles like the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot.
Adjustable cargo floors create multi-level storage options that maximize organization potential. These systems typically offer two or three height positions: a lower setting that maximizes total volume and a higher position that creates a flat load floor with rear seats folded. The space beneath this raised floor provides secure storage for valuable items or separates potentially messy gear from clean equipment. Volkswagen's CarGo system enhances this concept with adjustable dividers that prevent items from shifting during off-road driving. The Ford Bronco Sport takes this concept further with specific slots designed to hold standard-width lumber, creating a platform for elevated sleeping inside the vehicle—a DIY approach to car camping.
Built-in organizers and dividers specifically designed for camping equipment have emerged as manufacturer priorities. The GMC Terrain's cargo management system features rigid panels that configure into various arrangements, creating separated zones for cooking equipment, sleeping gear, and clothing. Subaru has partnered with leading outdoor retailers to create model-specific organizers that maximize space efficiency in the Outback and Forester. Honda's approach includes multifunctional dividers in the Passport that convert to tables for meal preparation at campsites. These factory-designed systems integrate with vehicle interiors seamlessly, avoiding the rattles and installation problems common with aftermarket solutions.
Weatherproof storage compartments for wet or muddy gear represent a significant advancement in SUV design for outdoor enthusiasts. Toyota's 4Runner maintains its traditional rear slide-out cargo deck but adds weatherproof storage bins beneath—perfect for separating clean gear from muddy equipment. Land Rover's new Defender features side-mounted exterior gear carriers specifically designed for items that might soil the interior. Several manufacturers now offer washable, removable cargo liners with raised edges that contain spills or mud, including the Jeep Grand Cherokee's available rubberized cargo tray. The Rivian R1S takes this concept furthest with a fully weatherproof gear tunnel that isolates wet equipment from both passengers and dry cargo.
Integrated roof rack systems expand carrying capacity while addressing traditional complaints about aftermarket solutions. Factory systems like those on the Toyota RAV4 Adventure feature standardized mounting points compatible with major accessory manufacturers, eliminating drilling or modification. Aerodynamically optimized designs reduce wind noise and fuel consumption penalties compared to traditional square bars. Some systems, like Subaru's standard cross bars, stow away when not needed but deploy without tools when cargo capacity must expand.
Your Ultimate Camping Companion
The perfect camping SUV extends beyond raw cubic footage—it's about thoughtful design that accommodates your specific outdoor lifestyle. The models highlighted above represent the best balance of spaciousness, versatility, and camping-friendly features available in 2025. Before making your decision, visit dealerships with your typical camping load to test real-world capacity. Remember that the ideal vehicle turns packing from a frustrating chore into the exciting first step of your adventure. Which spacious SUV will become your gateway to the outdoors?
