He slept in his Tesla Model 3 using camp mode — here’s how it really went
Every detail of a night in Tesla Model 3 camp mode: what worked, what didn’t, and what other drivers should know before trying it.
Vehicles with multipurpose tools are becoming increasingly popular, especially among those who frequently travel and love the outdoors. While countless companies race to get in on the opportunity, Tesla has remained a favorite, especially for its Camp Mode. The Camp Mode’s main feature, which allows people to rest in their car during long or overnight trips, is climate control and constant cabin ventilation.
Mike Seguin, a Canadian Tesla enthusiast, has recently tested out his Tesla Model 3’s Camp Mode to assess its performance. Here’s a detailed look into Tesla’s Camp Mode, its efficacy, and Seguin’s experience with his Tesla 2023 RWD Model 3.
Sleeping setup options in Tesla Model 3
The Model 3 is Tesla’s smallest sedan. Despite its humble exterior, the Tesla Model 3’s interior offers more usable space than people might think; it provides two main sleeping options, with one considerably better than the other.
The first option is reclining the front passenger seat, which tilts back to create a semi-flat position. The space at the front is limited, as it does not reach a fully horizontal angle, but a manageable backward pitch provides enough room for a short-term stay in the car. Ultimately, this option is not suitable for taller people or if you are seeking a full night’s stay.
The second option is using the rear of the vehicle. The Tesla Model 3 has foldable rear seats that create a pass-through to the trunk. The pass-through is long enough for most tall people, as Seguin himself attests, who is 5 feet 10 inches tall. Unlike the first sleeping position, sleeping in the rear has adequate headroom, as long as occupants avoid the trim where the two roof panels meet. The rear is also compatible with backpacking-style or purpose-built Tesla mattresses.
If you have a stable, climate-controlled resting space without idling, you will find the rear of the Tesla Mode 3 the most comfortable.
Storage in the Tesla Model 3
Storage of personal belongings is a big concern for many who are constantly on the road. In the front, drivers can use the frunk for storage, which has a volume of 3.1 cubic feet and a 110lbs weight limit. Inside the car, a ledge at the top of the trunk serves as a convenient shelf for phones and accessories. Also, the Model 3 is reasonably wide and has enough space on one side of the car for gear while the driver can sleep on the other.
How camp mode works in the Tesla Model 3
Camp Mode is a special feature by Tesla, designed to turn a Tesla into a temporary shelter. It enables airflow, temperature control, and constant ventilation, allowing travelers to sleep overnight. Camp Mode maintains the selected cabin temperature regardless of the outside temperature, prevents window condensation, and keeps fans circulating throughout the night.
The system remains enabled during Camp Mode until the battery reaches 20 percent. Tesla automatically disables Sentry Mode and the vehicle’s security alarm to conserve energy. The mobile application also notifies drivers of any changes to the climate control.
Winter performance and charging
Like every EV, extreme temperatures can affect the efficiency and charging of a Tesla vehicle’s battery, too. In Seguin’s test, the inside temperature was great, even when temperatures fell as low as 8.6°F (-13 °C) while he was charging the vehicle from a standard outlet. However, the battery did not charge much due to its low charging capacity. With a proper charger, this should not be a problem.
For overnight stays at campsites, it is better to use RV-style connectors, such as TT-30, which are better for charging than standard outlets.
What do other Tesla owners say about camp mode?
Tesla owners who camp in their cars have shared what helps them sleep more comfortably, and a lot of their experiences are similar to Seguin’s.
One owner mentioned a setting that helps avoid noise and confusion when locking the car for the night, “If you turn off lock sounds on your camp’s sleep profile, you can lock via the app as well! Just be sure to turn your phone key OFF. Otherwise, someone can open the doors because the key is present. Weird quirk of the phone key”.
Anyone camping alone or in a busy area would find this useful, as it prevents unexpected beeps or a door unlocking at the wrong moment. It’s a small adjustment that can save a lot of annoyance once the lights are out.
Another person talked about how light control affects Camp Mode, especially in the morning: “I also have blackout inserts for all the windows. Makes a huge difference when the sun comes up, and you want more sleep.” It’s an inexpensive upgrade that makes the space more comfortable for sleeping.
A taller driver shared what it’s like trying to fit comfortably in the back of a Model 3: “I am 6’4” and I camp in my Model 3! I have to sleep diagonally or fetally because I can touch the trunk inappropriately with my toes. But it is fine. I can sleep on my side with some space to spare without hitting the rear cover. I do wish the seats folded perfectly flat, but we can’t have everything, I guess.”
Their experience gives a realistic idea of how the space works for tall sleepers. Even with limited room, adjusting the position seems to make it workable for longer nights.
Another comment focused on the design and how a small change could improve the car for camping: “I wonder what Tesla is thinking, if they make Model 3 Hatchback as well, it would be PERFECT!! I just got a 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance. It is an awesome car, but yeah, I wish it were a hatchback.”
The Model 3 already offers a surprising amount of space, but a hatchback version would open it up even more for camping, loading gear, and organizing longer trips.
Tesla’s Camp Mode is an effective and practical solution for anyone looking to sleep overnight in their cars. Although a Model 3 Tesla is considerably smaller than the rest, it can create considerable space with the right accommodations, such as installing privacy screens, enabling low-power ventilation settings, and using temperature-sensitive charging ports.
