Best Rivian R1S Accessories for Family Camping Trips
Taking the Rivian R1S on a family camping trip is a dream, but managing gear for five people in a high-tech EV requires more than just throwing sleeping bags in the trunk. I’ve spent years documenting overland builds, and the R1S presents unique challenges—specifically optimizing the 104 cubic feet of space without killing your range. Our top pick, the Dometic CFX3 75DZ, solves the “soggy sandwich” ice problem while integrating perfectly with the Rivian’s onboard power systems.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Rivian Accessories for Family Camping: Detailed Reviews
Dometic CFX3 75DZ View on Amazon
The Dometic CFX3 75DZ is the gold standard for EV camping. In my testing, the VMSO3 variable-speed compressor is remarkably efficient, which is crucial when you’re relying on the R1S’s 135kWh battery pack for both travel and refrigeration. It fits lengthwise in the cargo area with the third row folded, and the dual-zone capability means you can keep ice cream frozen in one side while chilling drinks in the other. I particularly love the mobile app; you can monitor the battery draw and temperature from your phone while sitting by the campfire. The rugged exo-frame handles the vibrations of washboard roads better than any cheaper unit I’ve tried. While it’s heavy at 61 lbs, the peace of mind knowing your expensive groceries won’t spoil if you’re stuck on a slow trail is worth every penny. It’s a professional-grade tool for the serious family adventurer.
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Luno Life Rivian R1S Mattress View on Amazon
If you haven’t experienced “Camp Mode” in the R1S, you’re missing out. The Luno Life mattress is the best value because it turns the cabin into a climate-controlled hotel room. Unlike generic air mattresses that leave gaps or bunch up against the R1S’s unique wheel wells, this is a two-piece system tailored specifically for the vehicle’s floor plan. I find the 4-inch high-density foam-and-air combo far more supportive for my back than pure air beds. It even includes “Base Extenders” that fill the footwells behind the front seats, giving you a full 6-foot sleeping surface. The material is a heavy-duty 300D Oxford fabric that stands up to dog claws and toddler spills. It packs down surprisingly small into a carrying bag that fits perfectly in the “frunk.” It’s an essential upgrade that pays for itself after just two nights of avoiding expensive hotel stays.
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Rivet Center Console Organizer View on Amazon
The R1S center console is a notoriously deep “black hole” where sunglasses and charging cables go to die. On a long road trip, digging through that cavern while driving is a recipe for frustration. The Rivet organizer is a simple, sub-$30 fix that I consider mandatory. It’s a high-quality ABS tray that drops into the top of the console, providing a dedicated spot for coins, pens, and your key card. The fit is so precise it looks like an OEM part from the Rivian factory. It features rubber liners that prevent items from rattling—a minor detail that becomes majorly important in a silent electric vehicle. The limitation is that it does make accessing the very bottom of the console a two-step process, but for the daily-use items you need while navigating to a trailhead, it’s an absolute lifesaver for keeping the family organized.
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Thule Vector Alpine Roof Box View on Amazon
When you have seven seats filled, the rear cargo area disappears. The Thule Vector Alpine is the most technologically advanced roof box I’ve ever mounted on a Rivian. Its low-profile, aerodynamic shape is specifically designed to minimize drag—a critical factor for maintaining R1S range on the highway. I find the felt-lined base to be a fantastic premium touch; it protects your high-end camping chairs and tripods from getting scratched during transit. The synchronized lid lifters make opening it feel like a luxury experience, and the integrated LED lights are a godsend when you’re arriving at a campsite after dark. It’s expensive, yes, but its “PowerClick” quick-mount system works perfectly with Rivian’s crossbars. You’ll notice about a 10-15% hit to your Wh/mi, but that’s a small price to pay for the massive increase in utility for a large family.
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Goal Zero Yeti 1500X View on Amazon
While the Rivian has 120V outlets, I always bring a Goal Zero Yeti 1500X to act as a “buffer” for the camp setup. This allows you to run high-draw items like induction cooktops or coffee makers without keeping the Rivian’s high-voltage contactors engaged all night, which can lead to phantom drain. I’ve used this to power a full photography workstation and charge drone batteries in the middle of nowhere. The 1516Wh capacity is the sweet spot—large enough to last a weekend, but light enough to lift in and out of the R1S. It charges quickly via the Rivian’s outlets while you’re driving. The build quality is exceptional, featuring a professional-grade inverter that won’t fry your sensitive electronics. It’s a versatile piece of gear that transitions from the back of the SUV to the center of the campsite with ease.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose Rivian R1S Accessories
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dometic CFX3 75DZ | Off-grid cooling | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Luno Life Mattress | Cabin Sleeping | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Rivet Organizer | Daily Storage | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Thule Vector Alpine | Extra Cargo | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Goal Zero Yeti 1500X | Portable Power | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much battery does Camp Mode use with a fridge?
In typical 70-degree weather, the Rivian R1S running Camp Mode with a high-efficiency fridge like the Dometic CFX3 will lose about 1-2% of its battery per day. This is remarkably efficient compared to traditional campers. However, in extreme heat or if you’re using the 120V outlets instead of the 12V DC plug, the drain can increase significantly. Always monitor the energy screen to ensure you have enough range to reach the next charger.
Will a roof box significantly reduce my Rivian’s range?
Yes, any external accessory will impact aerodynamics. A sleek box like the Thule Vector Alpine typically reduces efficiency by 10% to 15%. If you usually get 300 miles of range, expect closer to 255-270 miles with the box mounted. Driving at 65 mph instead of 75 mph can often recover most of this lost range. It’s a trade-off that is usually worth it for the extra storage capacity during family trips.
Do I need an external power station if the R1S has outlets?
While not strictly necessary, an external power station like the Goal Zero Yeti is highly recommended. It allows you to use power away from the vehicle—like at a picnic table or inside a tent. Additionally, using an external battery reduces the “wear and tear” on the Rivian’s main contactors and cooling system, which otherwise have to stay active to provide power to the built-in outlets, potentially saving you more range in the long run.
Is the R1S frunk waterproof for camping gear?
The Rivian frunk is weather-sealed but not strictly “waterproof” in the sense that you should submerge it or fill it with loose ice. It’s perfect for storing dry goods, sleeping bags, or the Luno Life mattress. It also features a drain plug at the bottom, so if you do have a spill or want to hose it out after a dusty trip, the water will drain out easily. It’s one of the best spots for heavy gear.
Can the R1S power an induction cooktop?
Absolutely. The R1S 120V outlets can handle up to 1500 watts combined. Most portable single-burner induction cooktops pull between 1000 and 1400 watts on high. This is a game-changer for family camping because it eliminates the need to carry propane tanks. Just be mindful that using the cooktop for an hour will pull about 1-1.5kWh from your battery—a negligible amount given the R1S’s massive 135kWh total capacity.
Final Verdict
For most families, the combination of the Dometic CFX3 and the Luno Life Mattress provides the biggest quality-of-life upgrade for camping. If you’re a hardcore overlander, adding the Goal Zero Yeti 1500X ensures you have power flexibility regardless of where you park. However, even if you’re on a tight budget, don’t overlook the Rivet Organizer—it’s the small improvement you’ll appreciate every single time you reach for your sunglasses on the road.