Best Rivian Accessories for Camping Trips
Rivian vehicles are engineering marvels, but even the most capable R1T or R1S requires the right gear to truly master the wilderness. Whether you are navigating tight trails or setting up a week-long basecamp, maximizing your EV’s storage and battery capacity is the ultimate challenge. I’ve tested dozens of overlanding setups, and I’ve found that the Dometic CFX3 45 is the absolute game-changer for off-grid life. Here is the essential gear you need for your next adventure.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Rivian Accessories for Camping Trips: Detailed Reviews
Dometic CFX3 45 View on Amazon
The Dometic CFX3 45 is the ultimate companion for the Rivian’s onboard 12V and 120V outlets. Unlike traditional coolers that rely on ice, this compressor-driven fridge-freezer allows you to maintain precise temperatures down to -7°F. In my testing, the power draw is remarkably efficient, barely making a dent in the R1T’s large battery pack even over a three-day weekend. The build quality is industrial-grade, featuring reinforced corners and robust aluminum alloy handles that can withstand the vibrations of washboard roads. You’ll particularly appreciate the mobile app, which lets you monitor the temperature from the driver’s seat. While it is a significant investment and occupies a fair bit of space in the “frunk” or bed, the elimination of soggy sandwiches and the ability to keep steaks frozen for days makes it indispensable. It’s the most reliable way to leverage your Rivian’s mobile power station capabilities.
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Luno Life Rivian Air Mattress View on Amazon
For R1S owners who prefer the safety and climate control of “Camp Mode” inside the vehicle, the Luno Life Air Mattress is a revelation. This isn’t just a generic air bed; it is specifically contoured to fit the unique geometry of the Rivian’s interior when the second and third rows are folded flat. I find the 300D Oxford fabric significantly more durable than the cheap PVC found in standard mattresses, making it resistant to pet claws and camping gear. One of the best features is the “Base Extenders,” which fill the footwell space behind the front seats, providing a full 6’2″ of sleeping length. You’ll notice how easily it inflates using the Rivian’s built-in air compressor (if equipped) or the included 12V pump. While it’s pricier than a Walmart special, the tailored fit ensures you aren’t fighting bulging edges all night. It’s the most cost-effective way to turn your SUV into a luxury mobile hotel.
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BuiltRight Bed Side Racks View on Amazon
The Rivian R1T has a fantastic bed, but gear tends to slide around during off-road maneuvers. The BuiltRight Industries Bed Side Racks solve this problem without breaking the bank. These panels are laser-cut from 1/8″ aluminum and powder-coated for a factory-clean look. They utilize the existing factory mounting points, so no drilling into your expensive EV is required. I find these racks essential for mounting “quick-access” items like fire extinguishers, recovery straps, or MOLLE pouches for first aid kits. By keeping smaller items secured to the sides, you free up the main floor of the bed for larger coolers or storage bins. The limitation is that they are purely structural; you’ll need to provide your own straps and pouches. However, for the price, the sheer amount of utility they add to the R1T’s gear tunnel and bed is unmatched. It’s a simple, rugged solution for the organized camper.
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iKamper Skycamp 3.0 View on Amazon
If you want the ultimate “penthouse” view from your Rivian, the iKamper Skycamp 3.0 is the gold standard of rooftop tents (RTT). It fits perfectly on the R1T or R1S crossbars and features a signature fold-out design that creates a king-size sleeping area. Setup is incredibly fast—I’ve timed it at just under 60 seconds once you get the rhythm down. The insulation is top-tier, which is vital since you’ll likely be using your Rivian in diverse climates. You should be aware that any RTT will impact your EV range by about 10-15% due to aerodynamics, but the Skycamp’s hardshell design is more streamlined than soft-shell competitors. The interior features a poly-cotton canvas that is breathable yet waterproof, and the “Skyview” window is perfect for stargazing. It’s an expensive, heavy addition, but for those who spend weeks on the road, the comfort and speed are worth every penny.
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MAXTRAX MKII Recovery Boards View on Amazon
The Rivian is a heavy vehicle—nearly 7,000 lbs of tech and battery. If you venture into soft sand or deep mud, that weight can work against you. MAXTRAX MKII boards are the insurance policy every Rivian owner needs. These aren’t the cheap knock-offs that melt under tire spin; they are made from engineering-grade, UV-stabilized nylon. I find the aggressive “teeth” provide exceptional grip for the Rivian’s All-Terrain tires. You can easily mount these to the side of a bed rack or even inside the Gear Tunnel of an R1T. They also double as a shovel in a pinch. The only downside is their size, which can be awkward to store if you don’t have a dedicated mounting system. However, the first time you use them to pull your EV out of a sticky situation without needing a second vehicle, you’ll realize they are worth their weight in gold.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose Rivian Camping Accessories
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dometic CFX3 45 | Off-grid Food | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Luno Life Mattress | In-Cabin Sleep | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| BuiltRight Racks | Organization | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| iKamper Skycamp 3.0 | Luxury Sleeping | ★★★★★ | Check |
| MAXTRAX MKII | Self-Recovery | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much range will a rooftop tent cost me?
Generally, a hardshell rooftop tent like the iKamper Skycamp will result in a 10% to 15% reduction in efficiency. At highway speeds, the aerodynamic drag is the primary factor. If you usually get 300 miles of range, expect closer to 255-270 miles. To mitigate this, many Rivian owners mount their tents on the truck bed rather than the roof of the cab to keep the tent within the vehicle’s “slipstream.”
Does a 12V fridge drain the Rivian battery quickly?
Not at all. A modern compressor fridge like the Dometic CFX3 45 draws very little power—usually between 1-2 Ah per hour. Even if you left it running for 24 hours, it would only consume about 1-2% of a Rivian’s 135kWh Large Pack. The Rivian’s “Camp Mode” also allows you to keep the outlets active while the vehicle is parked, making it the perfect power source for electronics.
Can I use the built-in air compressor for my mattress?
Yes, but you will need a specific adapter. The Rivian’s built-in air compressor is designed for high-pressure/low-volume tasks like inflating tires. Most air mattresses require high-volume/low-pressure inflation. You can buy nozzle kits that connect to the Rivian’s hose, but it is often faster to use a dedicated 12V portable pump that plugs into the gear tunnel or cabin outlets for high-volume airbeds.
What is the best way to organize the Gear Tunnel?
The Gear Tunnel is one of the R1T’s best features. For organization, I recommend using modular storage bins or a sliding tray system. The BuiltRight racks mentioned earlier are great for the sides, but for the floor, look for heavy-duty plastic bins that fit the 65-inch width. This prevents gear from sliding to the center where it becomes difficult to reach from either side of the truck.
Should I buy the official Rivian accessories or third-party gear?
Rivian’s official gear, like the cargo crossbars, is excellent because it uses the proprietary “plug-and-play” mounting system. However, for items like fridges, recovery boards, and tents, the third-party market (Dometic, MAXTRAX, iKamper) often offers more specialized features and better long-term durability. I find a mix of official mounts and high-end third-party gear provides the most versatile and reliable camping setup for most owners.
Final Verdict
For the serious overlander, the Dometic CFX3 45 is the most important upgrade you can make to your Rivian. It leverages the truck’s battery perfectly. If you are more of a weekend warrior or road tripper, the Luno Life Mattress offers the best “bang for your buck” by turning your SUV into a comfortable bedroom. Finally, for R1T owners who just want a tidier bed, the BuiltRight Racks are a must-have affordable utility upgrade.