Supporting Pop-Up Campers: Do Poles Matter?

does a pop up camper need support poles

Pop-up campers are a great option for dry camping and affordable weekend getaways. They are compact and cosy, but their small size can also be a limitation. One of the most important considerations when using a pop-up camper is ensuring a comfortable sleeping space. This is where support poles come in. Support poles are essential for providing stability and strength to the bed of your pop-up camper, especially when camping on rugged terrain. They are designed to bear the weight of the bed and prevent sagging, ensuring a good night's rest.

Characteristics Values
Purpose To provide support for pop-up camper beds and prevent sagging
Materials Steel, conduit, rebar, wood, plywood
Weight Capacity Up to 2,300 pounds when empty; standard payload capacity of 1,100 pounds
Adjustability Telescoping, drill adjustable, crank adjustable
Compatibility Coleman, Fleetwood, RV, camper, and travel trailer
Installation DIY methods available; can be purchased and installed as replacement parts
Maintenance Regular tightening of bolts recommended to ensure smooth sliding of beds
Storage Should be placed under mattresses during tear-down; should not be placed directly on linoleum floor

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Support poles for pop-up camper beds

Support poles are essential for pop-up camper beds, providing stability and comfort for a good night's rest during your outdoor adventures. Here's a comprehensive guide to understanding and selecting the right support poles for your pop-up camper bed setup.

Understanding the Need for Support Poles

Pop-up campers offer a unique blend of portability and comfort, but they require careful setup to ensure stability. Support poles are crucial for several reasons. Firstly, they bear the weight of the bed and prevent it from collapsing or sagging, ensuring the bed remains sturdy and comfortable. Additionally, they help distribute weight more evenly, reducing stress on the bed frame and increasing its longevity.

Types of Support Poles

There are two common types of support poles found in pop-up campers:

  • Shepherd's Pole: This type of pole attaches to the bed bow and provides centre canvas support over the beds. It usually has a curved or hooked end, resembling a shepherd's staff, hence the name.
  • Straight Support Poles: These poles are typically placed at the ends of the bed to provide additional support and prevent sagging. They may be longer or shorter, depending on the bed size and design.

Sizing Support Poles

Sizing support poles correctly is critical for the stability and safety of your pop-up camper bed. The standard method for determining the required length is to measure from the bottom of the bed, where the bracket is located, to the hole at the bottom of the camper. This ensures that the pole is a perfect fit and can bear the weight effectively.

Purchasing or Making Support Poles

When it comes to acquiring support poles, you have two main options: purchasing them or making them yourself. Several online retailers, such as Coleman Popup Parts and Hi-Standard Outfitters, offer a range of support poles and related parts. However, if you're handy and want to save some money, you can make your own support poles using materials like conduit from your local hardware store.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Proper installation of support poles is crucial for safety. Always refer to your camper's manual for specific instructions. Additionally, regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your support poles. Keep them clean and free from debris, and inspect them for any signs of wear or damage. It's also a good idea to keep spare poles and parts on hand in case of unexpected issues.

In conclusion, support poles play a vital role in ensuring the comfort and stability of your pop-up camper bed. By understanding the different types, sizing them correctly, and practising proper installation and maintenance, you can rest easy knowing your bed is secure and ready for a good night's sleep under the stars.

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DIY support poles

A pop-up camper typically comes with support poles to hold up the beds. However, if you need to replace them or want to make your own, there are a few DIY options.

One option is to use a 3/4-inch conduit and bend it to match the dimensions of your bed. You can also cut rebar to fit inside the tubing to relieve pressure on the support pole. If you prefer to work with wood, you can create a T-shape or an H-shape out of 2x4s for maximum stability.

To determine the length of your DIY support poles, pull out the beds and measure from the bottom of the bed where the bracket is to the hole at the bottom of the camper.

If you're looking for an alternative to support poles, you can reinforce your pop-up camper bed in other ways, such as by installing bed frame braces or support webbing. Additionally, a foam mattress topper or an adjustable bed frame can help distribute weight more evenly and reduce sagging.

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Support poles storage

Support poles are essential for pop-up campers, providing stability and structure. When it comes to storing these poles, there are a few options to consider. Here are some detailed suggestions for support pole storage:

Storage Location Ideas:

  • Utilize the space between the tent beds: One idea is to store the poles in the gap between the tent beds when they are pushed in. This keeps them easily accessible and all in one place.
  • Use a pouch or bag: Consider investing in a long pouch or bag specifically designed for pole storage. This helps to keep the poles together and can be stored in various places within the camper.
  • Store under the bunk: Some pop-up campers have built-in storage areas under the bunk beds. This is a convenient option to keep the poles out of the way and safe during transport.
  • Opt for a collapsible design: Look for support poles that are designed to be collapsible or telescopic. This way, they can be folded down to a more compact size and stored in smaller spaces.

Storage Techniques:

  • Measure and label: Before storing your poles, measure their length and label them accordingly. This will make it easier to identify and retrieve the correct pole when setting up your camper.
  • Group and bundle: Keep poles of similar lengths together and consider using bungee cords or straps to bundle them neatly. This prevents tangling and makes it easier to organize and retrieve the poles.
  • Utilize storage compartments: If your camper has built-in storage compartments or cabinets, utilize these spaces to store the poles. This helps keep them secure and out of the way.
  • Consider a pole bag: Invest in a pole bag or carrier specifically designed for support poles. These bags often have individual compartments for each pole, making organization and transport easier.

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Support poles for awnings

Awnings are a great addition to a pop-up camper, providing shade and protection from the elements. When it comes to support poles for awnings, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, it's important to ensure that the poles are compatible with your specific awning model and that you have the correct measurements.

One option for support poles is to use telescopic poles, which can be adjusted to the desired length. These poles are often made of lightweight materials, such as aluminium, and can be extended or retracted to fit the awning. They typically come with a twist-lock mechanism or push-button locking system for easy adjustment.

Another option is to use adjustable height poles, which allow you to customise the height of your awning. These poles usually have multiple sections that can be moved up or down, with a locking mechanism to secure them in place. This is ideal if you need to adjust the height of your awning to accommodate different vehicles or changing weather conditions.

When choosing support poles, it's important to consider the weight rating of the poles to ensure they can withstand the expected wind and weather conditions. Additionally, look for poles with rubber feet or pads to protect your vehicle and provide extra stability.

For added convenience, some support poles come with accessories or integrated features, such as LED light strips or hangers for lights and other decorations. When purchasing support poles, it's worth checking if they include any additional items, such as storage bags, repair kits, or spare parts.

Finally, if you're handy, you may be able to make your own support poles using conduit or PVC pipe. This can be a cost-effective solution, but it's important to ensure that you have accurate measurements and the correct tools to cut and shape the poles.

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Support poles for roofs

Support poles are essential for pop-up camper roofs, and they come in various types and sizes. The roof-mounted tent pole bracket, for instance, has double push pins that fit into the end of shepherd hook poles. These brackets are usually sold in pairs and are designed to be mounted on the roof.

Another type of support pole is the shepherd's pole, which attaches to the bed bow and provides centre canvas support over the beds. These poles are typically king-sized and can fit most pop-up campers.

Additionally, support poles can be used to secure awnings. When setting up an awning, it is important to stake it down every time to prevent it from being lifted by the wind and potentially damaging the camper roof.

For bed support, poles can be created using a 3/4-inch conduit bent to match the bed's dimensions. Alternatively, rebar can be cut to fit inside the tubing to relieve pressure on the bed support pole.

It is also important to note that the weight capacity of a pop-up camper varies, and newer models generally have higher capacities than those made before 2000. Therefore, it is crucial to refer to the owner's manual to determine the weight limit of your camper and whether additional support is needed.

Frequently asked questions

Support poles are essential for pop-up campers to provide stability and prevent sagging. They are usually made of sturdy materials like steel or conduit and are adjustable to fit the dimensions of the camper.

If you notice any sagging in your pop-up camper's bed or canvas, it's a good indication that you need to add support poles. Additionally, check your owner's manual for the weight capacity and limits of your camper. If you exceed the weight limit, which is typically around 2,000 pounds, your camper will likely require extra support.

Support poles can be purchased from various retailers, including Amazon, eBay, and specialized camping equipment stores. You may also be able to find them at hardware stores like Home Depot.

Yes, there are a few alternatives to consider. You can reinforce your pop-up camper bed by installing bed frame braces or support webbing. Additionally, you can improve weight distribution by using a foam mattress topper or an adjustable bed frame.

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