Family Camping Made Easy: 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Storage Tips

BC's summer camping season opens doors to exploring provincial parks from Manning to Mount Robson. The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas provides the cargo organization and space needed to pack efficiently for family camping trips, whether you're heading to a local campground or embarking on a multi-week adventure.

With 2,735 L of cargo space and intelligent storage solutions, the Atlas accommodates everything from sleeping bags to camp kitchens. Understanding how to maximize this space helps families pack more gear while maintaining passenger comfort during long drives to camping destinations.

Planning successful camping trips starts with smart packing. The Atlas transforms this challenge into a manageable process through its flexible interior layout and substantial cargo capacity that rivals many larger vehicles.

Understanding Atlas Cargo Dimensions

The 2025 Atlas offers impressive cargo measurements that accommodate substantial camping equipment. Maximum cargo volume reaches 2,735 L when all rear seats are folded flat, creating a large loading area.

Cargo length extends to 1,990 mm with seats folded, while cargo width measures 1,287 mm between wheel wells. Cargo height varies based on loading configuration, but provides enough vertical space for most camping equipment.

The flexible 60/40 split-folding seats allow customization of space based on passenger and cargo needs for each specific camping trip:

• All seven seats up provides limited cargo space behind the third row 
• Third row folded creates significant increase in storage area 
• Second and third rows folded delivers maximum 2,735 L capacity

This flexibility means families can adjust the interior layout based on group size and equipment requirements for different types of camping adventures.

Essential Camping Gear Storage Guide

Sleeping equipment requires careful organization to maximize space efficiency. Sleeping bags compress well and fit along cargo sides, while air mattresses and sleeping pads stack vertically against the rear of the cargo area.

Pillows and blankets fill gaps between larger items effectively. Family-size tents fit in the rear cargo area when seats are folded, though larger tents may require roof rail mounting or trailer storage.

Cooking and food storage demand secure organization for safety. Camp stoves and fuel store securely in side compartments away from other equipment. Coolers fit behind the third row when seats remain up, or in the main cargo area for maximum cooling efficiency.

Cooking utensils and dishes organize well in storage bins that prevent shifting during travel. Non-perishable food packs efficiently in stackable containers that maximize vertical space usage.

Clothing and personal items benefit from soft-sided luggage that maximizes space efficiency compared to hard cases. Laundry bags keep dirty clothes separate from clean items during extended trips.

Personal care items fit conveniently in door pockets and console storage areas. Rain gear stores easily in cargo nets or organizers for quick access during weather changes.

Cargo Organization Accessories

Available Atlas accessories enhance camping organization capabilities. Cargo organizer bins keep small items contained and prevent them from shifting during travel over rough roads.

Cargo nets prevent loose items from moving around the cargo area during driving. All-weather cargo liners protect the interior against spills, mud, and moisture from camping equipment.

Roof rails and crossbars add external storage capacity for oversized items:

• Roof boxes provide weatherproof storage for sleeping bags and clothing 
• Bike racks accommodate family bicycles for campground exploration 
• Kayak carriers support water sports equipment for lakeside camping

Smart packing techniques maximize the available space effectively. Pack heaviest items on the cargo floor for better vehicle stability and handling. Use soft items to fill gaps between hard objects, reducing noise and preventing damage.

Keep frequently needed items easily accessible near the rear opening. Store emergency supplies in designated locations where they remain accessible during the trip.

Towing Capability for Additional Gear

The Atlas's 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) towing capacity significantly expands storage options for camping enthusiasts. This capability supports various trailer types that enhance camping experiences.

Travel trailers provide extended camping comfort with sleeping space, cooking facilities, and storage for extended trips. Utility trailers accommodate bulky camping equipment that doesn't fit inside the vehicle.

Boat trailers enable lakeside camping adventures with fishing and water sports capabilities. Cargo carriers provide overflow gear storage for families with extensive camping equipment.

The 4MOTION all-wheel drive system and 269 hp turbocharged engine provide confident towing performance on mountain highways leading to popular BC camping areas throughout the Rockies and Coast Mountains.

Real-World Camping Scenarios

Weekend camping for 2-3 days requires minimal packing strategy. Keep the third row up for passenger seating while essential gear fits behind the third row. This configuration works well for families with young children who need seat access.

Week-long family camping demands more strategic organization. Fold the third row for maximum cargo space while maintaining comfortable seating for five passengers. This arrangement accommodates full camping kitchens and multiple days of supplies.

Extended adventure camping may require folding all rear seats for maximum storage priority. This configuration supports complete camping setups with backup gear and supplies for remote locations.

Specific BC Camping Destinations

The Atlas handles access and storage needs for popular BC camping areas effectively. Provincial parks like Cultus Lake require beach gear, water toys, and family supplies that fit well in the organized cargo space.

Golden Ears Provincial Park demands hiking equipment and extended food supplies for backcountry exploration. Wells Gray Provincial Park camping benefits from photography gear and wildlife watching equipment storage.

Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park requires mountain camping gear and weather protection equipment that needs organized, accessible storage during changing conditions.

Climate Control for Gear and Passengers

Three-zone climate control maintains comfortable temperatures for passengers while protecting sensitive gear stored in the cabin. This feature proves especially valuable during summer heat when electronic equipment or medications require stable temperatures.

Avoid storing temperature-sensitive items in direct sunlight areas of the cargo space. Use insulated containers for items requiring stable temperatures throughout the journey.

Consider ventilation requirements when packing odorous items like camp stoves or fuel containers, ensuring proper airflow around these materials.

The Atlas converts camping preparation from a stressful challenge into an organized process, allowing families to focus on adventure rather than packing logistics. Test the cargo versatility at Journey Volkswagen of Coquitlam and discover how the Atlas simplifies your camping adventures.