Camper Shells: Worth Buying?

can you buy a camper shell

Camper shells, also known as truck caps or tonneau covers, are a great way to transform your truck bed into a secure storage space, protecting your belongings from the weather and potential theft. With a range of options available, including soft and hard folding tonneau covers, as well as retractable and roll-up styles, you can choose the level of protection and accessibility that suits your needs. Whether you're an avid camper or just appreciate the look, companies like RealTruck, Campway's, and American Camper Shells offer custom-fit camper shells with installation services and a variety of accessories to personalise your truck.

Characteristics Values
Camper Shells Types RSI SmartCap EVO-a Adventure, RSI SmartCap EVO-s Sport, RSI SmartCap EVO-c Commercial, ARE Z2 Series Truck Cap, Diamond Edition DCU Series, ARE Classic Aluminum Series, Century High-C Sport, SnugTop Sport Hi-Liner
Brands RealTruck A.R.E., Campway, American Camper Shells, LEER, SNUGTOP
Use Cases Transforming a truck bed into a secure storage utility area safe from the elements, camping, aesthetic purposes
Customization Custom fit depending on the vehicle, various models and styles available, can be painted to match OEM paint color
Installation Installation services provided by some companies
Accessories Roof racks, LED lighting, pet screen protectors, truck bed covers, tonneau covers
Pricing Contact for pricing, some companies offer financing

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Camper shell types

Camper shells, also known as canopies or truck caps, are a great addition to any truck. They provide added security and protection from the elements. There are a variety of camper shell types to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits.

One of the most popular types is the fiberglass camper shell. These shells can be custom-fit to your truck, with heights ranging from the same height as the truck cab to taller options. Fiberglass units can be painted to match the factory color of your truck and often include tinted windows for aesthetics and security. They are known for their stylish and aerodynamic design, making them a popular choice for those who want a natural look.

Another option is an aluminum camper shell. Aluminum shells offer durability and strength, making them ideal for carrying heavy loads. They are often used in commercial applications due to their ability to withstand wear and tear. Aluminum shells may not have the same level of customisation as fiberglass shells, but they are a great choice for those prioritising durability and functionality.

Soft camper shells are also available and are typically made from materials like canvas or vinyl stretched over an aluminium frame. These are lightweight and easy to operate, making them ideal for those who need quick access to their truck bed. Soft folding tonneau covers are a popular choice within this category, offering theft and weather resistance at a cost-effective price point.

Hard folding tonneau covers are another option, providing next-level security and durability. They use heavy-duty materials like aluminium, poly, or composite top panels, and offer maximum impact, theft, and weather resistance. These covers are simple to install and operate, providing intuitive access to your truck bed.

Retractable tonneau covers are a flexible and visually streamlined option. They feature lightweight aluminium or composite slat construction, offering comprehensive cargo protection while maintaining a sleek and minimally invasive aesthetic.

No matter your needs, there is a camper shell that can be tailored to your truck and lifestyle.

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Camper shell brands

Camper shells, also known as truck caps, truck canopies, topper shells or box shells, are a popular way to increase the functionality of your vehicle. They can be purchased from a variety of brands, each offering unique features and designs.

A.R.E

A.R.E offers a wide range of covers, caps, commercial gear and accessories. They also provide limited-time coupons and deals. Their products include the CX Revo Truck Cap, the CX Evolve Truck Cap, and the Walk-In Door Truck Cap, among others.

ATC/Astro

This American brand offers a fully customisable system, with a range of caps, lids, cargo management solutions and accessories.

Century

Century is known for its caps but also offers commercial products and accessories. Their website provides a dealer locator to help customers find the nearest store.

Gemtop

Gemtop stands out with its sturdy steel construction, a unique feature compared to the usual aluminium or fibreglass options. They offer work toppers and commercial applications.

Leer

Leer provides a full selection of caps, toppers, commercial caps and accessories. Their website includes an easy-to-use fit finder to ensure customers get the right product for their vehicle.

Snugtop

Snugtop has a range of caps, tonneau covers and accessories for all major truck brands.

Unicover

Unicover offers a large selection of aluminium and fibreglass shells, providing customers with a choice between lightweight and durable options.

Other brands worth mentioning include Raider, which specialises in fibreglass toppers, and Ranch, which offers fibreglass units.

When choosing a camper shell brand, it is important to consider your specific needs, such as the level of security, ease of access, and the type of cargo you will be carrying. The material of the camper shell, whether it be aluminium, fibreglass or composite, will also impact the cost, durability and aesthetics.

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Camper shell prices

Aluminum is the most cost-effective option, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $2,500. Aluminum shells are usually available in limited colours, such as white and black, and may not match the colour of your truck. They are also more prone to dents and can look rough over time.

Fiberglass camper shells offer a more seamless look and can be painted to match your truck. They are more durable than aluminum but heavier and less aerodynamic, weighing up to 200 lbs. Fiberglass shells are also more expensive, typically costing between $4,000 and $5,000.

Composite or plastic camper shells are a newer option that combines the utility of aluminum with the aesthetics of fiberglass. Prices for composite shells vary widely, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the features included.

Stainless steel camper shells, such as those offered by SmartCap, are the most expensive option, with prices starting at $3,495 and going over $4,000. These shells are highly durable and long-lasting due to the material used in their construction.

It's important to note that the prices mentioned above are for full-size trucks and may vary depending on the specific vehicle and the retailer. Additionally, some companies offer deals and discounts, which can further impact the final price of a camper shell.

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Camper shell installation

Camper shells are a great way to protect your cargo and keep your truck bed dry and safe from the elements. They can also add value to your truck and potentially save you money on fuel costs by reducing wind drag. The process of installing a camper shell can be relatively simple and stress-free, especially if you follow these steps:

Selecting the Right Camper Shell

First, you need to find a camper shell that suits your needs. Consider the size of your truck and how you use it. If you have a smaller truck and don't often haul cargo, you won't need a heavy-duty camper shell. Consult truck manufacturers, dealerships, and consumer testimonials to make an informed decision.

Making Preliminary Measurements

Before installing, measure the length and width of your truck's bed and the camper shell. Confirm that they have the same dimensions to ensure a proper fit.

Putting the Camper Shell in Place

With the measurements confirmed, it's time to lift the camper shell onto the truck's bed. This step is easier with an assistant as the camper shell can be very heavy. Lower the vehicle's tailgate to give yourself more space to work. Properly align the camper shell with the truck's bed, ensuring no overlap.

Clamping the Camper Shell

Once the camper shell and truck bed are aligned, use a socket set and C-clamps to securely clamp the camper shell in place. Clamp both sides and all four corners to prevent unexpected detachment. Put the tailgate back in place and test the sturdiness of your installation by applying force to the camper shell.

Applying Weather Stripping (Optional)

To create a tight seal between the camper shell and your truck bed, you can apply weather stripping. Turn over the camper shell and lay it on a soft blanket or sheet on a grassy or unpaved area to prevent scratching. Apply adhesive foam stripping to the bottom edge of the cap, creating a seal to protect your cargo from the elements and reduce wind drag.

Securing the Camper Shell

Finally, use a socket wrench or an impact power wrench with a socket adapter to securely tighten the clamps. Your camper shell is now ready to use!

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Camper shell accessories

Camper shells are a great way to transform your truck bed into a secure storage area, safe from the elements. There are a wide variety of accessories available to maximise the utility of your camper shell, catering to a range of needs and uses.

Interior Accessories

  • Bed Slides are a custom cargo management system that allows you to make the most of your truck bed. They provide a pullout sliding drawer for secure storage while still giving you full use of your truck bed floor.
  • Overhead Gear Nets are perfect for keeping bulky or irregularly shaped items like clothing, blankets, or life jackets secure and out of the way.
  • Ceiling-mounted pullouts utilise often-unused ceiling space to provide ready-to-use storage for tools and equipment.
  • 12V Powerblocks add a 12V power source to your camper shell, providing three standard accessory sockets with an inline fuse for circuit protection.
  • Interior dome lights are essential for accessing the contents of your truck bed at night or in low-light conditions.
  • Automatic 12V light switches turn on and off interior dome lights when you open and close the rear door to your camper shell.
  • Bedrugs and headliners offer superior protection to your truck bed and camper shell interior, with the look and feel of carpet.
  • Folding hangers create hanging space for clothing and jackets, keeping them off the floor and easily accessible.

Exterior Accessories

  • Adjustable roof rack systems provide adaptable and expandable roof storage solutions. They are designed to haul items that are too large to fit within the camper shell, such as bicycles, skis, canoes, and luggage.
  • Camper shell truck racks are designed to fit around your camper shell, allowing you to haul lengthy or bulky gear without removing the shell.
  • Removable front windows can be easily cleaned and provide extra space for long cargo. They are available in static or sliding designs, with the latter offering extra ventilation and pass-through access from the cab to the cap.
  • Fold-up and sliding side windows provide access to your cargo from the side of your truck bed. They feature double T-handle locks for added security.
  • Sliding side windows can remain open during transportation to allow better ventilation.
  • Solid side doors provide access to your truck bed but restrict the view of your cargo for added security.
  • Screen protectors are bolted to the inside frames of side sliding windows, offering enhanced ventilation and security for pets.

Frequently asked questions

Camper shells, also known as truck caps or tonneau covers, are custom-fit accessories for your truck that transform the bed into a secure storage area, protecting your items from the elements.

Camper shells can be purchased from authorised distributors and dealers, such as RealTruck A.R.E. and American Camper Shells. These companies often provide installation services and accessories to customise your truck.

The cost of camper shells varies depending on the brand, model, and customisation options. Some companies offer financing options to help make the purchase more affordable. It is recommended to contact the seller directly to inquire about pricing and availability.

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