Hyundai Palisade Car Camping: Complete Guide to Sleeping in Your Palisade

Introduction: Hyundai's Flagship SUV for Family Camping

The Hyundai Palisade has rapidly become one of the most popular three-row SUVs on the market, and for good reason. It offers a premium experience at a competitive price point, with generous cargo space that rivals more expensive competitors. For car campers, the Palisade delivers substantial sleeping dimensions combined with the value and warranty coverage that Hyundai is known for**. What makes the Palisade appealing for camping goes beyond raw numbers. The interior quality exceeds its price point, the ride is comfortable for long trips to remote destinations, and the available AWD system handles typical camping access roads with confidence. The XRT trim adds a more rugged aesthetic for outdoor-focused buyers.

The Palisade launched for 2020 and received updates for 2023 that refined its already impressive package. For families who need third-row seating for travel but want car camping capability for weekend adventures, the Palisade offers an excellent balance of daily practicality and camping utility.

This guide covers everything you need to know about camping in your Hyundai Palisade, from cargo dimensions and mattress options to setup procedures and tips for maximizing your family camping experience.

If you're considering a different SUV for camping, the Hyundai Santa Fe offers great options too.

Hyundai Palisade Cargo Dimensions for Sleeping

Understanding your Palisade's dimensions helps you plan your camping setup effectively.

Palisade Cargo Dimensions

The Palisade offers competitive space for its class:

Cargo length (third row folded): 78-81 inches**
Cargo length (second and third row folded): 95-98 inches**
Cargo width (between wheel wells): 44-46 inches**
Cargo width (above wheel wells): 51-53 inches**
Cargo height: 37-39 inches**
Total cargo volume: 86.4 cubic feet with second and third rows folded

Seating Configuration Impact

8-passenger (bench second row): - Slightly easier to create flat sleeping surface - More width when second row folded - Center passenger position when needed for travel

7-passenger (captain's chairs): - Gap between seats when folded - May need to fill center gap for sleeping - More comfortable for passenger travel - Easier walk-through access

Model Year Differences

2020-2022: Original design - Same cargo dimensions as current - Excellent camping platform

2023+: Refreshed styling and features - Same fundamental dimensions - Updated tech and styling - Available XRT trim for outdoor styling

Who Fits Comfortably

Palisade (all years): - Under 6': Very comfortable with third row folded only - 6' to 6'3": Comfortable with third row folded - 6'3" to 6'5": May prefer both rows folded - Over 6'5": Fold both rows recommended

The Palisade's width easily accommodates couples sleeping side by side.

If you're considering a different Hyundai model for your adventures, explore the benefits of car camping in the Hyundai Tucson.

Best Mattress Options for Palisade Camping

The Palisade's generous cargo area accommodates larger mattresses well. Here's what works best.

Air Mattresses

Air mattresses work excellently in the Palisade's spacious interior:

Recommended size: Full size (54" x 75") fits easily. Queen possible with both rows folded.

Thickness: 4-6 inches** provides excellent comfort.

Top picks: - Luno Air Mattress 2.0 (three-row SUV sizing) - SAYGOGO SUV Air Mattress (includes pillows) - AirBedz PPI-301 (full-size SUV design)

Pros: Pack small for family gear, adjustable firmness Cons: Require inflation, potential puncture risk

Foam Mattresses

Foam provides consistent family camping comfort:

Recommended size: Full size (54" x 75") works well. Twin XL side-by-side for separate surfaces.

Thickness: 4-6 inches** ideal given cargo height.

Top picks: - Milliard Tri-Fold Full Size (6-inch) - Better Habitat CertiPUR-US Memory Foam - LUCID Folding Memory Foam

Pros: No inflation needed, consistent comfort Cons: Bulkier storage, heavier

Self-Inflating Pads

Practical option for quality sleep:

Recommended: Two full-length pads side-by-side, or Exped MegaMat Duo.

Top picks: - Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D - Exped MegaMat Duo 10 - REI Co-op Camp Dreamer (two units)

Best for: Couples wanting premium comfort with reasonable packability.

For those considering other options, the Nissan Pathfinder camping guide offers great tips for maximizing your camping experience.

Setting Up Your Palisade for Sleeping

Proper setup transforms your Palisade into a comfortable sleeping space. Follow these steps.

Step 1: Configure the Seats

The Palisade's seat folding system:

Third row: 1. Use the release handles to fold third-row seats 2. Some trims have power-folding third row 3. Seats fold relatively flat into floor area

Second row (if needed): 1. Remove or lower headrests 2. Use release mechanisms to tumble seats forward 3. 8-passenger bench: folds as unit 4. 7-passenger: captain's chairs fold individually (fill gap)

Step 2: Level the Sleeping Surface

The Palisade has a reasonably flat cargo floor:

Check for transitions between folded seats and cargo floor
Place folded blankets over any steps or gaps
If using captain's chairs, fill the center gap with foam or blankets
Ensure cargo floor divider is properly positioned
Remove items from under-floor storage if they create bumps

Step 3: Position Your Mattress

Full-size mattress fits well between wheel wells
Position head toward hatch (more headroom) or front (more privacy)
Add fitted sheet for sleeping bag stability
Position pillows at preferred end
Leave front seats accessible for emergency vehicle movement

Step 4: Family Gear Organization

Front passenger seat: Adult essentials, morning items
Front driver seat: Keep clear for emergency
Door pockets: Headlamps, phones, water bottles
Second row (if not folded): Kids' gear, coolers
Under-floor storage: Emergency equipment, tools

Step 5: Ventilation Setup

Crack front windows 1-2 inches** on opposite sides
Use window screens for bug protection
Battery-powered fan improves air circulation
The Palisade's larger interior helps manage condensation

For those with a Kia, the Telluride camping guide offers similar tips for maximizing your sleeping space.

Palisade AWD and Camping Access Capability

The Palisade offers competent AWD capability for accessing camping locations.

HTRAC AWD System

The Palisade's available AWD:

System type: Active on-demand AWD
Torque distribution: Can send power to rear wheels as needed
Terrain modes: Available drive modes optimize for conditions
Capability: Handles loose surfaces, wet roads, light trails

Ground Clearance

Ground clearance: 7.9 inches
Approach angle: Adequate for typical camping access
Clearance comparison:** Similar to competitors in class

What the Palisade Handles

Confidently manages: - Gravel campground roads - Forest service roads - Light mud and wet conditions - Sandy or loose surfaces - Snow-covered roads

Limitations

Understand the Palisade's limits: - Not designed for serious off-road - Highway-oriented tires on most trims - Limited by approach/departure angles - Heavy vehicle weight affects soft terrain - Better than car-based crossovers, less than dedicated off-roaders

XRT Trim Considerations

The XRT offers outdoor-focused styling: - More rugged appearance - Gloss black exterior elements - Same mechanical capability as other trims - Aesthetic rather than mechanical enhancement

For most camping access scenarios, the Palisade's AWD system provides adequate capability.

For those considering a different vehicle for camping, the Honda Pilot also offers great capabilities; explore our Honda Pilot camping guide.

Palisade vs. Competitors for Camping

How does the Hyundai Palisade compare to other three-row SUVs for camping?

Palisade vs. Kia Telluride

Corporate cousins with subtle differences:

Cargo volume: Nearly identical (86.4 vs 87.0 cu ft)
Sleeping dimensions: Essentially the same
Styling: Different exterior/interior aesthetics
Features: Very similar equipment
Warranty: Same excellent coverage

Choose Palisade for: Styling preference, dealer experience Choose Telluride for: Styling preference, dealer experience

Palisade vs. Honda Pilot

Popular three-row comparison:

Cargo volume: Similar (86.4 vs 87.0 cu ft)
Sleeping length: Comparable dimensions
Reliability: Pilot has longer track record
Value: Palisade often better equipped for price
Warranty: Palisade significantly better (5/10 vs 3/5)

Choose Palisade for: Value, warranty, features per dollar Choose Pilot for: Honda reliability reputation

Palisade vs. Toyota Highlander

Mainstream three-row alternatives:

Cargo volume: Palisade larger (86.4 vs 84.3 cu ft)
Hybrid option: Highlander has proven hybrid
Reliability: Highlander stronger reputation
Features: Palisade more features per dollar
Warranty: Palisade significantly better

Choose Palisade for: More space, better value, warranty Choose Highlander for: Hybrid efficiency, Toyota reliability

Palisade vs. Chevrolet Tahoe

Different size classes:

Cargo volume: Tahoe much larger (122.9 cu ft)
Sleeping length: Tahoe significantly longer
Fuel economy: Palisade much better
Price: Palisade substantially less expensive
Maneuverability: Palisade easier to drive

Choose Palisade for: Better fuel economy, easier daily driving, value Choose Tahoe for: Maximum space, towing capability

If you're considering other options, the Kia Sorento also offers great features for a comfortable night of car camping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you sleep in a Hyundai Palisade?

Yes, the Palisade works excellently for car camping. With the third row folded, you get 78-81 inches of sleeping length. Fold both rows for 95-98 inches. The width accommodates couples comfortably.

What size mattress fits in a Palisade?

A full-size mattress (54" x 75") fits well with the third row folded. Queen size is possible with both rows folded. The 44-46 inch width between wheel wells accommodates larger mattresses.

Hyundai Palisade vs. Kia Telluride for camping?

Nearly identical—they share the same platform. Cargo dimensions, sleeping space, and capability are essentially the same. Choose based on styling preference and dealer experience.

Is the Palisade AWD good for camping access?

Adequate for most camping scenarios. The HTRAC AWD system handles gravel roads, light trails, and wet conditions well. Not a serious off-roader, but capable for typical camping access.

Does the Palisade have a flat cargo floor?

Reasonably flat. There may be slight steps between folded seats and cargo floor. The third row folds into a recessed area. Easy to level with blankets or foam.

Can two people sleep comfortably in a Palisade?

Yes, very comfortably. The 44-46 inch width accommodates a full-size mattress for couples. The Palisade is one of the better three-row SUVs for two-person sleeping.

What's the Palisade warranty?

Excellent: 5-year/60,000-mile basic, 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain. Better than most competitors. Provides peace of mind for camping adventures.

7-passenger vs. 8-passenger for camping?

The 8-passenger bench creates a slightly better sleeping surface when folded. The 7-passenger captain's chairs leave a gap that needs filling. Both work; 8-passenger marginally better.

How do the Palisade seats fold?

The third row folds using release handles (power-fold on some trims). The second row tumbles forward. Some trims have one-touch folding for easier setup.

Is the Palisade reliable for camping trips?

Early reliability data is positive. The excellent warranty provides protection. Regular maintenance keeps it dependable for remote adventures.

What is the XRT trim?

The XRT is an outdoor-focused styling package with more rugged aesthetics. It doesn't add mechanical off-road capability but offers a bolder look for outdoor enthusiasts.

Does the Palisade get good gas mileage for camping trips?

Expect 19-27 MPG depending on configuration and driving. No hybrid option, but reasonable for the three-row class. Plan fuel stops for remote camping.

What power options does the Palisade have for camping?

The Palisade has 12V outlets, USB ports, and some trims offer a 115V household outlet (limited wattage). For extended camping, add a portable power station (500-1000Wh). The Palisade doesn't have built-in generator capability like Ford's Pro Power Onboard.

How do I ventilate the Palisade while sleeping?

Crack windows on opposite sides for cross-ventilation. Use magnetic window screens to keep bugs out. A small battery fan improves circulation. The Palisade's spacious interior allows good airflow when properly ventilated.

Can I use a rooftop tent on a Palisade?

Yes, with proper roof rails and crossbars rated for the weight. The Palisade's roof supports most rooftop tents (120-180 lbs) with appropriate rack setup. This keeps cargo area available for gear while providing sleeping space above.

How do I handle condensation in my Palisade overnight?

Condensation forms when warm breath hits cold windows. Solutions: crack windows on opposite sides for cross-ventilation, use a small battery fan, wipe windows before sleeping, and use moisture-wicking bedding. The large glass area can mean significant condensation.

Can I camp with my dog in a Palisade?

Yes, the Palisade's spacious cargo area accommodates adults plus medium-to-large dogs easily. Position your dog's bed in the third row area (folded) or alongside sleeping pads. The extra space makes the Palisade excellent for pet-inclusive camping.

What's the cargo height in the Palisade for sitting up?

Approximately 35-38 inches** of cargo height allows comfortable sitting. You can sit up in bed, change clothes, and organize gear without stepping outside. This headroom is a significant advantage over compact SUVs.

How do I keep my Palisade warm while winter camping?

Use insulated window covers, a sleeping bag rated well below expected temps, high R-value sleeping pad (5+), and layer blankets. Run the heater before bed to pre-warm the interior. The Palisade's larger interior volume means more air to warm.

What accessories improve Palisade camping?

Prioritize: quality full-size mattress, window covers for all glass, small battery fan, portable power station, and cargo organizers. Optional: roof rack with cargo box, awning for outdoor living space, 12V fridge.

Can I build a sleeping platform in my Palisade?

Yes, but the Palisade's already-flat folded seats often make platforms unnecessary. If you want under-bed storage, a simple platform (8-12" height) works well. Make it removable for dual-purpose use.

How do I handle the seat-to-cargo gap in my Palisade?

The Palisade has minimal gap when seats are properly folded—the third row folds into a recessed area. If needed, fill any small gap with folded blankets. A thick enough mattress (4"+) bridges gaps comfortably.

What's the ground clearance on the Palisade?

Approximately 7.8 inches—adequate for most camping access roads but not exceptional. The HTRAC AWD system provides good traction. Not designed for serious off-road but handles typical forest roads well.

Is there a hybrid Palisade available?

No, Hyundai doesn't offer a hybrid Palisade. If fuel efficiency is a priority for camping road trips, consider the Toyota Highlander Hybrid or the smaller Hyundai Tucson Hybrid instead.

How does Blue Link help for Palisade camping?

Blue Link (Hyundai's connected services) allows remote start, climate control, and vehicle status checks via smartphone. Pre-cool or pre-heat the interior before bed, check battery status, or lock/unlock remotely. Requires an active subscription.

What's the best seat configuration for sleeping?

For maximum sleeping space, fold both second and third rows flat. If traveling with passengers, you can use the third row for sleeping (folded, with second row up during driving) and fold it while parked.

Can I sleep with the third row seats up?

Not practically—the third row must be folded for adequate sleeping space. The third row is useful for passenger transport, then folds for sleeping. Some campers leave one third-row seat up for gear storage.

If you're considering other vehicles for car camping, the Kia Sportage also offers great space and comfort; learn more in our Sportage camping guide.