Hauling A Camper: Are Smart Cars Capable?

Smart cars are small, but they can be turned into campers. One couple and their dog, Ziggy, go camping in their 2015 Smart Car. They say it's the happy medium between efficiency and fun. The car gets 38 miles per gallon, which is great for long trips. It's also narrow enough to weave through unpaved trails and dried-up riverbeds.

But can a Smart Car haul a camper? It seems unlikely, but one person on Reddit says they've seen a tractor pulling a camper with a Smart Car sandwiched in the middle. Meanwhile, a YouTube video shows a Smart Car hauling a trailer. It's possible, but the loading and securing process takes a long time.

Camper vans vs. Smart Cars for camping

Camper vans and smart cars offer distinct camping experiences, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. This comparison between the two will help you decide which option is better suited to your needs and preferences.

Space and Comfort:

Camper vans offer significantly more space than smart cars, making them ideal for families or groups. They provide ample room for sleeping, cooking, and storing gear. On the other hand, smart cars have limited trunk space, requiring careful packing and planning. While a smart car can accommodate a couple and their dog, as mentioned in one account, it may not be as comfortable for longer trips or larger groups.

Mobility and Flexibility:

Smart cars excel in manoeuvrability due to their compact size. They can navigate narrow trails and tight spaces with ease, as evidenced by an account of a smart car owner camping off-grid. Their small footprint allows them to dodge obstacles that larger vehicles would struggle with. In contrast, camper vans may have limited accessibility to certain remote areas and require more planning for parking and manoeuvring.

Cost and Maintenance:

Smart cars are generally more fuel-efficient than camper vans, offering impressive gas mileage. This makes them a cost-effective option for long-distance trips, especially with rising fuel prices. Camper vans, being larger vehicles, tend to have higher fuel consumption and maintenance costs. However, it's worth noting that smart cars may require creative solutions for cooking and other camping amenities, which could incur additional expenses.

Amenities and Convenience:

Camper vans are designed to provide a range of amenities, including sleeping quarters, cooking facilities, and entertainment systems. They offer a more comprehensive camping experience, especially for those seeking comfort and convenience. Smart cars, while limited in space, can be creatively modified to include essential camping gear, such as roof-mounted tents, external roll cages, and portable cooking equipment. However, some smart car campers have expressed a desire for more amenities, such as a toilet.

Community and Customisation:

Both options have dedicated communities that offer a wealth of knowledge and support. Smart car owners, in particular, form a tight-knit community with a strong DIY spirit. They share tips and tricks for customising their vehicles, from roof racks to tow hitches. Camper van communities also exist, providing resources and forums for modifications and enhancements.

In conclusion, the choice between a camper van and a smart car for camping depends on your priorities. Camper vans offer more space and amenities but may be less manoeuvrable and costly to maintain. Smart cars provide a unique, efficient, and off-grid camping experience but require careful planning and packing. Ultimately, both options have their advantages, and with some creativity and adaptability, you can tailor your camping adventures to your specific needs.

Hauling a Smart Car with a pickup truck

To load the Smart Car into the pickup truck, you may need to remove the front wheels and angle the car so that the rear wheels fit on the tailgate. This process can be time-consuming and may require ramps or a hoist. It is important to consider the weight of the Smart Car when planning to haul it with a pickup truck, as the truck's manufacturer weight load specifications must be followed to ensure safety.

Additionally, the length of the truck bed is a factor to consider. A long bed truck will almost accommodate the Smart Car, but the wheel wells will still be a problem. An extended bed would provide more room and allow the car to fit sideways with wheel well blocks.

Overall, hauling a Smart Car with a pickup truck is feasible, but it requires careful planning and consideration of the truck's specifications and dimensions.

Modifying a Smart Car into an off-road camper

The Smart Fortwo is a compact car that can be transformed into an off-road camper with some modifications. Here are the steps to modify a Smart Car into an off-road camper:

Step 1: Remove the Exterior Panels

The first step is to strip down the Smart Car's exterior panels. This process is relatively simple and only requires basic tools and patience. However, be cautious not to break any clips, especially if the car is old. Removing the panels will also allow you to change the colour of your car, as the Smart Fortwo was the first car with interchangeable plastic panels.

Step 2: Install a Lift Kit

After removing the panels, you can install a lift kit to increase ground clearance, which is essential for off-roading. The lift kit typically involves adding spacers to the struts, front crossmember, rear springs, and shock mounts. This will raise the car's body, providing more space for off-road tires and improving ground clearance.

Step 3: Upgrade to Off-Road Tires

For off-roading capabilities, you will need to replace the stock tires with off-road tires. While you can use spacers to fit different lug patterns, it is recommended to choose off-road tires that fit the stock Smart Car wheels. This will ensure a more secure fit and avoid the need for additional modifications.

Step 4: Add Fender Flares and an External Roll Cage

To protect the vehicle while off-roading, install fender flares using roofing bolts or other suitable fasteners. Additionally, an external roll cage will enhance safety and provide support for the rooftop tent. The roll cage can be attached to the factory accessory and recovery bolt threads, providing a secure mounting point.

Step 5: Install a Roof Tent

The roof tent serves as the sleeping area for your camper. Ensure that the roof tent is securely attached to the external roll cage and can withstand the weight of occupants. With a convertible Smart Fortwo, a custom exoskeleton may be required to support the roof tent.

Step 6: Add Off-Road Accessories

To complete your off-road camper, consider adding accessories such as sidesteps, a winch, D-rings for recoveries, traction boards, off-road lighting, and a portable outdoor shower. These additions will enhance your off-road capabilities and camping experience.

Step 7: Create a Custom Camping Box

Utilize the trunk space by creating a custom camping box that includes essential camping gear such as a stove, sink, and storage for tableware. You can also repurpose the trunk storage area meant for the roof rails to create a dining space.

By following these steps and making the necessary modifications, you can transform a Smart Car into a capable and unique off-road camper. While it may not offer ample space, it will certainly turn heads and provide an adventurous camping experience.

Towing capacity of a Smart Car

The towing capacity of a Smart Car is not publicly specified. However, some Smart Car owners have claimed to tow rigs weighing upwards of 1400 lbs (around 635 kg) and even 1700 lbs (around 771 kg) a few times a week.

Smart Cars can typically handle a Class 1 hitch with a 200-lb weight rating (around 91 kg), which is ideal for lightweight hauling and hitch bike racks.

It is important to refer to your vehicle's manual for the tow rating, which will give you the maximum amount of weight you can safely tow. The manual will also outline whether your car is suited for towing at all.

If you are considering towing with a Smart Car, it is recommended to consult a professional for advice and guidance.

Camper setup for a Smart Car

The Smart Car's compact dimensions and lightweight build make it an unconventional but viable option for camping. With some creativity and careful packing, it is possible to transform this microcar into a comfortable camper for outdoor adventures.

Sleeping Arrangements

A crucial aspect of any camping trip is a good night's sleep. Instead of individual sleeping bags, opt for a zero-degree, down-feather, two-person sleeping bag, which provides ample room and better temperature regulation. Complement this with a two-person camping mat, a combination of foam and air, ensuring a comfortable and warm night's rest.

Cooking Equipment

When it comes to cooking, a portable butane grill is a convenient choice, especially when fire restrictions are in place. For a more compact and versatile option, consider a compact two-person mess kit, which typically includes plates, bowls, a kettle, a pot, a pan, and folding silverware.

Storage Solutions

The Smart Car's limited trunk space, approximately 7.8 cubic feet, calls for intentional packing. Utilize the clever hideaways within the car, such as the compartment in the tailgate for emergency items and the space under the passenger seat for the flat tire sealant and inflator.

Outdoor Exploration

The Smart Car's manoeuvrability and narrow wheelbase make it ideal for navigating unpaved trails and dried-up riverbeds. Its impressive gas mileage, approximately 38 miles per gallon in the city, means you can travel long distances on a single tank, making it perfect for remote camping spots.

Additional Considerations

If you're seeking more space or prefer to keep your car untouched, consider a camper trailer that can be hauled by a Smart Car. The Chinook Trail Wagon, for instance, offers a stylish and innovative option with features like app-controlled functionality and ample room for sleeping and gear.

Camping with a Smart Car is a unique and efficient approach to outdoor adventures. With thoughtful planning and the right gear, you can create a comfortable and versatile camping setup, allowing you to explore nature and enjoy the freedom of the open road.

Frequently asked questions