
If you're looking to buy a truck bed camper, there are a variety of options available to you. Before you start shopping, it's important to consider factors such as your truck's payload, towing capacity, bed dimensions, tailgate opening, and cab height to determine if a truck bed camper is a suitable option. You should also think about your intended use and budget. Truck bed campers can be purchased new or used, with prices ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on features and condition.
Several companies specialize in truck bed campers, including Lance Camper, Four Wheel Campers, Arctic Fox, nüCamp, and Hallmark, among others. These companies offer a range of models with different features, such as slide-in or pop-up designs, wet or dry baths, and various amenities to suit your needs.
When purchasing a truck bed camper, you can choose to shop online or visit a dealer in person to find the perfect option for your vehicle and camping requirements.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Online Retailers | Amazon, RV Trader, Camping World |
In-Person Retailers | Camping World dealerships |
Camper Types | Pop-up, hard-sided, slide-in, flatbed |
Camper Brands | Lance, Napier, Joytutus, Guide Gear, Umbrauto, Supertramp, Four Wheel, AT Overland, Hallmark, Arctic Fox, Bundutec, Bison Overland, Phoenix, Host Campers, Alaskan |
What You'll Learn
Online marketplaces
There are a variety of online marketplaces where you can buy a truck bed camper. Here are some options to explore:
Camping World
Camping World offers a range of new and used truck campers for sale. They provide an online inventory that allows customers to browse and purchase slide-in and pop-up truck campers from the convenience of their homes. Camping World also has physical dealerships where customers can shop in person. The website offers a wealth of information, including tips on inspecting used campers, determining compatibility with your truck, and deciding if a truck bed camper is the right choice for your needs.
RV Trader
RV Trader is an online platform that connects buyers with local dealers and private sellers of RVs and truck campers. They offer a wide range of truck campers from different brands, with various features and floor plans to choose from. The website allows users to filter their search by make, model, location, and other relevant criteria.
Amazon
Amazon, the popular e-commerce giant, also offers a selection of truck bed campers and related products. While Amazon may not have the same extensive inventory as specialized RV websites, it is still worth exploring for its convenience and the ability to find unique camper accessories. Amazon also offers user reviews, which can be helpful in making an informed purchase decision.
Lance Camper
Lance Camper is a well-known manufacturer of truck campers, having won awards for their products. Their website provides detailed information about their different camper models, including dry weights, floor lengths, and special features. Lance Camper offers a range of options, from lightweight pop-up campers to more spacious and feature-rich models.
Four Wheel Campers
Four Wheel Campers specializes in customizable pop-up campers that fit into your truck's bed. They offer lightweight options that provide versatility for off-roading and camping adventures. Four Wheel Campers have been in business since 1972, and their classic side-in pop-up camper has been a popular choice for decades. Their website provides information about their different models, and they also have a network of dealers across the country.
In addition to these online marketplaces, it is worth considering online forums and user review websites to gather insights and make informed decisions about your truck bed camper purchase. These sources can provide valuable information about specific camper models, common issues, and the overall reputation of different brands.
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Local dealerships
If you're looking to buy a truck bed camper, local dealerships are a great option to explore. Dealerships offer a wide range of new and used truck campers from different brands, providing you with various options to choose from. Here are some benefits of purchasing from local dealerships:
- Convenience and Support: Local dealerships offer the advantage of proximity, allowing you to conveniently visit their physical locations to inspect the campers in person. This hands-on experience lets you assess the camper's condition, features, and compatibility with your truck. Additionally, dealerships often provide after-sales support, which can be valuable if you have any questions or need assistance with your purchase.
- Variety of Options: Dealerships typically carry a diverse inventory of truck campers, giving you a broader selection to choose from. You can explore different brands, models, and floor plans to find the perfect fit for your needs and preferences. This variety ensures that you can compare various options before making a well-informed decision.
- Expertise and Guidance: Dealerships employ knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the buying process. They can help you navigate the different features, specifications, and compatibility requirements of truck campers. This expertise can be especially valuable if you're new to the world of truck campers or need advice on choosing the right camper for your specific needs.
- Financing Options: Many dealerships offer financing options to assist with your purchase. They can help you explore different payment methods, loans, or leasing options to make your dream of owning a truck camper more accessible. Dealerships often have connections with lenders who specialize in RV loans, potentially offering you tailored terms.
- After-Sales Services: In addition to sales, local dealerships often provide a range of after-sales services. This includes maintenance, repairs, and access to parts and accessories. Having a trusted dealership for ongoing support can be invaluable, especially if you're new to owning a truck camper. They can help you keep your camper in optimal condition and guide you through any necessary upgrades or modifications.
When considering local dealerships, it's a good idea to research their reputation, customer reviews, and the brands they carry. Some popular dealerships include Camping World, with locations across different states, and brand-specific dealers like Lance Camper and Lance Manufacturing Co.
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Truck camper weight and your truck's payload
To determine if a truck bed camper is suitable for your truck, you should assess its payload capacity, towing capacity, bed dimensions, tailgate opening, and cab height. A proper match between your truck and camper ensures optimal driving performance, safety, and minimises wear and tear on brakes, tires, and suspension components.
When calculating the weight of your truck camper, it's crucial to consider the dry weight, wet weight, option weight, cargo weight, and occupant weight. The dry weight refers to the weight of the camper without any liquids or additional items. The wet weight includes the weight of a full fresh tank, full water heater, full propane tanks, and installed batteries. The option weight takes into account any additional features or accessories installed. The cargo weight includes all the items you bring with you, such as food, clothing, bedding, and toiletries. Finally, the occupant weight accounts for the weight of the people and pets travelling in the camper.
To ensure a safe and proper match between your truck and camper, follow these steps:
- Weigh your truck at a certified scale, such as a CAT Scale, and fill your fuel tank before entering the scale. Remove the tailgate if it will be taken off when loading the camper, and note any other items being weighed with the truck.
- Calculate your truck's payload capacity by subtracting the certified scale weight from the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) posted on your truck. The GVWR information can be found on a sticker on the driver's side door.
- Measure your truck's centre of gravity by measuring the distance from the front wall of the truck bed to the centre of the rear axle. The camper's centre of gravity should be forward of this point.
- Verify the exterior dimensions of your truck and camper to ensure fit compatibility. Measure the bed length, bed width, rail height, cab height, and tailgate opening.
- Select a truck camper that meets the payload, centre of gravity, and fit compatibility requirements of your truck. Include all weight factors (wet weight, option weight, cargo weight, and occupant weight) in your calculations.
It's important to note that the weight information provided by camper manufacturers may not always be accurate. Therefore, it's recommended to physically weigh the camper or refer to the "Dry With Options Weight" sticker inside an interior cabinet door. Additionally, consider the impact of additional options and accessories on your truck's payload, as features like a diesel engine, 4WD, crew cab, and aftermarket accessories can significantly reduce your payload capacity.
When it comes to truck camper weight and your truck's payload, safety should always be the top priority. Staying within the payload rating of your truck is crucial to prevent damage, ensure safety, and avoid legal issues.
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New vs. used
When considering where to buy a truck bed camper, it is important to weigh up the pros and cons of buying new versus buying used.
New Truck Bed Campers
New truck bed campers are likely to be more expensive, but they will come with all the latest features and amenities. You can also be assured that the camper is in good condition and has not been damaged or worn down by previous use. You may also be able to find a model that is more tailored to your needs, with the latest models boasting features such as solar panels, extra storage, and upgraded appliances.
Used Truck Bed Campers
Used truck bed campers are a more cost-effective option, with prices ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. While you may not get the latest features, you can still find models with a range of amenities, such as bathrooms, showers, toilets, kitchen facilities, and bedding areas. Used campers hold their value over time and are readily available in all kinds of conditions and prices. You may be able to access a wider range of features that would have been unaffordable when buying new. However, it is important to thoroughly inspect a used camper for any signs of water damage, rust, or structural issues, and to check that all appliances, plumbing, and electrical components are in working order.
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Financing
Truck bed campers are a fantastic alternative to full-scale RVs. They are compact, self-contained living units that mount onto the bed of a pickup truck. The cost of a truck camper can vary widely 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 higher for premium models with luxury amenities.
Credit and Rates
Your credit score will have a direct impact on the interest rate you qualify for. Generally, a higher credit score will result in a lower interest rate, which can lead to significant savings over the life of the loan. It is worth checking your credit report and score before applying for financing to ensure accuracy and allow you to address any potential issues.
Loan Terms
When taking out a loan for a truck camper, you will need to consider the loan term, which is the length of time you have to repay the loan. Longer loan terms result in lower monthly payments but higher overall interest costs. On the other hand, shorter loan terms will result in higher monthly payments but lower total interest paid over the life of the loan.
Total Cost
In addition to the monthly payments, it is essential to consider the total cost of the loan, including both the principal amount and the interest you will pay over the loan term. This will give you a clearer understanding of the overall financial commitment.
Budget Planning
Ensure that the monthly payments fit within your budget, taking into account all camper-related expenses such as fuel, maintenance, insurance, and any necessary upgrades or accessories. It is important to have a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing costs associated with owning and operating a truck camper.
RV-Specific Financing
Consider exploring lenders that specialize in RV loans, as they may be able to offer more tailored terms and have a better understanding of the unique aspects of financing a recreational vehicle. These lenders may have more experience in assessing the value and longevity of truck campers, which could result in more favourable loan terms.
Pre-Qualification
Some financing companies offer pre-qualification, which can give you an estimate of the loan amount and interest rate you may qualify for based on your credit score and financial situation. This can be a helpful tool to compare different financing options and make a more informed decision.
Warranties and Insurance
When financing a truck camper, it is essential to consider additional costs such as warranties and insurance. A warranty can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected expenses if any issues arise with your purchase. Insurance is also crucial, as it will protect you financially in the event of accidents, damage, or theft.
Online Tools
There are online tools and calculators available that can help you estimate monthly recreational vehicle loan payments. These tools can provide valuable insights into the potential costs of financing a truck camper and allow you to compare different loan options.
Dealership Financing
In conclusion, financing a truck bed camper requires careful consideration of your financial situation and a thorough understanding of the costs involved. By exploring different financing options, comparing loan terms, and planning your budget accordingly, you can make a well-informed decision that fits your needs and helps you achieve your adventure goals.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several companies that sell truck bed campers, including Camping World, Four Wheel Campers, RV Trader, Lance Camper, Gear Junkie, and RV.com.
Some popular truck bed camper models include the AT Overland Aterra XL, the Four Wheel Campers Hawk, the Lance 825, the Arctic Fox 811, the nüCamp Cirrus 820, the Kimbo Camper 6 Series, and the Go Fast Campers Platform Camper.
Truck bed campers are more compact and easier to maneuver than larger RVs, and they can be taken off-road to remote locations. They are also more affordable and can be detached from the truck and left at the campsite, allowing for more flexibility.
It is important to consider your truck's payload, towing capacity, bed dimensions, tailgate opening, and cab height to ensure compatibility with a truck bed camper. You should also determine your intended use and budget, as well as decide between a new or used model.
The lifespan of a truck bed camper can vary depending on usage, maintenance, and build quality. Well-maintained campers can last for decades, but some components may require periodic replacements or repairs.