Flatbed truck campers are becoming increasingly popular, with many companies now manufacturing flatbed trucks and campers that can be purchased together or separately. Flatbed trucks offer a blank canvas for customisation, with users able to add toolboxes, sidewalls, storage boxes, and more. They also offer more floor space and a lower centre of gravity than traditional campers, which often build above the side rails. However, flatbed truck campers do sit higher than traditional campers, and significant modifications may be required to secure the camper to the truck.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Camper height | Higher than a standard truck bed |
Camper weight | Heavier than a standard truck bed |
Camper floor space | More floor space than a standard truck bed |
Camper entry | Can enter from the side or back |
Camper storage | Storage boxes can be added to the sides |
Camper flexibility | Can be removed and replaced with sidewalls for non-camping tasks |
Camper connection | Requires tie-downs, turnbuckles, and/or chains/straps to secure the camper |
What You'll Learn
Pros and cons of a flatbed dually
A flatbed dually truck is a great option for those who need to tow large trailers or carry heavy payloads. However, its size can make it challenging to manoeuvre in parking lots. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide if a flatbed dually truck is right for you:
Pros:
- Increased payload and towing capacitydual rear wheels and four rear tires of a flatbed dually truck provide a significant increase in weight capacity compared to a single rear wheel model.
- Improved driving stability: The additional tires on a flatbed dually truck enhance driving stability, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads.
- More traction: With six tires, a flatbed dually truck has more traction than a standard truck, which can be beneficial in various driving conditions.
- Potential for more free time: Many flatbed cargo trips are regional and do not require coast-to-coast travel. Additionally, businesses that use flatbeds are typically only open on weekdays, giving drivers more opportunities to spend weekends with family and friends.
- Mentally stimulating work: Flatbed trucking requires a good understanding of how to secure cargo, which can be challenging and mentally stimulating for drivers who enjoy puzzles and problem-solving.
- Potential for job security: Due to the complex nature of rigging cargo to a flatbed, it is unlikely that flatbed truckers will be replaced by autonomous vehicles in the near future, offering potential long-term job security.
Cons:
- Difficult to park: The size of a flatbed dually truck can make it challenging to fit into a single parking space and manoeuvre in parking lots.
- Extra maintenance costs: With two additional tires, a flatbed dually truck incurs higher maintenance costs compared to a standard truck.
- Higher potential for hydroplaning: The four rear tires of a flatbed dually truck increase the surface area in contact with the road, which can lead to a higher potential for hydroplaning in wet conditions.
- Rough ride characteristics: The heavy-duty suspension system of a flatbed dually truck can result in a rougher ride compared to a standard truck.
- More regulations and scrutiny: Due to the safety risks associated with improperly secured cargo on flatbed trucks, enforcement officers may stop and scrutinise flatbed trucks more frequently.
- Drivers must assist in unloading: Unlike dry van truckers, flatbed drivers typically need to assist in removing tarps, winch straps, and other equipment used to secure the cargo.
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Camper height and flatbed trucks
When considering a flatbed truck for your camper, it's important to think about the height of the camper and how it will fit on the flatbed. Here are some key points to consider:
Camper Height
The height of your camper will affect how it sits on the flatbed and how accessible it is. A camper that sits higher may require additional steps for entry and exit, which could be an inconvenience for some. The height of the camper also impacts the overall centre of gravity of the vehicle, which is an important safety consideration.
Flatbed Height
Flatbeds typically raise the camper by a few inches compared to a standard truck bed. This can result in a higher centre of gravity, which may affect the stability and handling of the vehicle. It is important to ensure that the flatbed is securely attached to the truck and that the camper is properly secured to the flatbed.
Modularity and Customisation
Flatbeds offer a high degree of modularity and customisation. You can add toolboxes, sidewalls, storage boxes, and other features to the flatbed to suit your needs. This flexibility means you can transform your truck for different purposes, such as dump runs or moving large items.
Floor Space and Design
Flatbeds provide a full-width floor space, giving you more flexibility in how you design and arrange the interior of your camper. This can result in a more open and spacious feel compared to a standard camper with built-in cabinets and benches.
Compatibility and Upgrades
When choosing a flatbed, it's important to consider compatibility with your camper and truck. You may need to make modifications to ensure a proper fit. Additionally, think about future upgrades—a flatbed camper can be moved to a new truck when needed, allowing you to upgrade your vehicle without replacing the entire rig.
In summary, flatbed trucks offer advantages such as customisation, floor space, and the ability to upgrade, but it's important to carefully consider the height of your camper and how it will affect the overall setup, including the centre of gravity and accessibility.
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Flatbed truck camper companies
There are several companies that offer flatbed truck campers or flatbed trays suitable for truck campers. Here are some options:
Four Wheel Campers
Four Wheel Campers offers flatbed campers for mid-size and full-size trucks, with prices starting at $39,995. They also import and install Norweld's aluminum flatbed trays, which are designed for the most common 4x4 trucks on the market.
Northstar
Northstar manufactures flatbed truck campers, such as the Northstar American Hero. They also provide guidance and expertise to customers looking to design and choose a flatbed truck camper rig.
AT Overland Equipment
AT Overland Equipment offers the Aterra XL flatbed truck camper, which is a lightweight, fibre-reinforced thermoplastic honeycomb composite camper. It features a smart interior design with a king-size bed, ample storage, and various appliances. The base price starts at $76,000.
Total Composites
Total Composites specializes in premium 4-season empty truck camper shells, including flatbed models such as the Bobcat 6.5' and 8', as well as the Wolverine 6.5' and 8'.
Alum-Line
Alum-Line is a company that specializes in manufacturing aluminum flatbeds. They are mentioned by a customer of Northstar as providing a good flatbed option.
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Flatbed truck camper costs
The cost of a flatbed truck camper varies depending on the brand, model, and features included. Here is a list of some popular flatbed truck campers with their respective costs:
- Four Wheel Camper Flatbed Hawk: Starting at $37,900, this camper offers a narrow girth, angled rear kickback, and a weight of only 1,325 pounds dry.
- AT Overland Aterra XL: Starting at $76,000, this camper features a lightweight fiber-reinforced thermoplastic honeycomb composite construction and is designed for full-size trucks.
- OEV Hudson Bay 6.75: Priced at $70,595, this camper offers a rock-solid build with composite panels, steel edging, and powder-coated aluminum interior cabinets.
- Phoenix Level 2 Flatbed: Starting at $56,025, this camper is known for its double-welded aluminum cage frame, fiberglass siding, and molded aerodynamic front end cap.
- Rugged Mountain X14: While the price is not mentioned, this camper offers a spacious rear dinette, a large kitchen, shower, and ample storage.
- OEV High Country Hard-Side: Starting at $122,995, this camper includes composite walls and roof, aluminum extrusions, dual-pane acrylic windows, and R8 insulation.
- BundutecUSA Odyssey Flatbed: Listed for $31,295, this camper features a side-entry, rear kickback, and standard features such as a 27-gallon freshwater tank and an exterior slide-out storage tray.
- Alaskan 8.5 Flatbed: This all-season expedition pop-up camper costs $42,700 and includes features like a leather dinette, wood-paneled ceiling, and maple cabinets.
- Rugged Mountain Denali 3S: Priced at $74,900, this luxurious flatbed camper boasts spacious holding tanks, a one-piece fiberglass front cap, and a massive exterior slide-out storage drawer.
It's important to note that the costs mentioned above may not include additional expenses such as installation, customizations, or necessary modifications to the truck. When considering a flatbed truck camper, it is recommended to consult with professionals to ensure the setup is safe and secure.
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Flatbed truck camper groups
There are several online forums and groups dedicated to discussing flatbed truck campers and sharing experiences, modifications, and tips. These groups can be a valuable resource for anyone interested in flatbed truck camping, whether they are experienced or just starting out.
One such group is the Truck Camper Magazine community. The magazine's website features articles and interviews with flatbed truck camper enthusiasts, such as Richard and Karen Parsons, who share their story of assembling and using their flatbed truck camper setup. The website also includes a dedicated section on flatbed truck campers in their "TC University," offering guidance and insights for those considering this type of camping.
Another popular forum for flatbed truck campers is the Good Sam Community. This online community has active discussions on the pros and cons of flatbed dually trucks and the modifications required for flatbed truck camping. Members share their experiences, offer advice, and provide valuable insights to fellow enthusiasts.
In addition, there are several other online resources and groups worth mentioning. The GoRVing subreddit on Reddit has a dedicated thread on flatbed truck campers, where users share their experiences and offer advice on modifications. Weretherussos.com, a blog about RVing and travel, also has a section on flatbed truck campers, including a comprehensive list of flatbed truck camper manufacturers and their locations. This blog provides valuable insights and first-hand accounts of the benefits of flatbed truck camping.
Lastly, for those seeking in-person connections and events, flatbed truck camping jamborees and expos are held in various locations. These gatherings provide opportunities to meet fellow enthusiasts, share experiences, and learn about the latest flatbed truck camping setups and innovations.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, a camper can go on a flatbed truck. However, some significant modifications may be required.
Putting a camper on a flatbed truck provides more floor space and a wider floor plan. It also offers more storage and flexibility, as you can transform your truck to suit different needs.
The centre of gravity is higher on a flatbed truck, and additional material is needed to build the camper, increasing the cost and weight. Campers also usually sit higher on flatbed trucks, which can be a downside.