Mountain view out the rear of the SANTA FE. © Cliford Mervil

Exploring Chabak

Car camping redefined for Brits.

From tent pitching to fire making, camping has long been an activity for the adventurous. However, our research has revealed that Brits are seeking new ways to blend their love for the outdoors with modern comforts. 60% of the 2,000 UK adults surveyed admitted they would not consider a traditional camping holiday, and on average, the last time they pitched a tent was… eight years ago.

Yet, 51% admit they have a growing interest in road trips, with 46% saying they find themselves planning for more outdoor adventures post-COVID 19.

However, there are new bare necessities on the block, with modern adventurers now prioritising amenities such as WiFi (82%), toilets and showers (51%), and creature comforts like cozy cushions and access to a kettle (37%). 55% of those surveyed also listed their preference for home comforts as a key reason for seeking new ways to explore the outdoors.

Enter Chabak.

Chabak is the innovative Korean car camping trend that offers a solution to modern holidaymakers.

This new craze, taken from South Korea, involves connecting both mobility and nature. Chabak takes the word cha for ‘car’ and bak for ‘stay’ translating to ‘car camping.’ Chabak provides the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and adventure. This trend not only caters to the need for home comforts but also makes holidaying more flexible.

Whether it’s the spontaneity of changing destinations or setting up camp in a matter of minutes, Chabak allows travellers to easily adapt their plans on the go. And with 27% citing set up time as something that puts them off traditional camping, this new way to holiday means you can go from road to retreat in a matter of minutes.

Chabak is the latest in a series of Korean influences, or the "Korean wave," sweeping the UK. From K-pop, Korean skincare routines and Korean food, the UK has embraced numerous Korean cultural exports, with Chabak set to be the next big thing.

Not only has Chabak changed how Koreans enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also changed how they drive, with 70% of new car sales in South Korea being SUVs in 2022.

SANTA FE with gazebo attachment by a lake.

Home comfort from the back door.

The flexibility and accessibility of a Chabak is what has made the activity such a big hit. This latest trend sees campers pitch up in their car and build their camping experience around the vehicle – with all the home comforts that brings.

SANTA FE rear shot with step ladder leading to tent on car roof.

The all-new Hyundai SANTA FE is the perfect vehicle for you to explore the great outdoors. Designed during lockdown, it was conceived with the vision of escaping into nature, while enjoying all the comforts of home. Plus, the car will help you reach those secluded spots with its off-road capabilities.

Roomy interiors and off-road capabilities make the all-new Santa Fe the perfect choice, whatever the weather.

Discover more

Tent in a field with man looking on in the sunset. © Cliford Mervil

Man sat in camping chair whilst having a drink and working on his laptop. © Pavel Danilyuk

Hand pointing at directions on a paper map. © Josh Hild

South East - Sandfield Shaw, Kent

North East - Low Trewhitt Farm, Northumberland

South West - Lundy View, Devon / Parsonage Farm Bay View, Somerset

North West - Kings Meaburn, Cumbria

Midlands - Cotswold Orchards, Worcestershire

Design your cabin.

Chabak reduces the need for a lot of conventional camping equipment, meaning you can design your experience to meet your specific requirements. In the SANTA FE, you can collapse the seats at the push of a button, providing a completely level sleeping surface.