What Are The Lightest Truck Campers? 2025

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Last Updated on August 22, 2024 by Paul Clayton

What Are The Lightest Truck Campers?

Regarding truck campers, one crucial factor that many outdoor enthusiasts consider is the camper’s weight. Lightest truck campers are becoming increasingly popular due to their portability and ease of towing.

Outfitter Apex 8
Northern Lite 8-11EX
Capri Retreat
Alaskan 7 Cabover
NuCamp Cirrus 620
Lance 855s
California Four-Wheel Camper Flatbed Hawk
Lance 825
Arctic Fox 811
NuCamp Cirrus 920

RVs are a great invention. However, not every person likes or is comfortable roaming around in a massive RV. Some individuals prefer to have something light, simple, and affordable.

For individuals like that, light truck campers are the perfect solution. That being said, purchasing a truck camper isn’t exactly straightforward. There are quite a lot of things one has to consider when trying to find the best light truck camper for one’s needs.

There are numerous lightweight truck campers available for purchase today. However, not all of them will provide you with the best experience. Some offer a great experience, while others leave much to be desired.

Most websites try to advertise their favorites to you. This article aims to show you a list of the 10 best lightweight truck campers available for purchase, highlighting their features, pros, cons, and prices.

This is to ensure that you can make an informed choice when selecting the best truck camper for you. On that note, let’s begin!

The Ultra-Light Truck Campers

1. Outfitter Apex 8

Outfitter’s Apex 8 has been designed not to be just another camper. It has quite several features. For one, it has the largest freshwater tank in a truck camper.

Its freshwater tank measures 44 gallons; however, the black and grey water tanks have a 16-gallon capacity.

Features:

3.8 cu. ft. compressor refrigerator
2-burner cooktop
200 Watt portable solar suitcase
Sleeping capacity of 4
Maple interior cabinet doors
LPG and carbon monoxide detectors
Queen-size cab-over bed

When you purchase this truck camper, you get a 5-year construction warranty, ensuring you are protected for a long time. The base model of the Apex 8 is available for only $50,995 with a dry weight of 2,130 lbs.

2. Northern Lite 8-11EX

Regarding luxurious light truck campers, Northern Lite is the name that pops up. For one, this Northern Lite model has a beautiful fiberglass-constructed clamshell exterior.

Northern Lite ensured that this molded fiberglass construction could make this model look both aerodynamic and stylish.

The construction quality ensures that zero leaks and excellent durability are standard. The 8-11EX WET has a 9-foot floor plan with a host of features.

What’s great about this truck camper from Northern Lite is that it has a 33-gallon freshwater tank, making it one of the lightest on this list.

The grey and black tanks hold 24 and 13 gallons, respectively. This model can also be ordered with a dry bath.

Features:

2,900 lbs
Full-size queen bed
Spacious wet-bath
Face-to-face dinette
Plenty of storage
A large kitchenette
3 burner stove with oven
6.3 cu ft 2-way fridge
600 watts of solar panels
Air conditioner 11,000 BTU

This truck camper has a 6-year warranty. While its price might appear a little steep, it is one of the best truck campers for the money.

3. Capri Retreat

Capri is known in the camper industry for producing unique, ready-made designs ideally suited for half and three-quarter-ton trucks. The Retreat embodies this with a completely aluminum-enclosed wood construction bound to stand the test of time.

Capri offers the Retreat in two specifications: a fully decorated and equipped camper or a lightweight empty shell with a bed. If you are interested in going all the way, you should look at the options available for this model.

Features:

Microwave
Cooktop
Faucet and Sink
Manual Jacks
30-gallon fresh water holding tank

The Retreat is a truck camper with an enthralling diamond-pattern exterior. The exterior is made of aluminum and is available in over 10 varying base colors coupled with colored accents and strips.

If you like wood finishes, Capri offers them. You can choose from four varying yet stylish wood paneling selections: Azdel, Weathered Cedar, and Ridge Pine.

Additionally, Capri allows you to order a truck camper to suit your particular truck bed. You can select from as many as 8 feet to 6.5 and 5.5 feet.

This ensures that the Retreat is a beautiful choice for almost any truck. It can be purchased for just $16,995.

4. Alaskan 7 Cabover

The next truck camper on this list is quite different. It is a hybrid camper, which offers the benefits of both a hard-side and a pop-up camper.

The Alaskan 7 Cabover has a pop-top built with sturdy wall construction and a hydraulic mechanism that raises and lowers the camper’s top using a switch flip.

Its telescopic design is not simply aesthetic; it transforms into a complete classic interior room when camping. Additionally, due to its design, you can be sure to get reduced wind resistance and better mileage on your travels.

Features:

Custom handcrafted cabinetry
Large countertop
Wood-panelled ceiling
Larger overhead storage
Full-length door

The 7 Cabover is ideally suited for short—and long-bed trucks. It costs just $40,900 and has a dry weight of 1,560 lbs.

5. NuCamp Cirrus 620

The NuCamp Cirrus 620 isn’t just another camper; it’s a compact marvel of modern RV design, blending comfort with functionality. Picture this: you’re nestled in deluxe Amish cabinetry that evokes a sense of warmth and quality not found in standard campers.

The Alde® heating and hot water system ensures you’re cozy, regardless of outside weather. Imagine lying under the stars, gazing through the stargazer window from the comfort of your bed, thanks to the innovative Froli™ Sleep System.

Features:

LP storage compartment
100 Ah Lithium battery
310-watt solar panel

Meal prep is a breeze with a sleek stainless steel sink and a 2-burner glass-top stove, complemented by a spacious 4.6 cu ft. 12V compressor refrigerator.

The Lagun table adds a touch of elegance and versatility to your dining area. When nature calls, the cassette toilet offers convenience, and the Nautilus system with an external shower keeps you fresh.

Electric jacks make setup effortless, and the durable composite flooring withstands the rigors of adventure. You’re well-equipped for the journey ahead with a freshwater capacity of 17 gallons, a 13-gallon gray water tank, and a 5-gallon black tank.

The Cirrus 620’s modest center of gravity, at 24.75 inches, and a dry gross weight of 1,593 lbs ensure stability and ease of towing. This camper isn’t just a vehicle; it’s your gateway to exploring the great outdoors in comfort and style.

6. Lance 855s

Lance is perhaps one of the longest-operating manufacturers on this list. Due to this longevity, they have built trust thanks to its 9 luxurious models. The 855s is a wonderful choice for a lightweight truck camper.

This is because it has a short bed design, making it the perfect length. Additionally, it has a slide-out dinette that comfortably seats 4 people and can be converted into a bed that sleeps 2.

Its standout features include LED lighting, an aerodynamic nose cap, a bed base with carpet, and a deluxe mattress.

However, one of the most important things is that the 855s have an exceptionally sturdy construction thanks to their aluminum-framed walls, cab-over, roof, and floor.

The floors have been laminated and insulated, and the roof is made from a single piece to prevent warping.

Features:

Maple interior
LED lighting
Bathroom
Sturdy construction
4-person dining capacity
4 to 5-person sleeping capacity

7. California Four-Wheel Camper Flatbed Hawk

Four-wheel campers from California are known to be unique, durable campers. The Flatbed Hawk is no different. Thanks to its narrow girth and rear kickback, it can withstand extreme road conditions.

The Flatbed Hawk has several exciting features, one of which is that it is just 60 inches when the pop-up is down. It weighs 1,325 lbs.

Moreover, the frame is extremely lightweight, thanks to the roof made from a single piece of aluminum. The construction is high quality, ensuring its waterproof and durable designs last.

Features:

East-West bed layout
Massive dinette
fridge
Indoor shower
Dual battery box
14 interior material choices

Perhaps the only negative to this camper is that the freshwater tank is small, measuring just 20 gallons.

Nevertheless, installing an additional water tank to increase your freshwater capacity is possible, thanks to the tray size.

The Flatbed Hawk has been designed explicitly for full-sized trucks that have a 6-and-a-half-foot bed. The base price of a Flatbed Hawk starts at around $37,995.

8. Lance 825

This Lance Camper is the second product from Lance on our list. Lance Campers is a leading manufacturer in the camping industry. The 825 results from several years of work at Lance to create the lightest and most durable truck camper.

The 825, in its construction, embodies that desire. Its dry weight is 1,795 pounds. The camper can be an excellent choice for three-quarter-ton trucks when fully loaded. The 825 is available with an 8.6 feet floor plan.

Features:

Equipped kitchenette
Small wet bath, including shower
Full sized dinette
Large wardrobe
Classy interior
burner cooktop
Queen-sized bed with North-South layout
Refrigerator 3 Cu. Ft.

This camper has a fresh water tank capacity of 30 gallons, while its black and grey water tanks are 13 and 14 gallons, respectively. The 825 has been designed to be sleek and aerodynamic thanks to its TPO nose cap made from one piece.

A unique feature on this list that isn’t seen on others is the ability to connect a solar panel or generator to the camper for easy battery charging.

9. Arctic Fox 811

The 811 delivers on quality and features. While most campers on the list can be considered genuinely lightweight, the Arctic Fox 811 is right on the upper bounds of that at nearly 3,500 pounds.

While the initial dry weight is mentioned to be 2,873 pounds, a mandatory option called the Fox package adds nearly 600 pounds to the base weight.

Features:

Massive basement
Heavily insulated walls (2 inches thick)
8 cubic ft fridge
6-gallon DSI water heater
9 feet long floor plan
Sleeping capacity of 4
LED exterior lighting

10. NuCamp Cirrus 920

NuCamp is a leading brand that creates innovative, high-quality truck campers. The Cirrus 920 is no exception, as NuCamp’s flagship offers numerous features that could be difficult to find in other truck campers.

Features:

930-Watts of Solar
Low-noise water heating furnace
Heated floors
Froli modular sleep system
Massive storage space
Huge wardrobe
Queen-sized bed in North-South layout
A bathroom sink that folds away to save space
Large cab-over
Spacious wet bath
Cosy dinette
Spacious kitchenette

At 43 gallons, the fresh water tank is large enough to ensure you do not have to cut your vacation short. The black water tank holds 25 gallons, and the grey water holds 35 gallons if you want this camper.

You can purchase this camper in a silver or white exterior alongside varying color accents.

Advantages of Choosing Lightweight Truck Camper

Versatility: Light truck campers are incredibly versatile. They can be used for camping, as a mobile office, or as temporary housing. They provide the convenience of a mobile home while still offering the practicality of a vehicle.
Mobility: One of the primary advantages of opting for a light truck camper is its mobility. Unlike larger RVs or trailers, truck campers can be quickly and easily moved around, providing the freedom to travel anywhere with relative ease.
Cost-effective: Light truck campers typically have a smaller footprint, making them more cost-effective. They don’t require as much fuel as larger RVs and have fewer maintenance costs. Furthermore, they often have lower insurance costs due to their smaller size.
Easy to Drive: Thanks to their size, light truck campers are easier to drive and maneuver than larger RVs. This makes them suitable for those new to the RV world or those who feel uncomfortable driving large vehicles.
Off-Grid Capabilities: Light truck campers with the appropriate setup can be exceptional for off-grid living. They can be equipped with solar panels and other self-sufficient features, enabling you to camp in remote locations without a power hookup.
Indoor Comforts: Despite their compact size, many light truck campers come equipped with all the amenities of a home, including a bed, kitchen, and sometimes even a bathroom, ensuring you won’t have to compromise on comfort during your camping trips.
Easy Set-Up and Pack-Up: You can eliminate the hassle of setting up a traditional campsite with a light truck camper. Once you’ve found your perfect spot, you park, and your living quarters are immediately ready for use. This also applies when it’s time to move on, as pack-up is as simple as driving away.
Increased Resale Value: Trucks with camper shells generally have a higher resale value. This is an added benefit if you ever decide to sell your vehicle.

Final Words

When searching for the lightest truck campers, you’re spoiled for choice. Each blends a lightweight design with essential comforts—the Outfitter Apex 8 impresses with its robust yet compact build, ideal for light travelers.

The Northern Lite 8-11EX stands out for its quality construction and spacious interiors, and it is favored for its easy towing. Capri Retreat’s innovative, lightweight design ensures a comfy and handy camping experience.

The Alaskan 7 Cabover, with its intelligent, compact layout, offers a cozy home on the road without the bulk—the NuCamp Cirrus 620 sparkles with its modern, practical design, offering spaciousness and style.

With their unique designs, the Lance 855s and the Arctic Fox 811 provide ample space and amenities without weighing you down. Lastly, the luxurious NuCamp Cirrus 920 combines elegance with lightness, making for an upscale, easy-to-manage travel companion.

Each camper caters to different preferences, from efficiency and compactness to luxury and spaciousness, ensuring a lightweight truck camper for every adventurer.

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