7 heat-beating gadgets for car trips and camping: from fans to ice makers

A family of three in a camper van visited Cape Sata, the southernmost point of mainland Japan, and travelled via the volcano Sakurajima to the city of Ibusuki. The trip took place in spring 2026 and included a ferry crossing and overnight stays in the camper.

The N-VAN MV camper based on the Honda N-VAN has been introduced by builder Rocky 2. The model features a convertible interior that allows both a bed mode and a face-to-face seating area. Two grades are available: MV camper from 2,959,900 yen and MV complete from 4,365,900 yen. The higher trim includes a 100Ah lithium battery, a 1500W inverter, and an optional cooler.

Japanese company Annex has presented the compact Liberty 52 REi motorhome based on a Toyota Camroad chassis. Despite its length of 5.23 metres, the model offers five berths and can carry up to eight people. The interior includes a kitchen with a two-burner gas hob and an 85-litre fridge, a multifunctional room with a shower tray and washbasin, and an L-shaped bench seating seven. Pricing in Japan starts from 16 million yen.

At Tokyo Camping Car Show 2026, Toy Factory presented the fully updated Da Vinci 5.4 camper on a Fiat Ducato base — an alternative to Toyota HiAce-based campers.

The 6th Michi-no-Eki Munakata Camper Show & Outdoor Event will be held on 17–18 October 2026. The programme includes an exhibition of domestic and imported campers, stage events and a mobile zoo, Picnica Republic (500 yen). An overnight stay experience in a camper is available by advance reservation: 7,700 yen for adults, 2,200 yen for children, free for preschoolers; up to 5 groups will be accepted, with a lottery if applications exceed the limit.

Camp Jojo supported the opening of the Hinoyama Sanroku campsite in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture. The campsite will open on September 19, 2026, as part of the Hikari no Yama project. It has 22 pitches, including 5 auto pitches with power, 11 family pitches, and 6 solo/duo pitches, with hot water and rental plans. Camp Jojo proposed the layout and produced the official website.