From Roughing It to Glamping: 5 Best Truck Bed Tents for Every Type of Camper
Looking for a new and exciting way to camp? Try truck bed camping! This article takes you through the benefits of truck camping and shows you which are the best bed camping tents out there. Check it out now and pick one for yourself!
Looking for a new and exciting way to camp?
Truck bed camping is the perfect way to avoid all the issues that come with camping on the ground. You won’t have to worry about bugs, water, or rocks getting in your way – and you can even stay warm in colder weather!
Truck bed camping tents are so easy to set up, you can do it in just a few minutes. Plus, they’re really spacious so you can fit all of your camping gear inside. You’ll never want to go back to regular ground camping after trying out a truck bed tent!
Read our article and find out which is the best truck tent for you and purchase one for your next camping trip!
How We Picked The Best Truck Bed Tents
Truck bed camping tents are a great way to get the most out of your truck, but there are so many different options on the market that it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
Not all truck bed camping tents are created equal. With all of the different brands, materials, and features on the market, it can be tough to determine which one is best for your needs.
We have done the hard work for you. After reading thousands of reviews and talking to campers, hunters, and anglers we have found the best truck bed camping tents for a wide range of trucks and campers.
Whether you're looking for a tent that fits a full-size truck or something compact that is easy to set up, we have you covered.
Why You Will Love It
Looking for an all-season tent that can handle almost any type of weather? Look no further than the Kodiak canvas truck tent! This classic canvas tent features a thoughtful tunnel design that makes full use of space and is perfect for camping in any season.
The breathable fabric helps reduce humidity, while the mesh windows provide air circulation during the summer months. Plus, the Kodiak canvas truck tent can support a few inches of snow and retain heat during colder months, making it the perfect choice for year-round camping.
What You Should Know
The Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent is built from heavy-duty, waterproof, breathable pure cotton duck canvas and it has a 3/4-inch powder-coated steel tube frame for solid support. This ensures that the tent is extremely durable and can be used throughout the year.
For added stability in windy conditions, use the nylon webbing straps to secure the tent to your truck’s bumper or tire. When you’re ready to hit the road, the Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent packs up quickly and easily into the included carrying bag.
It's one of the most popular truck tents on the market, in part because it's easy to set up and take down, and it also has a number of features that make it more comfortable than other truck tents. It has a lantern hook and gear pockets, and the large D-shaped door makes getting in and out of it easier.
The Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent is an excellent choice for someone who wants a durable, year-round tent that's easy to set up and use.
What Could Have Been Better
The Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent is not the easiest tent to set up and might even require a few extra clamps to set up the tent property. The lack of a sewn-in tent bed is another issue we found. It is also not the lightest tent on our list, but the value it provides in terms of durability and all-year comfort is worth every extra pound weight!
Why You Will Love It
It was difficult choosing between the Napier Backroadz and this Sportz version. But Backroadz is a bit smaller and might feel stuffy with fewer windows and no awning, though it can be an excellent hunting tent, so we went with the Napier SportsZ (click here for a detailed comparison).
With a 5′ 8” peak height and a large interior, it's perfect for couples or small families. Three mesh windows and two ceiling vents provide excellent ventilation, while the optional extendable awning is perfect for storing your gear or a beautiful tailgating experience. We also loved the rear access panel to get into your cab without stepping outside.
Multiple pockets and a huge gear loft keep everything organized, while the vents help boost airflow. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or an extended camping trip, the Napier SportsZ is a perfect choice!
What You Should Know
The Napier Sportz Truck Tent will make any camping trip easier and more enjoyable. The tent sets up quickly and easily in the back of your pickup truck.
It provides a comfortable and convenient sleeping area that is protected from the elements. It features side vents and large windows that make it breathable.
It fits truck beds up to 5'2" and its awning works well as an extra gear storage space. The tent is made from high-quality materials, and it features color-coded tent poles for easy assembly. The tent also has a rainfly that provides additional protection from the weather.
The Napier Sportz Truck Bed Tent is an excellent choice for any camper who wants an easy-to-use and reliable tent.
What Could Have Been Better
Napier SportsZ is not the best option for a heavy downpour, as the canopy is waterproof only to some extent and will not be able to hold for long. The poles, made of fiberglass, might break if they're constantly exposed to rain.
But overall, this is a great truck tent that you can safely choose unless you specifically need something for your monsoon camping.
Why You Will Love It
Looking for a quality tent for your pickup truck that will keep you dry and comfortable no matter the weather? Look no further than the Rightline Gear Truck Tent. This tent features a waterproof rain fly with a 2,000mm HH rating, ensuring that you'll stay dry even in the heaviest downpours.
Additionally, the Rightline Gear features a huge sky-view vent that provides excellent ventilation and natural light, while also allowing for views of the stars on clear nights. Interior pockets and a gear hook provide convenient storage for small items, and the tent is available in a variety of sizes to fit nearly any make or model of truck.
So whether you're an adventurous camper who loves spending time in nature or a weekend warrior who just wants to be prepared for anything, the Rightline Gear Truck Bed Tents are a perfect choice.
What You Should Know
The RG is also one of the easiest tents to set up on our list. This is because it uses a floorless design, and its double-walled design is suitable for yearlong use also.
The floorless design of the Rightline Gear Truck Tent means that you can set up your tent fast without removing your gears from the bed of your pickup truck, saving you time and effort when setting up camp.
The double-walled design also means that this tent is suitable for use in all weather conditions, protects you from the heaviest of downpours, and also ventilates the tent, and prevents condensation build-up.
This truck tent is the most versatile option on our list as it has plenty of size choices to fit almost any truck. It also features color-coded tent poles for easy setup and comes with a stuff sac when you have to pack up and leave.
As a result, the Rightline Gear Truck Tent is an ideal option for those who are looking for a versatile and easy-to-use camping solution.
What Could Have Been Better
The Rightline Gear Truck Tent has some durability issues that could cause problems for prolonged use. The seams are not reinforced and could tear over time, and the overall durability of the materials is questionable. The truck tent itself is made of a lightweight, waterproof fabric that will not hold up well to extended use.
However, if you don't wish to spend a lot of amount on a rooftop tent and want something that works well during monsoon camping, the Rightline Gear truck tent is your best bet!
Why You Will Love It
Looking for a reliable and comfortable method of camping? Look no further than the Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic Extended Roof Top Tent. This top-of-the-line camping shelter gives you all the space and amenities of a full-size camping tent, without sacrificing any of the security or protection that your vehicle offers. With this shelter, you'll be able to enjoy all the comforts of home while exploring the great outdoors!
Made with waterproof and breathable fabric, this tent is perfect for any camping trip - whether it's a weekend in the woods or a cross-country adventure. The extended canopy provides ample shade and protection from the elements, while the spacious interior is perfect for lounging, sleeping, or storage.
Setup is quick and easy after it is installed, so you can spend more time enjoying your trip! When you're ready to head home, the Nomadic Extended Roof Top Tent packs up easily into its included carrying case.
If you're looking for a top-of-the-line camping experience, choose the Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic Extended Roof Top Tent!
What You Should Know
The Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic Extended Roof Top Tent comes in three sizes and can comfortably accommodate three adult sleepers. Once it is installed, it can open up and close easily in seconds and when not in use, it collapses down into a heavy-duty, waterproof transportation cover. The tent itself is made with a marine-grade heavy-duty cotton canvas body and a 420D, 3,000 mm rainfly which can withstand any weather easily.
It comes with several added features like a 3-inch foam mattress, foam pillows, and a heavy-duty base plate. It also has a tubular ladder and LED strip lights for cozy interior lighting. Several storage pouches will keep your things organized. This tent is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
What Could Have Been Better
The Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic Extended Roof Top Tent is a great way to experience the outdoors while still having all the comforts of home. However, it is important to note that you will need an additional roof rack for your car or rail mounted rack system for your truck in order to enjoy its benefits.
While this may seem like a minor inconvenience, it is important to keep in mind that the tent itself is quite expensive. As such, you will need to be sure that you are able to make full use of it before making the investment.
With that said, the Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic Extended Roof Top Tent is probably the best way to experience the outdoors while still having all the comforts of a proper room.
Worthy Contenders
Fofana Truck Bed Tent
If you are looking for an easy and effortless way to set up camp you can check out the Fofana Truck Bed Tent. This tent is massive, with panoramic windows that offer an incredible view of your surroundings.
Their proprietary automatic pole structure makes setup and takedown a breeze, and the sewn-in floor provides a comfortable place to rest after a long day of exploring.
However, their build quality failed to impress us, the thin, flimsy material is easy to tear, and the unreinforced seams can give way in heavy weather. If you don't plan on using your camp bed often and only in mild climates, this tent is a great option to save you time and effort.
Guide Gear Truck Tent
If you are on a budget and looking for a truck tent that works, try the Guide Gear Truck Tent. This tent only uses four aluminum poles to quickly and securely fit into the bed of your truck, making the setup a breeze and it fits in most full-size truck beds. It also has a sewn-in floor, and mesh windows and its large rear window makes accessing the cab easier.
However, the build quality of this truck tent is not quite suitable for prolonged usage. The straps of this tent break easily as reported by many users and also and also the poles used are not durable. Also, its overall height can feel really low if you are a tall person.
Truck Bed Tents FAQs
Truck tents can be confusing to choose and use, especially if you've never used one before.
You're not sure which tent is right for you, how to set it up, or what to do with all the pieces when you're done. Setting up a truck bed camping tent for the first time can feel like a daunting task.
We've put together this list of the most frequently asked questions about truck bed camping tents to help make your decision easier.
What is the point of a truck tent?
Truck tents are designed to provide a comfortable camping experience for people who want to camp but don't want to sleep on the ground and don't want the hassle of setting up and taking down a traditional tent. Also, it will help you to set up camp at any location even if you have a rocky ground or a frozen layer of ice at your campsite, you don't have to worry if you have truck tents.
Truck tents attach to the top of your truck and provide a waterproof, bug-free environment that's perfect for sleeping or relaxing. They're great for camping trips, fishing trips, or any other outdoor activity that requires overnight stays away from home.
Can you put up any tent in a truck bed?
Many people try to put tents in the back of their pickup trucks and find that they don't fit. The reason for this is that most traditional tents are not designed in a way to fit inside a truck bed. However, it is not impossible, you can buy attachments and design hooks to fit your pickup if they match in size, but it is better to pick a truck tent instead!
There are some tents that can be put in a truck bed if it has a canopy or shell. These tents have a shorter height and can be attached to the frame of the canopy. Additionally, there are truck bed tents that have been designed specifically for camping in a truck bed. These tents are generally taller and longer than regular tents and are designed to utilize all the interior space of the truck beds.
Can you use a truck tent as a ground tent?
Yes! A truck tent is a versatile option and can be used for camping on the ground. They are typically made of waterproof and water-repellant materials, so they will keep you dry if it rains. They also have a sturdy frame that will keep them from collapsing, even in windy conditions.
Most truck tents can be set up in minutes, and most come with all the necessary hardware and instructions, so you don't have to face the hassles of hammering down the tent pegs. Plus, they are typically roomy enough to accommodate two people comfortably. So if you're looking for a quick and easy way to camp, a truck tent can be a good option to consider.
How do you measure a truck bed tent?
Truck bed tents come in a variety of sizes, but most are designed to fit either a full-sized or mid-sized truck bed. The dimensions of the tent itself will be listed in the product description, and you can also check with the manufacturer if you're not sure whether a particular model will fit your truck.
Generally, you'll want to measure the length and width of your truck bed to make sure the tent will be a snug fit. Some models also have zippered openings at each end that allow you to extend the living space by attaching it to the side of your truck. But again, double-check with the manufacturer before making your purchase to avoid any surprises.
Can you drive with a truck bed tent?
Yes, you can drive with a truck bed tent as long as it is properly secured, however, it is best to avoid it unless you have very fine weather and driving around leisurely. Make sure to follow all manufacturer's instructions for installing the tent and securing it to your truck.
In addition, be aware that wind turbulence can be a problem when driving with a truck bed tent, so be prepared for that. Finally, keep in mind the weight limit recommendation for your truck when packing up your gear for a camping trip.
Can you use a truck bed tent with a Toolbox?
Yes, a truck bed tent will work with a toolbox. The toolbox will simply sit inside the tent. Keep in mind that if you have a large or tall toolbox, you will lose valuable space inside your tent, and also beware of any sharp edges that might tear your tent.
Can you use a truck tent with a tonneau Cover?
It is possible to use a truck tent with a roll-up type or a retractable tonneau cover, but it may not be the best idea. Tonneau covers are designed to keep your payload from becoming damaged or wet, and a truck tent will defeat that purpose.
If you insist on using a truck tent with a tonneau cover, make sure that the fit is snug and that there are no loose corners or fabric sections that could become caught in the cover as it is closing. However, it is always a good idea to remove the cover altogether before setting up your tent.
How long does it take to set up a truck tent?
It can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the model you have.
Some truck tents come with an all-in-one setup that is very easy to use and takes just a few minutes. Other models require more time and effort to set up but are still not too difficult. It's important to read the instructions carefully so that you know exactly how to set up your specific tent.
Is it safe to sleep inside a truck tent during thunderstorms?
This is a highly debatable question. But, yes, it is safe to sleep inside a truck tent during thunderstorms, though you should avoid doing so intentionally. Most truck tents are made of sturdy materials that can withstand wind and rain, so you don't have to worry about getting wet or losing your shelter in bad weather.
Make sure that your truck tent is properly anchored to your truck and that you have a good lightning protection system in place. But even then, check for weather forecasts before you set out with your new camp to avoid storms.
Can you put rooftop tents on a truck topper?
You could potentially put any rooftop tent on a truck topper, but you would need to make sure that the tent is designed to be used with a vehicle. Some rooftop tents are specifically designed for use with campers or RVs, while others are suitable for any car.
Before purchasing a rooftop tent, be sure to read the product specifications to make sure that it is compatible with a truck. But even if it is not compatible, you will be able to find an aftermarket kit or roof rack systems that will allow you to use the rooftop tent with your truck topper. However, it is always best to check with the manufacturer before making any modifications.
Is a truck bed tent comfortable?
While the thought of spending a night in a truck bed tent might not sound appealing to everyone, truck bed tent camping can actually be quite comfortable. Truck bed tents are great for camping in remote areas where there are no developed campsites, and they offer a number of benefits over traditional tents.
Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that you don't have to worry about finding level ground on which to set up your tent - the truck's bed provides that for you. A good truck bed tent can be more spacious than traditional tents, since they're designed to fit the larger dimensions of a truck's bed, and some even come with an attached annex that can be used for additional storage or sleeping space.
Though many truck bed tents come with built-in floor mats or footprints for added comfort, many people prefer adding an air mattress and a lightweight sleeping bag to make their beds more comfortable.
How do you clean a truck bed tent?
Cleaning truck bed tents are not much different from cleaning any other type of tent. Start by spot-cleaning any areas that are particularly dirty, then give the entire tent a thorough cleaning with mild soap and water. Be sure to allow the tent to dry completely before storing it away.
It's important to clean your truck bed tent regularly, especially if you've been using it frequently. A build-up of dirt and grime can cause the fabric to deteriorate and make the tent less effective at keeping you dry and comfortable.
So, What Are The Best Truck Tents For You
Truck bed tents are the perfect way to camp in comfort and style, without having to find that perfect leveled ground. With plenty of options on the market, we’ve found the best truck bed tents for you to consider.
Whether you need a little more space or want something that is easy to set up and take down, we have just what you’re looking for.
For your reference, our top truck bed tents are :
Best Overall - Kodiak canvas truck tent
Best Value For Money - Napier SportsZ
Best for Rain - Rightline Gear Truck Tent
Best Rooftop Tent - Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic
Best of Rest - Fofana Truck Bed Tent
So, what are you waiting for? Just click the "Check Price on Amazon" buttons and add the one that suits you best to your cart today and get ready for an amazing camping experience!
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