Toyota RAV4 Camping Setup: Sleep Comfortably in Your RAV4
Introduction: RAV4 Camping — Compact SUV, Big Potential
The Toyota RAV4 proves you don't need a massive SUV for comfortable car camping. As one of America's best-selling vehicles, the RAV4 combines Toyota reliability with enough cargo space for solo camping and workable space for couples. The RAV4 Hybrid and Prime models add exceptional fuel economy, making extended road trip camping more affordable.
With rear seats folded, the RAV4 provides approximately 69-70 inches of length and 43-45 inches of width between wheel wells—enough for sleeping with the right setup. It's not as spacious as a 4Runner or Highlander, but for solo campers and flexible couples, the RAV4 delivers surprising comfort.
This guide covers optimal sleeping configurations, mattress recommendations, gear organization strategies, and tips specifically for RAV4 camping. Whether you have the standard RAV4, Hybrid, or Prime, you'll find practical advice for making your compact SUV into a capable camping platform.
RAV4 Cargo Dimensions by Generation
Understanding your specific RAV4's dimensions helps plan your sleeping setup.
5th Generation RAV4 (2019-Present)
With rear seats folded: - Length: 69-70" (seat backs to tailgate) - Width: 43-45" (between wheel wells) - Maximum width: 55" (above wheel wells) - Height: 36-37" (floor to ceiling) - Cargo volume: 69.8 cu ft (seats folded)
RAV4 Hybrid/Prime: - Slightly reduced cargo volume due to battery placement - Floor height slightly higher - Same basic dimensions otherwise
4th Generation RAV4 (2013-2018)
With rear seats folded: - Length: 68-69" - Width: 42-44" (between wheel wells) - Height: 35-36" - Similar practical sleeping dimensions
Who Fits Comfortably
| Height | Sleep Position | Comfort Level |
|---|---|---|
| Under 5'6" | Straight, lengthwise | Very comfortable |
| 5'6" - 5'10" | Straight with slight knee bend | Comfortable |
| 5'10" - 6' | Diagonal or fetal | Workable |
| Over 6' | Challenging | Consider alternatives |
The RAV4's 69-70" cargo length is the main limitation. Taller campers need creative solutions.
Best Mattresses for RAV4 Camping
The RAV4's compact dimensions require careful mattress selection. Choose based on your height and how you'll use the space.
Air Mattresses
Luno Air Mattress 2.0 (RAV4-specific) - Custom fit for RAV4 dimensions - Fills gap between folded seats and cargo floor - Includes 12V pump - Cost: $230-280 - Best for: Perfect fit, easy setup
Overland Air Mattress (Universal) - Fits compact SUVs including RAV4 - More affordable option - Cost: $80-120 - Best for: Budget-conscious campers
Foam Options
Twin Size Foam Mattress (38" × 75") - Fits lengthwise in RAV4 - 4" thick for comfort - May need trimming for perfect fit - Cost: $80-150 - Best for: Solo campers
Narrow/Cot Size Foam (25-30" × 75") - Fits easily, leaves room for gear - Better for taller campers (less diagonal space needed) - Cost: $50-100 - Best for: Minimalist setups
Self-Inflating Pads
Therm-a-Rest MondoKing - 4" thick, excellent comfort - XL size (30" × 80") fits well - High R-value for cold camping - Cost: $200-280 - Best for: All-season camping
REI Camp Dreamer - Good comfort/value balance - Packs reasonably small - Cost: $120-180 - Best for: Occasional campers
Mattress Recommendations by Camper
Solo camper: Twin foam mattress or RAV4-specific air mattress Couple: RAV4-specific air mattress (fills space efficiently) or diagonal sleeping on full-size Tall solo (5'10"+): Narrow pad lengthwise or sleep diagonally
RAV4 Sleeping Configurations
Maximize your RAV4's sleeping potential with these proven configurations.
Configuration 1: Standard Fold-Flat
The simplest setup:
- Fold rear seats flat (60/40 split or both)
- Fill gap between folded seats and cargo floor with blankets/padding
- Lay mattress from seats to tailgate
- Sleeping length: ~69-70"
Pros: Simple, no modifications Cons: Gap between seats and floor, limited length
Configuration 2: Passenger Seat Extended
For taller campers:
- Fold rear seats flat
- Move front passenger seat forward and recline fully
- Sleep diagonally with feet toward passenger seat
- Effective sleeping length: 75-78"
Pros: More length for tall campers Cons: Can only use for one person, awkward position
Configuration 3: Sleeping Platform
For regular camping:
- Build or buy platform spanning cargo area
- Platform height 10-12" creates storage underneath
- Mattress on top of platform
- Level sleeping surface, organized storage
Pros: Best comfort, organized gear Cons: Cost, semi-permanent installation
Configuration 4: Tailgate Extended
If you have a tailgate tent or awning:
- Standard fold-flat setup
- Extend sleeping surface beyond open tailgate with tent
- Feet extend beyond vehicle
- Effective length: 80+"
Pros: Maximum length, works for tall campers Cons: Weather dependent, requires tent accessory
Seat Folding Tips
- Pull headrests before folding (prevents damage to headliner)
- Both 60/40 sections fold independently
- Front seats forward maximizes total space
- Remove floor mats if they create height issues
RAV4 Hybrid and Prime Camping Considerations
The RAV4 Hybrid and Prime models add some unique camping advantages and considerations.
RAV4 Hybrid Advantages
Fuel efficiency: 40+ mpg means more camping trips per tank. Extended road trips cost significantly less.
Quiet operation: At idle (in Ready mode), the hybrid runs silently on battery. Useful for keeping climate control briefly without noise.
Electric mode (Prime): The Prime can run accessories on battery power alone. Climate control, charging devices, etc. without engine running.
Cargo Differences
Hybrid: Nearly identical cargo space to standard RAV4. Battery under rear seats doesn't significantly impact cargo floor.
Prime: Slightly reduced cargo volume (33.5 vs 37.5 cu ft behind seats) due to larger battery. Sleeping dimensions similar but cargo floor slightly higher.
Using Hybrid/Prime Features While Camping
Climate pre-conditioning: Cool or warm the cabin before bed using app (while plugged in for Prime).
12V power: Hybrid battery maintains vehicle 12V system better than conventional RAV4.
Caution: Don't leave vehicle in Ready mode while sleeping (carbon monoxide risk in enclosed areas). Same rule as any vehicle: engine off while sleeping.
Charging Considerations (Prime)
- Campgrounds increasingly offer RV electric hookups
- Level 2 chargers at many public locations
- Solar + Level 1 charging works for extended stays
- Plan route with charging infrastructure for road trips
Gear Organization in Limited Space
The RAV4's compact cargo area requires efficient organization. Every inch matters.
Storage Strategies
Vertical storage: Use the height above your sleeping setup. Mesh cargo nets, hanging organizers, roof box for less-used items.
Under-mattress storage: Even without a platform, slide flat items under your mattress (emergency gear, extra clothes in compression bags).
Front seat storage: Use passenger footwell and seat for gear while sleeping. Keep essentials in driver's area for easy access.
Door pockets: Good for frequently accessed items (headlamp, phone, snacks).
Essential Organization Gear
- Soft-sided bags: Conform to space better than hard cases
- Compression bags: Reduce volume of clothing and bedding
- Mesh pockets: Attach to seat backs, cargo walls
- Small bins: Organize categories (cooking, toiletries, electronics)
Packing Strategy
First in (back/bottom): - Items needed least during trip - Emergency gear - Reserve water/food
Last in (top/front): - Daily use items - Camp kitchen gear - Sleeping gear (goes in when ready for bed)
Roof Storage Considerations
A roof box significantly expands RAV4 cargo capacity:
- Stores camping chairs, tent (if using), seasonal gear
- Keeps main cargo area clear for sleeping
- Consider fuel economy impact (5-10% reduction)
- Height restrictions in some areas (parking garages, etc.)
Ventilation and Climate Control
The RAV4's smaller interior requires thoughtful ventilation strategy.
Window Configuration
Rear windows: Crack open 1-2" for cross-ventilation. Rain guards allow wider opening in rain.
Front windows: Help with airflow when cracked. Park with wind blowing across vehicle if possible.
Power liftgate: Can be partially opened for ventilation (check for latch/hold position). Use screen or be aware of bugs.
Fan Strategies
12V fans: Small fans make huge difference in compact space. Position to move air from back to front or vice versa.
USB fans: Convenient if running from power bank. Less powerful but adequate.
Battery fans: Rechargeable fans provide independence from vehicle power.
Hot Weather Challenges
The RAV4's smaller interior heats quickly:
- Park in shade (most important factor)
- Arrive late when temperatures drop
- Reflective windshield shade reduces heat gain significantly
- Light-colored window covers (vs dark materials)
- Open all doors during setup to release heat
Cold Weather Advantages
The compact interior also warms quickly from body heat:
- Less space to warm than larger SUVs
- Insulated window covers essential
- Sleeping bag rated for temps 10-15°F below expected
- Insulated pad (R-value 4+) prevents heat loss to floor
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you sleep in a Toyota RAV4?
Yes—the RAV4 works well for car camping, especially for solo campers and shorter couples. With seats folded, you get approximately 69-70" of length. People under 5'10" fit comfortably; taller campers need creative configurations.
Is the RAV4 big enough for two people to sleep in?
It's tight but possible. The 43-45" width between wheel wells fits two people, but it's cozy. Couples who camp together regularly should consider a larger SUV for comfort, or use the RAV4 for occasional trips.
What size mattress fits in a RAV4?
Twin size (38" × 75") fits well. Full size (54" × 75") is too wide between wheel wells but can work above them. Purpose-built RAV4 air mattresses are the best fit for maximizing space.
Is the RAV4 Hybrid good for camping?
Excellent. The hybrid's 40+ mpg means cheaper road trips. Cargo space is nearly identical to the standard RAV4. The quiet operation is a bonus. Prime adds electric-only capability for accessories.
How do I stay cool sleeping in a RAV4?
Park in shade, use a fan, crack multiple windows for cross-ventilation, and use reflective window covers. The compact interior heats quickly, so shade is critical in warm weather.
Can I stand up in a RAV4?
No—the RAV4 has approximately 36-37" of interior height. You can sit up comfortably but not stand. This is typical of compact SUVs.
What's the cargo volume of the RAV4?
About 37.5 cubic feet behind rear seats, 69.8 cubic feet with seats folded. For sleeping, the practical dimensions are approximately 69-70" length × 43-55" width.
Should I get a RAV4 or 4Runner for camping?
The RAV4 offers better fuel economy and easier daily driving. The 4Runner offers more sleeping space, off-road capability, and the roll-down rear window. Choose RAV4 for efficiency and occasional camping; 4Runner for frequent camping and off-road access.
Do I need a sleeping platform in a RAV4?
Not required, but it helps. A platform provides level sleeping surface and storage underneath. For occasional camping, a good mattress on folded seats works fine.
Can tall people sleep in a RAV4?
Challenging above 5'10". Options include: sleep diagonally, use passenger seat extended configuration, or add a tailgate tent that extends sleeping length. People over 6' should consider larger vehicles for regular camping.
What gear is essential for RAV4 camping?
Essentials: good mattress (4" minimum), window covers for privacy/insulation, small fan, and headlamp. Beyond that, pack efficiently—the RAV4's limited space requires careful organization.