Honda Passport Car Camping: Complete Guide to Sleeping in Your Passport

Introduction: The Passport as an Adventure-Ready Camping Platform

The Honda Passport occupies a unique position in the SUV market: it's essentially a Pilot without the third row, which makes it a surprisingly excellent car camping platform. By removing the third-row seating, Honda created an SUV with more usable cargo space, a lower cargo floor, and a more adventure-oriented personality than its three-row sibling**. What makes the Passport particularly compelling for car campers is its combination of substantial space and manageable size. You get most of the Pilot's cargo dimensions without the full-size SUV bulk. The TrailSport trim adds genuinely useful off-road features for accessing remote camping spots, while the standard AWD system handles rough roads confidently.

The current generation Passport (2019-present, updated 2022) builds on Honda's proven platform with specific camping-friendly features. The wide cargo opening, flat load floor, and substantial dimensions make it one of the better mid-size SUVs for overnight sleeping. Add Honda reliability to the equation, and you have a vehicle you can trust for remote camping adventures.

This guide covers everything you need to know about camping in your Honda Passport, from exact cargo dimensions to mattress recommendations, setup procedures, and tips for maximizing your sleeping comfort.

If you’re considering other Honda models for your adventures, the Honda Pilot camping guide offers great insights.

Honda Passport Cargo Dimensions for Sleeping

Understanding your Passport's exact dimensions helps you choose the right mattress and plan your sleeping setup effectively.

Current Generation (2019-Present)

The Passport offers excellent camping dimensions:

Cargo length (seats folded): 77-80 inches**
Cargo width (between wheel wells): 44-46 inches**
Cargo width (above wheel wells): 52-54 inches**
Cargo height: 36-38 inches**
Cargo floor height: Lower than Pilot due to no third-row packaging
Total cargo volume: 100.7 cubic feet with seats folded

2022+ Refresh Updates

The 2022 refresh improved several camping-relevant features:

Slightly revised cargo area
Available TrailSport trim with off-road enhancements
Updated infotainment and connectivity
Same excellent sleeping dimensions

First Generation (2019-2021)

Dimensions are nearly identical to post-refresh:

Cargo length: 76-79 inches**
Cargo width: 43-45 inches**
Same 100.7 cubic feet maximum cargo volume

Who Fits Comfortably

Passport (all years): - Under 6': Very comfortable sleeping straight - 6' to 6'3": Comfortable with minor positioning - 6'3" to 6'5": Workable with diagonal positioning - Over 6'5": Challenging; consider larger SUV

The Passport's advantage over the CR-V is clear: significantly more sleeping length and width. The lack of a third row means a flatter, more continuous cargo floor that's easier to set up for sleeping.

For those considering a different Honda model, the CR-V camping setup offers another great option for car camping.

Best Mattress Options for Passport Camping

The Passport's generous cargo area accommodates a wide range of mattress options. Here's what works best.

Air Mattresses

Air mattresses offer excellent versatility in the Passport:

Recommended size: Full size (54" x 75") fits comfortably. Some wide twin XL options also work well.

Thickness: 4-6 inches** provides good cushioning without excessive height.

Top picks: - Luno Air Mattress 2.0 (mid-size SUV fit) - SAYGOGO SUV Air Mattress (universal fit) - IFORREST SUV Air Mattress (flexible configuration)

Pros: Pack small, adjustable firmness, works well for couples Cons: Puncture risk, requires inflation, can deflate overnight

Foam Mattresses

Foam provides consistent, reliable comfort:

Recommended size: Full size (54" x 75") fits well. Twin XL is ideal for solo camping with gear storage alongside.

Thickness: 4-6 inches** works well given the Passport's cargo height.

Top picks: - Milliard Tri-Fold Full Size (4" or 6") - Better Habitat CertiPUR-US Memory Foam - LUCID Folding Memory Foam

Pros: No inflation needed, consistent comfort, better cold-weather insulation Cons: Bulkier storage, heavier to load

Self-Inflating Pads

A practical middle ground for Passport campers:

Recommended: Full-length pads work well. Two 25-30 inch pads side-by-side for couples.

Top picks: - Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D - Exped MegaMat 10 - REI Co-op Camp Dreamer

Best for: Campers wanting foam comfort with better packability than traditional foam mattresses.

If you're considering a more spacious setup, explore the possibilities of a Honda Odyssey camper conversion for your camping needs in our complete guide.

Setting Up Your Passport for Sleeping

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

Step 1: Fold the Rear Seats

The Passport's 60/40 split-folding seats provide flexibility:

Move front seats forward to a comfortable position
Use the release levers to fold the rear seatbacks forward
Push seatbacks flat against seat cushions
Remove headrests if they interfere with mattress placement
The Passport's seats fold quite flat compared to many competitors

Step 2: Level the Sleeping Surface

The Passport has a relatively flat cargo floor:

Check for any step between folded seats and cargo floor
If present, place folded blankets or thin foam over the transition
Ensure the cargo floor is in its lower position for maximum space
Clear any items from under-floor storage that might create bumps
The Passport's flat floor is one of its camping advantages

Step 3: Position Your Mattress

Place mattress with head toward hatch (more headroom) or front (more privacy)
Full-size mattress fills the width nicely between wheel wells
Twin leaves room alongside for gear storage
Add fitted sheet to keep sleeping bag from sliding
Position pillows at your preferred end

Step 4: Organize Your Gear

Front seats: Shoes, next-day clothes, frequently needed items
Door pockets: Headlamp, phone, water bottle, snacks
Under-floor storage: Flat items, emergency gear
Alongside mattress (if using twin): Small gear bags
Driver's seat: Keep accessible for emergency movement

Step 5: Set Up Ventilation

Crack front windows 1-2 inches** on opposite sides for cross-ventilation
Rear windows can supplement airflow
Use window screens or mesh covers to keep bugs out
Battery-powered fan significantly improves air circulation
The Passport's windows allow good ventilation potential

If you're considering other versatile options for outdoor adventures, take a look at the Honda Element camping guide.

TrailSport Trim and Camping Capability

The TrailSport trim adds genuinely useful features for car campers who venture off the pavement.

TrailSport-Specific Features

The TrailSport package includes:

All-terrain tires: Better grip on unpaved roads
Increased ground clearance: Extra lift for rough terrain
Underbody skid plates: Protection for rocky roads
Hill descent control: Safer descents on steep grades
TrailWatch camera system: Monitor what's around and beneath the vehicle
Unique suspension tuning: Improved off-road comfort

Camping Access Capability

The TrailSport handles typical camping access roads well:

Forest service roads and fire roads
Beach access where permitted
Moderate gravel and dirt roads
Wet and muddy conditions
Light trail access for dispersed camping

What It Won't Do

Set appropriate expectations:

Not a rock crawler or serious off-roader
Limited by approach and departure angles
Deep mud or sand may still pose challenges
Not comparable to Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco capability
But exceeds most competitors in its class

Standard AWD Capability

Even non-TrailSport Passports offer solid AWD:

Intelligent Variable Torque Management
Can send majority of power to rear wheels when needed
Handles most camping access scenarios adequately
Snow modes and traction management systems

For most car campers, the standard AWD is sufficient. The TrailSport makes sense for those regularly accessing rougher terrain or wanting the extra confidence.

To maximize your camping experience, consider the versatile setup tips in our Nissan Pathfinder camping guide.

Passport vs. Competitors for Camping

How does the Honda Passport compare to other mid-size SUVs for camping?

Passport vs. Honda CR-V

Different sizes, same brand:

Cargo volume: Passport much larger (100.7 vs 76.5 cu ft)
Sleeping length: Passport significantly longer (77-80" vs 72-74")
Width: Passport wider, better for couples
Fuel economy: CR-V more efficient, especially hybrid
Price: CR-V more affordable
Maneuverability: CR-V easier to park

Choose Passport for: More camping space, off-road capability Choose CR-V for: Fuel efficiency, lower cost, urban daily driving

Passport vs. Honda Pilot

Siblings with different priorities:

Cargo volume: Similar with both rear rows folded
Cargo floor: Passport lower, easier to load
Third row: Pilot has it, Passport doesn't
Off-road capability: Passport TrailSport more capable
Family utility: Pilot seats more people

Choose Passport for: Two-person camping focus, off-road access Choose Pilot for: Family travel needs, third-row seating

Passport vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee

Different brand philosophies:

Cargo volume: Grand Cherokee larger with extended models
Off-road capability: Grand Cherokee superior, especially Trailhawk
Reliability: Passport has stronger reliability reputation
Interior quality: Grand Cherokee more luxurious
Price: Passport typically less expensive

Choose Passport for: Honda reliability, value Choose Grand Cherokee for: Maximum capability, luxury features

Passport vs. Toyota 4Runner

Capability-focused comparison:

Off-road capability: 4Runner significantly more capable
Cargo dimensions: Similar sleeping space
On-road comfort: Passport more comfortable highway cruiser
Fuel economy: Passport substantially better MPG
Reliability: Both excellent; 4Runner legendary

Choose Passport for: Better on-road comfort, fuel economy Choose 4Runner for: Serious off-road access, legendary durability

For those considering larger options, the Ford Expedition offers unique features for camping that you might find interesting in our Expedition guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you sleep in a Honda Passport?

Yes, the Passport is excellent for car camping. With seats folded, it offers 77-80 inches of sleeping length and 44-46 inches of width between wheel wells. Most adults can sleep comfortably, and couples fit well side by side.

What size mattress fits in a Honda Passport?

A full-size mattress (54" x 75") fits well in the Passport. Twin XL works for solo camping with gear storage. The generous width accommodates larger mattresses than most compact SUVs.

Is the Passport better than the CR-V for camping?

For dedicated car camping, yes. The Passport offers significantly more cargo volume (100.7 vs 76.5 cu ft), more sleeping length, and more width for couples. The CR-V is better for fuel efficiency and daily driving.

Is the Passport TrailSport worth it for camping?

If you regularly access rougher roads to reach camping spots, yes. The all-terrain tires, extra ground clearance, and skid plates are genuinely useful. For mostly paved-road camping, standard AWD is sufficient.

Honda Passport vs. Pilot for camping?

The Passport has a lower cargo floor (easier loading) and better off-road capability (TrailSport). The Pilot has third-row seating for families and slightly more total cargo volume. For dedicated two-person camping, the Passport is often the better choice.

How do the Passport seats fold?

The 60/40 split-folding rear seats fold forward using release levers. They fold relatively flat compared to competitors, creating a good sleeping surface with minimal leveling needed.

Can tall people sleep in a Passport?

Most tall people fit well. With 77-80 inches** of sleeping length, campers up to 6'3" are comfortable. Those 6'3" to 6'5" can sleep diagonally. Over 6'5" may find it challenging.

Does the Passport have a flat cargo floor?

Yes, one of the flattest in its class. There may be a slight transition between folded seats and cargo floor, but it's minimal. The lack of third-row seat mechanisms keeps the floor flatter than the Pilot.

Is the Passport AWD good for dirt roads?

Yes. Honda's i-VTM4 AWD system handles gravel, dirt, and light trails well. The TrailSport adds all-terrain tires and more ground clearance for rougher roads. Adequate for most dispersed camping access.

What year Passport is best for camping?

The 2022+ models have TrailSport available and updated features. The 2019-2021 models offer the same fundamental dimensions at potentially lower used prices. All model years work well for camping.

Can two people sleep in a Passport?

Yes, comfortably. The 44-46 inch width between wheel wells accommodates a full-size mattress for couples. The Passport is one of the better mid-size SUVs for two-person car camping.

How does the Passport compare to a Subaru Outback for camping?**

The Passport offers more cargo volume and width for sleeping. The Outback is more fuel-efficient and may have better approach angles for off-road access. Both are solid camping vehicles; choose based on priority.

If you're considering other vehicles for camping, the Toyota Highlander also offers great sleeping options.