Comparison of Camping Options for Extended Trips Across America: Tents vs. Converted Vans vs. Large Campers
In the vast and varied landscapes of the United States, choosing the best camping option for an extended stay can significantly impact your travel experience. Whether you opt for a tent, a converted van, or a large camper, each solution comes with its set of advantages and trade-offs. This article explores the key factors to consider and provides insights into the personal choice of a solo traveler with specific needs and desires.
Personal Needs and Desires
As someone who frequently travels solo but also frequently needs to accommodate additional guests, such as kids and grandchildren, my primary desire is to maintain the flexibility of a regular car while ensuring a comfortable and functional living space for myself. This decision is influenced by multifaceted considerations that revolve around mobility, practicality, and comfort.
Desire for Versatility and Comfort
First and foremost, I desire the ability to go anywhere a car can go, including enclosed parking garages and city centers. The Chrysler Pacifica minivan, equipped with stow and go seats that lay flat in the back, provides me with a versatile and compact sleeping area. This setup offers a flat 4' x 8' platform that can be used as a bed, with additional storage space underneath for gear and supplies. The platform is completed by placing a small plywood sheet cut into two 6' by 2' pieces for comfortable sleeping. Dairy crates are used to keep everything stable and secure.
Blending in and Remaining Stealthy
My desire to blend in and occasionally practice stealth camping makes the Chrysler Pacifica model an ideal choice. Despite its utility, it looks unremarkable and is not a car worth stealing, which aligns with my preference to remain as inconspicuous as possible. The van gets a good 33 mpg on the highway, ensuring efficient travel and reducing fuel costs. The simplicity of this setup also ensures that I can quickly revert to a regular car seating configuration or deploy the platform on the roof for transporting additional gear.
Comfort in Any Weather
Comfort and convenience are paramount, especially when dealing with varying weather conditions. My setup allows for sleeping under any weather conditions, and upon waking, I have access to dry gear and a comfortable sleeping arrangement without the hassle of dealing with wet or cold conditions. The compact stove, pot, and pan, along with a few utensils, are used sparingly, and I prefer to dine at local diners instead of setting up camp. This minimalist approach not only simplifies my travel but also enhances my overall enjoyment of the trip.
Less is More
The lesson that 'less is more' has been learned over years of travel with a backpack. It applies as much to travel in a car as it does to travel with a backpack. Instead of lugging around extensive camping gear, I keep everything to a minimum, fitting into a single 18” by 6” bag. This includes a small portable stove, pot, and pan, along with a few essential utensils. While I occasionally use this gear, I prefer to avoid the full camp experience and instead explore and meet local people who can offer authentic dining experiences.
Conclusion
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the best camping option for extended trips, my personal choice of a Chrysler Pacifica van with a stow and go seating arrangement provides the perfect balance of comfort, practicality, and utility. It allows me to maintain the flexibility of a regular car, blend in with the surroundings, and enjoy a simple, yet comfortable, travel experience. This setup can accommodate a couple as well, making it a versatile choice for various travel scenarios.
Ultimately, the best camping option for you will depend on your specific needs and desires. Whether you opt for a tent, a converted van, or a large camper, carefully consider your mobility, comfort, and practicality requirements to make an informed decision that enhances your travel experience.