Folding camping tables turn a small van, van or compact caravan into a cozy dining room on wheels. Compact folding camping tables fit in the trunk, under a camping bed or next to a cooler bag without taking up space.
Here you'll see how to choose the right camper table, how to combine it with folding chairs, a kitchen cabinet and a gas stove, and how to arrange everything so that it doesn't get in the way, even in the smallest van. We'll go over dimensions, materials, weight, stability and practical examples from real camping scenarios.
In short: what do you need if your van is small?
- A table with adjustable legs and a stable top, but with little weight.
- A foldable suitcase-type structure that fits next to a tent or under a folding bed.
- Combination with lightweight camping chairs, 12v refrigerator and compact camping kitchen.
Folding camping tables for small buses and vans
When you're driving a small van or minivan, every pound and inch counts. That's why lightweight camping tables with aluminum legs and a tabletop that folds into a slim suitcase are almost a must.
In the Tables catalog you will find models designed specifically for use with campers, caravans and vans - light, sturdy and conveniently foldable. There are small side tables for a coffee next to a hammock and larger options that can comfortably accommodate a family tent or a whole group of people.
Dimensions and weight for tight spaces
Question: What size folding table is suitable for a small van or minibus?
Answer: Typically, a table about 80–115 cm long and 60–70 cm wide offers enough space for two to four people without obstructing movement in the camper.
- The smaller tables are ideal for one person or a couple and can be placed both outdoors and in the van.
- Wider models are convenient when you combine a table, folding chair, and camping stove.
Weight is also an important factor. Lighter tables are practical for frequent moving – for example, when you're tossing and turning between a beach tent on the sand and a canopy next to your camper.
Camper table materials and stability
Many people ask: Which camper table is more stable – aluminum or bamboo top? Aluminum tops are great if you need minimal weight and easy cleaning. Bamboo and composite materials give a warmer look and feel like home.
- Aluminum stovetop – lightweight, moisture-resistant, suitable for camping cooking with a gas burner.
- Bamboo or "wood" decor - looks stylish next to camper equipment and camping furniture.
- Adjustable legs – useful if you park on uneven terrain by a lake or in the mountains.
In some models you will also see reinforced frames inspired by professional camper shop solutions. They are convenient if you often use the table as a workplace in the van, and not just for dinner.
Tables for campers and compact caravans
When driving a compact camper, the table often plays several roles – a dining area, a work surface and sometimes an additional surface for camping utensils. So a folding camping table with a sturdier construction is a sensible choice.
If you combine the table with comfortable chairs , you can create a real camping area in front of the caravan entrance. Add a canopy or awning, and you get an outdoor "living room".
When do you need a larger folding table?
If you like to gather friends, a large camping table makes sense, even if your van is small. Simply store it vertically next to a water tank or tents, and spread it out with fishing chairs and folding chairs for extra guests.
- A family tent and a large table go great for long stays.
- For weekend trips, a compact folding table and two or three chairs are often enough.
You'll often see exact dimensions on the product pages of tables, both folded and unfolded. This helps you determine whether the table will fit under a camping bed, next to a car cooler, or next to a chemical toilet in the trunk.
Combination with camping furniture and kitchen cabinet
To avoid scattering camping utensils on the table, it is also useful to have a compact kitchen cabinet. In the Kitchens and Cabinets section, you will find solutions with countertops and shelves that keep camping plates, camping bowls and camping cups tidy and dry.
This way, the table remains free for eating, playing board games, or working on a laptop, and the kitchen, gas stove, and gas bottle are kept separate and more organized.
Practical combinations: tables, chairs and camping accessories
A well-chosen camping table works best in conjunction with the rest of your equipment. If you're already browsing Tables and Chairs , you'll see sets that fold compactly and are designed for campers, caravans, and vans.
Comfortable dining area in front of the camper
- A folding table with adjustable legs along with two to four camping chairs.
- Camping lighting – for example, a camping lamp or a solar camping lamp.
- Camping fridge or 12v cooler bag for drinks and food.
All of this is easily complemented with practical solutions from Refrigerators and convenient Lighting , so you don't have to wonder where to leave the glasses when it gets dark.
Cooking corner next to the table
Many people want to cook outside, close to the table, but without cluttering it. That's why they combine a gas camping stove with a small kitchen unit and a separate hob.
- Gas stove and gas bottle for camping from the GAS and Barbecue section.
- Cooking appliances that stack compactly in Cooking appliances .
- Dishes and utensils from the Dishes and utensils collection, so that the table stays clean.
Thus, the table serves mainly for serving and eating, not for all the logistics of cooking.
When you go to the beach or fishing
If you often go to the beach with your van, a folding camping table is great in combination with beach loungers and a camping hammock. To avoid carrying everything by hand, see also Camping carts - they accommodate a table, chairs, cooler bags and a tent.
When fishing, a compact table next to fishing chairs keeps bait, cans, and drinks close at hand without digging around in the boat. In such a situation, a smaller table with good balance and stable legs is often enough.
Useful questions and short answers about camping tables
How to choose a camper table based on storage space
First, measure the space where you plan to keep the table – for example, under a camping bed or next to a caravan water tank. Compare these dimensions with the data in the product description.
Question: Which folding camping table is better for a small van – narrower or shorter?
Answer: If the van is narrow, a narrower table makes it easier to move around inside, while a shorter one is convenient for a back door and an outside corner.
What else should I take besides a table?
In addition to a table, it is a good idea to plan at least two comfortable camping chairs, suitable camping lighting and a place for food. In the Camping Furniture section, there are ready-made solutions for the entire camping area.
Combine the table with tents from the Tents section to have an alternative - you sleep in a tent, and the van remains free for luggage and a table.
Where can I find more ideas and examples?
If you're wondering how other people pack tables, a tent, a car fridge, and a solar panel into a small car or van, check out the articles in the Blog (News) section. There you'll find inspiration for different routes and configurations.
Conclusion: compact table, big moments
Even the smallest van or van can be transformed into a cozy home on wheels if you choose the right camping furniture. A well-chosen table, combined with a folding chair, a camping lamp and a practical 12v fridge, makes evenings by the sea or in the mountains much more relaxing.
In the GoCampy online store you will find a wide selection of tables, chairs, tents, camping accessories and camper equipment that complement each other perfectly. Browse All Products , choose the models that fit your van or caravan, and make your next trip more comfortable than ever.
If you're still hesitating, ask yourself this simple question: "Do I want to dine outside in peace, without makeshift surfaces and unstable boxes?" If the answer is "yes," then it's time for quality folding camping tables to appear in your camper.