How to Efficiently Pack a Mazda5 for a Backcountry Camping Trip


Packing for a backcountry camping trip requires a bit of strategy, especially when you're working with the compact yet versatile Mazda5. With its flexible seating and cargo configurations, the Mazda5 can be your best ally in ensuring you have everything you need without feeling cramped.
1. Prioritize Your Gear
Before you start packing, make a list of essentials—tent, sleeping bags, cooking gear, food, water, and clothing. Prioritize these items and pack them first. Less essential items can go in last or stay behind if space becomes tight.
2. Utilize the Fold-Flat Seating
The Mazda5’s third-row seats fold flat, giving you a larger cargo area. Fold down these seats to create more room for bulky items like your tent and cooler. The second-row seats can also be adjusted or partially folded, depending on your passenger count, to make space for longer items like hiking poles or a portable table.
3. Store items inside the seats
The Mazda5 seats contain under seat stoage that allow you to pack items inside them. Items such as clothes, books or bedding fit neatly inside the hidden cubbies.
4. Utilize unexpected parts of the interior
Pack items such as life jackets and certain camping gear under the front seats or between the back seats.
5. Pack Heavy Items Low and Toward the Front
Distribute the weight evenly by placing heavier items like water jugs, stove, and cooler low and towards the front of the cargo area. This helps with vehicle stability and prevents your car from being too back-heavy, which can affect handling, especially on rough backcountry roads.
6. Use Storage Bins and Soft Bags
Storage bins help keep your gear organized and can be stacked for better use of space. Soft bags, like duffels or stuff sacks, are great for clothing and smaller items because they can be squeezed into tight spaces that hard bins can’t fit into. Sleeping bag sacks are also great when it comes to packing larger pillows.
7. Maximize Roof Space
If you're running out of room inside, consider using a roof box or cargo basket. Mazda5’s roof rails make it easy to attach additional storage solutions. Just be mindful of your car's weight limit and the added height, especially when driving on roads with low clearance. Also make to to properly fasten all items and follow the roof box safety manufacturer guidelines.
8. Use a hitch cargo carrier
A hitch cargo carrier will allow you to carry even more items such as coolers and tote boxes. Be sure to be mindful of your hitch's weight limit and the added dept, especially when backing into spots. Also make to to properly fasten all items and follow the safety manufacturer guidelines.
9. Pack for Accessibility
Think about what you'll need first when you arrive at your campsite—like your tent and cooking gear. Pack these items last, so they’re easy to access without having to unload the entire car. Smaller items that might be needed during the drive, like snacks or maps, should be kept in the front or on top.
10. Safety First
Ensure that nothing obstructs your rearview or side mirrors, and that all items are secure to prevent them from shifting while driving. If you're using a roof rack, double-check that everything is tightly strapped down.
Final Thoughts
With careful planning and smart packing, your Mazda5 can comfortably carry all the gear you need for a successful backcountry camping adventure. By prioritizing your essentials, utilizing the Mazda5’s versatile seating, and keeping safety in mind, you’ll be ready to hit the trail with confidence.