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Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by Paul Clayton
What Is The Best Truck Camper?
Many people love being in nature and outdoors, but accomplishing that is one of people’s biggest problems.
Not everyone can buy a full RV and haul it around the country. However, many people would be interested in putting one of the best truck campers on their truck and being ready to tackle whatever comes next!
Key Takeaways:
-
- Versatility and Affordability: Truck campers provide a cost-effective and flexible alternative to full RVs, making them accessible to more outdoor enthusiasts.
- Top 5 Models:
- Lance 650: Lightweight, spacious, and family-friendly, but has exposed holding tanks.
- Cirrus 920: Luxurious with ample storage and a stunning picture window, but you may need an optional generator.
- Four Wheel Camper Hawk: Known for durability and simplicity, but has confusing storage.
- Northern Lite 8-11 EX Dry Bath: This is a high-quality build with a dry bath, but the bathroom has storage issues.
- Arctic Fox 865: Features unique design elements and a quality bathroom, but the roof is difficult to access.
- 13 Best Truck Campers: The article lists detailed reviews of 13 different truck campers, highlighting their pros and cons to help readers make an informed choice based on their specific needs and preferences.
- Customization and Quality: Some models, like the Phoenix Mini Max and Capri Retreat, offer customization options, while others, like the Alaskan 8.5FD and Bigfoot 25C10.4, stand out for their build quality and durability.
- Unique Features: Several models come with standout features such as luxurious interiors, dry baths, pop-up designs, and large windows, catering to various preferences and requirements.
You might also like:
- Best Slide-In Campers
- Best Small Truck Campers
- Best Truck Campers for 1/2 Ton Pickups
- Best Luxury Truck Campers
- Best Short Bed Truck Campers
- Best Pop-Up Truck Campers
- Best Truck Camper Shells
- How Much Does a Truck Camper Cost
- Top 10 Truck Camper Manufacturers
- Best Truck Bed Campers
- Best Lightweight Truck Campers
There are many different models in different sizes, so we’re here to help you make a more informed decision about the best truck campers for all budgets and requirements.
We will introduce you to 13 of the best truck campers on the market. Regardless of what you’re looking for, I assure you you’ll find something that fits your needs on our list!
Let’s get to it!
Top 5 truck campers:
| Model | Weight | Perfect For |
| Lance 650 | 1700 Lbs | 1/2 Ton Trucks |
| Cirrus 920 | 3530 Lbs | Luxury Campers |
| Four Wheel Camper Hawk | 1100 Lbs |
Lightweight Pop-Ups
|
| Northern Lite 8-11 EX Dry Bath | 2650 Lbs |
Bathroom Campers
|
| Arctic Fox 865 | 2641 Lbs |
Cold Weather Campers
|
13 Best Truck Campers
1. Lance 650
Lance is an extremely well-known truck camper maker – they may be one of the most known manufacturers in the industry to date.
This 650 model is designed and sold by Lance Camper.
Lance Camper is an extremely innovative company. To build this truck camper, they used a process that had to be fairly expensive but included computer designs and new modern materials to reduce weight.
This process ultimately saved them money on final costs and weight for the end consumers.
That makes the Lance 650 an affordable option for most buyers and one of the best truck campers.
The big thing about this model is that it has a lot of space. There are many smart storage opportunities here, which is very important if you’re out on the road with your family.
The shelves and cabinets are a great place to store many items you’ll need and bring on your trip.
Many users online have noted that this model’s bathroom feels spacious, which will be high on many people’s lists of comfort.
While the bathroom is positive, the kitchen area also draws high remarks.
These individual “areas,” so to speak, get a lot of praise from everyone because they work so well together – it’s a great floor plan that comes together and makes this feel so comfortable.
The camper’s floor plan has drawn so many positive reviews online that it’s hard not to recommend that everyone looking for a great truck camper shouldn’t look at this 650 model.
Pros:
You have a nice model with a comfortable mattress and a large bathroom. The kitchen has everything you need, making it a great all-around camper.
Cons:
The biggest con for this camper is that the holding tanks are exposed, and you want to keep your weight distribution in check.
2. Cirrus 920
From nuCamp, the Cirrus 920 truck camper is quite luxurious.
This model has many features that people love. It has a great bed, an impressive stove, and a spacious and comfy-feeling bathroom, among other things.
The one feature people are always blown away by is what nuCamp calls a “Monster picture window”. The view capabilities from that window are only held back by where you can go – it’s a great feature in a truck camper.
The kitchen features a ton of counter space and much room for storage.
The permanent dinette (where the huge window is located) has enough space and is comfortable to eat in.
The Cirrus 920 has a proper Queen-sized bed that fits normal sheets.
The bedroom has storage above the bed, and there is a window at the top of the bedroom as well.
The Cirrus is a four-season model, meaning the water lines are all covered (not exposed), so your pipes won’t freeze.
This is in addition to the heating system that will keep you warm in the cold, so you’re covered on all fronts.
The shower, sink, and toilet all share the space in the Cirrus, but you should still have space and feel comfortable there.
One downside people have noticed is that the truck camper’s electrical setup isn’t the strongest, so most people will probably have to go for the optional generator. However, this varies based on personal preference, so it’s not something to be completely put off by.
This truck camper looks and feels like such a luxury. I love its overall look a lot.
Pros:
The Cirrus 920 has a luxurious feel, and the floor plan gives it an awesome look. All the amenities you’re looking for will be included here. The queen bed area is going to impress, as is the amazing picture window with great views of the outdoors.
Cons:
The main concerns with this model would be based on height and minor concerns about electrical potential.
3. Four Wheel Camper Hawk
This truck camper is known for its extreme durability. So, if you’re looking for a truck camper ready for a long life of reliable travel, you’ll want to look at this offering from Four Wheel Campers.
Other than the durability I mentioned, the basic thing you want to see when you buy a Four-Wheel Camper is that it’s simple and light.
Four Wheel Campers have had that focus for a while now, but the Hawk model is simple and gets the job done. This isn’t the craziest truck camper on the marketplace, but it’s very practical, and I can see that it appeals to many people.
The “Hawk” definitely has impressive workmanship throughout the entire camper. The things that stand out are the cabinets and things you may miss if you’re looking at a “features” list, like the wiring and plumbing.
Those aren’t the most excitable items, but they are important on the road.
Most users have reported feeling comfortable in the Hawk’s space, and I agree, as it does seem to have a lot of headroom.
The dinette is very spacious and should help keep users comfortable while they eat. The bed design included with the dinette is sharp, and I think that’s a very nice, simple design they decided on.
The storage in the Hawk has many unique places to put things and gives you so much variety—it can almost be overwhelming with the different ideas of where to put different items.
This could be a great choice for a practical customer who wants a simple design. I’m interested in what Four Wheel Camper will do next because many consumers appreciate their models and designs.
Pros:
The Hawk has high-quality workmanship. The interior feels spacious, mostly due to the bed area and the dinette, which give you the space you need.
Cons:
The storage opportunities are a little bit confusing and all over the place. The windows in the dinette don’t do much and could be better served elsewhere. There’s also some concern over the positioning of the electrical systems.
4. Northern Lite 8-11 EX Dry Bath
Many individuals feel that the 8-11 is one of the best-arranged campers on the marketplace today. With that knowledge in mind, Northern Lite didn’t change much when building this model.
They did add a dry bath to set this model apart, which is supposed to be a big convenience for consumers.
Although I agree that the convenience is there, which adds to this model, the bathroom doesn’t feel like a traditional dry bath model. There was a lot Northern Lite could’ve done since they switched to a dry bath, but they failed to do so.
The camper itself is made from high-quality materials and has great build quality.
The interior has a gorgeous design, and Northern Lite is correct when they think they have a good layout.
The dinette also added headroom from previous models and should feel spacious.
While this model does a few things right, I’m not sure it can compete based on the price level of some of its counterpoints.
The dry bath is supposed to be a huge feature, and it could be, depending on your tastes; however, it still looks like a wet bath, and from my experience, it does not always keep the sink dry.
At the same time, the dry bath also lacks a great storage system, including an awkward spot for the toilet paper holder.
It’s a beautiful camper structurally and with the design, but depending on your tastes with the dry bath, it may not be exactly for you.
Pros:
The dry bath is a new feature that will keep your bathroom floor and toilet area dry. The quality is extremely nice from top to bottom, and that, along with some amazing interior design, will make you feel right at home.
Cons:
The dry bath can be a pro but has some shortcomings. It doesn’t do its job regarding the sink, and the storage in the dry bath is a concern. They also didn’t take the opportunity to make the dry bath look better and still have the feel of a wet bath.
5. Arctic Fox 865
Northwood has had an off-and-on relationship with the 865, and even though it hasn’t been a year-after-year release, that doesn’t mean the 865 should be looked at negatively.
We want to be open-minded when looking at truck campers, and I think this entry is decent.
With the Fox 865, you have nice LED lighting and cathedral-arch ceilings, which make for one of the most beautiful designs you’ll see in a truck camper.
Another unique feature of the Arctic Fox model is that it has a hallway. That’s pretty different when you think about campers and the limited space they have to deal with, but it utilizes space well and can break up the areas so that one person could be in the main living area and not wake someone sleeping in the bed.
This hallway creates three “rooms” in the camper: the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom.
The bathroom has a high-quality feel, as it’s a fiberglass wet bath.
Everything in the Arctic Fox has been cared for well, so they pay high attention to quality.
The arches and the windows—really, the whole design in this model is exceptional and creates a great “interior design” feel.
One negative you’re going to find through a few reviews and one that I agree with is that getting up on the roof is going to be a pain in the butt.
Some people may not like the design; it’s probably best to check it out for yourself, although I am a big fan of the separation in this unit.
Pros:
This camper has a great design and awesome window views of the outdoors. The bath is high-quality, as is the whole camper, honestly. There are tons of storage opportunities all around the camper.
Cons:
This model may not have enough space for the sink, and the roof is very hard to maneuver. Not everyone will be a fan of the design, so test it to see if it’s for you.
6. Phoenix Mini Max
Phoenix Campers has quite the name with this one—the “minimax,” which at face value seems a little confusing, but I think it hits the nail on the head with what it’s trying to do.
The idea behind the name is that they took a miniature-sized truck camper and changed the designs to the maximum—a.k.a. the Mini Max.
It comes loaded with many features to back up that name’s billing.
Some will be surprised by the size, as they aren’t used to something this small having so many features, but that’s the idea.
This is a premium, custom-made truck camper, so you can expect to pay more than you normally would for good construction but not great.
It’s a really interesting idea that if you’re in the market for a truck camper, you should explore it if you think it may align with your needs.
It’s a custom camper, so your Mini Max will be fully designed to meet your payload requirements and bed size.
You’ve also got a lot of storage underneath the bed – trying to off-put some of the size difference.
The cabin’s design is nothing to scoff at—just because I said it’s “good but not great” quality in certain areas doesn’t apply to the cabin and the designs themselves. Phoenix is a high-quality business that wants to take care of its customers as thoroughly as possible, and I applaud them for that commitment to service.
I’m happy Phoenix is doing its thing because I believe the competition is great for the industry, and they’ve also brought some good ideas into this industry.
Pros:
The Mini Max can be custom-ordered for your exact sizing and payload needs—wow! This model features great interior design and really beautiful cabinetry. The refrigerator is standard, and the under-bed area provides much storage.
Cons:
On the flip side, this is a bit high-priced for what you’re getting because it is a custom deal. The door and entry can be a tight fit for some. Outside of that, the only real negative would be complaints about electric availability through the camper.
7. North Star Hardwall Truck Campers
North Star Campers took a very unique approach to this truck camper.
If you’re looking for something that may be a bit different from some of the other offerings you’re seeing, the 12STC may be for you.
This 12-foot luxury truck camper model does not have a slide-out.
One thing that the 12STC is giving customers is a model that doesn’t have extra weight, doesn’t have high walls, and takes the gravity away from the top-heavy center that those traditionally have.
It’s a dry bath model with a ton of storage and other room but not the added weight and height that those other models may feature.
As soon as you’re inside the 12STC, you’ll see a lot of storage cabinetry in places that most other truck campers don’t use so well.
Because of its size, this North Star is a hit with those who may stand a bit taller, giving you that extra headroom.
The dry bath also offers users the traditional flushing method for a toilet, or a cassette toilet can be available as a system.
There are some negatives, such as heating issues regarding the thermostat not picking up temperatures appropriately.
The dinette area could use more expansion – at least as an option for some buyers.
The North Star 12STC is a unique option that will be very high quality for most customers who see it. I’m a big fan of seeing this option simply existing in the marketplace, and I hope they continue to challenge expectations in the industry.
Pros:
The 12STC does not slide out, which means less weight for your truck. The dry bath featured is amazing and has multiple toilet options. The kitchen area is a big plus due to its size and quality—you’ve also got ample storage throughout the truck camper.
Cons:
The thermostat may sometimes give false readings, which could lead to discomfort. The dinette might not be big enough for your tastes, and the camper has questions about outlet positions.
8. Bigfoot 25C10.4
Bigfoot Industries has come out with a model that is a premium fiberglass truck camper.
The price tag is high, and buyers will want to know if they are getting the most bang for their buck.
The biggest benefit of that premium price is durability. Fiberglass construction is an amazing way to build a camper that will last for years and years—very important if you make a big investment.
The windows in the back will immediately draw attention, especially if you’re looking for something beautiful (or even into the model from the lot).
Speaking of windows, the large dry bath also has a window! The shower stall is a molded fiberglass model, and the quality of that dry bath area is apparent.
Storage is always the main concern, and Bigfoot easily passes this test. This model has many storage places, and customers should feel at ease when thinking about whether they’ll have room for all that fun stuff they need to bring along on trips.
All the tank areas are attended to with great care – a Bigfoot hallmark.
Pros:
The construction of this truck camper is “Grade A” all the way. This is some of the best work you can find anywhere in the marketplace.
A dry bath is a beautiful, impressive unit in a camper like this. The overall quality proves that Bigfoot Industries has taken extreme care to build a very high-quality product that will last over a long period—great for buyers who want a camper for the “long haul.”
Cons:
The price tag will always be a concern (for some). Light switches need to be assigned, which is odd. Some design choices, such as the fridge door, dinette, and bed area, fit awkwardly. Be sure to check that out if you’re looking at a model.
9. Alaskan 8.5FD
Alaskan Campers has a long tradition in the truck camper game. They’ve been manufacturing campers for decades and have incorporated much information gathered over the years into this model.
One note before I get into the specific truck camper: Alaskan is a small team company. These are not mass-produced, so the idea is that employees can specialize and bring a high level of quality to each part of the camper they make.
I like the personal feel of dealing with a somewhat smaller company, but it can make these models harder to get.
Most people who buy an Alaskan buy specifically because they want a hard-side pop-up model. If that’s what you’re looking for – you probably need to investigate this based on that and that alone.
The dinette area has dual sofas and is designed for comfort, along with the bed.
Alaskan campers can be heavy, and they honestly don’t feel like many other campers on this list—it’s a very different model. I don’t think it’s bad, but the design choices will cross it off for many buyers. That’s okay—but don’t head too far down the path of buying an Alaskan if it’s not for you.
Compared to other models, storage is a big problem for many people, and it is hard to get the bike unmounted in nature unless you have your manual jack.
Pros:
The pros section has to start with the fact that we’ve got a hard-side pop-up design here. The build quality is high, and Alaskan has a proven track record of selling campers that last for years.
Cons:
The 8.5FD is heavy; you may need a big truck if you go this route. Storage is a huge concern & you better have a good plan if you go with the Alaskan for your storage needs. The dinette is comfortable but has a roof-mounted table, which will annoy some users.
10. Capri Retreat
The Capri uses a mix-and-match approach to building a great truck camper. You have a floor plan that is a true classic but mixes in newer ideas and sophisticated technology. To top it off, Capri Campers goes with tried and true materials for an interesting mix of new-school and old-school ideas.
Capri is what I would call a semi-custom company. Their campers are ordered “custom” from the manufacturing team, but they only have the Retreat and the Cowboy.
They won’t simply draw up from scratch whatever ideas you have in your notebook.
That being said, you have all kinds of options and packages available as a customer. This nice touch makes you feel in control from start to finish.
The Retreat is difficult to review because of Capri’s custom mix-and-match approach. The basic model has a lot of room to customize as needed, and it’s supposed to be a light and affordable truck camper.
The quality of the model is extremely high—there’s no doubt about that. However, the bed can be a little claustrophobic, especially if you’re tall.
The shower is bare-bones but fits in well and should fit most needs.
The storage is great for a model like this, and there are many shelves to help you put clothes or anything else you need in the perfect spot.
Pros:
You control your destiny regarding the weight of this model—I’m going to assume you’re a smart buyer and include that as a “Pro.” The shelving units are awesome and provide a ton of space. USB ports are found easily, and the kitchen should provide enough space to cook something edible.
Cons:
The biggest problem with the Retreat is a word I haven’t mentioned in this review yet—no toilet is on board. You can choose a “portable,” but that will be a death blow for some. Kitchen storage is hard to find, and cover storage is non-existent.
11. Palomino SS-550
Palomino wanted to create something they felt was unique when they built their SS-550 model, and as we go over the features, I think you will see where that creative direction took them.
This company hasn’t always had the best reputation, so it’s been working on improving people’s perceptions of it and its camper offerings.
If you’re still in that old camp, I think it would be best to update your opinion—this SS-550 was fairly high quality from top to bottom.
The biggest drawback for most users of an SS-550? The lack of a bathroom.
The SS-550 features a North-South cabover. It’s not the lightest model on the market – there are honestly trade-offs at every step of the way with the SS-550, but you’re saving where it matters for a lot of buyers… on the bottom line.
If you take the time to do your homework, having a half-ton compatible model would be best. The dinette area switches into a very ample bed, and the floor plan makes a lot of sense no matter where you look. Everything seems to fit together sensibly, and it fits together with a nice design that shows Palomino put some nice thought into this model.
Pros:
The SS-550 is decent quality for what you pay. The floor plan has many storage opportunities, which seems to make a lot of sense. Many people will like the dinette/bed switch process.
Cons:
You don’t have a bathroom with this model—and you also don’t have a shower or toilet. While I’ve stated that the quality is good, it’s definitely that—good, not great. Certain seams are not top-of-the-line, so you need to temper your expectations as a buyer.
12. Adventurer 80GS
Adventurer Manufacturing has become known for making adjustments and listening to customers.
In theory, that should lead to an excellent review of the 80GS. Guess what? Generally, I liked this model. Let’s get into it:
The design shines through as a model that has been adjusted for several years. The feel and look of the camper are excellent. It’s a modern environment.
Every part of the camper feels open and inviting. The dinette should be good for multiple people & it is an easy transformation to set a more spacious mood with the sofa lounger.
The slide-out kitchen will give customers a lot of space in that area, which is a big plus for those who need space to prepare their food as they want it.
If you’re familiar with truck campers, the floor plan will feel comfortable to you.
The unit’s weight is not heavy and should give you plenty of opportunities to use this truck camper – depending on your model and fit.
The 80GS’s storage isn’t the best, and for people who need their space, it may be a challenge, and they may want to look elsewhere. There are also some problems with tank size and needs there.
Pros:
The kitchen is a big drawpoint for many people—the space there is virtually unmatched. Along with that kitchen is a big dinette area with room for four people, which is a nice feature. The 80GS feels like a home with its traditional design.
Cons:
The holding tanks were my biggest drawback—they needed to do much work there. Some people will not love the feel of the wet bath or the lack of a sink.
13. Hallmark Milner
The Milner has a traditional feel while not being the lightest truck camper. The bang for your buck is also a little bit questionable here.
However, where the Milner can shine is through its overall quality. The fiberglass construction in the camper is fantastic.
Storage options are everywhere and are high-quality. The Milner is a great way to bring a fair amount of stuff on the road.
The fact that they’ve been refining the Milner over such a long time leads to a great design and a feeling that you’re right at home.
Pros:
This is a high-quality camper with a lot of fiberglass construction. You have a standard fridge, which is great for many customers. It’s almost like the Milner doesn’t have anything “crazy” attached to it, but everything it does stands out.
Cons:
The biggest problem someone may have with the Milner starts with price. It’s in sort of an awkward position in that regard: It’s not the cheapest model, but it’s also not the nicest model. It’s a middle-of-the-road proposition that can make it hard to find value or define exactly who their customer is.
There aren’t too many huge concerns, though. If you want to nitpick, the outlet locations could be better, and an occasional design decision could be questioned.
Conclusion
Slide-in truck campers are an excellent choice for those who desire mobility, convenience, and flexibility while exploring the outdoors. Here’s a summary of what we discussed about the different models:
- The Hallmark Milner is known for its customizable options and solid build, making it suitable for any truck bed and journey.
- The Adventurer 80GS stands out for its affordability and compact size. It is great for weekend getaways or first-time camper owners.
- The Palomino SS-550 is lightweight and ideal for smaller pickup trucks, making it a convenient choice for those prioritizing gas mileage and maneuverability.
- The Capri Retreat offers a taste of luxury with its personalized interior design options, appealing to those who value comfort on their trips.
- The Alaskan 8.5FD is famous for its unique hard-sided pop-up design, perfect for cold climates and those who desire more security.
- The Bigfoot 25C10.4 stands out for its spacious interior and four-season insulation, appealing to those who desire longer, more comfortable trips in various weather conditions.
- The North Star 12STC is a larger model suitable for extended trips and those needing more living space.
- The Phoenix Mini Max is recognized for its lightweight construction and custom design, making it a versatile choice for any adventurer.
- The Arctic Fox 865 is a four-season camper with spacious interiors and high-quality insulation, perfect for long journeys in various climates.
- The Northern Lite 8-11 EX Dry Bath is popular for its integrated bathroom and top-of-the-line insulation, ideal for those who prioritize convenience and comfort.
- The Four Wheel Camper Hawk provides an optimal blend of lightweight design and rugged durability, suitable for off-road adventures.
- The Cirrus 920 is well-known for its luxurious features and modern design, making it a great choice for those seeking high-end amenities.
- The Lance 650 is a lightweight, versatile camper designed for half-ton pick-up trucks, suitable for those looking for maneuverability and comfort.
The right model depends on personal preferences, your truck type, and the camping experience you want. These remarkable models provide a range of options, from luxury and spacious models to compact and lightweight ones. Consider the most important features when selecting, such as size, weight, amenities, insulation, and durability. No matter your choice, each of these models ensures a comfortable and memorable camping experience.
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