Camping Trips Made Easy with the Right Rental Car

Camping Trips Made Easy with the Right Rental Car

Summer equals camping season. The great thing about living in or visiting Vancouver is that British Columbia has so much to offer if you enjoy the great outdoors.  It doesn’t matter how you like to do it, if it’s the social aspect of camping you enjoy the most, prefer a solo fishing trip, or if it’s the thrill of exploring new trails on your mountain bike, the right rental car can certainly boost your entire outdoor experience. 

No matter what activities you have in store, Ascent Car Rental has the vehicle to match your adventure, including roomy SUVs and multi-passenger vans.

What Is The Best Type Of Vehicle For Camping?

The best vehicle for any camping trip depends on the number of passengers going on the trip, the gear you need for all your activities, and the terrain you’ll be driving on. An SUV with roof and bike racks is often a great choice for a typical camping trip to fit your tents, sleeping bags, coolers, paddleboards, and bikes. If you’re travelling in a big group, then a passenger van can help keep everyone (and their luggage!) together. 

What’s The Best Type of Rental Car For A Camping Trip?

Here are the most popular rental options for summer campers:

SUV Rentals

Perfect for: Couples, small families, or solo adventurers with gear

SUVs offer a balance of comfort, cargo space, and off-road capability. You’ll appreciate the extra room for coolers, chairs, and tents—and the higher clearance comes in handy on gravel access roads.

Top Picks:

• NISSAN ROGUE
• MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER
• 2023 SUBURBAN

Minivan or Passenger Van Rentals

Perfect for: Group camping trips, families, or car campers

Need space for people and gear? A van rental is your best bet. With fold-down seats and ample trunk room, you can fit everything from sleeping bags to camp stoves—without sacrificing legroom.

Top Picks:

• 2023 KIA CARNIVAL
• 2024 FORD TRANSIT

A passenger van with an all-wheel drive train is ideal for difficult country roads or campgrounds in the mountains. 

Where Can I Go Camping Near Vancouver?

As avid campers, we believe that every campground around Vancouver has something incredible to offer. Here are some of our staff favourites.

Alice Lake Provincial Park

Best for: Families, beginner hikers

Why Go:

Alice Lake offers a calm lake that’s perfect for swimming or paddleboarding. Easy loop trails around the lake and in the forest are a great way to introduce someone to the joys of hiking while a designated swimming beach with picnic areas is perfect for a family day out.

Popular Activities:

• Swimming and paddling
• Easy hikes like Four Lakes Trail
• Fishing for trout
• Biking on nearby trails (moderate)

Good to Know:

You’ll find campsites with flush toilets, showers, and firewood sales.

Golden Ears Provincial Park

Best for: Families, groups, casual hikers 

Why Go:

Golden Ears is massive, and you’ll find something you’ll enjoy whatever your skill level. There are short forest walks to be had or challenging climbs like the Golden Ears Summit. 

Popular Activities:

• Canoeing and paddleboarding on Alouette Lake
• Hiking to Lower Falls (easy) or Alder Flats (intermediate)
• Horseback riding on designated trails

Good to Know:

Summer is high season, so book well in advance

Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park

Best for: Experienced campers or adventurous souls

Why Go:

Chilliwack Lake is ideal for more seasoned campers who crave those back-to-nature vibes. The lake is large and beautiful, great for kayaking and fishing. The trails around the park range from moderate to difficult.

Popular Activities:

• Fishing for trout and kokanee
• Backcountry hiking to Lindeman or Flora Lake (moderate–difficult)
• Kayaking and canoeing
• Wildlife and bird watching

Good to Know:

Limited amenities. Bring your own drinking water and be prepared for a more rugged experience.

Do I Need 4WD For Most Campgrounds?

No. Many have paved roads. If you’re unsure about the campground you’ve chosen, Ascent Car Rental’s staff is here to help.

Make Camping Easy with Ascent Car Rental

Quit worrying if your personal vehicle can handle the rugged terrain in the Rockies or if your gear will fit into your boot. Ascent Car Rental has the vehicle you need to make your camping trip easy. You’ll find:

• Clean, well-maintained SUVs and vans
• Flexible pickup options 
• Affordable daily and weekend rates

Get ready to enjoy the outdoors and book your camping-ready rental today!