Pulling A Pop-Up Camper: Is A Toyota Tacoma Enough?

The Toyota Tacoma is a popular mid-size truck known for its durability, fuel efficiency, and off-road capabilities. With a towing capacity ranging from 3,500 to 6,800 pounds, depending on the model year and trim level, it can pull various campers, including pop-up campers. When considering a pop-up camper for the Toyota Tacoma, it's important to match the camper's weight and dimensions to the truck's payload capacity and bed size. This guide will explore different pop-up camper options and provide essential information for potential buyers.

Pop-up camper weight and towing capacity

When considering purchasing a pop-up camper, it is essential to understand the weight and towing capacity requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience. Pop-up campers offer a convenient and affordable option for camping enthusiasts, but it is crucial to select a camper that is compatible with your towing vehicle.

Pop-up Camper Weight

Pop-up campers come in various sizes and configurations, and their weight can vary significantly. The weight of a pop-up camper depends on several factors, including the size, features, and materials used. Here are some key considerations:

• Size: Larger pop-up campers will naturally weigh more than smaller ones. The size of the camper you choose should be based on your specific needs, such as the number of people sleeping in it and the amount of space required.
• Features: The amenities and features included in a pop-up camper will impact its weight. For example, adding a bathroom, kitchen, or entertainment system will increase the overall weight. It is essential to decide which features are essential and which can be compromised to manage the weight effectively.
• Materials: The type of materials used in the construction of the pop-up camper will also affect its weight. Heavier materials will result in a heavier camper, while lightweight materials can help reduce the overall weight.

On average, pop-up campers weigh around 2,000 pounds. However, this can range from as little as 600 pounds for smaller campers to over 4,500 pounds for larger, more feature-rich campers. It is worth noting that the weight of a pop-up camper is typically referred to as the "Unloaded Vehicle Weight" (UVW), which represents the weight of the camper when it reaches the manufacturer with a full fuel tank. This is the lightest weight of the camper before any gear or personal items are added.

Towing Capacity

When selecting a pop-up camper, it is crucial to ensure that your towing vehicle has the capacity to handle the weight. Here are some key considerations:

• Vehicle Type: The type of vehicle you own will determine its towing capacity. Smaller cars and SUVs will have lower towing capacities compared to larger trucks. It is important to refer to your vehicle's owner's manual or look up the towing capacity based on the make, model, or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
• Towing Package: Some vehicles may have a towing package that enhances their towing capacity. For example, a Toyota Tacoma with a V6 engine and a tow package can tow up to 6,400 lbs, while the same model without the tow package has a lower capacity of 3,500 lbs.
• Trailer Brakes: Trailers over 3,000 lbs are required to have trailer brakes. However, even if your trailer is under this weight, it is recommended to consider adding trailer brakes for safety, especially if the weight exceeds 2,500 lbs.
• Weight Distribution: When towing a pop-up camper, it is essential to distribute the weight evenly to avoid putting excessive strain on the hitch or jack. This can be achieved by balancing the load in the camper and ensuring it is properly secured before towing.

Matching Camper Weight to Towing Capacity

When selecting a pop-up camper, it is crucial to match the weight of the camper to the towing capacity of your vehicle. Here are some key considerations:

• Dry Weight vs. GVWR: When evaluating pop-up campers, you will often see two weights listed: the dry weight and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The dry weight refers to the unloaded weight of the camper, while the GVWR represents the maximum weight the camper can handle, including gear and full tanks. It is recommended to choose a camper with a GVWR that matches or is below your vehicle's towing capacity.
• Wiggle Room: It is generally not advisable to max out your vehicle's towing capacity. Leaving some "wiggle room" allows for additional cargo, fresh water, or passengers. It also reduces the strain on your vehicle and improves handling and braking ability.
• Trailer Weight vs. Vehicle Capacity: Remember that the towing capacity of your vehicle includes both the weight of the trailer and the weight of the items inside the vehicle. Therefore, you should not only consider the weight of the pop-up camper but also the gear, water, and passengers that will be in the vehicle.

In summary, when choosing a pop-up camper, it is essential to consider both the weight of the camper and the towing capacity of your vehicle. By understanding the weight ratings and definitions, such as UVW and GVWR, you can make an informed decision that ensures a safe and enjoyable camping experience. Remember to leave some wiggle room and evenly distribute the weight to avoid exceeding your vehicle's capacity and putting yourself and others at risk.

Camper shell vs slide-in camper

A camper shell, also known as a canopy, topper, cap, or truck topper, is a small housing or rigid canopy that is used as an accessory for a pickup truck. It is usually made of fibreglass or aluminium, and sometimes wood or canvas. It is mounted on top of the truck's rear bed, covering the entire bed, and is large enough to be used for camping. Camper shells are lockable, weatherproof, and provide storage for cargo or sleeping space for camping. They are also relatively lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to mount and dismount.

On the other hand, slide-in campers are more expensive and heavier than camper shells. They are geared towards half-ton trucks and require more effort to mount, secure, stock, and drive. Slide-in campers are more complex and mechanically sophisticated than camper shells, and they offer more space and amenities. They are a good option for those who want a more comfortable and feature-rich camping experience but are willing to invest more time and money.

When deciding between a camper shell and a slide-in camper for your Toyota Tacoma, consider your budget, the level of comfort and features you desire, and the ease of use and installation. If you prioritise affordability, customisation, and versatility, a camper shell is a great choice. If you are willing to spend more for additional space and amenities, a slide-in camper may be a better option.

Examples of Camper Shells and Slide-in Campers

Camper Shells:

• ARE Truck Cap: This option is great for keeping your gear dry during camping trips. It can be customised to match the colour of your truck, as the author of this article did by raptor-lining a used white cap to match their grey truck.
• Bel-Air Camper Shell: A lightweight option, weighing about 300 pounds, making it ideal for payload-challenged trucks. It provides cab-height clearance for cargo and can be equipped with roof racks for additional storage.
• AT Overland Tacoma Habitat Shell Camper: Designed to bridge the gap between a traditional truck topper and a slide-in camper, the Habitat features a fold-out top that allows you to stand fully in the truck bed while being sheltered by an all-season tent. It has a base weight of 340 pounds and a sleeping bed capacity of 600 pounds.

Slide-in Campers:

• Four Wheel Campers Fleet and Swift Models: These models are designed to fit mid-sized trucks and offer lightweight options starting at around 1,000 pounds.
• Kimbo Camper: This is a hard-top slide-in camper option that is pricier but offers smartly designed interior space.
• AT Overland Habitat: This slide-in camper stands out for its spacious and interesting design, featuring barn-style doors.

Wedge-style campers

Pros of Wedge-Style Campers:

• Price and Comfort: They offer a good balance between the price and comfort of a hard-shell roof tent and a full-size slide-in camper.
• Convenience: Wedge campers eliminate the challenges of towing a trailer while still providing the convenience of having your camp gear ready to go.
• Lightweight and Strong: The GFC Platform Topper, for example, is described as "radically stronger than any camper shell before," providing total access to your bed and dynamic load capacity of up to 500 lbs.
• Ease of Deployment: Wedge campers are known for their quick setup and takedown, making them ideal for spontaneous camping trips.
• Storage: They allow you to store your mattress, sleeping bag, pillows, and other essentials inside when closed, so you're ready to sleep as soon as you reach your campsite.
• Protection from Elements: Wedge campers offer protection from the elements, including rain and dust. The Vagabond Outdoors Drifter and Nomad, for example, feature vinyl-coated polyester tents with excellent sealing against water and dust.
• Customisation Options: Many wedge campers offer a range of customisation options, such as lighting packages, interior storage systems, kitchen systems, and even toilets.
• Community Support: Some wedge camper brands have a strong community of owners who can provide support, answers to questions, and advice on forums and other platforms.

Cons of Wedge-Style Campers:

• Space Constraints: One of the main drawbacks of wedge campers is the limited space, especially when compared to other options like slide-in campers.
• Insulation and Airtightness: Some wedge campers may not provide the same level of insulation or airtightness as hardtop options, which can be a concern in colder climates.
• Mattress Comfort: The mattress comfort and thickness can vary among wedge campers, with some users finding them too firm or too short.
• Access to Bed: Accessing the bed in some wedge campers can be cumbersome, especially at night, as you may need to move panels or lift them out of the way.
• Water and Dust Sealing: While most wedge campers offer good sealing against water and dust, there have been reports of water leaks and dust incursion in some models, particularly around rear seals and doors.
• Complexity: Some wedge campers may have complex features or components that require careful consideration and maintenance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

When choosing a wedge-style camper, it is essential to consider your intended usage, budget, and specific needs. Be sure to research different brands and models, read reviews, and, if possible, test them out before making a purchase decision.

Pop-up clamp-down camper

The pop-up clamp-down camper is a relatively new design, similar to the popup slide-in truck camper. The manufacturer builds this camper like a canopy shell that you can attach to the walls of your truck using C-clamps or bolts. Deleting the flooring makes this camper substantially lighter than its popup slide-in cousin.

Ovrlnd Camper

Ovrlnd Camper unveiled this design in 2018 at Overland Expo. The difference in the Ovrlnd camper is that you will have to drive to Flagstaff, Arizona, for pick-up, or you can pay for shipping. The installation process is seamless, and the company offers a tour of the warehouse where the campers are made.

Project M

Project M is another pop-up clamp-down camper manufacturer. They have been around since the 1970s and are known for their reputable manufacturing. Their campers have a lot of space, with straight-up walls that maximise the interior.

Other Manufacturers

Other manufacturers of pop-up clamp-down campers include Four Wheel Campers, AT Overland, Topo Toppers, and Skinny Guy Camper. The Skinny Guy camper and AT Overland Habitat stand out for their spacious and interesting designs.

Camper suspension upgrades

When preparing a Toyota Tacoma for towing a pop-up camper, it is important to consider suspension upgrades to accommodate the added weight. Here are some options to enhance the suspension system and improve the overall ride quality:

Helper Springs:

Toyota Tacoma Helper Springs can provide additional support for your Tacoma when towing a pop-up camper. Helper springs are designed to work with your existing leaf springs, providing extra load-levelling capacity. They are available in different capacities, ranging from 500 to 3,500 pounds, to match your specific needs.

Air Helper Springs:

Air helper springs are another option to maximise your Tacoma's safe load-carrying capacity and stability. These air-powered springs can handle loads ranging from 3,200 to 5,000 pounds, ensuring a smoother ride when towing a pop-up camper.

Suspension Stabilizers:

Adding suspension stabilizers can significantly improve the handling characteristics of your Tacoma when loaded with a camper. They help keep your springs actively under load and reduce side-to-side sway and body roll, enhancing overall stability.

Sway Bars:

If you experience excessive sway or body roll during turns, consider installing a sway bar. A sway bar, also known as a torsion spring, resists the truck's leaning on turns, providing added stability. The Hellwig Big Wig sway bar is a popular choice for larger campers, offering excellent support and durability.

StableLoads:

Torklift StableLoads are designed to work with your truck's overload springs, ensuring they are engaged from the start. This results in a more level ride, reduced porpoising on bumps, and minimised sway and body roll during turns. StableLoads come in two types: permanent fixed mounts for upper overload springs and quick-disconnect versions for lower overload springs.

When upgrading your Tacoma's suspension, it is essential to consider your specific needs and budget. Test how your truck handles with the pop-up camper first, then make informed decisions about which suspension modifications are necessary. Remember, each modification should be made one at a time to accurately determine its effectiveness.

Frequently asked questions