This year is the year of the staycation. With many of us unable or not allowed to travel abroad as usual, and with hotels and caravan parks set to be fully booked or super expensive, then this is the year to truly embrace camping.

Getting out into the great British countryside is something we can all do more often. And teaching yourself how to camp – be it rough and ready or glamping – is a way to have a fun and adventurous holiday at a fraction of the normal price.

So if you are just starting your camping journey or are a seasoned tent enthusiast, you might want to switch to a car that makes things simple. Here are our selection of the best used cars for camping this summer.

Nissan X-Trail

If you are going camping, you don’t want to end up stuck in the mud. So you’ll want a car that can get you to your pitch no matter what the weather will be. The Nissan X-Trail is a 4x4 SUV that can tackle most terrains in style. It’s size means there’s plenty of room for you, your family and all the camping gear you need for a successful holiday. The interior comfort is especially needed after a few days roughing it in the great outdoors, so the journey home won’t be too tough.

Dacia Duster

For those looking to save money, the Dacia Duster is one of the cheapest on the market. But the low price doesn’t mean you are missing out. Even the basic model has enough space and comfort to keep everyone happy.

The Duster is also very reliable, something that isn’t always the case with SUVs, never mind affordable ones like this Dacia. Costing just over £10,000 when new, you can get yourself a real bargain on the used car market, providing you find someone willing to sell this fantastic off-roader.

Vauxhall Mokka

If you really want to tackle the mixed conditions that the British countryside can throw up, then you’ll want a 4x4 that loves the mud and the mire. The Vauxhall Mokka has seemingly been designed by the British company to really thrive in the great outdoors.

The car has two big selling points. The spacious interior which will leave you plenty of room for the camping bits and bobs. And the retractable bike rack. So if you are the adventurous type who wants to drive somewhere new and explore it on two wheels, the Mokka is a fantastic choice.

BMW X5

Sometimes you’ll want a car for camping that can be an excellent plan B if the heavens open and the waterproof lining of your tent proves less than reliable. The BMW X5 has the rugged exterior, engine and 4 wheel drive to tackle the great outdoors. Inside, it’s all glamping with comfy seats, almost complete control of the car’s interior climate, and in-car entertainment options that mean ‘I Spy’ is not going to drive you mad! 

The BMW X5 isn’t as cheap as the other options on the list, but for a luxury off-roader that will be suitable all-year round, you can’t go wrong choosing it as your camping trip car.