Ford Expedition Car Camping: Complete Guide to Sleeping in Your Expedition

Introduction: Ford's Full-Size SUV as the Ultimate Camping Platform

The Ford Expedition represents the pinnacle of full-size SUV capability, offering more interior space than almost any other SUV on the market. For car campers, this translates to a vehicle where sleeping comfort isn't a compromise—it's a genuine feature. With the Expedition MAX (extended wheelbase), you have enough interior length for even the tallest campers to stretch out fully.

What makes the Expedition compelling for camping isn't just its size. Ford's full-size SUV offers an independent rear suspension that creates a flatter cargo floor than traditional truck-based SUVs. The available power-folding third row disappears into the floor at the touch of a button, and the Timberline trim adds genuine off-road capability for accessing remote camping locations.

The current generation Expedition (2018-present) brings modern technology and refinement to the full-size SUV segment. Its aluminum body keeps weight manageable despite the size, improving fuel economy over previous generations. For families who need to haul people, gear, and potentially sleep multiple family members in the vehicle, the Expedition is one of the most capable options available.

This guide covers everything you need to know about camping in your Ford Expedition, from cargo dimensions across standard and MAX models to mattress options, setup procedures, and capability considerations.

What You'll Learn

What You'll Learn

• Vehicle Specs & Dimensions
• Sleeping Setup Options
• Storage & Organization
• Power & Electrical
• Climate Control
• Pros and Cons
• Frequently Asked Questions

Ford Expedition Cargo Dimensions for Sleeping

Understanding your Expedition's dimensions helps you maximize its impressive sleeping space.

Standard Expedition Dimensions

The standard Expedition offers substantial space:

• Cargo length (third row folded): 83-86 inches
• Cargo length (both rear rows folded): 103-106 inches
• Cargo width (between wheel wells): 48-50 inches
• Cargo width (above wheel wells): 54-56 inches
• Cargo height: 40-42 inches
• Total cargo volume: 104.6 cubic feet with second and third rows folded

Expedition MAX Dimensions

The extended MAX adds even more length:

• Cargo length (third row folded): 89-92 inches
• Cargo length (both rear rows folded): 115-118 inches
• Cargo width: Same as standard (48-50 inches between wheel wells)
• Cargo height: Same as standard
• Total cargo volume: 121.5 cubic feet with second and third rows folded

Timberline Package

Off-road focused, same interior dimensions:

• Same cargo volume as standard Expedition
• Enhanced ground clearance and approach angles
• All-terrain tires
• Same sleeping capability with better access to remote locations

Who Fits Comfortably

Standard Expedition: - Under 6': Very comfortable with third row only folded - 6' to 6'4": Comfortable with third row folded - Over 6'4": Fold both rows for maximum length

Expedition MAX: - Virtually anyone: With 89+ inches behind second row - 6'6"+ campers: Comfortable with third row only folded - The MAX is essentially unlimited for sleeping length

The Expedition's width accommodates queen-size mattresses, making it excellent for couples.

Ford Expedition Camping Configuration Options

Configuration	Space	Sleeping Capacity	Best For
All rows folded	Max cargo	2-3 adults	Couples, small families
3rd row up	Reduced	2 adults	Families with kids
Platform setup	Organized storage	2-4 people	Extended trips
Roof tent addition	Elevated	2+ extra	Groups, multiple sleepers
Tent camping near	Flexible	Unlimited	Large groups

Expedition Sleeping and Storage Tips

• Build a platform 8-12 inches high to create under-platform storage
• The Expedition's large cargo area (up to 102 cubic feet) accommodates families and gear
• Install privacy shades on all windows for temperature control and darkness
• Use multiple storage containers to organize gear zones
• Position heavier items low and centered for weight distribution
• Install battery-powered fans for ventilation without running engine
• Quality mattress (6-8 inches thick) essential for comfort

Best Mattress Options for Expedition Camping

The Expedition's generous cargo area accommodates the largest mattress options available. Here's what works best.

Air Mattresses

Air mattresses offer flexibility for the Expedition's large space:

Recommended size: Queen (60" x 80") fits with room to spare. Full size (54" x 75") leaves gear storage alongside.

Thickness: 6-8 inches provides luxurious comfort with ample headroom.

Top picks: - AirBedz PPI-303 (full-size SUV specific) - Luno Life Air Mattress 2.0 (large SUV fit) - SAYGOGO Queen SUV Air Mattress

Pros: Pack smaller for the drive, adjustable firmness, queen-size comfort Cons: Require inflation, puncture risk

Foam Mattresses

Foam provides consistent, hotel-quality comfort:

Recommended size: Queen (60" x 80") fits well. Full or queen tri-fold options work great.

Thickness: 6 inches provides exceptional comfort.

Top picks: - Milliard 6-Inch Queen Tri-Fold - LUCID Queen Folding Foam - Zinus Trifold Queen Mattress

Pros: No inflation needed, home-bed comfort, excellent insulation Cons: Bulky to transport, heavy

Self-Inflating Pads

Luxury self-inflating options work exceptionally:

Recommended: Two Exped MegaMat Duo, or two premium pads side-by-side.

Top picks: - Exped MegaMat Duo 10 (home-bed comfort) - Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D (dual setup)

Best for: Campers wanting premium comfort with easier packability than foam.

Setting Up Your Expedition for Sleeping

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

Step 1: Configure the Seats

The Expedition's power-folding seats make setup easy:

Third row (power fold on most trims): 1. Press the power-fold button to lower third row into floor 2. Or manually fold if not power-equipped 3. Third row disappears completely

Second row (if maximum length needed): 1. Remove or lower headrests 2. Use release mechanisms to fold forward 3. Push until locked in place 4. Creates continuous sleeping surface

Step 2: Level the Sleeping Surface

The Expedition's independent rear suspension helps here:

• Check for any gaps between folded seats and cargo floor
• The power-fold third row typically creates a very flat surface
• Place folded blankets over any transitions if needed
• The flat floor is a significant Expedition advantage
• Ensure the cargo mat is properly positioned

Step 3: Position Your Mattress

• Queen mattress fits comfortably in the width
• Position head toward hatch (more headroom) or front (more privacy)
• The generous space allows comfortable positioning either direction
• Add fitted sheet for sleeping bag stability
• Multiple pillow options given available space

Step 4: Organize Your Gear

• Front seats: Shoes, next-day clothes, frequently needed items
• Second row (if not folded): Coolers, gear bags
• Door pockets: Headlamps, phones, snacks
• Above wheel wells: Additional storage alongside mattress
• Under-floor storage: Emergency equipment, tools

Step 5: Ventilation Setup

• The Expedition's large interior volume helps with ventilation
• Crack windows on opposite sides 1-2 inches
• Battery-powered fans can help but less critical than smaller vehicles
• Rear climate vents can provide airflow with engine running
• Window screens allow open windows without bugs

Timberline Trim for Off-Road Camping Access

The Timberline package transforms the Expedition into an off-road-capable camping platform.

Timberline-Specific Features

The Timberline package includes:

• Increased ground clearance: Higher ride height than standard
• All-terrain tires: Better grip on unpaved surfaces
• Underbody protection: Skid plates for rough terrain
• Unique suspension tuning: Optimized for off-road
• Trail Turn Assist: Tighter turns on trails
• Trail One-Pedal Drive: Simplified off-road driving

What Timberline Handles

The Timberline capably manages:

• Forest service roads and fire roads
• Moderate rocky terrain
• Sand and beach access
• Mud and wet conditions
• Graded dirt roads
• Light trail access to dispersed camping

Limitations

Understand the Timberline's limits:

• Still a full-size SUV with approach/departure angle limits
• Not comparable to Wrangler/Bronco rock-crawling ability
• Size limits tight trail navigation
• Heavy vehicle weight affects soft terrain capability
• Best for moderate off-road, not extreme terrain

Standard Expedition Capability

Even non-Timberline Expeditions offer:

• Available 4WD system
• Adequate ground clearance for most camping access
• Handles typical gravel/dirt roads
• Can access many dispersed camping locations

Timberline makes sense for those frequently accessing rougher terrain. Standard 4WD handles most camping scenarios.

Expedition vs. Competitors for Camping

How does the Ford Expedition compare to other full-size SUVs for camping?

Expedition vs. Chevrolet Tahoe

Direct full-size competitors:

• Cargo volume: Expedition larger (104.6 vs 94.7 cu ft)
• Sleeping length: Expedition longer (83-86" vs 78-82")
• Flat floor: Expedition IRS creates flatter floor
• Fuel economy: Similar
• Reliability: Comparable
• Towing: Both excellent

Choose Expedition for: More cargo space, flatter sleeping surface Choose Tahoe for: Brand preference, diesel option

Expedition vs. Chevrolet Suburban

Extended length comparison:

• Cargo volume: Suburban larger (144.7 vs 121.5 cu ft MAX)
• Sleeping length: Suburban longer
• Maneuverability: Expedition slightly easier
• Price: Similar when similarly equipped

Choose Expedition MAX for: Better balance of size and maneuverability Choose Suburban for: Maximum absolute space

Expedition vs. Toyota Sequoia

Full-size SUV alternatives:

• Cargo volume: Expedition significantly larger
• Sleeping length: Expedition longer
• Reliability: Sequoia has stronger reputation
• Hybrid option: Sequoia has it (2023+)
• Towing: Both excellent

Choose Expedition for: More camping space Choose Sequoia for: Hybrid efficiency, Toyota reliability

Expedition vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee L

Three-row comparison:

• Cargo volume: Expedition substantially larger
• Off-road capability: Grand Cherokee more capable
• Luxury: Grand Cherokee more refined interior
• Size: Grand Cherokee more manageable

Choose Expedition for: Maximum space, family camping Choose Grand Cherokee L for: Off-road capability, luxury, manageable size

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you sleep in a Ford Expedition?

Yes, the Expedition is one of the best vehicles for car camping. With the third row folded, you get 83-86 inches of length (89-92 in MAX). The width accommodates queen-size mattresses. The power-fold third row and flat cargo floor make setup easy.

What size mattress fits in a Ford Expedition?

A queen-size mattress (60" x 80") fits comfortably in both standard and MAX models. The 48-50 inch width between wheel wells and generous length accommodate the largest mattress options.

Standard vs. MAX Expedition for camping?

The MAX adds significant length: 89-92 inches vs 83-86 inches with third row folded. For tall campers or those wanting maximum space, the MAX is worth the additional cost. Standard Expedition is adequate for most campers under 6'4".

Is the Expedition Timberline good for camping access?

Excellent. The Timberline adds ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and skid plates for accessing remote camping locations. It handles forest roads and moderate off-road terrain better than standard trims.

Does the Expedition have a flat cargo floor?

Yes, one of the flattest in the class. The independent rear suspension (vs. solid axle competitors) allows a lower, flatter cargo floor. The power-fold third row disappears into the floor, creating a nearly seamless sleeping surface.

Ford Expedition vs. Chevy Tahoe for camping?

The Expedition offers more cargo volume (104.6 vs 94.7 cu ft), more sleeping length, and a flatter cargo floor due to independent rear suspension. The Tahoe is comparable in other respects.

Can a family sleep in an Expedition?

With planning, yes. Parents can sleep on a queen mattress in the cargo area while kids sleep in reclined second-row seats. Or set up kids' tent nearby while parents use the Expedition. The MAX provides even more flexibility.

How does the power-fold third row work?

Press a button and the third row automatically folds into the floor. This creates a flat cargo surface without manual seat manipulation. Available on most trim levels.

What's the fuel economy for camping trips?

Expect 16-22 MPG depending on configuration and driving conditions. The 3.5L twin-turbo V6 is reasonably efficient for a full-size SUV. Plan fuel stops for remote camping.

Is the Expedition reliable for remote camping?

Generally reliable with proper maintenance. The current generation uses proven powertrain technology. Ford's dealer network provides service access in most areas.

Can the Expedition tow a camper?

Yes, up to 9,300 lbs depending on configuration. Can tow traditional camper trailers while also using the interior for overflow sleeping or bad-weather backup.

How much does an Expedition cost?

Starting around $56,000 for base models, $65,000+ for well-equipped versions, $75,000+ for MAX Platinum models. The Timberline starts around $67,000.