How To Set Up A Tent In The Bed Of A Truck

Everything You Need to Know About Truck Bed Camping

*(This article contains affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.) If you make a purchase after clicking on one of our affiliate links, we may get a small compensation at no additional cost to you. See our complete disclosure for more information.) Truck bed camping is a terrific way to travel and explore on a tight budget, whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway with the family or a year-long journey down the Pan-American Highway in your truck. And although it’s easy to get swept up in all of the great truck bed campinggear, and it’s nice to daydream about the perfect truck bed campingdesigns and platforms, the aim isn’t the means – it’s the journey!

You’ll also find a downloadable packing list with all of the camping gear and equipment you’ll need at the bottom of this page.

Truck Bed Camping Methods

When having a camper shell or canopy on your pickup makes the process of truck camping much easier, it is not required for you to enjoy your time outdoors in your pickup while truck camping.

Camper Shell

If you already have a camper shell or canopy on your vehicle, take use of it. Check out our guide to picking the best one for you if you’re considering purchasing one – there are a plethora of choices! Even better, it doesn’t have to be expensive; we found our fiberglass camper shell on Craigslist for for $40! As you can see, this is our preferred method of truck bed camping because it provides a secure and weather protected space for you to eventually customize your truck bed with a sleeping platform, organization, drawers, curtains, lighting, and other features to specifically suit your own camping needs so that you are prepared for any adventure at all times!

Truck Bed Tent

A truck bed tent, such as this one *, is an excellent and reasonably priced method to begin camping in the bed of your vehicle. When it comes to truck bed camping, the advantage of this option is that it has the lowest entrance barrier, requiring minimal up-front investment and no big modifications to your vehicle while yet giving you with an elevated sleeping space. This approach, on the other hand, does not allow for the installation of more permanent or customized truck bed sleeping platforms, and the setup process for a truck bed tent can be just as time-consuming as that of a ground tent.

Ground Tent

Just because you aren’t sleeping in the bed of your truck, doesn’t mean you’re not truck bed camping. Grab ahigh quality tent * and somewater-resistant bags * for your truck camping gear, dump them in the back of your pickup, and head for camp! When you go to camp merely set up your camp kitchen on the tailgate, pitch your tent, and you’re ready to go. And if you’re fair-weather camping you could always avoid putting up the tent and just sleep beneath the stars in the bed of your truck!

Though It doesn’t take a lot of fancy gear to enjoy your first time truck bed camping, there are certain essential items of truck camping gear that you will need to bring along.

Truck Bed Camping Sleeping Gear

Sleeping comfortably is essential to enjoying your truck bed camping experience since it guarantees that you are well rested and ready to take on the following day’s excursions.

Mattress

We’ve written a whole essay to assist you in choosing the best truck camping mattress, but if you’re just getting started, we recommend beginning with what you already have and working your way up from there. In other words, if you have an old inflated mattress or foam sleeping pad stowed away in your closet, go ahead and use it! If not, here are our top recommendations:

• Large-sized Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra Sleeping Pad (*)

• Backpacking Mattress *: Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Ultralight Foam Backpacking Mattress

• Millard Tri-fold MemoryFoam Mattress* (they are available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, and you can customize them to fit your truck bed camping setup)
• Millard Tri-fold MemoryFoam Mattress* (they are available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, and you can customize them to fit your truck bed camping setup)
• Millard Tri-fold MemoryFoam Mattress* (they are available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, and you can customize them to fit your truck

Sleeping Bag

As a reminder, if you already have a sleeping bag and you are not expecting to camp in temps below 50 degrees, you may just use what you have to get started right away! However, if you’re going to camp in cooler temps, a high-quality sleeping bag will be essential to your enjoyment of your truck bed camping excursion in comfort. The finest sleeping bag will have both of these features:

• Synthetic insulation is vital while truck bed camping because, unlike down fill sleeping bags, the insulating characteristics of a synthetic-fill sleeping bag will not be adversely affected by condensation and moisture. Proper Temperature Rating- make sure that the temperature rating of your sleeping bag is appropriate for the temperature range in which you will be truck camping.

Our ideal combination is a Big Agnes 15 degree bag * in conjunction with an asleeping bag liner * (see image above). The bag liner provides additional insulation during the coldest of nights, and it may also be worn on its own during the hottest of summer days. In addition, a sleeping bag liner helps to keep your sleeping bag clean and may be washed more simply! ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS:Bring your own pillow from home. If you’re anything like us, you’ve spent a significant amount of time selecting the perfect cushion to sleep on at home, and those inflatable camp pillows – while convenient and small – will never be able to compare to the comfort of your normal pillow.

Truck Bed Camping Kitchen

The fact that you can cook in your truck bed is one of the best parts about truck bed camping. The tailgate of your truck serves as the ideal counter surface, and you can personalize your camp kitchen gear to suit your culinary preferences – it may be as complicated or as simple as you like.

Camping Stove

Truck bed camping necessitates the use of a solid two-burner stove, and if your budget allows it, here is an excellent spot to indulge.

• Superior quality: TheCook Partner propane stoves are the most durable camping stoves available, and they will last for generations. They are made by hand in the United States of America and may be requested in a number of combinations. We adore ours, however they are somewhat expensive
• Mid-range: In addition, Camp Chef propane stoves have an excellent reputation, and the Everest * is a high-quality alternative that is reasonably priced. Budget: Because it can run on Coleman white gas as well as standard unleaded gasoline, this Coleman Duel-fuel Camping Stove * design has been in use since World War II. Despite the fact that it is not nearly as robust as they were formerly known to be and does not burn as cleanly as propane alternatives, it is an economical and adaptable option.

Kitchenware

Kitchenware for truck bed camping doesn’t have to be expensive or sophisticated in order to be effective. Take the essential cooking utensils from home or buy up a set from a thrift store to put in your camp kitchen box before you leave home. We recommend that you designate one plastic container to store all of your camp culinary equipment in order to keep organized and break camp more quickly and simply. For more information on how to put up your first camp kitchen, see our postHow to Set Up a Portable Camp Kitchen Box Today.

Truck Bed Camping Storage

Another fantastic approach to guarantee that you enjoy your truck bed camping experience is to have a strong system in place for keeping your camping gear, food, and beverages organized.

This also reduces the possibility of forgetting or losing important items while breaking camp.

Gear Storage

In order to truck bed camp with a camper shell or a truck bed tent, you don’t need anything fancy; a pair of plain plastic totes * for stuff and a duffel bag for apparel will do the trick just fine. If you’re going to be utilizing a ground tent, you might want to consider investing in some higher-quality water-resistant bags to keep everything dry. Once you’ve determined that truck bed camping is something you want to do for the foreseeable future, you can start thinking about built-in storage alternatives, such as the drawer system and sleeping platform we made for you.

Water Storage

In the past, we used the tried and true7 gallon Aqua-tainer * as our truck camping water storage container before upgrading to the RoadShower. It performed perfectly. They’re affordable, simple to fill, and surprisingly long-lasting in terms of durability. Alternatively, if you want a do-it-yourself alternative, our newest 10 gallonDIY Camping Shower and Camping Water Containerdesign is a fantastic answer for truck bed camping!

Food Storage

Cold Food Storage: There are a plethora of alternatives for coolers, and the prices range widely. For years, we relied on good old-fashioned ice chests for our truck bed camping arrangement before ultimately investing in a 12v Camping Fridge for our needs. If you’re just getting started, we recommend that you start with a simple cooler and work your way up from there. Use two smaller coolers instead of one huge cooler, according to the pros. Keep your beverages in one container and your meals in another – this will help you save money on ice by reducing the quantity of ice you need while camping.

It’s also a good idea to pre-chill all of your food and beverages at home before filling the cooler so that you don’t waste ice cooling everything down to the proper temperature.

Frozen water bottles might also be used in place of ice for the first few minutes, and then sipped once they have thawed.

However, if you’re camping in bear country, you should consider investing in a bear proof container * for your food storage and becoming familiar with best practices for food storage and preparation in bear country.

Truck Bed Camping Safety and Repair Equipment

The opportunity to travel out to those awe-inspiring camping locations in the boonies is the most appealing aspect of truck bed camping, but you’ll want to be prepared for this before you go. Check out our page on Wild Camping Safety and Security for some useful insights, suggestions, and safety gear recommendations to ensure that you are well equipped before embarking on your first truck bed camping expedition.

In addition, if you’re planning on going off-road with your truck bed camping, our post on Overlanding and Off-Road Recovery Gearcan assist you in getting there.

Bathing While Truck Bed Camping

Our article on Bathing While Wild Campingwill assist you in determining the best bathing approach for your needs and circumstances. We go through everything from sponge bathing to solar-heated pressure camping showers (as well as some fantastic DIY camping shower alternatives) in this article.

Using The Bathroom While Truck Bed Camping

While it is undeniably the least glamorous aspect of truck bed camping, when the time comes, you have to get out of there. In our Comprehensive Guide to Using the Bathroom While Camping, we go through all of the many options for successfully and responsibly taking care of business while vehicle camping in the wilderness.

Dealing With Extreme Temperatures while truck bed camping

Truck bed camping in the sweltering heat of summer or the freezing cold of winter should not be a horrible experience. It is possible to have a great time with a little thinking, planning, and the proper equipment.

Winter Truck Bed Camping

As a result of our personal battles with sub-zero temperatures when truck bed camping, we’ve created this guide to help you stay comfortable while cold weather camping in your truck bed throughout the winter months.

Summer Truck Bed Camping

If you’re planning a summer camping vacation, thisGuide to Summer Truck Campingwill offer you with a plethora of useful advice and practical equipment to help you remain cool while truck bed camping in hot weather over the summer. Even though a typical air conditioning unit is most likely out of the question, this article discusses a variety of alternatives to still enjoy your time outside during the summer.

Truck Bed Camping Off-Grid Power

While truck bed camping, you’ll most likely need a means to recharge your mobile phone, laptop, and GPS device. The majority of current devices, such as these, have 12v charging capability and may be recharged using the stock 12v plugs in your truck. If not, you may purchase a low-cost 12v power inverter * to convert the 12v electricity from your vehicle to ordinary 110v power, just as you would at home. Keeping your truck’s starting battery from being overtaxed (and so drained) is essential.

Dual battery setups are recommended if you plan on powering additional equipment (such as a 12v camping fridge) when camping for an extended period of time or truck bed camping while traveling.

We’ve also got a whole series dedicated to camping power and how to choose the best camping power source for your specific requirements:

• Portable Camping Power, Part 1: Electrical Terms and Principles Explained
• Portable Camping Power, Part 2: Electrical Terms and Principles Explained
• Part 2 of Portable Camping Power: Determining Your Power Supply Requirements 3rd installment of Portable Camping Power: How to Choose a Camping Power Supply

Other Useful Truck Bed Camping Gear

Camp chairs – We’ve used everything from the most budget-friendly alternatives, such as this one from Coleman *, to the most high-end options, such as the Big Agnes Mica Basin * and the Helinox Sunset *. The bottom line is that you want a backpack that is both affordable and comfortable enough to allow you to unwind after a long day of hiking. Want to take a nap next to a river or just relax and read a nice book? A hammock is the perfect solution. You do, without a doubt! While truck bed camping, a hammock is a fantastic way to unwind and relax.

• If it is within your financial means, it is definitely worth the investment.
• These Black Diamond Spot Headlamps * are a great, budget-friendly, and water-resistant alternative that we have been really pleased with thus far.
• At night, you may illuminate your campground, truck bed shell or tent, or camp kitchen with these Luci EMRG Inflatable * solar lights, which are both inexpensive and effective.
• This year, we upgraded to theAgawa Canyon Boreal Folding Saw * (see this post to learn why it’s been one of the finest truck bed camping gear purchases we’ve ever made), which may be worth checking into if it’s in your budget.
• However, you do not require anything elaborate.

Washing Machine for Truck Bed Camping – The Scrubba Wash Bag is an extremely useful piece of truck bed camping equipment. If you’re planning an extended camping vacation or traveling while truck bed camping, make sure to read our post on how we wash laundry while on the road to get some ideas.

Best Places To Go Truck Bed Camping

Anywhere! On a serious note, the nicest part of camping in the bed of a pickup (particularly one with 4-wheel drive and high clearance) is that you aren’t restricted to established campsites; you can wander off the beaten path and camp wherever your adventure takes you! While this is true, we recommend taking a few of shorter weekend excursions in excellent weather and close to home to help you work out any kinks in your truck bed camping setup if you’re just starting started with truck bed camping.

It will open the door to a whole new world of truck bed camping opportunities!

Thank you very much!

Build the Ultimate Truck Bed Sleeping Platform for Truck Camping

How to Build a Truck for Camping (DIY) – Trucktakethetruck.com Following are 33 comments:

DIY Fridge Slide Alternative for Truck Camping and Overlanding

The Trucktakethetruck DIY, construction, truck camping, overlanding, and other related activities

These 6 Truck Bed Tents Make Us All Wish We Drove Pickups

Honestly, I was a little perplexed as to why there would be a market for truck bed tents when I first heard about them. I couldn’t figure out what the point was of erecting your tent in the rough bed of a truck rather than on the ground. As it turns out, truck bed tents are becoming increasingly popular for a number of very good reasons, including convenience, comfort, and ease of use. This list of three reasons should be appealing to everyone who enjoys camping, especially for those looking to go camping for a short weekend getaway.

1. These six truck bed tents will become your greatest buddy when it comes to being spontaneous.
2. Camping should not be discouraged by inclement weather or inconvenient sites.
3. You’re elevated above the ground in a watertight shelter that’s totally enclosed.
4. The Dyrt PRO, which allows you to locate campsites from your truck even if you don’t have mobile coverage.
5. In lieu of utilizing pro, I might drive back out to where cell service is available.

1.Kodiak Canvas

Image courtesy of Amazon The Kodiak truck bed tent is a favorite among individuals who are familiar with and enjoy truck bed tents. First and foremost, it is constructed entirely of 100 percent cotton duck canvas and coated with breathable, water-resistant Hydra-Shield technology. This tent may be used effectively in a variety of weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rains, light snowfall, and humid temperatures, and the interior remains dry and mold-free throughout. There are five windows, two internal gear compartments, mesh screens, and a rear access door that allows you to go into the truck’s cab without having to get out of the truck.

The Kodiak is available in two lengths: normal (5.5 to 6.8 feet) and long (7.2 to 8.2 feet) (8 to 8.5 feet).

The characteristics are the same as before, and the sizes are adjusted correspondingly. Purchase Now for $369

2.Sportz Truck Tent

Image courtesy of Amazon The Sportz Truck Tent is a lightweight, airy, well-ventilated truck bed tent that is ideal for hotter climates. It is one of the best alternatives for lightweight, breezy, well-ventilated truck bed tents. A built-in floor, back awning, huge entrance, and rear window provide lots of cross-breeze and comfort while sleeping two people peacefully in this tent. It has 5 12 feet of head room, and it can accommodate two people comfortably. This tent is far lighter than the canvas tent that was previously reviewed (nearly half the weight, at 25 lbs.).

There are six distinct sizes available for this series.

3.Guide Gear Compact Truck Tent

Image courtesy of Amazon Because you have a smaller, more compact truck does not rule out the possibility of enjoying the benefits of truck bed tents. Designed exclusively for smaller trucks, this tiny truck tent from Guide Gear sleeps two people comfortably while providing access to all of the same amenities found in bigger, larger truck bed tents. With three mesh windows and a wide entrance, this polyester structure is waterproof on the body, roof, and floor. You’ll have plenty of airflow thanks to the three mesh windows and the huge door.

Purchase Now for $79

4.Napier Backroadz

Image courtesy of Amazon A truck bed tent with nearly 5’6″ in headroom, the Napier Backroadz tent is one of the most large available on the market. The setup process is also really straightforward, which is a feature that has been mentioned often in all of the reviews online. Additionally, there are two mesh windows for ventilation in addition to a huge entrance, and there is even a flap in the tent for charging gadgets through your cab window for added convenience. You’ll be completely sheltered from the elements if you have a whole floor.

Even though it comfortably sleeps two people, this tent will fit easily behind your seat in the cab of your truck, allowing for the potential of a spontaneous camping excursion to take place whenever you like.

Purchase Now for $169

5.Rightline Gear Truck Bed Tent

Image courtesy of Amazon The floorless design of this 2-person truck bed tent provides for a simple and quick set-up. This tent is water-resistant, strong, and spacious enough to accommodate two people and their belongings. It also includes a spacious doorway, gear storage pockets, and a sky view vent, which is a magnificent ventilation feature with the added advantage of being able to observe the night sky.

In addition, there is a detachable rain fly to provide further protection from the weather. The Rightline Gear truck bed tent series is available in eight different sizes to accommodate your needs. Purchase Now for $179

6.Milliard Truck Tent

Image courtesy of Amazon The stability and longevity of this sturdy, ripstop-grade cloth are the most often mentioned benefits in customer reviews of this tent. An integrated floor, storage compartments, a lantern hook, and mesh ventilation screens have been added to the door and window frames, among other features. This 2-person tent was designed with the intention of fitting into ordinary truck beds with a length of 6.5 feet. As is often the case with truck bed tents, you should double-check the dimensions of your truck bed tent before purchase to ensure that it will fit your vehicle.

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A 5% discount is applied at the time of purchase.

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Enjoy the Freedom of a Camping Adventure with Napier’s Truck Tent

If you’re like the majority of campers and RVers, you’ve got that unquenchable urge to leave home (at least for a bit) and hit the open road for the first time. Where to sleep is one of the first things you’ll need to consider while planning a journey, whether you’re a free-spirited road tripper in the vein of Jack Kerouac or a wilderness travel enthusiast. This is where the truck (as well as SUV, minivan, and hatchback) tent comes in to play. Napier has really built a tent that fits neatly into the bed of a pickup truck, allowing you to take it with you wherever you go!

• If you enjoy traveling and haven’t yet read Steinbeck’s 1960 travelogue about his voyage through the United States with his standard poodle, you owe it to yourself to pick yourself a copy ofTravels with Charley right now.
• He gave it the affectionate name of Rocinante, after Don Quixote’s horse from the film The Man of La Mancha.
• So, if you’re ready to hit the road and embark on a camping experience, Napier has made the preparation process lot simpler and more economical than ever before.
• It has the appearance of a typical 2-4 person dome tent, complete with a light canvas top, a screen door, and a rain fly.
• While there are other truck tents available on the market, Napier’s is a little different in a couple of important respects.
• What is the significance of this?
• The tent floor keeps you, your air mattress, and your camping equipment dry and clean while you’re out camping.

Furthermore, both assembly are straightforward.

One thing to bear in mind is that you should not purchase this tent because of its flexibility.

While it is possible to set it up on the ground, there is no way to secure it or keep it upright unless you use the clipping system that is designed to be used with a car.

You will be unable to drive your truck while this tent is set up.

However, this is not the case from home to the campsite.

Here are some reasons.

You may build up camp anywhere as long as the terrain is at least fairly level.

Plan a road trip over the weekend and don’t stress about finding a place to stay.

The truck tent’s second main benefit is that it is elevated above the ground.

We’ve tried everything from mattresses to hammocks to eventree tents.

It also means you are normally warmer because you are away from the ground.

Providing there is nothing in the bed of your truck that may puncture or harm a standard tent, you should be OK as is.

It makes little to no difference whether you want to put it up in the bed of your truck or on the ground outdoors in the fresh air.

You may either work inside the truck bed and move the tent from side to side, or you can work outdoors by standing on the tailgate and tires of the truck.

Check to check that the door is facing the tailgate before closing it.

These tent poles are identical to the majority of other contemporary tent poles.

Three of them are available at any given time.

After passing below the pole sleeve that spans over the middle of the tent’s roof, the gray pole will run straight over its top.

The poles will be secured by tucking the ends into the pockets that have been given once they have been placed where they should be.

After that, you may attach the clips that will keep the tent attached to the poles.

If you put everything together on the ground, you can go ahead and hoist it into the bed of the truck without any problems.

In addition to the three straps on each side of the bed, there are three straps that will pass through the rear tailgate.

It is beneficial to have another person assist you in lifting the tailgate as you feed the female end of the straps through the hole.

Your truck bed tent is complete and ready to use!

Make careful to secure the rain fly in place and to draw it over the green tent pole in the front to prevent rain from entering through the door.

Overall, it is straightforward and only requires the participation of one person.

On Napier’s website, it states that “home is where the car is parked.” This expression is no longer reserved for those who possess expensive recreational vehicles or even pop-up campers.

They’ve developed it to be as tough as its users and as functional as the trucks it’s intended to be used in.

It definitely caters to those with a sense of adventure and spontaneity in their hearts.

Unlike the majority of tents on the market, it truly folds up and fits back into the bag in which it was sent, including the poles and the rain fly.

Despite the fact that it is a specialized tent, it is incredibly simple to put together.

The tent’s sides feature windows, which allows it to be more breathable, and the entry has a screen, which allows for greater ventilation while keeping pests out.

The sides of the tent are intended to extend over the edges of the truck bed as a result of the stress applied to the tent by the straps.

The instructions are extremely simple to follow, and they will walk you through the process of putting it together on the ground or in the truck’s bed.

Alternatively, you may purchase a truck bed tent directly from Napier’s website or from one of their numerous merchants, including Bass Pro Shop, Cabela’s Outdoor World, Campmor, and even Amazon.

So use their truck bed dimensions guide to determine which tent is most appropriate for your vehicle.

It’s not an issue.

You really don’t have an excuse any longer not to go camping.

In addition, every BackRoadztent purchased will result in the purchase of one tree through the nonprofit organization Trees for the Future.

Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove parts such as roll bars, slant-slide tonneau covers, and soft roll covers before you can properly position the tent in the bed and establish a good seal on the sides.

In order to avoid disappointment while selecting a sleeping pad or air mattress for use inside the tent, bear these in mind: In addition, two people may find it more comfortable to sleep with their heads near the tailgate and their feet towards the back of the bed.

As a whole, this tent is a fantastic option for campers on the go and anybody planning a vacation where it may be difficult to put up a regular tent. It’s well-made, simple to use and store, and really useful to have on hand. We have a strong suspicion that Steinbeck would approve.

How To Make A Homemade Truck Bed Tent

Camping is an experience that provides landscapes, peaceful moments, campfire, fun time with family and friends. For adventure-loving campers, it’s traveling to remote locations. To enjoy the camping without any hiccups one should be well prepared and carry all the essentials. One of the key elements is to be able to sleep well protected and comfortable. Camping tents come in a variety of options but can be expensive. Thetruck tentsare designed to be used with SUVPickup truck models likeToyota Tacoma, Ford F150, Dodge etc.

1. In harsh weather conditions,the truck tents keep you warm and dry.
2. They are compact and require less space and made of canvas.
3. There are specific models designed for specific SUV’s and pick trucks.
4. Sometimes modifications are required to be made to the SUV or pickup truck.
5. A better solution in this scenario is to build your full-size truck bed tent.
6. A recent development in the market is the truck bed tent.
7. It provides comfort and mobility.
8. Here is the complete diy truck bed tent for you.

Let’s Look At How To Make A Homemade Truck Bed Tent.

Before you begin construction of your DIY truck bed tent, be sure to estimate the size of the truck’s cargo area. It has to be compatible with your car. Also, keep in mind that truck beds are available in a variety of designs. Some of the most common designs are as follows: The tents that are accessible with these are likewise available in a variety of designs and forms.

Material Required To Build Truck Bed Tent

• PVC pipes ranging in length from 6ft to 8ft
• A tarp of high quality, thickness, and size

• Set your pickup truck’s parking brake and drop the tailgate to prevent it from rolling away. It is preferable if you have assistance in setting it up. You would be able to do the task more quickly. Then, start by taking measurements of the pickup truck’s inside and outside. Make a mental picture of how you want your tent bed to look. Make a rough sketch of a diagram

• The PVC pipe will be able to fit into the four holes that run down the bed of the pickup truck. On top of the truck bed, we’d try to construct an A-frame or canopy structure out of wood. We can cover the entire structure with a tarp to keep out the rain.

• Begin by cutting the legs off of the pipes that will be inserted into the four holes in the wall. Approximately 1 foot length should be cut from them. The idea is for you to be able to sit erect within the tent, and it should also be compact enough to pack and put in a tent bag while traveling. The 45-degree elbow is going to be used to join the PVC pipes together. The 45-degree elbow and tee connection are fixed to one end of the 1-foot pipe using a tee connector. The tee connection may be used to support the frame of the truck bed since it attaches to the truck bed through four holes. Strong and solid construction is required for this structure.

• Remove all four legs and join them together with the 45-degree elbow and tee connection. Begin by inserting the legs into the four holes.

• One side of the truck bed should have a PVC pipe running through it between the two tee connectors. This will provide additional support and strengthen the structure. Moreover, it would be capable of withstanding adverse weather conditions.

• Carry out the same procedure on the other side of the truck’s bed.

• Following that, we would begin constructing the A-frame. Now, cut four sections of PVC pipe from the length of the pipe. Cut them to a length of around 3 feet. Now, using an L-shaped elbow clamp, join the two 3 foot long pipes together. Fix them to the truck bed’s basic structure using screws. Carry out the identical procedure on the other side of the building’s construction. Voila, your basic A-frame is complete. An alternate approach to the above is to cut the PVC pipe into two pieces of one foot and two feet length instead of three pieces of three feet length. We may insert a tee connector between the pipes that are 1 foot and 2 feet in length. Attach them to the frame construction on each of its four corners. Using the tee connector, we can put two pipes, each roughly 5 feet long, between the sides of the frame. This would strengthen the organization and make it more research-oriented. It takes a little more effort to cut the pipes, but the extra effort is well worth it in the end.

• Place the tarp over the A-frame at this point. Clamps should be used to keep it in place. Clamp it in place at the rear as well to prevent it from flying away. Make use of numerous clamps to ensure that it does not pop up. You have completed the construction of your own handmade truck bed tent. You may prepare for a camping trip by purchasing appropriate equipment.

Some Additional Tips About Making Truck Bed Tents

• It is not necessary to repair the pool noodle. When the wind is blowing, it would be beneficial to lessen the noise. When the wind picks up speed, the simple A-frame construction would become rather loud. Cut the pool noodle so that it will fit between the PVC pipe’s legs. This would help decrease the sound
• You may also suspend lights from the ceiling
• Always use caution when conducting any of these tasks. You may also use a blow-up mattress on the bed to provide additional comfort.

• At this short post, you will learn how to make truck bed tents in your own home. It is simple to construct and requires just readily accessible materials. This trucktent is compatible with the Toyota Tacoma as well as all Ford pickup truck models. The construction of this tent does not need the use of specialized expertise. You may also incorporate your own creative ideas into the product to make it more helpful and visually appealing to you.

What’s The Best Truck Tent? Here Are 5 You’ll Love

With the proliferation of recreational vehicles (RVs) in recent years, it’s easy to forget that you may camp without a vehicle. Camping in a truck bed tent, on the other hand, may be your favorite type of camping. If you own a vehicle and are looking for a new way to enjoy the great outdoors, consider purchasing a truck bed tent.

What Is a Truck Bed Tent?

A truck bed tent is a type of tent that is constructed using the bed area of a truck as the basis. Camping in this sort of tent allows campers to camp anyplace they can get to with their car. Furthermore, these tents are often easy to set up and take down, taking only a few minutes each time. Truck bed tents may be used with both long bed and short bed vehicles, depending on the design of the tent. These little tents are best suited for a single or two people.

A family with a couple of little children, on the other hand, might be able to fit in for an exciting weekend. At the end of the day, this sort of tent will provide for an excellent retreat from the weather or a comfortable spot to lay your head.

Are Truck Bed Tents Comfortable?

Truck bed tents may be equally as comfortable as traditional camping tents, if not more so. However, there are a few things you can do to assist create a more comfortable atmosphere outside. Let’s have a look at this! A truck’s bed is often made of metal with divots, which is not the best place to sleep. When you purchase a quality air mattress, you may expect to notice a substantial improvement in your comfort when resting or sleeping. It is possible that you will need to begin shopping early in order to get the best air mattress for you.

• Plan your journeys accordingly, taking the weather into consideration.
• Make informed decisions regarding when and where you camp.
• It is recommended that you get a high-quality sleeping bag and warm clothing to keep you warm throughout the cooler months.
• If you really want to go camping, you might not mind a little hardship or sacrifice in exchange.

Best Truck Bed Tents for Camping

If you think that camping in a truck bed tent seems like a fantastic idea, we’ve compiled a list of the top truck bed tents available. Let’s have a look at them!

1. Napier Backroadz Truck Bed Tent

The Napier Backroadzis a two-person tent that is both lightweight and durable. It includes two windows that allow for the circulation of air. With the use of color-coded poles, Napier has made setup a snap. To finish the setup procedure, it takes an average of 10 minutes. Your belongings are kept in order thanks to a dedicated storage pocket. In order to keep your tent illuminated after dark, you may hang a light in the lantern holder in the center of the tent’s interior. Napier has also worked with Trees for the Future, and for every tent purchased, a tree is planted in their honor.

Given the 4.6-star rating on Amazon and the more than 3,000 reviews, it is reasonable to assume that this product is a success!

2. Guide Gear Full-Size Truck Tent

TheGuide Gear is available in full-size. The Vehicle Tent is made up of only four poles and can be swiftly and securely installed in the bed of your truck. This tent will fit in the majority of full-sized beds that measure 79-81 inches in length with the tailgate folded down.

The external layer is constructed of polyester and has a water-resistant coating applied over top of it. It ranges in price from $140 to $160. If you’re looking for a lightweight, budget-friendly tent that can accommodate two people, this could be the one for you!

3. Kodiak Canvas Truck Tent

Tent for truck beds made of canvas, the Kodiak.

• Made with Hydra-Shield, a robust, impermeable, and breathable 100 percent cotton duck canvas, this bag is built to last. Tunnel-shaped design increases internal space
• Towering 5 ft. ceiling height is one of the versions that are compatible with this feature. Tailgate down design increases the amount of usable area.

A 100 percent cotton duck canvas with Hydra-Shield is used to construct the Kodiak CanvasTruck Tent. As a result of this combination, the tent fabric is both waterproof and breathable. Kodiak built this tent to have 5 feet of spaciousness and to be able to extend even more by opening the tailgate. The frame is made of steel tubing and is clamped to the truck’s tracks with bolts. The frame provides a solid fit that is ideal for camping in all weather conditions. However, Kodiak does not advocate utilizing this tent in areas where there is a lot of snow to contend with.

Consider this incredible truck bed tent, which features various storage pockets, five windows, and a cab access window.

4. Rightline Gear Truck Tent

It is available in three distinct sizes: mid-size, full-size, and small. The Rightline GearTruck Tent is available in three different sizes. The prices range from $189 to $278, which is a fantastic bargain. On Amazon, this product has had over 1,000 reviews and has received a 4.5-star rating. This two-person tent is the finest choice for summer camping because of its lightweight design. With its floorless design, you won’t have to worry about removing all of your stuff from the floor bed of your vehicle before putting it up.

Because of the color-coded tent poles and storage pockets, set-up is quick and simple.

The waterproof structure will keep you dry, and the nylon buckles will not damage the finish of your truck.

5. Fofana Stand Up Truck Bed Tent

In addition to a giant truck tent with panoramic windows and one of the shortest setup times available, Fofana also manufactures a large trailer tent. The automated pole simplifies the process of setting up and taking down. You won’t have to deal with snagging rods any more, thank goodness! A higher tent that fits in the bed of a truck may be difficult to come by because of the astounding 6 ft of spaciousness provided. It features a universal fit and is designed to accommodate beds ranging in height from 5.5 to 8 feet.

Are Truck Bed Tents Worth It?

Truck tents are a great option if you want to get out into the wilderness but already have a truck. Much of your camping equipment will remain same, but you’ll be more protected from the elements and troublesome animals because you’ll be higher up in the air. Additionally, you will have greater movement and will feel a bit safer when sleeping. You may camp anywhere your vehicle can travel and transport your things in the bed of the truck. It takes only a few minutes to erect these tents by a single person.

We believe that every opportunity to get out and experience the outdoors is worthwhile. For a few hundred dollars, you can acquire a high-quality tent and still have money left over to spend on a few other crucial items of equipment.

Camp in Unique Locations With Truck Bed Tents

A truck tent may allow you to camp in some of the most unusual and spectacular places on the planet. If you choose one of the tents on our list, we believe you will have a fantastic experience. Make sure you do your homework and are well-prepared to enjoy a wonderful vacation. Have you ever slept in a truck bed tent while camping? Last updated on February 13, 2022 / Affiliate links included / Images sourced from the Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Camping Truck Bed Tents

Anyone who has ever driven a truck is well aware of how versatile and robust they are. It is possible to carry your pickup just about anyplace – and they are particularly useful on camping excursions. Truck bed tents are an excellent investment if you want to make the most of your pickup while on your summer camping vacation. A truck tent offers a plethora of advantages and convenient features that may significantly improve your camping experience.

• Check out our linked post, “Best truck bed air mattress” for more information. Check out our linked article, “Best double sleeping bag for truck camping” for more information.

TOP SELECTIONBEST FLOORLESS TENTBEST BUDGET TENTBEST CANVAS TENTBEST CANVAS TENT

What is a Truck Tent?

They are precisely what their name suggests: they are truck tents. They are tents that are put up in the bed of a pickup truck and transported. In most cases, they can accommodate two or three people in the bed of your truck, with a tent covering the top for further protection. Many people prefer truck tents over regular tents that are set up on the ground because they are more comfortable. Truck tents are available in a variety of sizes. The fact that they are raised and above the ground lowers your chances of getting wet or being infiltrated by curious creatures.

Truck tent campers allow you to take your camping with you wherever you go (similar torooftop tents).

Anyone who has a pickup truck may take advantage of this less extreme kind of camping, which includes a variety of tent styles for different vehicle types.

Features to Look for in a Truck Tent

Even the most experienced campers may be unfamiliar with the concept of using a pickup truck tent. If you’re considering about trying one out for the first time, you could find yourself stumped as to which one to actually go out and get. We’ve compiled a straightforward list of characteristics to keep an eye out for while you conduct your pre-purchase research.

Shape

Because truck beds come in a number of forms and sizes, the tents that go with them must likewise be available in a variety of sizes and shapes. There are several different truck tent designs to pick from, including:

• Truck Tents in many shapes and sizes, including A-Frame Truck Tents, Umbrella-Shaped Truck Tents, Dome-Shaped Truck Tents, and Hatchback Truck Tents.

Truck tents with an A-frame structure are the most common and are considered to be the most basic shape. This shape, which is intended for two or three people, does not allow a lot of headroom. However, because it is lightweight and compact, you will have more capacity to bring along other goods. Truck bed tents in the shape of an umbrella are popular because they provide campers with a lot of headroom while still leaving room for their stuff. In most cases, these tents do not include a floor and feature a tall, expansive entranceway.

Because these tents attach directly to the bed of your truck and do not require a floor, installation is simple, and the shape will naturally take shape.

A dome tent will often come with light walls, a rain cover, and inside support, in addition to being simple to set up.

Hatchback truck tents are distinct from other types of compact truck tents in that they are designed to be used on small SUVs or other cars with hatchback trunks, rather than on a truck bed.

The Best Truck Bed Tent Size

As previously stated, the size of your truck bed plays an important role in this decision-making process. It’s critical to understand which tents are best suited for which type of vehicle. Many truck bed tents are universally sized, which means that they will fit into most truck beds. Before purchasing a product, it is, nevertheless, critical to obtain precise measurements and thoroughly examine the product’s specifications. In any case, you should test the tent on your truck bed before going on your truck camping trip to ensure that it fits properly in the bed.

All that is required is a healthy dose of moderation.

Installation

The method of erecting a truck bed tent is rather straightforward. Locating a flat parking area for your car should be your first priority. Another major advantage of using a truck bed tent is that you will not have to contend with rocks or twigs on the ground, which might cause you to wake up in the middle of the night. You must, however, exercise caution when parking your pickup truck at an oblique angle. Wheel chocks can assist you in keeping your truck level on sloping terrain. Starting with the tailgate lowered, lay the canvas out flat in the truck bed to begin erecting the structure.

After that, fasten the straps.

Following that, you may assemble the poles according to the instructions.

Materials and Windows

Despite the fact that budgets are crucial, it is vital not to base your decision only on the cost of your tent while making your purchase. This is due to the fact that lower-priced tents are sometimes made of inferior materials, which means you’ll end up having to replace it sooner rather than later. Our advise is to choose a heavy-duty waterproof polyester or canvas material for the construction. When choosing windows for your truck bed tent, keep in mind that the amount of light and ventilation you receive will be determined by the size of the windows you choose.

They are normally one or two layers thick, and the greater the number of windows, the greater the amount of airflow you will receive.

An open sky view vent is also ideal for gazing up at the night sky when traveling by car.

Floors

There is no doubt that traditional tents have a floor — there isn’t much of a debate about it. However, not all goods are delivered with a complete floor. A floor completely encloses your tent space, providing you with greater protection from the outside world. It improves the waterproofing and insect resistance of the area.

Others prefer to purchase a tent that does not come with an attached ground sheet since it allows them to utilize a specific truck bed mattress, which may not fit inside of all tents. They can also be less complicated to put up and transport in your vehicle.

Other Camp Accessories

The best truck bed tents are equipped with a variety of additional amenities for your convenience and comfort. A tent with a rain cover should always be considered, even if you wish to have an unobstructed view of the night sky from your camp site. Some tents are also equipped with a built-in awning, which transforms your front door into a porch area with an overhang for shade. It is common for them to extend past the tailgate, allowing you to sit on the edge or in a chair that is covered. Even in bright sunshine, having an awning may be a huge benefit in terms of keeping yourself cool and comfortable.

They are storage chambers that may be attached to the ceiling, such as a light holder, for example.

The image is from of Napier

Frequently Asked Questions

Three-season tents are designed to be used in three seasons: the spring, summer, and autumn. Four-season tents, which are designed to be used in all four seasons — including winter – have thinner walls than three-season tents. Four-season tents are often sturdier and heavier than three-season tents in order to withstand cold weather and snow.

Why Use a Truck Bed Tent Instead of an RV or Camper?

Campers are unquestionably more convenient and comfortable than truck bed tents, but they are also significantly more expensive than truck bed tents. Because of the price difference between a truck tent and a camper that can also be mounted directly on the truck bed, many people prefer to use a truck tent rather than a camper. Furthermore, some individuals believe that truck camping takes away from the experience of being in the wilderness. Camping in a truck bed tent is a good compromise for those who appreciate the outdoors but do not necessarily want to sleep on the ground.

Are truck bed tents worth it?

If you already possess a pickup vehicle, the answer is yes. Truck tents are comfortable and simple to set up, and they can keep you out of the elements such as high winds and severe weather.

Are truck tents comfortable?

They are substantially more comfortable than a ground tent since they provide a level platform on which to sleep and protect you from severe winds, muck, and rain.

What is the point of a truck tent?

Those who camp in rough or uneven terrain may appreciate these tents. Over water or in muddy places is not permitted. You will also be elevated above the ground, which will keep you safer from insects and animals.

Can you put a tent in the bed of a truck?

Truck tents are particularly built to fit in the bed of a pickup truck or hatchback SUV.

Tips To Make Your Truck Tent More Comfortable

An raised tent will almost surely be more comfortable than pitching your temporary home on the rocks. Having said that, a truck bed is not always the most pleasant place on which to sit or sleep. When camping, it’s common to bring a truck bed mattress that can be inflated with a foot pump or a cigarette lighter after you’ve reached your destination. After a hard day of trekking or mountain biking, these blow-up mattresses provide a tremendous amount of comfort. A truck bed liner is another common addition to a truck.

Heavyweight bed rugs will level out the uneven surfaces in your truck bed, allowing you to sleep comfortably even on a thinner ground pad or ground mattress pad. If you decide to purchase a tent without a floor, we recommend that you use these.

• Check out our linked article, “Best double sleeping bag for truck camping” for more information. Check out our linked post, “Best truck bed air mattress” for more information.

The Best Truck Tents Reviewed

SELECTIVE OPTION

Best for Full Floor Coverage:Napier Backroadz Truck Tent

Because it has a complete floor, this nylonNapier truck tent is a favorite choice among truck campers. It is available in four different sizes to suit most pickup truck beds while providing complete protection from the elements of the outdoors. With the color-coded directions, setting up the tent is straightforward and quick, eliminating the aggravation of a difficult tent to put up. The large inside has 5.6 feet of headroom, making it an excellent choice for people who are taller than average.

The sturdy structure and materials will ensure that this tent will survive for many journeys to come, and the huge mesh windows will provide you with a fantastic view of your surroundings.

Best Floorless Tent: Rightline Truck Tent

Floorless tents are easy to set up and allow you to utilize a truck bed mattress, which may not fit inside a floored tent. They also save you money because they are less expensive. The Rightline truck tent is available in three different sizes to accommodate your mid-sized, full-sized, or compact truck. Setup is made easier by using color-coded poles and strong straps. This tent is equipped with a variety of useful features, including two gear pockets and a lamp hook on the interior. It also includes zippers that light in the dark to make it easier to find your way out in the dark.

Best Budget Tent: Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent

Guide Gear recognizes that not everyone has the financial means to invest hundreds of dollars on a high-end truck bed tent. Affordably priced and very useful, their full-size truck tent provides a pleasant cover lifted above the cold, hard ground. This Guide Gear tent is incredibly simple to erect, using only four poles. You and your loved ones will be protected from the elements thanks to the water-resistant coating on the lightweight polyester material. With 5.25 feet of headroom and a D-shaped, big door for both entry and exit, the spacious cabin is ideal for a family.

Two storage pockets are a terrific way to make the most of your available space, and the mesh windows allow for plenty of ventilation as well.

The Most Effective Canvas Tent

Best Canvas Tent: Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent

To be sure, theKodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tentis a fantastic choice if you are prepared to spend a little extra money on your truck bed tent due to the fact that it is built of high-quality canvas material that is designed to be long-lasting, breathable, and waterproof. With two storage pockets, a wide entrance, and a 5-foot ceiling, this elegantly designed tent makes the most of your truck bed’s available space. Your ventilation will be significantly superior than that of other tents thanks to the generous number of windows.

You’ll have a fantastic time setting up this tent in your truck bed as a makeshift camper because it’s designed to be used in all four seasons. The durable structure will endure for a long time, and the connected awning will provide you with additional protection and comfort.

Wrapping It Up

It is an ideal option to both a standard ground tent and a truck bed camper, and it can be set up in minutes. With economical alternatives, the opportunity to sleep raised off the ground, and all of the benefits of conventional camping, putting up your tent in the bed of your truck is a no-brainer. Read on for more information. Affordable pricing, high-quality materials, and a comfortable fit are all factors to consider before making your purchase. Getting a nice truck bed tent doesn’t have to break the budget, and you don’t have to forgo high-quality materials in the process.

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• For truck camping, the best double sleeping bag is