There's something truly magical about falling asleep under a blanket of stars, with nothing but the sounds of nature to lull you into dreamland…

WAIT.. is car camping actually like that for anyone? It definitely isn’t for us - especially not with a toddler! Don’t get me wrong, we still love getting out, but it usually consists of Aspen climbing all over us for most of the night and me, otherwise waking up every hour to have Matt check if there’s a bear outside.

That being said, we do try and make it as comfortable as possible and that's why we recently upgraded our gear to put together the ultimate car-camping sleep system with gear from NEMO Equipment. We tested everything on a few impromptu camping trips last summer and are definitely happy with the new purchases!

Here's how it all stacked up:

NEMO Equipment Wagontop 4P Tent:

First things first – you need a reliable shelter to protect you from the elements. Enter the NEMO Equipment Wagontop 4P Tent. This spacious tent is a game-changer for car camping adventures, with its easy setup, vertical sidewalls, and roomy interior.

The unique pole structure creates near-vertical walls, maximizing headroom and livable space. We had plenty of room for our playpen (which helped with our feral toddler and unwanted midnight visits). We were also able to keep most of our gear inside, which was perfect because everything stayed warm and accessible. Plus, the oversized door makes it easy to get in and out, even in the middle of the night, and the vestibules provided extra storage for muddy boots. We even laid out our Nemo Chipper pads as door mats.

Despite its size, the Wagontop 4P packs down surprisingly small, making it a breeze to transport, which is perfect because I always seem to overpack!

NEMO Equipment Roamer Double Sleep Pad:

With our shelter sorted, it was time to focus on comfort. The NEMO Equipment Roamer Double Sleep Pad was the perfect addition to our sleep system, providing plush cushioning and insulation from the cold ground below.

The generous size easily accommodated two people, with enough space to toss and turn without rolling off the pad. The Vortex™ pump sack made inflation a breeze, and the sturdy construction ensured that we stayed comfortable and supported throughout the night.

Plus, the Roamer Double Sleep Pad comes with two storage options: a stuff sack for space saving and a duffel bag with room inside to include bedding or other sleep accessories.

NEMO Equipment Jazz Double Sleeping Bag:

Last but certainly not least, we snuggled up in the NEMO Equipment Jazz Double Sleeping Bag. This luxurious sleeping bag is more like a cozy bed than traditional camping gear, with its oversized dimensions, integrated pillow pocket, and plush featherbed-style quilt.

The unique design allows for dual-sided entry, so you can easily climb in and out without disturbing your partner. But my favourite part was the integrated pad sleeve, which keeps your pad in place if you reposition in the night. For us, this meant- no more readjusting every thing, every single time you get up in the middle of the night. Which let’s face it, with a new toddler - is probably a LOT!

We stayed warm and toasty all night, thanks to the innovative Thermo Gills™ that regulate temperature and prevent overheating. I also loved the built-in bedsheet- such a nice added feature and easily removable for washing!

Jazz makes a perfect pairing with the Roamer™ sleeping pad.

From the spacious tent to the plush sleeping pad and cozy sleeping bag, every component worked together seamlessly to create an oasis in the wilderness. So whether you're planning a weekend getaway or embarking on an epic road trip, we recommend this set-up for the perfect family friendly car-camping adventure!

Why NEMO?

When it comes to outdoor gear, durability is key to us. NEMO Equipment uses only the highest quality materials in their products, ensuring that they can stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws their way. Whether it's ripstop polyester fabric in their tents, plush insulation in their sleeping bags, or abrasion-resistant nylon in their backpacks, you can trust that NEMO gear is built to last. Plus, many of their materials are bluesign® approved, meaning they meet rigorous standards for environmental responsibility and sustainability.

Commitment to Sustainability:

Speaking of sustainability, NEMO Equipment is dedicated to minimizing their environmental impact at every step of the production process. They prioritize eco-friendly materials and manufacturing methods, and they're constantly seeking out new ways to reduce waste and conserve resources. In fact, they're a proud member of 1% for the Planet, which means they donate 1% of their sales to environmental nonprofits every year. So when you choose NEMO gear, you can feel good knowing that you're supporting a company that's committed to protecting the planet for future generations.

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