One of the surprisingly delightful features of a Tesla is Camp Mode. It keeps the cabin at a chosen temperature and lets lights, media and USB power run while the car is parked — without the "engine" running. That makes the car suitable for everything from a rest on a long trip to a spontaneous overnight stay.
How to turn on Camp Mode
- Put the car in Park (P).
- Open the climate menu on the screen and enable Camp Mode (or "Keep climate on").
- Choose the desired temperature. Lights, media and power outlets stay available.
The car typically shows a friendly message that the climate is being kept on. Fold down the rear seats for a flatter surface if you want to lie down.
Battery usage
How much Camp Mode uses depends mostly on how much heating or cooling is needed. In summer at mild temperatures usage is low; in hard cold or strong heat it's higher. As a rule of thumb: start with a good state of charge, and keep an eye on the percentage in the Tesla app. Over a night it typically uses a limited but noticeable amount of battery.
Good tips
- Charge first: start with ample charge if you're sleeping in the car.
- Use sunshades/curtains for privacy and better temperature control.
- Park responsibly and legally — check local rules on overnight parking.
- Fresh air: Camp Mode provides ventilation, keeping the air fresh.
Camp Mode vs. Dog Mode
Camp Mode is for when you're in the car. Dog Mode is intended to keep pets safe at a comfortable temperature while you're out — with a clear message on the screen for passers-by. Use the right mode for the situation.
To learn more about the car's features, see the Tesla app and Sentry Mode & Dashcam.