I camped as a kid. Usually in a field with tons of bugs and tents that most of the time had some hole in it that was never patched. Was it fun? Actually, yeah – it was a good time but now that I’m older I honestly can’t imagine doing that. My back hurts right now in this comfy office chair just thinking about it.
That’s why I love the idea of truck camping, and it’s even cooler when you have a vintage truck! Whether you’re a diehard DIY camper or someone who just loves the look of vintage trucks but still wants to consider yourself a little outdoorsy – this guide is for you. I’ll go over a few different ways to camp in your truck (or with your truck), from camper tops to rooftop tents, and answer all your questions about this truck camping in a vintage truck!
If I don’t answer your question, just leave a comment or send me an email and I’ll get back to you and you might even make it in this post!
Table of Contents
Different Ways to Camp in Your Vintage Truck
Yes, camping used to mean truly roughing it out in the wilderness with minimal comfort. Not anymore!
There are tons of ways that you can upgrade your camping experience without losing the feeling of adventure. You might even be able to get out of bed the next morning and do something other than complain about how terrible your sleep was.
Camper Tops for Vintage Trucks
Camper tops are a fantastic option if you’re looking to keep things simple yet functional. These covers fit snugly over your truck bed, providing shelter and storage space.
They are perfect for those who love a minimalist approach to camping but still want some protection from the elements.
This isn’t vintage, but my son and I watched Mav travel all over the country out of the back of his Ford F-150.
Advantages of Camper Tops:
- Easy to install and remove (or easier – nothing is every as easy as we want it to be, but it’s worth it)
- Provides additional dry storage space even when you’re not camping.
- Maintains the vintage look of your truck.
Rooftop Tents for Vintage Trucks
Rooftop tents have gained popularity for their convenience and comfort. I love the hard top ones that you can open and close in just a few minutes.
These tents attach to the roof of your truck, unfolding into a comfy cozy sleeping area. Downside, you might have to do some custom work to get your truck set up to handle these.
Why Choose a Rooftop Tent:
- Keeps you off the ground, away from critters.
- Quick setup and takedown.
- Adds a unique look to your vintage truck.
Slide-In Campers
Slide-in campers, also known as truck bed campers, slide into the truck bed and offer a more luxurious camping experience. They come with a range of amenities including a sleeping area, kitchen, and sometimes even a bathroom.
I toured a couple of new campers at Overland Expo East in Virginia and man were they nice. Pricy. But I guess that’s relative. Definitely the most luxurious of the options though.
Perks of Slide-In Campers:
- Provides all-in-one convenience.
- Offers protection from harsh weather.
- Can be removed when not in use.
- You can stand up in most of them! That’s a big deal.
What Are Truck Bed Campers Called?
Truck bed campers are commonly referred to as “slide-in campers” or “cab-over campers.” These terms are used interchangeably and refer to campers that fit into the bed of a pickup truck.
Types of Truck Bed Campers:
- Pop-up Campers: Lightweight and compact, perfect for smaller trucks. They collapse for driving and then you can pop them up and gain a ton of height when you reach your destination.
- Hard-Side Campers: More durable and offer better insulation, ideal for year-round camping.
- Cabover Campers: Feature a sleeping area over the truck cab, providing more interior living space.
- Pickup Campers: These campers are specifically designed to fit into the bed of a truck and come in various shapes and sizes.
- Truck Bed Campers
What Are Some Tips for Truck Camping?
Truck camping can be a fun and even unforgettable experience, but it’s important to keep a few things in mind to make sure you have a successful trip:
- Choose an appropriate site: Make sure the area you plan on camping allows vehicles and has enough space for your truck.
- Pack wisely: Since you have limited space in your truck, make sure to pack only essential items and prioritize lightweight gear. Feels like a big space but can fill up fast.
- Practice setting up camp: Familiarize yourself with the setup process before heading out on your trip to avoid any surprises or difficulties. Literally, and I mean it, there is literally nothing as frustrating as getting where you need to go and realizing you forgot something you absolutely needed or something was broken or you just don’t know how to set up what you’re trying to set up. Total buzz kill.
Can You Just Sleep in the Back of a Vintage Truck?
Sometimes, the simplest camping experience can be the most rewarding, and sleeping in the back of your vintage truck with just an air mattress and some sleeping bags can be it.
You pull up to a scenic spot, throw your air mattress in the bed, and slide into your sleeping bags as you gaze up at the stars twinkling overhead. Seems pretty perfect.
It’s a cozy, intimate experience that connects you with nature and still offers a bit of comfort.
However, let’s be real here—Mother Nature can be unpredictable, and nothing puts a damper on a good camping trip quite like a surprise rain shower or waking up soaked with dew. Ew.
That’s why figuring out a way to create a lean-to or some sort of overhead cover is a game changer. It’ll help keep you dry and add a layer of protection against the elements.
You could use a tarp and give yourself some peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying the night—whether that’s roasting marshmallows over a fire or sharing stories with friends.
Trust me, with a little creativity, you can turn your truck bed into the ultimate rustic campsite, a sweet date night, or a solo trip when you need a little break from the world.
Why Are Truck Campers Expensive?
Truck campers can be pricey, and there’s a good reason for it. They combine the need to be proficient off-road with the comforts of home.
High-Quality Materials
Truck campers are built to last (or at least should be.) Make sure you check reviews!
They typically use high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of the road and the elements. From durable fabrics to sturdy frames, these materials are needed for longevity.
Advanced Features
Many truck campers come equipped with modern amenities like solar panels, advanced insulation, and high-efficiency appliances. These features contribute to the overall cost but provide a more comfortable camping experience. Yes, you can charge your phone at night or make your fancy cup of coffee in the morning.
Customization Options
The ability to customize your truck camper to suit your needs and preferences adds to the cost. Are you bougie? Then it’s going to cost you.
From layout adjustments to added features, customization does help you get a camper that’s perfect for you. That’s all that matters. Who cares if I just called you bougie or not? I’m just glad you want to get outside more!
Is There a Kit for Truck Campers?
Yes, there are kits available for those who prefer a hands-on approach. DIY kits come with all the necessary components to build your own truck camper.
Lots of people doing it on YouTube as well. Though be warned – knowing how to distribute weight is a pretty big deal. Be smart and stay safe.
Benefits of DIY Kits
- Customization: Tailor your camper to your specific needs.
- Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than pre-built models.
- Satisfaction: Enjoy the pride of building something with your own hands.
Where to Find Kits
You can find DIY truck camper kits online but most people make their own.
Where Can You Buy a Vintage Truck Camping Setup?
If you’re in the market for a vintage truck camping setup, you have several options.
Online Marketplaces
Websites like Craigslist, eBay, and specialized vintage truck forums are great places to start your search. You can buy your starter truck or you can find everything from fully restored camping setups to project trucks.
Specialty Dealers
Some dealers specialize in vintage vehicles and may offer camping setups. These dealers often restore and sell vintage trucks with camping modifications.
Some truck campers will work for both vintage and new trucks. Just make sure you get all the measurements when you go to look at them and make sure your dealer knows what they are talking about.
Custom Builders
If you have a specific vision in mind, consider working with a custom builder. They can help you find the perfect vintage truck and modify it to suit your camping needs. Not cheap though.
Are Trucks with Campers Hard to Drive?
Driving a truck with a camper can be a little challenging, especially if you’re not used to handling larger vehicles. However, with practice, it becomes second nature and you’ll be glad you have your camper.
Tips for Driving with a Camper
- Practice: Spend time driving in a safe, open area to get a feel for the truck with the camper attached.
- Adjust Your Mirrors: Ensure you have a clear view of your surroundings. Might need larger side mirrrors. They make extenders if you don’t want to have tow mirrors on the truck all the time.
- Take It Slow: Be cautious and take your time, especially on winding roads or in heavy traffic.
Safety Considerations
Always check the weight limits of your truck and camper to ensure you’re not exceeding capacity. Properly secure all items inside the camper to prevent shifting during travel.
What Do You Do for a Bathroom?
One common concern for truck campers is finding bathroom facilities. Luckily, there are several options to make your stay comfortable and hygienic.
Portable Toilets
Portable toilets are a popular choice for truck campers. They are compact, easy to use, and can be emptied at designated dump stations.
Campground Facilities
Many campgrounds offer restroom and shower facilities. When planning your trip, look for campgrounds that provide these amenities.
DIY Solutions
For the more adventurous, consider DIY bathroom solutions like a privacy tent with a portable shower and toilet setup. This allows you to have a bathroom wherever you go.
Why Buy a Truck Camper vs an RV?
While both truck campers and RVs offer unique advantages, truck campers provide a level of versatility and freedom that’s hard to match.
Mobility
Truck campers are more maneuverable than RVs, allowing you to access remote and off-road locations that would be challenging for larger vehicles.
The first time I ever drove an RV (and it was a big one) I had to make a really tight turn in downtown Nashville. We were filming a TV show and didn’t know where to park and didn’t have a ride where we could park out of town and then make it to our location.
I made it, but that was the day I started turning gray-headed.
Cost
Truck campers are generally more affordable than RVs, both in terms of initial purchase price and ongoing maintenance costs.
Storage
When not in use, truck campers can be detached and stored, freeing up your truck for everyday use. They will say easily detached, but I’ll let you be the judge of that. I don’t want you coming back here and yelling at me that I said it was easy when it was in fact, not.
Our Top 5 Reasons Truck Campers Are Better Than An RV
1. Access to More Locations: Truck campers can reach off-road locations and trails that RVs typically can’t. They’re also better for navigating city streets, beach access, and National Parks with restrictions on larger vehicles.
2. More Free Camping Opportunities: Truck campers offer better access to public lands and are more suitable for stealth camping, which can save significant money on camping fees.
3. Better Fuel Economy: Truck campers generally provide better fuel efficiency compared to RVs, which can lead to substantial savings on travel costs.
4. Less Stuff and Easier Gear Access: The limited space in a truck camper encourages minimalism, which simplifies organization and ensures that gear is always accessible.
5. Standard Parking Spaces: Truck campers fit into standard parking spaces, making it easier to find parking in urban areas and at scenic spots, unlike larger RVs that require special accommodations.
Conclusion
At Get Vintage Vehicles we think truck camping in a vintage truck is not only practical but also sets you up for that adventurous life you want to live.
Whether you choose a camper top, rooftop tent, slide-in camper, or an air mattress and sleeping bag – the possibilities are endless. Understand your options and your budget and you can create a setup that fits your lifestyle and camping preferences.
Ready to hit the road? There are a lot of places online to meet new friends that you can hang out with on your drives. Remember, even when something goes wrong – camping is fun!
