
If you're looking to buy a pickup camper, there are a few options available to you. You can either choose to buy a new or used camper, with used campers being the more cost-effective option, with prices starting from $5,000. You can shop online or visit a dealer near you to find the right camper for your needs. Some popular brands for pickup campers include Lance Camper, Four Wheel Campers, and Adventurer Manufacturing. When deciding where to buy your pickup camper from, it is important to consider factors such as your budget, the features you require, and the compatibility of the camper with your truck.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Camper Type | Truck Camper |
Camper Style | Pop-up, Slide-in, Flatbed |
Camper Size | Compact, Cozy |
Camper Use | Short Getaways, Longer Journeys |
Camper Condition | New, Used |
Camper Price | $5,000 - $50,000+ |
Camper Brands | Lance, Palomino, Northern Lite, Adventurer Manufacturing, Travel Lite, Nucamp, Northstar Campers, Soaring Eagle, Alpenlite, Bigfoot, Capri Camper, Eagle Cap, Fleetwood, Forest River, Host, Keystone, Pastime, Scout Truck Campers, Skinny Guy Campers, Four Wheel Campers, Wolf Creek, Cirrus, Arctic Fox |
Camper Dealers | Camping World, RV Trader, Four Wheel Campers, Truck Camper Magazine, Lance Camper, RVs on Autotrader |
Camper Locations | Manassas, VA, New Port Richey, FL, Tacoma, WA, Round Rock, TX, Apex, NC, West Chesterfield, NH, Adamsburg, PA, Everett, WA, Happy Valley, OR, Salt Lake, UT, Billings, MT, Mesa, AZ, Colorado Springs, CO, Missoula, MT, Gadsden, AL, Huntsville, AL, Henderson, CO, Smyrna, DE, Jacksonville, FL, Norcross, GA, Emmett, ID, W. Chesterfield, NH, Ardmore, TN, Houston, TX, Savannah, GA |
What You'll Learn
Online marketplaces
There are many online marketplaces where you can buy a pickup camper. These include:
RVs.com
RVs.com is an online marketplace that allows users to buy, sell, finance, trade, and compare RVs. The platform offers a wide range of RVs from dealers and owners, with competitive rates and terms when tapping into their national network of lenders. You can also post your RV for sale or sell it instantly to their network of dealers. Additionally, they provide resources and services such as emergency medical and travel assistance, towing, lost key and lock-out help, and exclusive concierge hotlines.
Camping World
Camping World offers a range of new and used truck camper RVs for sale. They provide online shopping as well as in-person dealership visits. Their website includes a range of resources to help buyers make informed decisions, such as tips on inspecting used campers, determining camper compatibility with trucks, and understanding common maintenance issues. They also offer financing options and highlight the advantages of truck campers over other options.
RV Trader
RV Trader is an online platform that connects buyers and sellers of RVs, motorhomes, and campers. It offers a wide range of truck campers for sale from various makes and models, with inventory available across different US states and cities.
Van Viewer
Van Viewer is a marketplace specifically for camper vans. It provides listings of camper vans for sale across the nation, allowing buyers to explore van-specific features that meet their needs. The platform also offers resources such as a Facebook group for van enthusiasts, blog entries, and Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest accounts for additional van life inspiration.
Buy or Sell Campers
Buy or Sell Campers is a global marketplace for camper vans, connecting buyers and sellers worldwide. It provides advanced search features to help users find their dream camper van, as well as a directory of custom van builders. The platform also offers sales alerts, expert content, and a Van Life Hub with tips, guides, and listing updates.
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Dealerships
Online Dealership Listings
Many dealerships have online listings, which can be a convenient way to browse their inventory and compare prices from the comfort of your home. Websites such as RV Trader and Truck Camper Magazine provide comprehensive lists of dealerships across the United States, allowing you to search for specific brands, models, and locations.
New vs. Used
Financing Options
Try Before You Buy
After-Sales Support
When purchasing from a dealership, you can benefit from their after-sales support and services. Many dealerships offer maintenance, repairs, and renovations for your pickup camper, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. They may also provide guidance on camper care and offer accessories or upgrades to enhance your camping experience.
Examples of Dealerships
- Camping World: With locations across the United States, Camping World offers both new and used pickup campers. They provide online and in-person shopping options and emphasize the advantages of truck campers, including their compact size and cost-effectiveness.
- Bankston RV: With locations in Alabama and Tennessee, Bankston RV offers a range of new and used campers, including models from brands like Lance and Palomino.
- Princess Craft RV: Located in Texas, Princess Craft RV provides a selection of new and used campers, including the Wolf Creek 850 and Lance 1172 models.
- Truck Camper Warehouse: Based in West Chesterfield, New Hampshire, this dealership specializes in used truck campers, offering various models from brands like Northern Lite and Northstar.
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Budgeting and financing
The cost of a truck camper can vary depending on factors such as size, brand, features, age, and condition. Used truck campers can be found for around $5,000 to $10,000, while newer and more feature-rich models can range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more for premium models with luxury amenities. When budgeting and financing your truck camper, keep the following in mind:
Credit and Rates:
Your credit score will affect your interest rate. A higher credit score generally means you will be offered a lower interest rate, which can result in significant savings over the life of the loan.
Loan Terms:
Consider the balance between monthly payments and the length of the loan. Longer-term loans typically have lower monthly payments but will result in paying more interest over time.
Total Cost:
Factor in the overall cost of the loan, including both the principal amount and the interest you will pay.
Budget Planning:
Ensure that the monthly payments fit within your budget, taking into account all camper-related expenses such as fuel and maintenance costs.
RV-Specific Financing:
Explore lenders that specialize in RV loans, as they may be able to offer you tailored terms that better suit your needs.
Shop Online or In-Person:
Consider both online and in-person options when shopping for your truck camper. Camping World, for example, offers the convenience of online shopping as well as the option to visit a dealer near you.
New vs. Used:
Decide whether a new or used truck camper aligns better with your financial situation and preferences. A used truck camper can offer a more affordable option without sacrificing quality, and may even provide access to a wider range of features and amenities.
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Compatibility with your truck
Truck Weight Capacity Ratings:
It is important to understand the weight capacity ratings of your truck, such as the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating). These values, usually found on the driver's door jam or in the glove compartment, indicate the maximum loaded weight of the vehicle and its axles.
Camper Weights:
Camper weights can vary depending on optional equipment and the fullness of holding tanks. Consider both the dry weight (without water or supplies) and wet weight (with full tanks and supplies) of the camper. Make sure to include the weight of passengers, gear, and any trailer tongue weight.
Truck Configuration:
The configuration of your truck, such as 2WD vs. 4WD and standard cab vs. extended cab, will impact the compatibility with a camper. It's important to assess your truck's payload, towing capacity, bed dimensions, tailgate opening, and cab height to determine if a truck bed camper is suitable.
Support Equipment:
Adding support equipment like air springs, special shock absorbers, cabover shocks, and upgraded tires can improve the handling and stability of your truck when paired with a camper. Consult a dealer or specialist to ensure proper installation of any additional equipment.
Truck and Camper Fit Compatibility:
Not all trucks and campers are compatible in terms of fit. Measure and verify that your truck's bed length, width, rail height, cab height, and tailgate opening will accommodate the camper. Also, consider the center of gravity of the camper to ensure it is forward of the truck's rear axle.
Truck Brand and Class:
Consider the brand and class of your truck. Currently, there are six automotive brands recommended and approved by camper manufacturers for truck campers: Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Nissan, Ram, and Toyota. Each of these brands offers different classes of trucks, such as mid-size, half-ton, three-quarter ton, and one-ton, that may be more or less suitable for a truck camper.
Engine Choice:
The choice between a gas or diesel engine will depend on the weight of your camper and your intended use. Diesel engines offer better power, torque, and fuel economy but are more expensive upfront and have higher maintenance costs. Gas engines are less expensive, require less maintenance, and offer more payload capacity due to their lighter weight.
Truck Bed Length:
The length of your truck bed will impact the type of camper you can accommodate. Pop-up campers typically work better with short bed trucks, while hard-side campers tend to be more compatible with long bed trucks. Super short bed trucks (under 6.5 feet) have limited compatibility and are generally not recommended unless necessary.
Truck Cab Style:
The majority of truck campers are designed for Extended Cab or Crew Cab trucks, as they offer more space for passengers, pets, and gear. Regular Cab trucks may have visibility issues when paired with a camper, as the cabover can block the driver's view. Therefore, Extended Cab or Crew Cab configurations are generally recommended.
Four-Wheel Drive vs. Two-Wheel Drive:
If you plan to camp off-road or off-grid, four-wheel drive is essential. It also provides better insurance in slippery or unexpected conditions. However, two-wheel drive trucks may be sufficient if you only intend to camp on paved surfaces and can help reduce costs and increase payload capacity.
Single Rear Wheel vs. Dual Rear Wheel:
The choice between single and dual rear wheels is relevant for one-ton trucks and above. Pop-up and lighter hard-side campers typically pair better with single rear wheel trucks, while heavier hard-side campers with slides often require the capacity of a dual rear wheel truck.
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New vs used
When considering where to buy a pickup camper, it is important to weigh up the pros and cons of buying new versus buying used.
New
If you opt for a new pickup camper, you can expect to pay a premium, but you will have the peace of mind of knowing that you are the first owner and that the camper is in pristine condition. New pickup campers can cost anywhere from $15,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the features and amenities included.
Used
On the other hand, buying a used pickup camper can be a more cost-effective option, with prices starting as low as $5,000. While you may have to compromise on certain features or amenities, used campers can still offer excellent value for money, especially if you are on a tight budget. Plus, you may be able to access a wider range of features that might have been unaffordable when buying new.
When buying a used pickup camper, it is important to thoroughly inspect the camper for any signs of damage, rust, or structural issues. You should also check that all appliances, plumbing, and electrical components are in proper working condition and that the camper is compatible with your truck in terms of size and weight capacity.
Where to Buy
Whether you decide to buy new or used, there are several options for where to make your purchase. You can shop online or visit a dealer near you, such as Camping World, Four Wheel Campers, or RV Trader. These dealers offer a range of new and used pickup campers from different manufacturers, so you can compare prices, models, and features to find the best option for your needs and budget.
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Frequently asked questions
You can buy a pickup camper from a variety of dealers and private sellers. Some companies that sell pickup campers include Camping World, RV Trader, Four Wheel Campers, Lance Camper, and Autotrader.
Some pickup camper brands include Lance, Palomino, Northwood Mfg, Northern Lite, Adventurer Manufacturing, Travel Lite, Nucamp, and Northstar Campers.
The cost of a truck camper can vary depending on factors such as size, brand, features, age, and condition. Used truck campers can range from $5,000 to $10,000, while newer and more feature-rich models can range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more for premium models.
There are several things to consider before buying a pickup camper, such as truck compatibility, intended use, and budget. It's important to assess your truck's payload, towing capacity, bed dimensions, tailgate opening, and cab height to determine if a truck camper is the right fit. You should also consider whether you'll be using the camper for short getaways or longer journeys, as this will impact the size and features you'll need.
Pickup campers offer several advantages, including their compact size, which allows for navigating narrow roads and finding unique camping spots. They are also cost-effective, combining transportation and accommodation, and can be easier to store when not in use.