Kia Sorento Car Camping: Complete Guide to Sleeping in Your Sorento

Introduction: The Sorento as a Versatile Camping Platform

The Kia Sorento occupies a unique position in the SUV market: it offers available three-row seating in a mid-size package, providing family flexibility without full-size SUV bulk. For car campers, this translates to a vehicle with respectable sleeping dimensions that's still easy to drive daily and more fuel-efficient than larger alternatives**. What makes the current Sorento (2021+) particularly interesting is its powertrain variety. You can choose from traditional gasoline, a hybrid with excellent fuel economy, or a plug-in hybrid for maximum efficiency. The X-Line and X-Pro trims add styling and capability enhancements for outdoor-focused buyers. Combined with Kia's strong warranty coverage, the Sorento offers compelling value for campers.

The Sorento has evolved significantly over generations, with the current fourth generation representing the most capable and refined version yet. Its unibody construction keeps weight manageable while the available AWD system handles typical camping access roads confidently. For families who occasionally need third-row seating but primarily camp with two adults, the Sorento's convertible space makes sense.

This guide covers everything you need to know about camping in your Kia Sorento, from cargo dimensions across powertrain options to mattress recommendations and hybrid-specific considerations.

If you're considering another versatile option, the Kia Sportage camping guide offers similar insights for your adventures.

Kia Sorento Cargo Dimensions for Sleeping

Understanding your Sorento's dimensions helps you plan your camping setup.

Current Generation (2021-Present)

The fourth-generation Sorento offers competitive dimensions:

Cargo length (third row folded): 72-75 inches**
Cargo length (both rows folded): 88-91 inches**
Cargo width (between wheel wells): 42-44 inches**
Cargo width (above wheel wells): 49-51 inches**
Cargo height: 36-38 inches**
Total cargo volume: 75.5 cubic feet (two-row); 71.4 cubic feet (three-row with third row folded)

Powertrain Impact on Cargo

Gasoline models: - Full cargo space available - No battery packaging impact

Hybrid: - Essentially same cargo space - Battery under floor doesn't significantly impact volume

Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): - Slightly reduced cargo due to larger battery - Still adequate for camping - Worth noting but not disqualifying

Previous Generation (2016-2020)

Third-generation dimensions:

Cargo length (seats folded): 70-73 inches**
Cargo width: 41-43 inches**
Cargo volume: 73.5 cubic feet maximum

Who Fits Comfortably

Current generation (2021+): - Under 5'10": Very comfortable sleeping straight - 5'10" to 6': Comfortable with minor positioning - 6' to 6'2": Workable with diagonal positioning - Over 6'2": Challenging; consider larger SUV

The Sorento's dimensions are typical for mid-size SUVs, best suited for solo campers and shorter couples.

If you're considering another versatile vehicle for camping, you might want to explore the Hyundai Santa Fe's capabilities in our guide to car camping.

Best Mattress Options for Sorento Camping

The Sorento accommodates standard mid-size SUV mattress options. Here's what works best.

Air Mattresses

Air mattresses offer good versatility in the Sorento:

Recommended size: Twin (38" x 75") fits well. Some compact SUV-specific options work better.

Thickness: 4-6 inches** provides adequate cushioning.

Top picks: - Luno Air Mattress 2.0 (mid-size SUV fit) - Rightline Gear SUV Air Mattress - SAYGOGO SUV Air Mattress

Pros: Pack small, adjustable firmness, easy storage Cons: Puncture risk, requires inflation setup

Foam Mattresses

Foam provides consistent comfort:

Recommended size: Twin (38" x 75") or cot-size (25" x 75") for gear storage alongside.

Thickness: 4 inches is practical given available height.

Top picks: - Milliard Tri-Fold Twin (4-inch) - LINENSPA Tri-Fold Memory Foam - Better Habitat CertiPUR-US Camping Mattress

Pros: No inflation needed, consistent comfort Cons: Bulkier to store when traveling

Self-Inflating Pads

Practical for Sorento camping:

Recommended: Full-length camping pads (25-30" wide).

Top picks: - REI Co-op Camp Dreamer - Therm-a-Rest BaseCamp - Exped SIM Comfort

Best for: Solo campers wanting foam comfort with easier packing.

For those considering a larger SUV, the Kia Telluride also offers great options for comfortable camping; learn more in our Telluride camping guide.

Setting Up Your Sorento for Sleeping

Proper setup transforms your Sorento into a comfortable sleeping space.

Step 1: Configure the Seats

The Sorento's seat configuration:

Third row (if equipped): 1. Use release mechanisms to fold third row 2. Seats fold relatively flat 3. Creates initial sleeping area

Second row: 1. Remove or lower headrests 2. Pull release levers to fold forward 3. Push until locked flat 4. Creates extended sleeping surface

Step 2: Level the Sleeping Surface

The Sorento has a reasonably flat cargo floor:

Check for step between folded seats and cargo floor
Place folded blankets over any transitions
The cargo floor may have height adjustment
Remove items from under-floor storage if they create bumps
Ensure cargo mat is properly positioned

Step 3: Position Your Mattress

Place mattress with head toward hatch (more headroom) or front (more privacy)
Twin mattress leaves room for gear alongside
Add fitted sheet for sleeping bag stability
Position pillow at preferred end
Keep front seats accessible

Step 4: Organize Your Gear

Front seats: Shoes, next-day clothes
Door pockets: Headlamp, phone, water bottle
Alongside mattress: Small gear bags
Under-floor storage: Emergency items
Front footwells: Cooler, larger bags

Step 5: Ventilation Setup

Crack front windows 1-2 inches** on opposite sides
Use window screens for bug protection
Battery-powered fan improves circulation
The Sorento's moderate size means ventilation matters

If you’re considering other vehicles for car camping, the Hyundai Tucson also offers great features for a comfortable night’s sleep; learn more in our guide to sleeping in your Tucson.

Sorento Hybrid and PHEV for Camping

The hybrid powertrains offer specific advantages for camping road trips.

Sorento Hybrid

Efficiency-focused option:

Fuel economy: 35-37 MPG combined
Cargo space: Same as gasoline models
Battery location: Under floor, minimal impact
Road trip advantage: Lower fuel costs
Range between fill-ups: Extended compared to gas

Sorento Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)

Maximum efficiency option:

Electric range: ~32 miles all-electric
Combined efficiency: 79 MPGe when charged
Cargo impact: Slightly reduced under-floor storage
Charging benefit: Can arrive charged for campsite power needs

Hybrid Camping Advantages

Fuel savings example: - 500-mile camping trip - Hybrid: ~$40-45 fuel cost - Gasoline: ~$60-70 fuel cost - Savings add up over camping season

Other benefits: - Extended range reduces fill-up frequency - Quieter operation at low speeds - Standard AWD on hybrid models

Important Considerations

Climate control while camping: - Neither hybrid nor PHEV has dedicated "camp mode" - Running engine for extended climate isn't recommended - Use proper sleeping gear rather than relying on vehicle climate - PHEV can run accessories briefly on battery but limited

The hybrid advantage is getting to camp efficiently, not powering overnight camping.

For those considering different options, the Honda CR-V also offers a great setup for camping, as detailed in our guide on Honda CR-V camping.

X-Line and X-Pro Trims for Camping

The outdoor-focused trims add capability and styling.

X-Line Trim

Outdoor styling package:

Appearance: More rugged exterior styling
Ground clearance: Slightly increased
AWD: Standard
Capability: Enhanced but not dramatically
Interior: Unique trim elements

X-Pro Trim

Enhanced capability:

Suspension: Revised for off-road
Tires: More aggressive all-terrain
Ground clearance: Maximum for Sorento
Tow hooks: Front recovery points
Skid plates: Underbody protection

What X-Line/X-Pro Handle

Confidently manages: - Gravel and dirt roads - Forest service roads - Light mud and wet conditions - Sandy surfaces - Typical dispersed camping access

Limitations

Still a unibody crossover, not body-on-frame truck
Approach/departure angles limit technical terrain
Not comparable to Wrangler/4Runner capability
Better than base Sorento but not a rock crawler

Standard AWD Capability

Even non-X-Line/X-Pro Sorentos with AWD offer: - Competent gravel road handling - Adequate for most camping access - Drive mode selection for conditions

For most campers, standard AWD suffices. X-Pro makes sense for regularly accessing rougher terrain.

When considering overnight adventures, finding the right car camping mattress is essential for comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you sleep in a Kia Sorento?

Yes, the Sorento works for car camping. With the third row (if equipped) and second row folded, you get 88-91 inches of length. With just third row folded: 72-75 inches. Best suited for solo campers and shorter couples.

What size mattress fits in a Sorento?

A twin mattress (38" x 75") fits well. The 42-44 inch width between wheel wells limits larger mattresses. Compact SUV-specific air mattresses provide optimized fit.

Is the Sorento Hybrid good for camping?

Excellent for road trips to camp. The 35-37 MPG significantly reduces fuel costs. Cargo space is identical to gasoline models. No impact on sleeping setup.

Sorento vs. Telluride for camping?

The Telluride is larger (87 vs 75.5 cu ft), offers more sleeping length, and better two-person sleeping width. The Sorento is more fuel-efficient and easier to maneuver. Choose based on space needs.

Does the Sorento have good ground clearance?

Standard: 7.5 inches. X-Pro: increased clearance. Adequate for typical camping access roads. Not a dedicated off-roader but handles gravel and dirt roads well.

What is X-Pro on the Sorento?

X-Pro is Kia's enhanced off-road package: increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, underbody protection, and revised suspension. More capable for rough camping access roads.

Can two people sleep in a Sorento?

Tight. The 42-44 inch width is narrow for two adults. Possible but cozy. Consider the larger Telluride for regular two-person camping.

Sorento Hybrid vs. PHEV for camping?

Hybrid offers same cargo space as gasoline at 35-37 MPG. PHEV has slightly reduced cargo but 32-mile electric range. Hybrid is usually better value for camping focus.

How do the Sorento seats fold?

Third row (if equipped) folds via release levers. Second row has 60/40 split-folding that tumbles forward. Creates reasonably flat sleeping surface.

What's the Sorento warranty?

5-year/60,000-mile basic, 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain. Same excellent coverage as Hyundai. Provides confidence for camping adventures.

Is the three-row Sorento worth it for camping?

Depends on needs. The third row provides family flexibility for travel, then folds for camping space. If you don't need third-row seating, the two-row model offers slightly more cargo volume.

Sorento vs. Sportage for camping?

Sorento is larger with optional third row. Sportage is smaller, more maneuverable, similar efficiency. Choose Sorento for more space; Sportage if smaller size is preferred.

What power options does the Sorento have for camping?

The Sorento has 12V outlets, USB ports, and some trims offer a 115V household outlet. For extended camping, add a portable power station (500-1000Wh). Neither the Hybrid nor PHEV has a dedicated camp mode for overnight power.

How do I ventilate the Sorento while sleeping?

Crack windows on opposite sides for cross-ventilation. Use magnetic window screens to keep bugs out. A small battery fan improves circulation. The Sorento's compact interior heats from body heat quickly.

Can I use a rooftop tent on a Sorento?

Yes, with proper roof rails and crossbars rated for the weight. The Sorento's roof supports most rooftop tents (120-180 lbs). This solves interior space limitations for couples and keeps cargo available.

How do I handle condensation in my Sorento overnight?

Condensation forms when warm breath hits cold windows. Solutions: crack windows on opposite sides, use a small battery fan, wipe windows before sleeping, and use moisture-wicking bedding. The compact interior concentrates moisture.

Can I camp with my dog in a Sorento?

Workable for small to medium dogs. The compact space means human and dog share closely. Position your dog's bed alongside your sleeping pad. Large dogs may require different arrangements.

What's the cargo height in the Sorento for sitting up?

Approximately 34-37 inches** of cargo height allows sitting. You can sit up to change clothes and organize gear. The compact space is more restrictive than larger three-row SUVs.

How do I keep my Sorento warm while winter camping?

The compact interior is easier to warm with body heat. Use insulated window covers, a sleeping bag rated well below expected temps, high R-value sleeping pad (5+), and layer blankets. Run the heater before bed, then shut off.

What accessories improve Sorento camping?

Prioritize: quality twin mattress or narrow sleeping pad, window covers for privacy and insulation, small battery fan, portable power station, and efficient cargo organizers. A roof box increases gear capacity.

Can I build a sleeping platform in my Sorento?

Yes, but the compact space limits platform benefits. A low platform (4-6 inches**) creates under-bed storage without sacrificing too much headroom. Keep designs simple and removable.

How do I handle the seat-to-cargo gap in my Sorento?

The Sorento's seats fold relatively flat. Fill any gap with folded blankets or a foam piece. A thick mattress (4"+) often bridges gaps comfortably without additional work.

Is the Sorento reliable for camping road trips?

The current generation has good reliability ratings. Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty provides excellent protection. Standard maintenance applies for road trips: check fluids, tire pressure, and ensure spare tire accessibility.

What year Sorento is best for camping?

The current generation (2021+) offers the most space and features. The hybrid and PHEV powertrains are excellent for road trips. Earlier generations are smaller but still functional for camping.

How do I maximize sleeping length in my Sorento?

Fold both second and third rows for maximum length (88-91 inches**). Position diagonally for extra room. Recline the front passenger seat and extend sleeping surface forward for additional length.

Is the PHEV charging practical for camping trips?**

Some campgrounds offer RV hookups that work for Level 2 charging. For road trips, plan charging stops at public stations. The 32-mile electric range handles around-camp driving without gas. Hybrid is simpler for most camping use.

If you're considering other spacious options, the Hyundai Palisade is another excellent choice for car camping.