I started with a little Cottman field box and 3.5×5″ pad that I could throw in my bike jersey. Then added to it.
Now I have a travel kit of 5-6 different and compatible water media that fits in a fanny pack with pads up to 6.5×9″, including the water bottle. Take this everywhere. To paint larger all I need do is bring along a larger pad of watercolor paper. No easel nor even a chair necessary in a pinch as I can sit or lean against anything if necessary.
My kit includes: transparent watercolor, watercolor pencils, gouache, ink pens, Inktense pencils, etc. I have room, if I want, to include small pastels or pastel pencils too. Could include Ceracolors (cold water soluble wax) if needed.
If you’re looking for comfy car camping to paint, you can pretty much bring a whole studio full of supplies. Only your car is your limit. There are so many really fun and inspiring videos on YT of people painting small to large while car camping, right up to that Aussie guy who paints truly large landscapes from his trailer studio. Go have fun and don’t worry about equipment.
BTW, camping these days from a vehicle can be really plush if you want it that way. If you’re going to backpack, that’s when the weight and size limits kick in, but with good equipment and some knowledge you can also be quite comfortable and go places you wouldn’t likely from a car setup.
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