Is a Subaru Outback good for camping?
Yes—it's a solid camping companion for most people, thanks to standard all‑wheel drive, ample cargo space, and adaptable interior. This article breaks down why the Outback works for campers, what to consider when choosing a trim, and practical setup ideas for sleeping and gear on trips.
Why the Outback is a solid camping companion
These are the core strengths that make the Outback a popular choice for camping and outdoor trips.
- Standard symmetrical all‑wheel drive (AWD) helps in rain, snow, and light off‑p pavement, making seasonal camping more accessible.
- Generous cargo space with a flat-folding rear area for gear, sleeping pads, and coolers; most recent models offer about 32 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 75 cubic feet with the seats folded.
- Flexible seating: 60/40 split rear seats that fold to create a longer, flatter loading area for sleeping setups or bulky gear.
- Roof rails and crossbars (and optional roof tents) expand sleeping and storage options without sacrificing interior space.
- Comfortable ride for longer drives and daily use, with a refined interior and user-friendly tech.
- Payload and towing capability: base models offer a practical payload, and turbocharged variants up to about 3,500 lb towing capacity for campers who need to haul a light trailer or gear.
- Advanced safety features: Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist system is standard on most trims, helping with braking and awareness on remote roads.
- Capable, but not overbuilt: a well-rounded choice that balances daily driving comfort with camping versatility.
In practice, these attributes translate into easy packing for a weekend at a dispersed campsite, simple loading of sleeping gear, and reliable performance in variable weather.
What to know before you go camping with an Outback
Consider how you’ll use the vehicle and which trim best fits your camping style. The Outback offers strong all‑weather capability and cargo room, but it isn’t a purpose-built off‑road rig. The Wilderness edition raises off‑road capability, while base models emphasize efficiency and value. Think about your typical campsite access, how many people you’re camping with, and whether you plan to use a roof tent or a ground tent.
- Off‑road capability varies by trim; the Wilderness offers higher ground clearance, tough tires, and skid plates for rougher access roads.
- Interior height and width are comfortable for most adults, but headroom and comfort can vary with roof storage and any rooftop tent load.
- Roof setups: you’ll likely need crossbars and possibly a roof-top tent kit for roof sleeping; ensure compatibility with your model year.
- Engine choice affects power and fuel economy: the base 2.5‑liter engine is adequate for most trips, while the 2.4‑liter turbo offers stronger acceleration and towing capability.
- Fuel economy varies by engine and trim; expect mid‑to‑high 20s mpg range in mixed driving, with turbo versions consuming more on demanding routes.
- Towing and payload limits matter if you plan to bring a trailer, large cargo carrier, or heavy gear.
- Weather readiness: AWD helps in poor driving conditions, but proper tires and planning are essential for off‑grid camping.
Knowing these trade‑offs helps you pick the right Outback trim and camping setup for your trips.
Camping setups with the Outback
Different camping styles work well with the Outback, from in-vehicle sleeping to rooftop tent setups. Here are common configurations and what to expect from each.
- In‑car sleeping: fold the rear seats flat and lay down a foam pad or air mattress to create a comfortable sleeping platform inside the cargo area; this keeps gear inside and protected from the elements.
- Rooftop tent: adds an elevated sleeping space and can keep gear separate from the sleeping area; requires crossbars and a roof tent kit; weight limits and wind load should be checked for your model year.
- Ground tent with Outback as base: you can store camping gear in the cargo area while pitching a tent nearby, keeping cooking and seating areas close to the vehicle for warmth and security.
- Gear organization: use storage bins, trunk organizers, and a compact cooler to maximize space and accessibility on solo trips or family outings.
These options provide flexibility for different campsites, climates, and group sizes, while keeping the vehicle ready for daily driving between trips.
Outback variants to consider for campers
Different trims bring distinct capabilities and prices. Here is how to think about the main options when camping is a priority.
Base Outback (2.5L)
Pros: solid value, strong cargo capacity, standard AWD, and ample interior comfort for daily use. Cons: more modest power on steep climbs and highway passes; fuel economy is good but not standout in the turbo range.
Outback Wilderness
Pros: best off‑road capability among typical Outbacks, with higher ground clearance, rugged tires, and protective skid plates; ideal for dirt roads and uneven campsites. Cons: higher price, firmer ride, and more off‑road wear and tear to monitor.
Turbo 2.4L variants (XT/Limited/Tremium lines)
Pros: more horsepower and torque for hills and towing, quicker highway merging, and confident overtakes on remote routes. Cons: lower fuel economy and higher purchase price, with potentially higher maintenance costs over time.
Specialty trims and roof‑friendly options
Pros: upgraded interiors, advanced tech, and optional roof setups tailored for campers; cons: higher cost and sometimes limited availability of specific roof accessories depending on year.
Safety, maintenance, and prep for camping trips
Before you head out, a quick prep checklist helps ensure comfort and safety at campsites far from service centers.
- Check tires and roof rack integrity; ensure spare tire and tools are present and accessible.
- Keep a basic emergency kit, including flashlight, multitool, first aid, and roadside fluids.
- Verify fluids and battery health; review coolant, oil, and brake conditions before long trips.
- Benefit from EyeSight and other safety features: keep software up to date and practice safe driving in mixed weather and dirt roads.
- Plan for fuel: know the range on your chosen engine, and stock extra fuel containers only where safe and legal.
Proper safety and routine maintenance help you enjoy remote campsites with fewer surprises.
Summary
The Subaru Outback stands out as a versatile camping vehicle, balancing everyday practicality with camping-capable features. Its standard AWD, roomy cargo area, and flexible seating make it a strong all-around option for weekend trips and family adventures. If you expect rougher access or want the most off-road confidence, consider the Wilderness trim. For more power and highway comfort, a turbo‑charged variant provides additional capability at the cost of fuel economy. Pair it with a thoughtful sleeping setup—inside the car, on a roof tent, or with a nearby ground tent—and the Outback becomes a dependable base for a wide range of outdoor explorations.
