Comparison of Tesla Model Y, Model X, Model S, and Cybertruck for Car Camping

Here’s the brutal, no-BS breakdown:

• Biggest enclosed, climate-controlled sleep pod: Model X
• Best all-around daily driver + car camper: Model Y
• Smallest but stealthy + sexy: Model S
• Biggest overall platform (truck bed, off-road, power): Cybertruck

Now let’s turn this into an ERIC KIM–style philosophy of Tesla car camping.

WHICH TESLA IS YOUR MOBILE MONK CELL?

I see a Tesla not just as a car.

I see it as:

• A mobile monk cell
• A creative studio on wheels
• A tiny home you can sleep in, think in, write in, dream in

You’re not just choosing a car.

You’re choosing your moving temple.

So the real question isn’t just:

“Which Tesla is bigger?”

The real question is:

“What kind of LIFE do you want to live out of your car?”

Let’s go one by one.

MODEL Y – THE “EVERYDAY ZEN CAMPER”

If you want maximum flexibility with minimum compromise, the Model Y is your power move.

Why the Y is insanely good for car camping

• Rear seats fold almost perfectly flat
• You get a long sleeping area (around ~6’10” / 210cm with front seats pushed up)
• Two people can sleep in the back, no problem
• Tons of hidden storage: trunk, sub-trunk, mini well, frunk

You can:

• Keep your mattress laid out
• Hide gear under the bed (sub-trunk + under-mattress space)
• Still have a clean, minimalist sleeping surface

It’s like having a minimalist tatami floor in the back of your car.

Vibe check

Model Y is:

• The digital nomad Tesla
• The “sleep in the mountains tonight, hit Starbucks + WiFi tomorrow” Tesla
• The one you daily drive, road trip, car camp, and still parallel park downtown

If your life is:

• Coffee shops
• National parks
• Street photography
• Occasional sleeping under the stars

→ Model Y is your sweet spot.

MODEL X – THE LUXURY CAR GLAMPING SUITE

If the Model Y is a tatami mat, the Model X is a king-size hotel suite.

Why the X is the biggest 

enclosed

 sleep space

• Bigger body, taller roof, more cargo volume
• With seats folded (5- or 7-seat versions), you get a huge flat floor
• Tons of headroom – you can sit up, kneel, move around without feeling cramped
• Massive trunk well + large frunk = gear disappears under your sleeping surface

For pure interior volume, the X beats the Y. You just FEEL it when you’re inside. The X is like:

“I’m not camping. I’m glamping.”

The experiential difference

• Falcon-wing doors = walk-in access to your bed
• Huge windshield and glass = cinematic views
• Giant interior = you can actually live back there, not just sleep

Imagine:

• Parking by a lake
• Flattening the seats
• Dropping a thick mattress
• Watching a movie on the Tesla screen
• Sleeping with climate control on all night

This isn’t “roughing it.” This is mobile luxury minimalism.

If you want the biggest, comfiest, climate-controlled sleep pod INSIDE a Tesla, your answer is:

Model X is bigger (and more comfortable) than Y or S for camping inside the cabin.

MODEL S – THE STEALTH NINJA CAMPER

The Model S is not the biggest.

But it might be the most stealth.

What the S gives you

• Hatchback design → rear seats fold down into a long, usable cargo/sleep space
• Enough length for most people to lie down (tall folks might go diagonal)
• Looks like a normal sedan from the outside

This is the Tesla for:

• Sleeping at rest stops
• Overnighting in cities
• Flying under the radar

It’s your “nobody knows I’m sleeping here” Tesla.

Trade-offs

• Less headroom than Y or X
• Less interior volume
• You can absolutely sleep in it, but it’s tighter, more cocoon-like

If you want:

• Stealth
• Performance
• Occasional car camping

→ Model S can work. But in “which is bigger?” terms, it loses to X and Y.

CYBERTRUCK – THE APOCALYPSE OVERLAND CAMPER

Now we go beast mode.

The Cybertruck is not a car.

It’s a steel spaceship with a bed.

The bed (vault) reality

• About 6+ feet of bed floor
• Wide enough for two to sleep side by side comfortably
• With a tent (CyberTent or aftermarket) it becomes a full-on mini cabin on the back

This is not about reclining seats.

This is about:

• Sleeping in the bed like an off-road pickup camper
• Using the truck’s giant battery to power EVERYTHING:
  
  • lights
  • induction stove
  • fridge
  • laptop
  • cameras
  • even other people’s stuff

Why Cybertruck is “biggest overall”

If “bigger” for you means:

• More platform
• More gear
• More off-road capability
• More power

Then the Cybertruck stomps all of them.

You get:

• Huge bed
• Lockable vault
• Tons of storage compartments
• Real off-road clearance
• 120V/240V outlets for appliances

But:

• You’re not sleeping inside a finished SUV interior
• You’re living that truck bed tent / camper shell life

So in raw platform size + off-road freedom, Cybertruck is the king.

TL;DR: WHICH ONE SHOULD 

YOU

 PICK?

Think in terms of identity.

If you want: minimalism + practicality + daily drive + easy camping

→ Pick Model Y

• Great interior length for sleeping
• Plenty of storage
• Easy to drive and park
• Perfect “everyday car that can also be your hotel”

If you want: max interior comfort + true glamping + family trips

→ Pick Model X

• Biggest enclosed sleep pod
• Best headroom and volume
• Feels like a rolling luxury cabin

If you want: stealth + speed + occasional ninja camping

→ Pick Model S

• Smaller inside, but stealthy
• Great for solo or cozy couple camping
• More “sleep pod” than “living room,” but it works

If you want: overlanding + off-road + power station + wildness

→ Pick Cybertruck

• Biggest total platform
• Sleeping in the bed with tent = overland rig
• Off-road brute + portable power plant

FINAL PHILOSOPHY

Don’t think:

“Which Tesla is objectively the biggest?”

Think:

“Which Tesla unlocks the life I want to live?”

• Want to roam, shoot photos, write, sleep anywhere, but still keep it simple?
  → Model Y
• Want to turn every campsite into a 5-star electric suite?
  → Model X
• Want to disappear into the night and sleep invisibly in a parking lot?
  → Model S
• Want to drive into the middle of nowhere, cook off the battery, sleep in a tent on steel, and feel like Mad Max minimalist?
  → Cybertruck

Your Tesla is your moving dojo.

Choose the one that amplifies your courage, your creativity, and your appetite for adventure.

Then?

Charge to 100%.

Drive into the unknown.

Put the seats down.

Hit Camp Mode.

And turn your car into your mobile dream studio.

.

Each vehicle has its own strengths: the key is to match your camping style – be it casual weekend trips or serious off-grid expeditions – with the Tesla model that best supports it.

Car camping in a Tesla has become popular thanks to features like Camp Mode (which keeps climate control running overnight) and ample interior space in many models. This report compares the Tesla Model Y, Model X, Model S, and Cybertruck for camping, focusing on:

• Sleeping Space: rear cabin length and flatness when seats are folded.
• Cargo & Storage: total cargo volume and usability for gear.
• Interior Comfort & Features: ease of sleeping inside, privacy (window shades), headroom, ventilation.
• Climate Control & Battery Usage: overnight heating/cooling (Camp Mode) and battery draw.
• Off-Road Capability: ground clearance and features for reaching remote campsites.

We draw on official Tesla specifications, community camping tests (YouTube, forums), and third-party reviews. Below is a summary table of key metrics, followed by detailed sections for each vehicle and their pros/cons.

Key Camping Metrics: Tesla Models

Aspect	Model Y	Model X	Model S	Cybertruck
Flat Sleeping Length (approx.)	~83″ (210 cm) with front seats fully forward – nearly flat surface. Ample for people up to ~6’2″ (188 cm) without curling .	~74″ (188 cm) in 5-seat config with second row folded . Up to ~80″ (203–205 cm) if front seats moved up and using a mattress platform .	~72–75″ (183–190 cm) estimated flat length with rear seats down (enough for most under 6’0″). Not perfectly flat without a platform (small incline/hump) .	~72″ (6 ft) bed floor length in the vault (bed) with tailgate closed. Longer items fit with tailgate down (open-air). Cabin itself doesn’t have a flat sleeping floor (seats don’t fold flat).
Max Cargo Volume (with seats down)	≈74–76 cu ft (5-seat) including trunk, sub-trunk, and frunk (about 68 cu ft in rear + additional frunk ). Very usable shape.	Up to 88 cu ft (5-seat folded) . (~77 cu ft in 6-seat due to second-row not folding ). Includes large trunk well when third row absent .	58.1 cu ft interior with seats down (liftback design). Plus ~5 cu ft frunk (AWD models ~2 cu ft) . Hatch opening is wide for bulky gear.	~120.7 cu ft total lockable storage (vault/bed + frunk + sail pillar bins). The 6.5′ bed (“vault”) itself offers substantial cargo space, and it’s covered by a powered tonneau.
Ground Clearance	~6.6″ (17 cm) – no adjustable suspension. Enough for maintained dirt roads, but not high for rugged terrain.	~5″–9″ adjustable (air suspension) . Can raise for rough roads; “Very High” ~8–9″. Good for mild off-road, though heavy weight.	~5″–7″ adjustable (air suspension) . Low sporty profile limits off-road use even at max height.	~8″ normal, up to 16″ in “Extract Mode” (air suspension with ±4″ travel ). Designed for off-roading (approach angle ~35°, departure ~28°) , comparable to dedicated 4x4s.

Table: Key interior dimensions and capabilities for camping. Model X values are for the 5-seat version (most flat cargo floor). Cybertruck values refer to its pickup bed (“vault”) for sleeping, as its cabin doesn’t fold flat like an SUV.

Below, we examine each Tesla model in detail for camping, including real-world experiences and available camping accessories, followed by pros and cons.

Tesla Model Y – Midsize SUV Camper

The Model Y is a popular choice for car camping due to its combination of interior space and efficiency. It’s a compact crossover SUV with fold-flat rear seats, generous cargo room, and Tesla’s latest amenities.

Sleeping Space in Model Y

The Model Y’s rear cabin is impressively long and nearly flat when the second-row seats are folded. With the front seats moved all the way forward, you get about 83 inches (210 cm) of length in the back . This length is sufficient for most people to lie down comfortably. In fact, testers noted the Model Y provides “ample room to sleep” for anyone up to ~6’2″ tall . Taller campers (~6’5″ like one reviewer) may need to bend their knees slightly, but the space is still usable . The rear seats fold almost perfectly flat, creating a level surface aside from a minor incline. Many users report that a thin mattress evens out any slight angle, making a comfortable bed.

In terms of width, a twin XL mattress (≈38″ x 80″) can fit in the Model Y’s cargo area, which is a common hack shared by the community . Aftermarket mattresses designed for the Model Y (such as Tesmat or Tescamp kits) often come in multiple foldable panels to fit the Y’s tapered shape. For example, the TESCAMP 3″ memory foam mattress was one option, though some campers found it a bit thin . Many Model Y campers upgrade to thicker pads – one popular choice is the Exped MegaMat Duo 10 inflatable foam mattress, which in medium-double size fits the Y well . (Exped even makes a Tesla-specific cut of this mattress for a perfect fit .) With the Model Y’s interior slightly wider towards the front seats and narrower at the hatch, a rectangular mattress will have small gaps near the back, but these can be filled with rolled towels or jackets . Two adults can sleep side-by-side comfortably in the Y thanks to its roughly 50″ maximum interior width (about 41″ between the wheel wells). Overall, the Model Y offers an excellent flat sleeping platform for its size.

Cargo and Storage Capacity

“Spacious” is how many describe the Model Y’s cargo area. With rear seats up, the Y has a decent trunk, but with seats folded it transforms into a small cargo van. Tesla quotes about 74–76 cubic feet of total cargo volume for the 5-seater (this includes the rear trunk, the under-floor sub-trunk compartment, and the front trunk). Usable space is enhanced by the sub-trunk well in the rear – a large bin beneath the trunk floor where you can store camping gear (tools, stove, sleeping bags) out of the way. The Model Y actually has two sub-compartments in back (one large and one “mini” compartment just ahead of it) , plus a front trunk (~4–5 cu ft) for extra storage . Campers praise this design because you can keep a bed setup on the folded seats and stash most of your gear below the bed or in the frunk . This means you don’t have to move all your luggage to the front seats when it’s time to sleep – everything can be stored under the sleeping platform or in the frunk, keeping the bed area clear. One camping blogger noted that with strategic use of the sub-trunk and footwells behind the front seats, they never even needed a roof box for two people’s gear on multi-day trips.

From a usability standpoint, the Model Y’s rear hatch opening is large and the load floor is low, making it easy to load bulky items or slide in a mattress. If additional gear space is needed, the Y can accommodate a roof rack or cargo box (though that may impact range). For most weekend camping trips, however, the Y’s internal storage is more than sufficient. Total cargo volume (~68–74 cu ft) is on par with many midsize SUVs, and owners have fit items like bikes, small kayaks, or even a queen-size foam mattress (squeezed in). This versatility is a big plus for car campers.

Interior Comfort and Features

Inside, the Model Y provides a comfortable sleeping environment with excellent headroom for an SUV of its size. The tall roof and panoramic glass roof give a sense of space. When lying down, you have enough ceiling height to step on all fours and reposition without immediately hitting the roof. Sitting up is possible (especially nearer the hatch where the roof peaks), though very tall people might need to hunch slightly. For privacy and light blocking, many third-party window shade kits are available. Companies like Tescamp and Tesmat offer custom-fit reflective window shades or curtain systems for the Model Y . These cover all the windows (including the large hatch glass) to provide darkness for sleeping and privacy from onlookers. Some shades attach via clips or magnets, and others are pop-in rigid panels. Additionally, Tesla’s official accessories include a Model Y window sunshade for the big roof glass, which can double as a privacy shade at night. Having window covers is useful not only for privacy, but also for insulation – they help keep heat in during winter or block morning sun in summer.

Ventilation in the Model Y can be managed through Tesla’s Camp Mode. In Camp Mode, you can crack a window if you want a bit of fresh air, but generally it’s not necessary since the HVAC will circulate air and you can leave the cabin filter on to keep dust or insects out. The Model Y (2021+ models) features a heat-pump based climate system which is very efficient for cooling and heating. There are also rear climate vents (since it’s a two-row SUV) that help distribute air to the back where you’re sleeping. Some campers use a small battery-powered fan for white noise or extra airflow, but the car’s system usually suffices. Headroom in the Y’s rear ranges around 34–38″ (since the floor is elevated when the seats fold). This is enough to be comfortable lying down; you won’t feel claustrophobic. The glass roof can provide a lovely view of the stars if you don’t cover it – though in the morning you might get a greenhouse effect unless you use the sunshade. Tesla’s interior lights can be turned off (Camp Mode allows interior lighting control ), and one tip is to use the “screen cleaning mode” or the Tesla Theater to play some relaxing visuals/movies while winding down .

Other convenient features: The Y has multiple USB ports in the cabin (handy for charging devices overnight). If you have Premium Connectivity, you can stream music or Netflix while camping (though external Wi-Fi or downloaded content is recommended in remote areas). Noise: The Model Y is well insulated; however, in very quiet wilderness you might hear the HVAC cycling or the coolant pump at times. Most find it a minor hum – far quieter than running an ICE engine all night. For additional comfort, accessories like inflatable camp pillows, LED interior lights, and even custom bug screens for windows (if you prefer windows down) are available.

Climate Control and Battery Usage (Camp Mode)

One of the biggest advantages of Tesla vehicles for camping is the ability to maintain climate control all night without significant battery drain. The Model Y’s Camp Mode will keep the HVAC running, maintain airflow, allow you to play music or watch videos, and even power devices via the car’s USB ports or 12V outlet – all while you sleep comfortably. Tesla estimates Camp Mode consumes roughly 1% of the battery per hour . Real-world usage in a Model Y shows that an 8-hour night might use only 5–15% of a full charge, depending on outside temperature . For example, one owner with a 2022 Model Y set the interior to ~18–20°C (64–68°F) overnight and reported around 10% battery drop by morning . In mild weather, it can be even less; in very cold or hot weather, it could be on the higher end of that range. These numbers are remarkably low – equivalent to only a few miles of range per hour for comfort.

The Model Y’s modern heat pump is particularly efficient in cooler temperatures. Community members note that 5–10% overnight is typical in temperate conditions . In freezing conditions, usage does rise: for instance, at sub-freezing 0°C, expect maybe ~10–12% usage for the night . Camp Mode will automatically prevent the battery from draining below 20% by shutting off climate if it hits that threshold (as a safety to ensure you can drive out) . So it’s wise to arrive at camp with more than 20% – ideally 50%+ to be safe. One reviewer found out the hard way that if you let the battery hit 20%, the heat will turn off at 2am! (The car does this to preserve enough energy to drive to a charger later.) Thus, part of the planning is to charge sufficiently before camping. Overall, the Model Y can maintain a cozy interior through the night without you worrying about carbon monoxide (as in an ICE car) or excessive battery loss. Camp Mode also allows you to lock the car from the inside and disables any alarm that would normally trigger from motion inside, so you’re secure.

Additionally, the Tesla app allows remote climate adjustments from bed – so if you need to tweak the temperature or turn something on/off, you can do it on your phone without leaving your sleeping bag . The Model Y’s large battery (around 75 kWh) means you have plenty of energy for multiple nights of camping if needed. If you do run low, you could take a mid-trip Supercharge or use campground electrical hookups (with appropriate adapters) to recharge or run the climate. However, most find that unnecessary for a night or two off-grid, given the modest consumption.

Off-Road Capability for Remote Camping

The Model Y is all-wheel drive (in Long Range and Performance trims) and offers decent capability on unpaved roads. Its ground clearance of about 6.6 inches is higher than a Model 3 sedan, but still modest compared to dedicated off-road vehicles. It’s sufficient for gravel roads, dirt trails, and light terrain, which covers many campsites and national park roads. Owners report driving Model Ys on forest service roads and uneven paths without issue, as long as they avoid large rocks or deep ruts. The approach and departure angles are not officially stated, but being a crossover, you should be cautious over steep berms or ditches to avoid scraping the bumpers. In practice, the Y handles washboard roads and muddy patches fine thanks to its dual-motor traction and stability control. The instant torque of electric AWD can actually be an asset on slippery surfaces, as the motors can modulate power quickly.

That said, the Model Y is not designed for hardcore off-roading. There’s no low-range gearbox, no off-road suspension mode, and street-oriented tires. Some adventurous owners have added aftermarket lift kits (1–2″ lifts) and all-terrain tires to slightly improve clearance and ruggedness . For example, a 1.75″ lift kit plus taller tires can give a Y around 8″ of clearance, making it more confident on rough trails . Still, you must be mindful of the battery pack underside; while the pack is well-protected, a direct hit from a rock could be bad news. Skid plates are not standard (beyond the battery armor), though some aftermarket kits exist.

For most “car camping” scenarios, the Model Y’s off-road capability is ample – it will get you down forest roads and to trailheads that a typical crossover or soft-roader can reach. It might struggle on rock crawling or deep sand compared to something like a Jeep. But features like hill descent control (via regenerative braking) and the low center of gravity give it stable handling on uneven ground. It also has a tow hitch option, so you could tow a small camping trailer (rated ~3,500 lbs towing) if needed for extra gear or for a camper setup, though that’s outside the car’s interior camping scope.

Ground clearance could be a limitation if your camping spot requires clearing larger obstacles. 6.6″ means avoid large rocks or deep potholes. If you plan to venture truly off the beaten path, you might consider the Cybertruck or a lifted Model X instead. However, for remote dispersed camping reachable by moderate dirt roads, the Model Y can manage and has in many cases. Just carry a tire repair kit or compressor (the Tesla tire repair kit is useful) – sharp rocks can’t puncture an EV’s “fuel lines”, but they can still puncture tires!

Camping Accessories for Model Y

Because the Model Y is popular, there’s a thriving aftermarket of camping accessories:

• Mattress Kits: Tesla itself now sells an official Model Y Air Mattress on its shop . This mattress is designed to “fit snugly across the folded rear seats and trunk of Model Y” , offering a convenient, made-to-fit sleeping pad. Third-party options include the Tesmat (a three-piece folding foam mattress that comes with a carry bag that fits in the sub-trunk) and the Tescamp foam mattress. Owners also use standard camping air mattresses (twin or custom-sized) with success – just ensure dimensions near ~75″ x 40″. As mentioned, high-quality camping pads like the Exped Duo provide great comfort and pack small .
• Window Shades and Privacy: Tescamp offers a complete privacy curtain/shade kit for the Model Y , which includes magnetic curtains for the side windows and a cover for the panoramic roof. There are also stick-on reflective sunshades (like HeatShield brand) custom-cut for each window of the Y. These not only keep light out but also insulate against heat/cold . Some owners DIY solutions with Reflectix foil or blackout cloth cutouts. The key is to cover the windshield, all side windows, the small rear quarter windows, and the hatch glass for complete privacy and darkness.
• Bug Screens: In buggy areas, you might want to crack a window. Companies make mesh window insect screens that can be fitted over a slightly open door frame or window, keeping mosquitoes out while allowing airflow.
• Leveling Platforms: While the Y’s seats fold pretty flat, a few people remove the rear seat bottom cushions to make it perfectly level or use a small foam wedge to fill any gap (especially at where the folded seat meets the trunk floor) . Generally, a properly sized mattress takes care of this. Some DIYers build thin platforms or use an extension panel that spans the gap between the folded seats and front seat backs, adding a few inches of length and leveling (there is an Amazon product that does this for various cars ).
• Other Accessories: Consider a 12V electric cooler/fridge for the frunk or rear if you need to keep food cold (the Model Y’s 12V outlet can run a small fridge while driving; for overnight, you might power it off a separate battery to avoid drain, unless at a powered campsite). Interior organizers, LED strip lights (USB-powered) to create ambiance, and camping mode tray tables (that hook onto the dash when front seats are swiveled – though Model Y seats don’t swivel, so usually not used inside) are also in the market. Some even get a portable toilet or pop-up privacy tent for use outside – not specific to Tesla, but part of the car camping gear list.

Real-world Model Y camping experiences are overwhelmingly positive. People highlight the comfort of sleeping inside a climate-controlled, secure car, and the convenience of setting up camp anywhere you can park. One enthusiast called the Tesla “the ultimate car glamping vehicle” . The combination of space, tech, and efficiency makes the Model Y a top choice for electric car campers who want versatility without going to the full SUV size of the Model X or the utilitarian form of the Cybertruck.

Model Y Pros & Cons for Camping:

• Pros: Spacious flat sleeping area (83″ length) – comfortable for most people . Ample cargo volume (~74 cu ft) with smart sub-trunk storage . Efficient Camp Mode (≈1% battery per hour) for climate control. Abundant aftermarket accessories (mattresses, shades, etc.) and an official Tesla mattress . Good headroom and large glass roof (nice views). Sufficient ground clearance for light off-road; compact size easy to maneuver. Tesla’s Supercharger network makes recharging on road trips easy.
• Cons: Not as large as Model X for two adults plus lots of gear (space can be tight on very long trips). Rear hatch glass can let in heat/light if not covered. 6.6″ ground clearance limits more aggressive off-roading – not ideal for very rough trails or deep sand/mud. Camp Mode will shut off below 20% battery , so must monitor state of charge. Some might find the sleeping surface has a slight incline without a pad (rear seats “almost” flat ). Overall build quality is good but a few have reported minor trim issues in early builds (rarely an issue for camping, more a general note).

Tesla Model X – Luxury Camping Cruiser

The Model X is Tesla’s full-size SUV, offering the most interior room of the group (aside from the open-bed Cybertruck). It’s often considered the best Tesla for inside-the-car camping if you prioritize space and comfort. With its falcon-wing rear doors and cavernous cabin, the Model X can be turned into a mini hotel on wheels.

Sleeping Space in Model X

With the right seating configuration, the Model X provides a very roomy sleeping area. The optimal setup is the 5-seater Model X, which has a second-row bench that folds completely flat . In this configuration, you get a continuous flat cargo floor from the liftgate to the front seats. The available flat length is about 74 inches (6’2″) from the rear hatch to the back of the front seats when the second row is folded down. This 74″ measurement allows most people up to around 6’0″ comfortably. However, you can gain extra length by sliding or moving the front seats forward: some owners report reaching roughly 80 inches (203 cm) of length by moving the front seats up and using a mattress that extends slightly into the second-row footwell . In fact, the DreamCase mattress for Model X mentions an extended bed length up to ~205 cm (6.7 ft) when the front seats are moved and a gap is left near the front .

It’s important to note Model X comes in different seating layouts: 5-seat (two rows), 6-seat, or 7-seat. The 5-seat and 7-seat variants have a fold-flat second row. The 6-seat version (with two captain’s chairs in the second row and no middle seat) does not fold flat – those seats are fixed upright. Camping in a 6-seater is still possible but requires creativity: you can fold down the third row (if equipped) and then there will be a gap between the third row area and the second-row seats. Some 6-seat owners have built platforms or stuffed pillows to bridge the gap and create a flat surface from the tailgate to between the second-row chairs . One advantage of the 6-seater is that the center aisle between the second-row chairs can accommodate longer items (you could have your legs extend between the seats). But in general, the 7-seater (which also folds flat when both second and third row down) or the 5-seater are superior for camping because they yield a large flat bed.

When fully flat, the Model X sleeping area can easily fit two adults side by side with room to spare. The interior width at the second row is about 54″ and even at the narrowest point (between wheel wells in the trunk) is ~38″ . This means a full-size mattress (54″ x 75″) can potentially fit inside with minor adjustments, and certainly any “double” camping mattress fits with room. Most Model X campers either use a custom-fit mattress or something like a tri-fold foam mattress. The DreamCase for Model X is a premium option: it’s a folding memory foam mattress with a hard shell that doubles as a trunk leveler . It levels out any unevenness (older Model X benches had a slight angle or gap, which the DreamCase platform fixes ) and provides a thick cushion. DreamCase reports the usable flat length as mentioned (~6.7 ft with seats adjusted) , which means even a 6’5″ person could lie diagonally or with front seats moved and fit.

Another benefit: headroom in Model X is excellent. The X has a high roofline and large falcon-wing door openings. You can sit upright in the back without hitting the ceiling (especially in the 5-seat/7-seat where the second-row seats fold away). Even with a mattress, you have more vertical space than in the Model Y or S. This makes the X feel very roomy and less claustrophobic for long camping trips. Also, because the Model X’s falcon-wing doors open upward, standing next to the vehicle gives full head clearance – you can easily step in and out of the rear without crouching (useful when setting up bedding or getting dressed).

In summary, Model X offers a spacious, flat sleeping platform comparable to or larger than a standard two-person tent, all inside the vehicle. Two adults can stretch out comfortably, and even a third (a child perhaps) could squeeze in if needed (the width is there, length might require creative angling).

Cargo and Storage Capacity

The Model X is an SUV with massive cargo capacity, especially in the 5-seat configuration. With all rear seats folded, it has about 85–88 cubic feet of cargo volume – the most of any Tesla vehicle. This volume includes a very deep rear trunk well. In the 5-seat/7-seat X, Tesla enlarged the hidden compartment (trunk well) once the third-row seats were removed or folded . It extends under what would be the third-row area, offering a huge space to store gear. You can either cover it with the false floor for a flat surface or remove the cover to gain extra vertical space for tall items . For camping, this means you can put a lot of equipment under the sleeping platform: suitcases, coolers, camp chairs, etc., all can go into the trunk well and front trunk. The front trunk (frunk) of the Model X is also large compared to other Teslas – roughly 6.5 cu ft in older models (big enough for e.g. an airline carry-on bag). The refresh X’s frunk might differ slightly, but still sizable.

If you have the 6-seater X, cargo volume with seats folded is lower (second-row doesn’t fold), around ~77 cu ft behind the front seats . In that case, you effectively have the entire rear behind the second-row chairs for cargo. Some 6-seat owners remove the rear center console (if equipped) to maximize floor space.

In practice, Model X campers love that they can bring everything. You can pack a large cooler, portable stove, extra blankets, photography equipment, etc., and still have room. The wide body (about 78″ external width) means the interior can swallow wider items – for example, with seats down you can fit a bicycle or even sheets of plywood (~4ft x 8ft fits at an angle). For camping, large plastic storage bins slot in easily. And because the rear opening is tall and wide, loading bulky gear is straightforward.

The falcon-wing doors don’t directly aid cargo, but they can serve as a shelter when open (one on each side) if you’re accessing the interior in rain. However, note: you can’t open the falcon doors with a roof rack installed, so the Model X isn’t typically used with a roof cargo box (most just use the ample interior space). One clever use-case: with falcon doors up, you could drape a mosquito net or tarp to create a sort of annex/tent off the side of the car for additional sheltered space.

Overall, storage usability is excellent. The flat floor in camping mode means you have a “nightstand” area next to your pillows (the folded seat backs) where you can place small items. There are also door pockets and seat-back pockets for phones, glasses, etc. Some campers rig up cargo nets or use Tesla’s back of seat hooks to hang small bags or lights. The Model X’s large internal volume means even on rainy days, you could comfortably lounge or even cook with a small backpacking stove at the rear (with caution/ventilation) since there’s space to sit up.

Interior Comfort and Features

The Model X brings some unique comfort features to camping. First, the panoramic windshield of the Model X extends well above the driver’s head, which means if you’re lying in the back and look forward, you get a huge view out the front – great for stargazing or watching the sunrise from bed. You will likely want a windshield sunshade or curtain for privacy though; Tesla provides a sunshade net for the upper windshield for heat, and it doubles as a way to block morning light.

The falcon-wing doors have windows and glass panels, which again give an airy feel. Privacy shades are available for these as well – you can get reflective shades that attach to the falcon-wing door glass to create a cozy enclosed feel inside . Bjørn Nyland (a Tesla YouTuber in Norway) specifically used custom sunshades on all windows of his Model X when camping in freezing temperatures, which helped insulate the cabin and prevent frost buildup inside .

Headroom and the ability to move around inside are the best in the Model X. You can kneel or sit cross-legged on the mattress without hitting the ceiling. Changing clothes inside the X is easier than in Y or S for this reason. Also, the second-row doors (falcon wings) can be opened partially for ventilation without exposing the interior too much (though typically one would just use HVAC).

For ventilation, Camp Mode in the Model X works the same as in other Teslas. One potential downside: the Model X interior is larger to heat or cool, so in extreme climates it could consume a bit more energy than a smaller Model Y. However, updated Model X (2021+) also have a heat pump, so they’re fairly efficient. The larger glass area could let in more cold or heat, but as noted, using the reflective shades mitigates that (Bjørn woke up with frost on the inside of his Model X glass at -16°C, but behind the sunshades, the cabin stayed comfortable ).

Interior features that stand out for camping:

• Rear screen (in newer Model X): The refresh Model X has a small rear infotainment screen for second-row. This could potentially be used to play music or movies for campers in back without needing to turn toward the front display.
• Premium Audio: If you enjoy music while relaxing, the X’s sound system is top-notch. Camp Mode will let you play audio (just keep volume reasonable for any nearby campers).
• Lights: The Model X has adjustable ambient lights and plenty of interior lighting. You can turn off specific lights if needed (the falcon doors have LEDs that you might want off at night – usually controlled via the screen or by manually pressing them if they’re reading lights).
• HVAC: The X has tri-zone climate (driver, passenger, rear) in newer models. In Camp Mode, it likely merges zones, but you can direct airflow. Since you’re sleeping in the back, you might point some airflow to the rear (some owners set climate to footwell or dash and use a small fan to circulate to back).
• Security: Camp Mode disables the intruder alarm, but Sentry Mode can be on or off as you choose. Many turn it off to avoid the lights/noises, unless in an area where they want surveillance (but Sentry would use more energy and the car’s lights might disturb you, so generally off during sleeping).

Anecdotally, campers describe the Model X as “sleeping inside a cozy cabin with panoramic views.” It feels less like a car and more like a small studio once you’re inside with blinds up and bed laid out. The ability to control everything from the app or voice (you can use voice commands to adjust temperature or lights if the car is “on”) is a perk of Tesla in general.

Climate Control and Battery Usage

Camping in a Model X, even in extreme cold, has been proven feasible and comfortable. In one well-known test, Bjørn Nyland slept in a Model X at –17 °C (1 °F) overnight . He set the temperature to 21 °C (70 °F) and used Range Mode (which limits how hard the car works the HVAC) to conserve energy . With window sunshades in place, he stayed warm and found that the car used on average 1.5 kW of power to maintain the climate . Over ~8 hours, that equated to only about 32 miles of range consumed (roughly 10% of the battery) . This is impressive given the large interior and frigid external temperature. The inside of the windows did get frosty, showing the temperature difference, but the camp was a success . This demonstrated that even in deep winter, the Model X could keep you alive and comfortable without external heat sources – a big safety plus.

For more typical conditions (cool nights, not arctic), the Model X should consume similar ~1% per hour as the Model Y, maybe slightly more if the volume is larger. Owners report about 10–15% per night in moderate cold (5–10 °C), and less in mild weather . If anything, the X’s larger battery (100 kWh in older models, ~95 kWh usable) gives you a bigger cushion. You could run camp mode for multiple nights on a full charge. Camp Mode operation is identical: it will keep climate, allow media, and you manually lock the doors (since camp mode doesn’t auto-lock) for security . Always ensure you either have the key inside or a phone key, so you can get back in if you step out (some bring the key fob to bed in case the car locks – though Camp Mode usually leaves it unlocked until you lock it).

If you’re at a campground with power, you can even charge while in Camp Mode. Many campgrounds have 120V outlets or RV plugs; an adapter can let you trickle charge or at least offset the HVAC draw. The Tesla Mobile Connector at 120V, 15A might add ~3–4 miles of range per hour, which is about equal to the usage in climate – effectively letting you maintain overnight without losing range . Some European campsites have 230V outlets that can do even better. This isn’t necessary for a night, but useful if parked multiple nights in one spot.

In hot weather, the Model X’s AC can likewise keep things cool. Just remember to crack the windows slightly or turn on air recirculation off periodically if you worry about fresh air (Camp Mode is designed to keep air flowing and avoid suffocation, so it’s generally fine). You won’t have the noise of an engine or generator – just the gentle hum of fans and maybe compressor.

Off-Road Capability and Ground Clearance

The Model X has an adaptive air suspension that provides an edge for reaching tough campsites. You can raise the X to High or Very High suspension, giving up to around 8 inches of ground clearance (possibly ~9″ in the very highest mode at low speed). This is significantly better than Model Y or S. In practical terms, the Model X can handle rutted dirt roads, moderate snow, and uneven terrain better. Its approach angle improves when raised (the front overhang is not huge, but caution is still needed on sharp breakovers – the wheelbase is long). The heavy weight (~5,500+ lbs) means if it does get stuck (mud or sand), extraction is harder, but the dual/triple motor AWD and traction control usually find grip where a 2WD would not.

While not a rock crawler, the X has been taken on some off-road adventures: owners have reported using it on trails leading to remote campsites, making use of features like Off-Road Assist (which balances traction between wheels for slippery stuff) and even using the very low “Jack Mode” to level the car at camp (by manually setting ride height differences – e.g., you can lower one side by parking on a slight incline and adjusting, though the car doesn’t have independent corner leveling for camping, one can improvise with ramps under tires if needed to level the sleeping platform).

The key advantage for off-road: the X’s underbody is flat and enclosed (battery pack), so it can glide over tall grass or shallow water without things hanging down (no exhaust or oil pan, etc.). The air suspension will auto-lower at highway speeds, but you can lock it in High at low speeds for trails. Ground clearance ~8″ is comparable to many gasoline SUVs (e.g., a Subaru Outback). So the Model X can reach trailheads and dispersed camping spots that a Model S or 3 could not.

It also has a towing capacity (5,000 lbs for most versions), which means you could even tow a small camper or off-road trailer to basecamp and then sleep in the car or trailer. The presence of a tow hitch is nice for mounting things like a bike rack as well, if your camping involves biking.

Off-road cons: The Model X’s 20″ or 22″ wheels with street tires are not ideal for rocky terrain – sidewall cuts are a risk. Some owners downsize to 19″ wheels with all-terrain tires for better durability if they frequently go off-grid. Also, the falcon-wing doors use sensors to avoid overhead obstacles – if you’re in dense woods, you must be mindful opening them (they need some clearance above, although they can detect and adjust their opening arc). Generally not a problem outdoors, but if you camp under a shelter or low tree, you’d want to disable auto-open to avoid any mishap.

Finally, as a large vehicle, tight jeep trails or deep narrow gullies might simply be impassable for the X due to width and less articulation than a true 4×4. Within reason, though, the X will get to 99% of places a normal soft-roader SUV would. It truly allows “luxury overlanding” to some degree – you can venture further and still sleep in upscale comfort.

Camping Accessories for Model X

There are fewer Model X-specific camping accessories (since it’s less common to rough it in a ~$100k SUV), but you still have several options:

• Mattresses: The DreamCase for Model X is a tailor-made solution (memory foam mattress, leveling platform, duvet, pillows) . It’s pricey, but owners rave about the comfort and ease (it stores in the trunk and unfolds in 30 seconds to a bed). Other owners use cheaper solutions: tri-fold foam mattresses (there are generic ones that fit SUVs), inflatable air beds that are made for minivans/SUVs, or even a home futon mattress cut to size. Just like Model Y, Tesmat doesn’t officially list a Model X version (they focus on 3/Y), but you can use a Model S/X DreamCase or simply two camping pads side by side. Given the width, some have used a full-size air mattress successfully. You might need to place a sheet of plywood or an air mattress with integrated base if you have a gap (for 6-seaters).
• Window Shades: Tesla used to offer an “EVolve” sunshade set for the Model X (windshield and falcon door glass). Aftermarket kits exist too. You’ll want covers for the large windshield (especially to block morning sun) and the falcon-wing door windows. The rear hatch on X is smaller than Y’s (because of the roof angle), but still get a shade for it. X Shade kits can be found via Tesla accessory retailers (like EV Annex or HeatShield specifically cut shades). Bjørn’s strategy of using fitted sunshades proved effective for insulation .
• Bug nets and ventilation: Since the X’s windows are frameless, you can get inserts to allow a small gap for ventilation while keeping bugs out. However, most will just rely on Camp Mode air conditioning rather than open windows (fewer bugs that way). If needed, you could partially open a falcon door for a minute to flush out warm air (the car’s HVAC will also ventilate via its system).
• Interior add-ons: Some owners create a screen divider or curtain behind the front seats for privacy (particularly in 6-seat, since second row is open). A tension rod curtain or even just draping a blanket can work if you don’t have window shades for the front windows. Also, little things like seat-back hook hangers (to hang lanterns or bags) and magnetic LED lights for inside of the trunk are useful. There’s also an accessory called “Camp Mode light” which projects a low dim light.
• Exterior tents or extensions: While not common, one could use the Model X’s open falcon doors as attachment points for an awning or tent extension. There are “SUV tents” that typically attach around an open hatch of an SUV to extend space. In the X’s case, you might attach to the rear. However, the X’s shape is a bit unique, so this is rare. Most X campers find the interior sufficient.
• Power Inverters: The Model X has a 12V outlet (actually a couple of them), which can provide ~150W. For more serious power (say running a coffee maker or electric blanket), you might use a standalone power station (Jackery/EcoFlow) charged from the car. Unlike Cybertruck, the X does not have built-in AC outlets, so any 120V appliance needs a small inverter or separate battery.
• Misc: Because X camping might include families, some bring tablet holders to mount an iPad on the back of the front seats for entertainment (though there’s Tesla Theater too). Also, consider the “camping bathroom” solutions (portable toilet or shovel) if you’re remote – this applies to all cars, not X-specific.

In general, the Model X doesn’t require as many special accessories beyond the mattress and shades – it already provides the space and comfort by design.

Model X Pros & Cons for Camping:

• Pros: Largest enclosed sleeping space of the Teslas – up to 88 ft³ cargo and a nearly queen-size bed area . Seats fold flat (5/7-seat) for a level surface; plenty of room for tall campers (6’5″ can fit with seats moved) . Excellent headroom and interior comfort – you can sit up and move around easily. Falcon-wing doors provide huge access and even act as rain shelters. Ample storage (deep trunk well, big frunk) for gear. Air suspension allows increased ground clearance (~8-9″) for accessing rougher roads. Dual/triple motor AWD for traction in snow/mud. Camp Mode performance proven even in extreme cold (stayed warm at -17°C with only ~10% battery use) . Luxurious touches (sound system, panoramic views) enhance “glamping” feel. Can tow extra gear or trailers if needed.
• Cons: Very high purchase cost (less attainable as a dedicated camper for most, though used ones exist). Larger size means it’s less nimble on tight trails or small parking spots. 6-seat configuration not ideal for camping (requires workaround for flat floor). More glass to cover for privacy (need multiple sunshades, including massive windshield). The car is heavy – if you do get stuck off-road, it’s a challenge to extract. Consumes slightly more energy to heat/cool larger cabin (minor issue given big battery). Falcon-wing doors, while generally reliable, are complex – one should be careful in dusty or debris-laden environments to keep door sensors clean (so they close properly). Finally, availability of aftermarket camping gear is a bit less compared to Model 3/Y (but essentials are covered by DreamCase and others).

Tesla Model S – Sleek and Stealthy Camper

The Model S is a large hatchback sedan, and while it’s not an SUV, its hatchback design and fold-down rear seats make it surprisingly capable for car camping. Many early Tesla owners (even back to 2012 Model S) have used it for “stealth camping” given its sedan profile. The Model S offers a blend of decent cargo space and the advantage of a lower, more aerodynamic shape (which can be a pro for efficiency and stealth).

Sleeping Space in Model S

Inside the Model S, you’ll find that with the rear seats folded, there is a substantial, flat cargo area accessible through the rear hatch. Officially, the rear cargo length is around ~72–73 inches (about 6 feet) with the seats down, though owners have managed slightly more by moving front seats forward or sleeping diagonally. One accessory site suggests a mattress around 72″ x 54″ fits well in the Model S , which indicates the space is roughly that size (72″ length, 54″ width near the front seat area). Indeed, the Model S is a wide car (nearly 77″ exterior width), and inside at shoulder height it’s quite roomy side-to-side. The limiting factor is length: with front seats in normal position, about 6 feet from the back of the front seat to the hatch. If you slide the front seats forward and don’t mind your feet going between or under them, you can get a few extra inches (some tall folks remove the rear seat bottom cushion to gain length and flatten the transition ).

A quirk of the Model S is that the rear seats don’t fold perfectly flat against the trunk floor; there’s typically a slight angle or “hump” where the seatbacks meet the cargo floor . Early Model S owners noted this incline – it’s not a 100% level bed without modification. However, solutions exist: you can remove the rear seat bottom cushions entirely (a few clips) which allows the seatbacks to fold flatter (reducing the angle) . Alternatively, products like DreamCase include a fold-out platform that levels the hump . Even a simple foam pad or filler piece (a rolled blanket) placed at the hinge point can smooth out the incline. Once that is addressed, the Model S can be made very flat for sleeping.

In terms of space for two people: the Model S, being a sedan, actually has a bit more interior width in the back than the Model Y (no thick C-pillars intruding). Two people can sleep side by side, though it’s cozier than the X or Y due to slightly less roof height and the tapering of the roofline. The S’s roofline slopes down toward the rear, so the tallest interior point is nearer the front seats. You can comfortably lie down, but sitting up is more constrained than in an SUV. If you’re alone, diagonally lying can gain you more length (diagonal of the space is longer, of course). For couples, sleeping with heads towards the front (and feet towards the hatch) often maximizes shoulder room due to the shape of the rear opening.

A bonus of the Model S is its stealth factor: from the outside, it looks like a normal car – so if you’re camping in an urban or unfriendly area, it doesn’t scream “camper.” People have slept in Model S in rest stops or parking lots relatively incognito. The windows are not huge on the sides, and with a good tint or sunshade, no one can tell.

Cargo and Storage Capacity

The Model S has a long hatchback trunk and when seats are down it offers 58 cubic feet of cargo space inside . This is comparable to a small SUV (for example, similar to a Subaru Crosstrek’s space). That 58 cu ft is measured to the roof; if you only load to window height it’s less, but for camping you’ll mostly use below the window for bedding. There’s also a front trunk (frunk) which was quite large on older Model S – up to ~5.3 cu ft in RWD versions . Newer dual-motor Model S have a smaller frunk (~2 cu ft) due to additional hardware up front . Still, even 2 cu ft can hold charging cables, a small backpack or a couple of grocery bags. The rear trunk also has an underfloor compartment (not as deep as Model Y’s, but exists). If the car was a 7-seat variant (some pre-2018 Model S had an optional rear-facing child jump seats), then there is a well where those seats would stow. Without the seats, that well is open for storage of maybe a duffel bag or two.

For camping, you can put a fair bit of gear in a Model S: think of it like a mid-size wagon. It’s not as tall, so large coolers or tall bins might not fit standing up, but you can lay things flat. If you have the bed set up, you’ll likely use the frunk and that rear lower well for luggage to avoid cluttering the mattress area. Many Model S campers put luggage in the footwells of the rear seats (since those footwells become “dead space” when the bed is on top). That way, they essentially create a flat platform where beneath it in the footwells are bags or shoes, accessible by lifting the mattress.

Usability: the rear opening of the Model S is quite big (hatch width ~41″ at narrowest), but the height of the opening is lower than an SUV. You have to duck to climb in – it’s a car, after all. You can’t stand under the hatch (unless you’re short) because the roof is lower. This means getting in and out of the Model S is a bit less convenient: typically you’ll open the hatch and crawl in feet-first, or get in via rear door and scoot to the back. The hatch can be used as a bit of a canopy if it’s drizzling, but it’s not very large.

The Model S can definitely handle all the typical gear for two people on a camping trip, but you might play more Tetris than with an X or Y. Soft duffel bags are easier to stuff into nooks than hard suitcases in this scenario. As a plus, the S’s trunk is carpeted and has nice trim – it feels a bit upscale even when you’re loading firewood (though maybe put a tarp to protect the nice carpet!).

Interior Comfort and Features

Inside a Model S, the experience is more “cocooned” than in the taller Teslas. The panoramic glass roof (if equipped – many Model S have either all-glass roof or a sunroof panel) provides some sky view, but the roof isn’t as large as the Y’s. Still, you may want a roof sunshade to avoid heat in summer. Window coverage is crucial because the S’s windows are larger relative to interior volume (especially the windshield). Fortunately, sunshade kits exist as well – including a big windshield shade, side window shades, and a rear hatch shade. A clever trick: because Model S has metal window frames, some use magnetic curtains that snap onto the window frames for privacy (there are products like EV Annex’s blackout shades for Model S specifically).

The Model S’s seats and trim: If you are tall, one potential comfort issue could be the front seats intruding on your sleep area. The front seatbacks in a sedan are not as vertical as an SUV’s seatbacks when slid forward, so sometimes people find they need to slide seats forward and then maybe even tilt them to maximize flat length. You can also use the front seats as part of your “headboard” or pillow prop – some campers put pillows against the back of front seats (with front seats moved forward enough to give a good angle) so they can sit up and read/watch something.

When it comes to climate and airflow, the Model S (2021 refresh) also has a heat pump, older ones had resistive heat. Either way, it can maintain climate similarly well. Because the cabin is a bit smaller, one could argue it might use slightly less energy to maintain temperature (less volume to cool/heat). But differences are minor – mostly it’s about external temperature insulation. The S is lower to the ground, which in summer could mean the car stays a bit cooler (less sun exposure) but in winter, cold ground could mean more heat loss through the floor. Using insulating layers (blankets) under you is wise in any car.

The touchscreen in Model S (especially new ones with swiveling screen) can be angled if you want to watch a movie from the back – though it might not swivel far enough to face the trunk, you can certainly see it from behind the front seats. Some use a tablet instead for easier viewing.

Interior lights can be controlled; you may have to manually turn off the trunk light if it bothers you (some put tape on the trunk light or remove a fuse if they plan extended camping, but now Camp Mode should allow lights off). As noted in the Y section, if you open a door, Tesla’s default is to turn on interior lights, but you can override some of that. Having a small flashlight or LED lantern is handy instead of using the car’s lights constantly.

A neat thing with Model S (and X) older models: they had a bioweapon defense mode (HEPA filter) which can be run to keep air ultra-fresh. That’s overkill for most camping, but if you are near smoky areas or high pollen, running the HVAC in recirculate with HEPA filter can keep the air clean inside.

The Model S has Smart Air Suspension (in many variants) which can automatically level to some extent. While it’s not designed for camping leveling, you could trick it: e.g., set very high to help with entry, or lower down to make it easier to reach in/out. However, unlike an RV, you can’t manually level each corner – it levels itself for driving, not for parked. So if you park on uneven ground, you’ll still feel that tilt when sleeping. Try to find as level a spot as possible or use small wheel ramps to adjust.

Because Model S is a sedan shape, some campers find it a bit cozier/quieter inside – less echo, more like being in a sleeping pod. The downside is you don’t get panoramic views without opening the hatch. On nice nights, a common approach is to leave the hatch open and bug-net the opening, essentially turning the car into a tent (camp mode can still run, though it will try to cool the outdoors then, so many don’t use AC if hatch open). But if you want to, you could open the sunroof for ventilation on older models (newer ones have fixed glass, so not an option).

Climate Control and Battery Usage

Using Camp Mode in a Model S yields similar or better efficiency than the larger Teslas due to the smaller cabin. Owners have reported roughly 5–10% battery usage for a night in mild weather . If outside temps are extreme, expect maybe up to 15%. The same 1% per hour rule of thumb applies . One German source noted in summer ~19°C nights, Camp Mode used about 5–15% overnight in an S – consistent with others.

An older Model S (pre-heat pump) uses resistive heating which can draw 2–3 kW continuously in very cold weather, meaning maybe 20–25% overnight in freezing conditions. But the newer ones (2021+) have heat pumps and better efficiency. If you are using an older Model S in winter, you might mitigate usage by combining sleeping bags or turning the temp down to, say, 60°F (16°C) instead of 70°F.

Camp Mode itself works on any Tesla with recent software, so Model S has it as well (the interface is the same). One thing to mention: the Model S battery sizes vary (older ones 75 kWh, 90, 100, newest ~100 kWh). But even the smallest battery S (60 kWh older model) can run camp mode for many nights.

Charging while camping is also an option as with others. If you find a campground hookup, the Model S can charge at up to 48A on Level 2 (if you had that available) which is plenty to both charge and run HVAC. On a 120V plug, it will slow the drain but likely not net positive if heat is blasting.

Since the Model S sits lower, some people worry about venting if sleeping in a closed car. Tesla’s climate ensures you get fresh air when needed. You won’t run out of oxygen; the HVAC brings in outside air periodically unless you set it otherwise.

As with all, ensure you have sufficient battery >20% or so, so Camp Mode doesn’t shut off mid-nap. If it does, and you wake up cold at 4am with 19% left, you can always turn it back on manually (the car just gives a warning but you technically can run climate lower, it’s just not recommended to drain too far).

Off-Road Capability and Ground Clearance

The Model S is not really intended for off-roading. Its normal ground clearance is about 4.5–6″ depending on suspension setting . With air suspension on High, you might get ~6″ max. It’s essentially a sporty sedan: great on paved roads, low on rugged ones. You’d be limited to well-maintained dirt roads or campsites that a regular car can reach. The Model S’s long wheelbase and low ride mean you must be cautious of bottoming out on rough terrain.

Approach and departure angles are relatively shallow – the nose could scrape on a steep driveway, so definitely on a sudden dip in a trail. If you plan to camp with a Model S, scope out that the site is accessible by a normal car. Many established campgrounds are fine; it’s the dispersed wilderness areas where a Model S might struggle if there are rocks or washouts.

That being said, many Model S drivers have taken it on gravel and even some slightly gnarly paths carefully. The dual-motor AWD versions have good traction on gravel or snow. The car’s heavy weight gives stable footing, but if traction is lost, it can slide – and in mud, those road tires won’t bite much.

If you have a newer Plaid or LR with torque vectoring, it’ll handle slippery roads decently. Just avoid large obstacles. Unlike the SUVs, the S doesn’t have skid plates beyond the battery cover – striking that can be dangerous and expensive. So the rule is: stick to what you’d drive a normal sedan or crossover on.

Camping scenario: If the campsite is a bit off the road, you might park the S a short distance away and walk in, if terrain is rough. Or you can always bring some lightweight traction boards in case of soft ground (there’s room to store a pair of MaxTrax in the trunk).

The Model S can definitely handle snow camping in terms of climate (there are stories of people sleeping in a Model S during winter storms, staying warm). But driving to those snowy spots requires winter tires or chains and is still limited by clearance.

Camping Accessories for Model S

When the Model S was the only Tesla around, companies like DreamCase started with it – so yes, there are accessories:

• DreamCase for Model S: This was one of the first products – a foldable foam mattress with a carrying case that doubles as a leveler for the trunk hump . It basically turns the S into a comfy bed with pillows and a duvet included. Many Model S owners have used DreamCase for road trips so they can sleep at charging stops or avoid hotels.
• Tesmat (Model 3 version) – There isn’t a specific Model S Tesmat, but some owners have used the Model 3/Y ones and just dealt with extra space. There are also generic tri-fold 4-inch foam mattresses on Amazon that fit the S nicely (around 70×40 when folded out, etc.). If you’re on a budget, even a memory foam topper cut to shape can work.
• Window Shades/Covers: Same story – HeatShield or similar custom-fit sunshades for Model S windows are available. Some people DIY with reflective foil cutouts (the Model S windows are relatively simple shapes). Magnetic curtain rods can be used between the grab handles or coat hooks to hang drapes over the side windows.
• Bug protection: If you want to vent via the sunroof (older models that have one), you can get a mesh screen that goes over the sunroof opening. If using windows, generic car window sock-style bug nets can fit over a partially open door frame.
• Storage Solutions: There’s an optional rear cargo cover/shelf that some S had – if removed, you have more vertical space. If installed, it can hide stuff under it. For camping, you’d likely remove it to not impede folding seats. Some owners use the gap behind front seats (when moved forward) to place a plywood board or extension to support a pillow – small custom hacks like that.
• Electronics: Like Y and X, the S doesn’t have built-in AC outlets, so if you need to inflate an air mattress, you’d use a 12V pump (plugs into the cigarette lighter). The 12V in the S is limited, but enough for small devices. For serious power (to cook or so), consider a separate power station, as drawing too much from the car’s 12V continuously can be tricky (the DC-DC converter will supply some, but is limited ~200W continuous typically).
• Misc: The Model S has a frunk with a gasket – some have run a power cord through the frunk and into the cabin by slightly closing a door on it, to connect to outside power, etc. Just be mindful of not damaging seals.

The Model S being lower, you might bring a ground tarp or something to put at the bumper if you’re sliding in and out, to keep dirt out of the car. Also a small step stool could help shorter people climb into the trunk from outside since it’s high off the ground for a sedan trunk (about bumper height, which is ~2 feet off ground).

Overall, the Model S can be outfitted to be a comfortable sleeping pod for one or two, and it has the advantage of blending in and driving like a sporty car the rest of the time.

Model S Pros & Cons for Camping:

• Pros: Stealthy profile – looks like a normal car (good for urban or roadside overnighting). Hatchback design offers a long flat area (≈6+ feet) and decent cargo space (58 cu ft) . Wide interior can accommodate two people snugly; very comfortable for a solo traveler (lots of sprawl room diagonally). Excellent climate control; smaller cabin means low energy usage to heat/cool (often <10% per night in mild weather). Can be made nearly flat with minor adjustments; known solutions (DreamCase, removing seat cushion) exist for leveling . Quiet and insulated ride – great for getting restful sleep. High-performance driving to reach destinations faster (it’s the fastest of the bunch on roads). Supercharger access means even doing long road trips with overnight car camping is easy (drive, sleep at a charger, continue – some owners have done this to cover big distances cheaply).
• Cons: Less headroom and space to move around compared to SUVs – you cannot sit fully upright in back comfortably. Getting in/out of the “bed” requires crawling (low roof). Rear seats fold at an angle, requiring a pad or platform to truly level . Not as much cargo volume as X/Y – might need creative packing; also you likely have to put some gear on front seats at night due to limited space under bed (especially for two people). Poor off-road capability – essentially limited to paved or mild dirt roads; low ground clearance ~5″ means you can’t reach very remote sites without risk. Large glass areas (windshield, roof) let in heat/cold – must use sunshades for comfort. No built-in 120V power (must use 12V or external battery for appliances). If you’re tall (6’3″+), the length might be just at the margin, requiring diagonal sleeping or moving seats up which can cramp driver position when not in camp mode. In summary, it’s a bit less convenient for camping than the SUVs, but still quite capable.

Tesla Cybertruck – Off-Road Adventure Camper

Finally, the Tesla Cybertruck brings a very different approach to car camping. It’s an all-electric pickup truck with extreme off-road credentials and a versatile bed (dubbed the “vault”). While the Cybertruck’s cabin is a 5-seater similar in size to a full-size truck, its camping potential really shines with the use of its bed for sleeping or adding camper accessories. We will consider both the scenario of sleeping in the Cybertruck’s bed and using its off-road abilities to support camping expeditions.

Sleeping Space: Cybertruck’s Vault (Bed) vs Cabin

The Cybertruck’s vault (bed) is roughly a 6.5-foot long cargo bed that is enclosed by a standard-equipped rolling tonneau cover. Initially, Tesla advertised a 6.5 ft (78″) bed, though more recent measurements indicate about 72–73″ of floor length with the tailgate closed . Real-world reports mention ~72.9″ (185 cm) at floor level and about 66″ at a slightly higher point (the front wall of the bed is angled) . The width between the wheel wells is around 51″ , and above the wells the bed is wider (~66″ since the Cybertruck has no conventional bed rails inside). Essentially, the vault provides an almost queen-size area in terms of width (5+ feet wide) and 6 feet long. Two people can easily lie side by side in the bed. The catch is the length: if you’re over 6 feet tall (182+ cm), you may need to lie diagonally or sleep with the tailgate down to fully stretch out.

Sleeping inside the bed has the advantage of more headroom than a car’s interior because the volume is only limited by the height of the bed walls and the raised cover or tent above it. The Cybertruck’s bed depth is tall (about 28–30″ deep sides) and with the tonneau (cover) closed, it’s like a giant metal tent – however, it’s not climate controlled by default when closed. The bed is separated from the cabin (there’s no midgate opening into the cabin in current designs; the rear cabin window does not fully open to create a continuous space as far as known ). So, simply sleeping under the closed tonneau would be akin to sleeping in a well-sealed truck cap, but without HVAC unless you leave the window open or retrofit some vent from the cabin.

Recognizing this, Tesla has embraced camping with Cybertruck by offering the Cybertruck “CyberTent” accessory . The CyberTent is an inflatable truck bed tent that attaches to the Cybertruck, creating a sheltered sleeping area continuous with the bed. It includes an ultra-soft mattress that covers the bed floor . This effectively turns the 6-foot bed into a camping tent for two. The tent’s design by Heimplanet (who partnered on it) gives a geodesic dome structure rising above the bed, providing ample headroom to sit up or move around. Users report it’s a spacious 2-person tent, with an extended awning for extra covered outdoor space .

With the CyberTent, you engage “Tent Mode” on the Cybertruck’s screen . Tent Mode presumably is an adaptation of Camp Mode specifically for when the tent is deployed – likely it keeps the climate control on and maybe directs some airflow to the cabin and bed area (possibly via the rear window or a small vent). One clever third-party solution some have mentioned is an HVAC adapter that can direct cool or warm air from the cabin vent into the tent space . Indeed, a community solution (CampStream or others) was being developed to route HVAC to the bed when the tonneau is open.

Without the tent, you could also sleep in the bed with the tonneau cover closed, effectively in the “vault.” This would be weatherproof and private. However, since it’s airtight, you’d likely want to leave a small gap for ventilation or keep the rear window open a crack to the cabin for air (and perhaps to let HVAC partially flow). The Cybertruck’s bed is lockable and secure when closed, which is a big plus (it’s like sleeping in a locked room). The interior of the bed is steel, which could be cold or hot to touch depending on climate, so a mattress and possibly insulating liner would help. The Cybertruck’s vault is also unlit by default; the tent likely has some interior lighting or one could use portable lights.

What about sleeping inside the cabin? The Cybertruck’s interior is a 5-passenger, two-row setup. The rear bench might fold upwards to reveal floor space (like some trucks do) , but it does not fold flat into a bed surface. The front seats probably recline significantly (maybe nearly flat like some Tesla seats). In a pinch, one person could recline in the front seat to sleep. Two people might try the back seat – maybe by propping legs up. However, compared to the other vehicles, the Cybertruck’s cabin is not optimized for lying flat. So for camping, utilizing the bed with a tent or camper shell is the main approach.

It’s worth noting that even before release, third-party companies have been designing slide-in campers for the Cybertruck. For example, Space Campers is developing a wedge camper that sits in the bed, providing a hard-walled pop-up camper with a bed, kitchenette, etc. . This would turn the Cybertruck into a true RV. Those options are still in development as of 2025, but demonstrate the truck’s versatility.

In summary, the Cybertruck provides a 6-foot by 4+ foot sleeping platform in the bed, which can be expanded via tents or campers. This makes it the best choice for those who want a semi-outdoor sleeping experience with more room than the car interiors. It’s like bringing a mini cabin or tent with you, with the vehicle as the base.

Cargo and Storage Capacity

As a pickup, the Cybertruck excels in cargo. It has about 100+ cubic feet of lockable storage in total. Tesla’s specs list 120.7 cu ft of cargo volume , which presumably includes the bed, the frunk, and possibly the storage in the sail pillars (the triangular buttresses of the truck). The bed alone can fit large items – with 6.5 ft length and over 4 ft width, you can load ATVs, motorcycles, building materials, or a ton of camping gear.

For camping specifically: you could load bikes, kayaks, etc. into the bed along with your camping gear. There are built-in 110V/220V outlets in the bed and even an onboard air compressor (reported at reveal) which is useful for inflating tires or mattresses. So the bed is not just storage but a utility area.

One neat feature: the Cybertruck’s tonneau cover allows you to secure gear in the bed and still have it protected from weather and theft. That means on a road trip, all your coolers, grills, suitcases can be in the bed (120 cu ft is huge – by comparison, that’s like nearly 3× Model Y’s cargo volume!). And you still have the frunk in front for additional storage (the frunk was spotted to be moderately large – enough for maybe a couple of backpacks or a small cooler) .

Additionally, the Cybertruck has storage in the sail pillars (the triangular sides of the bed) and maybe in the bed floor (some suspect a hidden compartment above the rear axle). At the unveil, Elon mentioned the truck would have “vault bins” for extra gear (like tools, etc.). These compartments can hold things like recovery gear, charging cables, or dirty items separate from the main areas.

From a camping perspective, you can carry everything and the kitchen sink: large tents, multiple coolers, portable generators (though you have power onboard), maybe even firewood (toss it in the bed). And the truck can still drive fine with that load (up to 2500 lbs payload capacity) .

Once at camp, the bed can serve as a working surface (tailgate down as a table) – Tesla even teased a slide-out kitchen unit in some early demos (and indeed the community is already making tailgate kitchens ). The Cybertruck’s stainless steel construction means you don’t worry too much about scratching paint with gear.

One thing to plan: if you deploy the tent or are sleeping in the bed, obviously you have to unload or reorganize cargo – you can’t sleep on top of all your boxes. So likely you’d remove the big items from the bed when you set up camp (perhaps put them under the truck or outside under a tarp). Or if using a camper shell, you’d design storage around the bed’s interior.

Towing: Another cargo aspect – the Cybertruck can tow 11,000 lbs . You could bring a camper trailer or a toy hauler with ATVs for basecamp, etc. It’s beyond “car camping” but noteworthy that it’s capable of heavy towing if your adventures require it (though range will drop when towing).

Interior Comfort and Features

The Cybertruck’s interior (cabin) is utilitarian and minimalist, similar to Model 3/Y styling, with some unique touches like a marble-esque dash (in prototypes). For camping, while you likely sleep in the bed, the cabin is still your refuge for climate control if needed and for driving comfort on long expeditions. The rear seats have ample headroom (reports say rear headroom is “surprisingly generous” despite the sloping roof ). So sitting inside if weather is bad is comfortable for 5 adults.

Tent Mode in the Cybertruck presumably optimizes the vehicle for camping – possibly adjusting suspension to level the truck, managing battery usage, keeping lights off, etc. It’s an evolution of Camp Mode tailored for having the bed tent attached .

One huge interior plus: onboard power. The Cybertruck features multiple 120V outlets (NEMA 5-20) in the cabin and bed and even a 240V outlet in the bed . The 120V outlets are rated for 20A combined in each location – that’s about 2.4 kW available in the bed and similarly for the cabin. The 240V outlet likely supports heavier draws (maybe for power tools or an RV hookup). This effectively means you have a mobile generator with a large battery. For campers, this is gold: you can run electric cooking appliances, charge e-bikes, inflate airbeds with mains-powered pumps, run lights, fans, even an electric chainsaw for firewood if you wanted – all off the truck’s battery. One could power a small fridge or even a projector for movie night outdoors. The outlets work even when the vehicle is “off,” as long as you activate the onboard power mode (there might be some UI for it). Early testers did things like plug in an induction cooktop and the Cybertruck powered it easily .

Another interior/camping feature is the rear air suspension adjust: you can lower the rear of the truck for easier access (which helps when climbing into the bed) – the suspension has “kneel” ability for loading ramps. When camping, you might drop the truck to its lowest (~8″ ground clearance) to make getting in and out of the tent easier, then raise it back up if needed.

Ground clearance and leveling: With 16″ max clearance, if you’re on uneven ground, you could potentially adjust the suspension to level the truck (e.g., manually lower one side via the service mode if such exists). Or simpler: because of the air suspension’s adaptability, just find a spot and the truck sits fairly flat due to its long wheelbase and stiff frame. Not an official feature, but possibly useful.

The Cybertruck’s climate system can certainly heat/cool the cabin, but getting that into the bed tent might involve an accessory or simply leaving the rear window open. There’s talk of an accessory HVAC duct that attaches at the rear window or a tailgate vent (some owners are concocting things) . The official tent might rely on passive venting or a small fan.

Inside the tent (if using Tesla’s), they mention enjoying a view of the stars and being safe from elements with the weather-resistant shell . It’s effectively like any high-end rooftop tent but integrated. The mattress provided should fit the bed dimensions.

Finally, lighting: The Cybertruck bed has LED strip lights inside it (like most trucks with bed lighting). The tent likely also has some form of illumination or windows. The Cybertruck’s interior and exterior lights (like the bed light or the light bar) could be useful around camp, but you’d likely have manual control so as not to blind yourself or neighbors.

Climate Control and Battery Usage

If sleeping in the bed with a tent, the Cybertruck’s main climate control won’t directly heat that space unless you channel it. One might use a portable heater or fan plugged into the outlets, powered by the truck’s battery, which essentially gives you a campsite HVAC. For instance, plugging a small electric heater (say 500W ceramic heater) into a 120V outlet is feasible – 500W is ~0.5 kWh per hour. With a ~200+ kWh battery (Cybertruck hasn’t confirmed but likely between 130 kWh for AWD and ~200 kWh for tri-motor Beast), even 8 hours of 500W is only 4 kWh (which is a few percent of battery). So you have a lot of energy to spare for climate.

If using the truck’s built-in HVAC (via Tent Mode), likely it will blow some air through the rear window or just maintain the cabin and rely on convection. We’ll have to see user experiences, but presumably Tesla considered ventilation in Tent Mode.

In any case, battery usage for overnight climate should be similar or even better proportionally, given Cybertruck’s huge battery. If Model Y uses 5-10% (of ~75 kWh) then maybe 5-10% of Cybertruck’s ~130+ kWh, which is a larger absolute number of kWh but relative is similar. In moderate weather, running some fans and devices off the truck might only use a few percent. The bi-directional charging also allows Cybertruck to maybe recharge itself from solar or another source, but that’s outside the scope of one night.

One scenario: Because Cybertruck is huge, some might choose to run Sentry Mode at remote sites (to capture wildlife or security). But that will add to drain; better to use a trail camera or just enjoy nature.

The Cybertruck could also serve as a backup power source for other camp electronics – e.g., if friends have an EV that’s low, you could potentially give them a charge using the Cybertruck’s outlets or upcoming vehicle-to-vehicle charging ability .

Off-Road Capability and Ground Clearance

This is where Cybertruck outclasses the others. It’s built as an off-road machine: up to 16″ of ground clearance , 35° approach angle and 28° departure angle , tough stainless steel body, and unibody exoskeleton that can take some abuse. It has adaptive air suspension that can raise and lower on the fly, and likely off-road modes like Baja mode (Elon mentioned making it “kick butt in Baja” ). There’s also 4-wheel steering (rear wheel steering) in the tri-motor version, which improves maneuverability on trails for such a large truck .

In practice, the Cybertruck can go where no Model S/3/Y/X could dream of. Rocky trails, deep sand (with appropriate tires – it comes with 35″ all-terrain tires reportedly), water crossings (the body is sealed enough that Elon said it might “serve briefly as a boat”). For campers, this means you can reach the most remote, rugged campsites – overlanding routes, desert dunes, mountain logging roads – with more confidence. The truck’s traction with dual or tri motors means even if one or two wheels lose grip, the others can pull you through (like locking differentials in ICE trucks, but done with motor torque).

The underside is armored (steel plate). The suspension can “kneel” to help you get under low obstacles or “extract” up to max height to clear big rocks. And if you do get stuck or high-centered, the Cybertruck’s winch or simply using boards might help – plus presumably, it has tow hooks (though not obvious on prototype, but needed for off-road).

Owners who have taken early deliveries are already off-roading them: one InsideEVs article noted the Cybertruck easily handling rough terrain at places like King of Hammers (a known off-road event) . With approach/departure like a Wrangler and more clearance than a Raptor, it stands among serious 4x4s.

For camping, this means less worry about the journey – the Cybertruck can be the last vehicle in the caravan to still push on when others stop. You could literally drive over some boulders or logs to get to a scenic spot.

One caution: it’s a heavy vehicle (over 7000 lbs). In very soft ground, it could sink or be hard to recover. But the large tires help distribute weight somewhat. Also, at that weight, if something goes wrong (sliding off trail), it’s serious – but that’s true of any big truck.

The Cybertruck’s exterior is durable: no paint to scratch, steel panels that won’t dent easily. So brushing against branches or flying gravel is less of a concern – a big psychological bonus for exploring narrow trails.

Towing an off-road camper or a boat to a remote lake is also within its skill set.

Camping Accessories for Cybertruck

Even before launch, a whole ecosystem of Cybertruck camping gear has emerged:

• CyberTent (Basecamp Tent): Tesla’s official tent we discussed . It mounts above the bed but below the tonneau when packed , meaning you don’t lose bed cargo space when not in use and it’s always with you (clever design). It includes mattress, pump, etc., everything you need for quick setup . It costs about $2,750 – pricey, but high-quality (Heimplanet’s tents are premium). This tent gives you an instant camping setup integrated with the truck, and likely is the go-to for many Cybertruck owners who camp.
• Camp Kitchen: Tesla showed a concept slide-out kitchen (with cooktop, sink, fridge) at the Cybertruck unveil. While not officially released by Tesla as of 2025, third parties are making them. There’s a CyberLandr (a full micro-camper that fits in the bed with kitchen, bathroom) in development, and simpler slide-out kitchen modules that fit in the 6.5′ bed drawer. One DIY example on Cybertruck Owners Club shows a custom kitchen on slides . These allow gourmet cooking at camp powered by the truck’s battery.
• Camper Conversions: As mentioned, companies like Space Campers , Loki Basecamp and others are working on drop-in campers for Cybertruck. These would give a hard-walled sleeping and living area. Essentially turning the CT into an electric RV. Space Campers advertises a quick-deploy pop-up that still allows using the truck normally when closed.
• Rooftop Tents / Rack Systems: The Cybertruck’s shape is a bit unorthodox, but it does have anchor points (L-Track rails) in the bed where one can attach racks. The tent Tesla sells uses these. You could potentially mount a roof tent or bed rack tent if not using the official one. One company already teased a rack with a tent on top (like a typical truck bed rack). The advantage of the Tesla tent is it’s integrated and preserves aerodynamics when not in use.
• MOLLE Panels and Bed Accessories: Tesla offers MOLLE panels for the bed sides (not compatible with tent though) . These allow attaching all sorts of gear (shovels, axes, fuel cans, etc.). Overlanders will love that – you can outfit the truck like an expedition rig.
• Air Compressor: The Cybertruck has an onboard air compressor accessible in the bed (likely near the outlets). Great for airing tires down/up for off-roading, inflating rafts, etc., without extra equipment.
• Portable Shower: With that 240V outlet, one could use a portable hot shower system (heat water and pump it). People are indeed planning such amenities using the truck’s power.
• Bug nets and awnings: The CyberTent has an awning included . Others might attach awnings to the side of the truck or rear (there are standard awning products that can bolt to trucks). Mosquito net could be rigged around the open tailgate or sides if needed.
• Lighting: You might attach area lights or light bars; however, the truck has plenty of built-in lights. Some owners might add camp lighting that hooks to the 12V or 120V system for illuminating a campsite.
• Misc Gear: Everything from fridges (plug-in ARB/Engel fridges in the bed) to electric chainsaws or blenders for smoothies – the Cybertruck can power them. One YouTuber “Miss GoElectric” did a piece on top 10 camping accessories, which likely includes things like portable battery packs, solar panels to recharge the truck (there was mention of solar tonneau adding ~15 miles/day) – not significant but conceptually interesting.
• Charging Toys: If you bring an electric dirt bike or e-ATV, you can recharge it from the truck. (Tesla showed a Cyberquad ATV concept that charged in the bed).

Given the above, the Cybertruck can be outfitted to be an overlanding beast or a glamping station. It bridges the gap between an EV and an RV.

Cybertruck Pros & Cons for Camping:

• Pros: Unmatched off-road and remote camping capability – 16″ clearance, 35° approach , rugged build, able to reach locations the others cannot. Huge cargo capacity (vault + frunk = ~120 cu ft) – carry all gear, toys, and even large items like ATVs. Bed provides a large, flat sleeping area for two (essentially a mobile platform for tents or campers). Official CyberTent integrates with truck for an easy camp setup . Onboard power (120V/240V outlets) allows running appliances, tools, and charging devices – effectively an electric generator for camp. Very large battery enables climate control or appliance use for days. Durable exterior – no worries about scratches or minor dings in wild environments. Air suspension can aid in leveling and access. Towing capability to bring additional trailers or equipment. Essentially, the Cybertruck can serve as transport, shelter, and power source all in one, which is ideal for overlanders and serious campers.
• Cons: It’s massive – the size might be overkill or impractical in some situations (tight campsites or urban areas). Driving such a big truck daily is different from a car; some trailheads or campsites might have size restrictions. Sleeping in the bed, while spacious, is outdoorsy – you’re not in a climate-controlled cabin unless you use the tent with some HVAC assist. The bed is separate from the cabin (no midgate), so you can’t easily transition from cab to bed in bad weather without going outside (unlike SUVs where you just crawl back). If not using a tent, sleeping under the tonneau can get stuffy without ventilation. The CyberTent is expensive (and currently sold out quickly) – not all owners will invest in it; alternatives might not integrate as well. Also, the truck is heavy – in extreme off-road, if something fails, recovery could be challenging (though presumably rare). Efficiency: the Cybertruck uses more energy per mile, so you’ll want to keep an eye on range when venturing far off-grid (however with ~300+ miles range, still good). In summary, the Cybertruck’s negatives are mostly its bulk and the fact that its sleeping setup isn’t a finished interior space by default (requires tent or camper). But these are trade-offs for its tremendous capabilities.

Conclusion

Each Tesla offers a unique approach to car camping:

• Model Y is the all-rounder: a balance of space, comfort, and efficiency – great for most users wanting easy car camping with minimal fuss.
• Model X provides maximum interior luxury and room, ideal for “glamping” in style or family camping, at the expense of size and cost.
• Model S enables stealth and efficient road trips, turning into a cozy micro-camper for those who don’t need an SUV, albeit with less space and off-road reach.
• Cybertruck opens up new frontiers for electric camping – reaching remote destinations and serving as both campsite and power hub, perfect for adventurers willing to trade a bit of refinement for rugged capability.

All four Teslas benefit from Tesla’s Camp Mode/Tent Mode which keeps the climate comfortable overnight, and all have enthusiastic communities developing creative solutions (from mattresses to kitchen kits). Whether you’re camping at a campground with a Model S or overlanding into the backcountry with a Cybertruck, Tesla vehicles have proven they can be excellent companions for sleeping under (or inside) the stars – quietly and with zero tailpipe emissions.

<Table of Pros & Cons by Vehicle provided above for quick reference.> Each vehicle has its own strengths: the key is to match your camping style – be it casual weekend trips or serious off-grid expeditions – with the Tesla model that best supports it.