Truck Camper

An introduction to recreational vehicle types

This is a brief introduction to the Truck Camper type of recreational vehicle, intended to provide essential information for choosing the best RV type. (Looking for Truck Camper Manufacturers?)

Tip: Not sure if this is the right RV type for you? Please take a look at Getting Started.

Definition

Photo courtesy of Lance Camper Mfg. Corp.

The truck camper is not a vehicle in itself, but an add-on living quarters designed to slide into the bed of a full size pickup truck. The camper is fastened to the truck frame during transport and slides out onto its own legs at the camp site.

Truck Camper Pros

• One of the least expensive RV's.
• Mounts in the bed of most full size trucks with minimal modifications.
• Easy to drive on highway and around town. This RV is attached to the bed of a truck, so it is just as easy to drive.
• Truck doubles as local transportation.
• Can tow a small trailer or support a carrying platform on hitch receiver.
• Truck can be used as a family or work vehicle when not traveling.
• Requires no special storage when not in use. Fits in standard driveway or back yard.
• Can reach less accessible camping sites that are too tight for large RV's. When attached to an off-road truck, it can reach camping sites that no other RV's can.

Truck Camper Cons

• Road handling can be an issue when mounted on a truck with light suspension.
• Limited space, practical only for short trips.
• Driving and living compartments are separate. Living area inaccessible while moving.

RV Checklists

The following RV checklists on our web site are applicable to truck campers:

• RV Camping Checklist
• Budget for the RV Lifestyle
• RV Amenities

Other Resources

A list of recommended truck camper resources on our web site:

• Truck Camper RV Manufacturers
• Understanding RV Weights
• Adjust GVW Calculator
• Liquid Weight Calculator