Truck Bed Conversion: Who Can Create A Camper?

Converting your truck bed into a camper is a great way to enjoy the freedom of the open road or a camping trip without the expense of a commercial RV. It is a popular choice for those who want to reconnect with nature, offering convenience, comfort, and flexibility. The process involves designing and fabricating a wooden or metal structure that fits securely in your truck bed, providing a sleeping area, storage, and other amenities. You can choose to build it yourself or seek professional help for a more polished finish.

Design and fabrication

The first step in converting your truck bed into a camper is to measure the bed's footprint. Grab a tape measure and measure the length, width, and height of your truck's bed. Don't forget to factor in the wheel wells and any cutouts in the bed. Taking accurate measurements is crucial, as it ensures that your design fits snugly in your truck bed.

Next, you need to decide whether you want to buy camper plans or design them yourself. If you have a popular truck model, you may be able to find free or paid plans online. However, if you want to customise your camper to your specific needs and preferences, designing it yourself is the way to go. You can sketch out your design on a piece of paper, considering factors such as the height of the camper, the amount of storage space, and the placement of windows and doors.

Once you have your design, it's time to gather your materials and tools. For the frame, you'll need plywood, 2x4s, 4x4s, and metal support materials. You may also want to use angle iron or corner joints for added strength. If you plan on carpeting your camper, you'll need sturdy carpeting and a way to fasten it, such as a pneumatic staple gun. Other tools you may need include a saw, drill, sander, and measuring tape.

Now, it's time to start building! The first step is to construct the base, which will cover the entire floor of your truck bed. Cut your plywood to size, ensuring a snug fit. Then, build the sleeping platform, which can be raised to allow for storage underneath. Be sure to add supports to your structure to distribute the load and prevent it from collapsing.

After the base and sleeping platform are complete, you can add insulation and walls. Cover the frame with plywood, and consider adding insulation if you plan on camping in cool climates. You can sandwich the insulation between the outer wall and an interior plywood wall for a neat finish.

Next, cut out spaces for windows and doors, and install them, ensuring that they are properly sealed to prevent leaks. You can also add electrical wiring and lighting at this stage if desired.

Finally, add any interior features you want, such as fold-down tables, cabinets, or shelves. Don't forget to finish your camper with a sealant to waterproof the exterior seams, and you may also want to paint or varnish the interior and exterior for added protection and a personalised touch.

Converting your truck bed into a camper is a rewarding project that allows you to customise your vehicle to your exact needs and preferences. With careful planning, basic tools, and creativity, you can build a unique and comfortable space for your outdoor adventures.

Camper shells

Converting your truck bed into a camper is a great way to create a personalised camping setup that allows you to travel flexibly and conveniently access your gear and supplies. Camper shells are an essential component of this conversion, providing protection from the elements and additional security for your belongings.

Types of Camper Shells

There are several types of camper shells available, each with its own advantages:

• Fiberglass Shells: Fiberglass shells are sturdy and lightweight, but they can be relatively expensive.
• Aluminum Shells: Aluminum shells are a popular choice for commercial contractors.
• Fabric Shells: Fabric shells tend to be more affordable and easier to store than other options.
• Cab Height Shells: These shells have a uniform height that matches the dimensions of the truck's cab, making them compatible with low-clearance spaces. However, they may result in a tighter fit inside the truck bed.
• Raised Roof Shells: Raised roof shells offer more headroom inside the truck bed but may exceed the clearance allowances of some drive-thrus, parking garages, and covered roadways.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a camper shell, it is important to consider factors such as access, locks, and window placement. Ensure that the shell is compatible with the make, model, and year of your truck. Think about your camping preferences, budgetary constraints, and the length of your truck bed.

Customisation Options

Once you have selected and installed your camper shell, you can further customise your setup. Consider adding window coverings for privacy, carpeting the top boards for a finished look, or painting exposed wood to add a personal touch. You can also install additional features such as off-grid electricity, lighting, storage solutions, and screen windows.

Professional Services

If you prefer to have your truck bed professionally converted into a camper, there are companies that specialise in truck accessories and installations, such as Mid-West Truck Accessories and RealTruck A.R.E. These companies can provide expert advice and guidance on choosing the right products and completing the installation process.

DIY vs buying plans

Converting your truck bed into a camper is a rewarding project that gives you the freedom to explore with all the comforts of home. You can either opt for a DIY approach or buy plans designed by experts. Here's a comparison to help you decide:

DIY

Pros:

• Cost-effective: Building your own truck bed camper is generally cheaper than purchasing plans or a pre-built model.
• Customization: You have the freedom to design and build a camper tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
• Skill enhancement: Taking on a DIY project can enhance your woodworking and construction skills, teaching you new techniques and problem-solving strategies.
• Pride of ownership: There's a special sense of pride that comes with using something you've built yourself. Every trip will be more memorable knowing you crafted the space where you live and sleep.
• Versatility: A custom-built truck bed camper can be modified or updated as your camping needs change, without the need for expensive professional help.
• Sustainability: By using reclaimed materials or eco-friendly options, you can reduce your environmental impact while also contributing to the uniqueness and cost-effectiveness of your build.

Cons:

• Time and effort: A DIY project requires significant time and effort, from planning and gathering materials to construction and troubleshooting.
• Skill requirements: While some projects are designed with beginners in mind, more complex builds may require advanced carpentry and vehicle modification skills.
• Potential for errors: Mistakes and troubleshooting are common in any DIY project, and you may need to seek advice or assistance from experienced individuals or online communities.

Buying Plans

Pros:

• Expert guidance: When you buy plans, you benefit from the expertise of professionals who have carefully designed and tested the build process, potentially saving you time and reducing errors.
• Detailed instructions: Purchased plans typically provide clear, step-by-step instructions, making it easier to follow the build process and helping you avoid common pitfalls.
• Material lists: Plans usually include comprehensive material and tool lists, ensuring you have everything you need before starting the project.
• Support: Some plan providers may offer additional support, such as online communities, forums, or direct assistance, to help you during the build process.

Cons:

• Cost: Buying plans can be more expensive than designing your own, especially if you opt for premium or customized plans.
• Limited customization: While plans allow for some personalization, they may not offer the same level of customization as a DIY project, where you have complete freedom over the design.
• Less skill enhancement: Following a pre-made plan may provide fewer opportunities to enhance your construction skills, as you're primarily executing someone else's design.

Ultimately, the decision between DIY and buying plans depends on your specific needs, budget, time availability, and skill level. DIY offers greater customization and cost savings, while buying plans provides expert guidance and support.

Materials and tools

The materials and tools you will need for this conversion project will depend on your specific design and the level of comfort and functionality you desire. Here is a comprehensive list to get you started:

• Protective gear: Goggles, gloves, and sturdy boots are essential for your safety during the build.
• Wood: Plywood is the most commonly used material for truck bed conversions. You will need at least two to three sheets of 3/4" plywood for the frame, walls, and sleeping platform. The number of sheets will depend on the size of your truck bed.
• Supports: To reinforce the structure, you can use 2x4s or 4x4s as supports. Metal angle brackets, bolts, and hinges will also be needed to secure the frame together.
• Insulation: If you plan on camping in various climates, consider using foam board insulation, spray foam, or fibreglass insulation to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your camper.
• Sealant: Waterproofing your camper is crucial to protect it from the elements. Use a sealant on all exterior seams and windows to prevent leaks.
• Carpet: Adding carpet to your interior walls and sleeping platform will enhance the comfort and aesthetics of your camper.
• Bedding: A foam mattress can be cut to size and placed on your sleeping platform. Alternatively, you can use an air mattress.
• Tools: Standard tools such as a saw, drill, sander, measuring tape, and a staple gun will be needed for cutting, measuring, and assembling your camper.
• Electrical system (optional): If you plan on having electrical appliances or lighting, you will need to set up an electrical system. This could be as simple as running wires from your truck's battery or installing solar panels and a battery bank.
• Windows and door: Consider the placement of windows and a door for ventilation and access. You can cut these out of your plywood walls and ensure they are properly sealed.
• Storage: Utilise the space under your sleeping platform for storage. You can also build cabinets, shelves, or drawers to maximise storage space.
• Lighting: LED string lights or battery-operated lamps can enhance the ambiance and functionality of your camper.
• Other comforts: Consider adding a kitchenette, seating area, or a portable water source to elevate your camping experience.

Remember to take accurate measurements of your truck bed before purchasing materials to ensure a snug fit. It is also beneficial to sketch out a rough design of your camper, considering the height, storage space, and placement of features. This will help you determine the specific materials and tools required for your unique build.

Building the frame

Planning and Materials

Before you begin construction, it's essential to have a clear plan and gather the necessary materials. Measure the truck bed's dimensions, including the height, width, and depth, taking into account the wheel wells and any other protrusions or indents. You'll need standard protective gear, such as goggles, gloves, and sturdy boots, for this project.

For the frame itself, you'll be using plywood, which can be reinforced with 2x4s if desired. The amount of plywood you'll need depends on the size of your truck bed, but typically, 2-3 sheets of 3/4" plywood will suffice. You'll also require angle brackets, bolts, and hinges to secure the frame together.

Cutting the Wood

The first step is to cut the wood according to your measurements. The frame will run along the inside of the truck bed, including the sides and front, and should be at least 18 inches wide. Cut the plywood sheets for the frame accordingly, ensuring they fit snugly inside the truck bed.

The frame will consist of a bottom and a top layer of plywood. Cut the plywood around the wheel well to ensure a precise fit. Use another sheet of plywood to build a short wall from the bottom layer to the top, ensuring the top of the frame meets the top of the truck bed.

Adding Supports

For added stability, cut a piece of plywood to the length of the truck bed. This piece will be placed vertically in the center of the bed and should match the height of the truck bed minus 3/4 inch. This support piece will provide structural integrity to the frame.

Securing the Frame

Secure the corners of the frame together using angle brackets, bolts, and hinges. Ensure that all pieces fit together snugly and are securely fastened. You can use a level to ensure that the frame is perfectly horizontal. Double-check all your measurements to guarantee a precise fit.

Carpeting (Optional)

Although optional, you may want to consider adding carpeting to the frame for a more finished look and added comfort. Measure and trim carpet pieces to cover all exposed plywood. Use a staple gun to secure the carpeting in place.

Frequently asked questions