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Last Updated on August 28, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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14 Best Pop Up Truck Campers
If you’re considering purchasing a pop camper truck, you are probably upgrading from a tent or downgrading from an RV or something else.
Key Takeaways:
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- Pop-up truck campers offer a compact, cost-effective alternative to traditional RVs. They deliver outdoor comfort without sacrificing amenities, making them ideal for travelers upgrading from tents or downgrading from full-sized RVs.
- Half-ton trucks are the primary choice for pop-up campers due to their low center of gravity and compatibility with off-road travel. This makes them versatile and capable of handling rough terrain.
- Economical and Storage-Friendly: Most pop-up campers are designed for fuel efficiency and can be easily stored in garages, simplifying maintenance and winterization.
- Variety of Options: Buyers have many models, each with specific advantages tailored to solo travelers, couples, families, or adventurers.
- Limitations: Though pop-up campers lack some luxuries, like baths and larger water capacities, they still provide significant comfort for short —and long-term outdoor experiences.
- Top Recommendations: Models like the Raven, Grandby, Phoenix Minimax, Bundutec Wild, and AT Overland Summit offer unique features that cater to different needs—from affordability to luxury and off-grid capabilities.
Pop-up camper trucks provide great value and the experience of being outdoors while providing the comforts you would expect to find in such a vehicle. The pop-up truck campers are mainly fitted to half-ton trucks. This combination offers the perfect size and power for hauling the camper unit anywhere you want to go.
Pop-up truck campers are economical; most units are streamlined and designed for fuel economy.
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The truck’s chassis is also designed for weight loading, and what makes the half-ton truck the perfect tool for the camper is its low center of gravity. A low center of gravity means you can take this pop-up truck camper to almost any desired destination. There is sufficient ground clearance to traverse the toughest obstacles without the fear of tipping the unit over.
There are so many benefits to owning a pop-up camper. For instance, most camper units can be stored in a garage, making winterizing the unit easy. Unlike hard-sided campers, the pop-up unit can provide the owner with a simple solution for weekends away or extended family holidays.
There are some negatives to owning a small pop-up camper. It’s impossible to fit in a bath(this shouldn’t be an issue for most folks), and you must use a cassette portable toilet. However, the downsides of owning a pop-up truck camper do not outweigh the upside of owning such a vehicle.
Any prospective buyer should consider certain limitations and considerations before purchasing a pop-up truck camper. It is unlikely that the pop-up camper will have a huge water tank capacity, so refilling the tank and having a clean water supply need to be considered when venturing out. Overall, the facilities that pop-up campers offer can be limited, but many people upgrading from tents will know the pitfalls and limitations of owning such a vehicle.
If you’re downgrading from an RV, some of the lacking facilities may be a short-term issue. Many folks these days espouse less is more. You will need to make this decision before taking the plunge and owning a pop-up camper truck.
There are many companies supplying camper trucks, and all claim that their trucks are better than their competitors’. This article will help guide you through the minefield of pop-up truck campers and the claims their manufacturers make.
Our Recommendations:
Model | Weight | Best For |
Raven Pop-up truck camper | 1,040 lbs | Solo Travellers |
Grandby Truck Camper | 1,200 lbs | Couples |
Swift Model Truck Bed Camper | 935 lbs | Small Families |
Leentu UTE Pop-up Camper | 240 lbs | Budget Travellers |
The Phoenix Minimax | 1,180 lbs | Luxury Camping |
Bundutec Wild | 1,610 lbs | Full Timers |
Alaskan 6.5 Cabover | 1,390 lbs | Cold Weather |
Outfitter Caribou Lite 8 | 850 lbs | Freezing Temperatures |
AT Overland Summit | 340 lbs | Adventurers |
Four-Wheel Camper Hawk | 1100 lbs | Bathrooms |
15 Best Pop-Up Truck Campers For Sale
1. Raven Pop-up truck camper
The Raven Pop-Up truck camper is light, weighing 1,040 lbs, which can be partially attributed to its low-profile design. When down, the cab-over section of the camper is a little over 10 inches in height, but once popped up, you’ll find nearly 7 feet of headroom.
The Raven comfortably sleeps up to three adults, with two sharing the bed and one using the couch bed conversion.
It’s an excellent option for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking to get away.
2. Grandby Truck Camper
The Granby Truck Camper is another lightweight pop-up truck camper on our list, coming in at 1,200 lbs.
When in the down position, the over-cab thickness measures a little over 10 inches, so its overall profile is small at best. This limited profile, coupled with the weight-conserving aluminum construction, helps improve fuel economy and efficiency.
It’s also been built to last and should last many years of consistent use if cared for carefully.
3. Swift Model Truck Bed Camper
The Swift should be at the top of your shopping list if you’re looking for a seriously light pop-up truck camper. It weighs a diminutive 935 lbs.
No matter the terrain or conditions, this small pop-up truck camper should be able to go wherever your truck can. Fuel economy and handling should be decent, given its small footprint and reduced dimensions.
Despite being just over 8 inches high over the cab when in the down position, you can comfortably sleep up to three adults using the couch/bed conversion.
4. The Phoenix Mini max
The Phoenix Mini has impressive features that will please everyone in the market for a pop-up truck camper. It is considered the coolest-looking mini camper on the market today; it enjoys a 7-foot floor plan and an impressive 60×80-inch bed that straddles the truck from east to west. The bed is luxurious and comfortable, ensuring a good night’s sleep for the driver and his companion.
The pop-up truck camper has a bathroom on the driver’s side of the vehicle and a large dinette, ensuring entertainment and indoor dining when required. The unit is fabricated from aluminum and has a total dry standing weight of 1,180 lbs, allowing the owner to carry more essentials for an extended vacation. Together with the lightweight construction, the camper is lined with insulating high-density foam to ensure that the camper can withstand most weather conditions. The unit is clad in one-piece fiberglass for structural integrity.
Other features include an 18-gallon water toilet, which is enough for a few days’ use, even with a young family. The pop-up camper utilizes the Thetford cassette toilet with an 8-gallon grey water holding capacity. A functional 1.9-cubic-foot domestic refrigerator is also included in the standard package for this pop-up truck camper.
The interior cabin color is birch, which is the standard. However, other options are available to the purchaser and can be pre-ordered. The wood laminate is finished with a clear, hard-wearing coat.
Other options can be purchased, such as a solar power unit, rear ladder for access, roof racks, and low-power air conditioning for hot summer nights.
You can also opt for a custom paint job for your truck, making you the most excellent camper in the park.
5. Bundutec Wild
This camper could have easily been number 1. This unit offers value for money. Although it’s cheaper than number one, I felt that the first choice had a better finish and provided a sense of quality over and above the Bundutuc Wild.
One cool feature the Bundtuc Wild offers is a full wet bath with an enormous water holding tank, making bathing a viable proposition for campers. If you’re looking for a pop-up truck camper with a bathroom, this might be the one for you.
I particularly liked the fact that the whole camper is skinned in aluminum. It looks great, but I worry about the unit’s long-term appearance after a few years of use (I always consider resale values). The wild is gray, which may be preferable to some buyers tired of the white standard many manufacturers offer.
The unit’s impressive weight is 1,610 lbs, which should result in additional fuel economy. It is aerodynamic and looks very nice overall.
The seven-foot floor plan provides a decent-sized bed and cooking facilities. The mattress is a little smaller than the first choice, but it is adequate for this camper size. The bed has a handy under-storage capacity, which can be useful when taking longer trips away from home.
The freshwater tank capacity is 21 gallons, which provides ample drinking and washing water for the whole family. A 17-gallon gray water tank is supplied for non-potable water. The Bundutec Wild has a nice refrigerator made by Novakool. It has abundant working service and a stainless steel sink and drainer.
The Bundutec Wild comes with fly screens to keep out even the tiny bugs that drive us crazy during summer camping months. Other options include a wraparound awning, solar panel units, and a quiet-running boiler system.
All in all, this camper unit is excellent value for money and well worth a look when you are in the market for a new pop-up camper.
6. Alaskan 6.5 Cabover
If you are looking for a tried-and-tested camper, look no further. This camper has been on the market since 2015 and has enjoyed excellent reviews from its owners. It’s the only camper in this review with canvas sides, but don’t let that put you off owning this tremendously engineered camper.
The Alaskan 6.5 features a patent pop-up design operated by hydraulics. The robust unit will provide the user with years of hard-wearing service. The hydraulic support system raises and lowers the entire roof section, making the operation simple for the owner. With the unique opening system, the canvas will not pinch or snag.
Stepping inside the Alaskan 6.5 Cabover for the first time is a sight for sore eyes. You are greeted with maple cabinets, wood-lined ceilings, and a sumptuous leather dinette fit for royalty.
If you like extensive countertops, then this is the camper for you. It has more than enough worktop space for food preparation and storage. You will also find generous overhead storage for all your needs while away from home.
The camper weighs 1,390 lbs. The freshwater tank holds 15 gallons, and the refrigeration unit suits families. You will also find a 5-gallon propane tank, making frequent re-fills a thing of the past. With Hehr windows and a full-size door added to the unit, you will not need to bend and contort to enter the Alaskan Camper.
A big consideration when buying a camper is whether you can get the unit serviced or repaired should the need arise. Alaskan Campers has been in business since 1953, so you can rely on this camper manufacturer to be around for a very long time.
As with all campers, you can expect a comprehensive range of accessories and add-ons. Alaskan campers offer a 20,000 BTU furnace to keep you nice and warm on those chilly nights. The Camper comes with a Thetford cassette toilet unit. Other accessories like solar panels and power inverters can be purchased, allowing you to have one of the best campers available.
7. Outfitter Caribou Lite 8
This compact budget camper is packed with features. However, don’t be fooled by its low price; this camper has plenty to offer the camping enthusiast. If you are upgrading from a tent or have decided to dip your toe in the camping water, this may be the pop-up camping unit you are looking for.
This budget camper offers strong composite housing—so strong you can walk on the roof. Strength and rigidity often come with weight, but this unit tips the scales at 850 pounds, making it one of the lightest campers in its class.
The Caribou is insulated like no other camper. The camper’s manufacturer uses high-quality insulation in just about every nook and cranny of this lightweight unit.
Would you believe that you can find a queen-sized bed in this camper? The over-cab vault offers a pull-out queen-size bed to ensure the camper’s owners have a restful night.
The Caribou Lite sports a hefty 24-gallon freshwater holding tank and a 5-gallon propane cylinder for long-lasting propane gas. A 5-gallon toilet can complement this budget camper’s other features.
A full range of accessories is available, such as solar panels and power inverters. Roof racks are a great addition, and the Caribou fits the Yamika rack and the air conditioning unit.
You’re mistaken if you think this is a cheap camper aimed at a specific market segment. The camper works perfectly on or off the truck and comes with an industry-leading lifetime warranty on the camper housing.
If you are looking for a camper, check out the Outfitter Caribou Lite. You will be pleasantly surprised by its features.
8. AT Overland Summit
This one is a real budget unit, coming in at under $10,000, and the old saying “you get what you pay for” is undoubtedly correct in this case. But let’s take a step back and closely examine this camping unit. We all know that not all campers are made equal, and often, that’s for a reason. Budget campers are relevant to the market and fill a specific niche for buyers.
If you’re a loan camper or part of a hunting group, this basic camper could be just what you’re looking for. It’s basic, easy to use, and, in some ways, very functional if you only wish to sleep in the unit.
The camper will fit a six-foot bed in a mid-size truck; larger trucks like a Tacoma can fit a 6.5-foot bed. However, the functionality of this unit seems to stop at this point.
Would I buy this camper? If I were a hunter or a solitary person looking to escape the trappings of life for a weekend, I would consider the camper an option. It’s not luxurious, but it stops you from sleeping on the ground with critters.
9. Four Wheel Camper Hawk
This camper can provide some excitement at a competitive price. It’s a lightweight, ruggedly constructed camper suited ideally for today’s half-ton pick-up trucks. The camper is made from durable aluminum and, with a little careful attention, will last for a very long time.
The Hawk is fitted with a 20-gallon freshwater tank for drinking and washing. It sports a queen-size bed, offering the driver and companions a restful night in comfort. The kitchen is fully kitted out with quality cabinets and sinks. There is ample storage for an extended vacation. A functional 1.7 cubic foot refrigerator is supplied as standard.
The interior is fitted with wood, which offers a warm, cozy feeling to the occupants while being durable and resistant to knocks and spills.
The Hawk manufacturers offer a range of floor layouts to suit your requirements. These floor designs can offer varying locations of the dinette, sofas, and other options. You may opt for an outside shower or toilet, depending on your needs.
If you are escaping civilization for a while, you can fit solar panels to provide all the electricity you need during your vacation.
If you like to drive off-road, the Hawk’s fixing system will hold the camper securely to your truck. The invisible securing system utilizes four anchor bolts that cannot be seen but hold the camper secure.
Would I buy the four-wheel Camper Hawk? Yes, I would. This is a quality-built camper that provides everything needed for vacations. The Hawk is robust and well-put-together and should be on the list of every prospective camper buyer.
10. Hallmark
A classic camper by all standards, the Hallmark has been around since 1969 and has provided its customers with quality workmanship for the past 50 years. Hallmark is not the cheapest camper on the market but is not the most expensive. Troubles due to Covid, they filed for bankruptcy, but on Mar 15, 2023 — Hallmark Manufacturing’s bankruptcy was officially dismissed.
Its molded fiberglass frame has stood the test of time; it is robust and durable and provides a resilient exterior to weather storms. The one-piece unit requires little to no maintenance other than cleaning. Because of the construction method adopted at Hallmark, the Hallmark weighs in at 1,212 lbs, making it one of the lightest bodies in its class.
You can expect to find an east-west-facing bed that can accommodate most people. The bed’s dimensions are 60×80, which is very generous for a camper bed. For your convenience, you will also be supplied with a 30-gallon freshwater tank and fully molded integrated work surfaces. A three-way refrigerator is also standard equipment in the Hallmark. The gas tank is 5 gallons, providing adequate gas for most vacations.
Attractive wooden cabinets provide a sense of homeliness to the camper. Two large windows in the perfect location can offer unrivaled views.
Hallmark offers an extensive list of options, from providing extra storage space to changing the interior woodwork to your preferred choice of wood.
Would I buy this camper? This camper is a classic and will be around for a long time. It meets the requirements of most campers looking for a more traditional design. The camper comes with a 5-year frame warranty and is considered the industry’s benchmark. Yes, I would buy this camper if tradition was essential to me.
11. Earth Cruiser Adventure with Purpose
The Earth Cruiser is a new design based on a European design. The Terranova is priced competitively for the features offered. The compact design and reduced weight of the EC Terranova Expedition Camper result in quicker acceleration and enhanced highway performance.
This nimble camper effortlessly tows a boat, trailer, or toy hauler, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. Base chassis options include the 2020+ Ford F350 and the RAM 3500, available in gas and diesel versions. With its versatile capabilities, the EC Terranova is ideal for those seeking a balance of performance, comfort, and the ability to haul essential equipment for all excursions.
The EC Terranova offers generous living space, with a comfortable bed above the cab and a dining area that easily converts into an extra sleeping area. Designed to accommodate up to four guests, it shares the same trusted electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems found in the highly regarded EarthCruiser EXP and FX models. These systems, tested extensively through global expeditions, are engineered for flawless performance, even in the harshest environments and sub-zero conditions.
With a focus on comfort and reliability, the EC Terranova is built to meet the demands of serious adventurers.
- The interior features durable, easy-to-clean fiberglass surfaces throughout.
- A roof-integrated fan efficiently moves over 200 CFM of air, ensuring fresh ventilation and virtually eliminating condensation.
- An optional DC air conditioner is available for enhanced cooling.
- Leather-cushioned dinette bench seats with built-in storage provide ample space for working remotely, dining, entertaining, or enjoying a board game.
- A high-quality, seamless countertop includes a stainless steel sink, induction cooktop, and a 12v Isotherm stainless steel refrigerator and freezer with a 4.24 cu. Ft. capacity.
- It has a Shurflo freshwater pump and water system supported by a dedicated freshwater tank.
- Purified water is available from a drinking tap and a hot/cold kitchen faucet.
- The bathroom offers a full-height shower with a water flow rate of 6.7 liters (1.77 gallons per minute).
- A composting toilet remains discreetly hidden when not in use.
12. Northstar 650
This camper may be at the bottom of the list, but it could easily be at the top; this is a super little camper priced at or below its immediate competition. It gives the big boys a run for their money; its sleek design makes this camper perfect for fitting on any half-ton truck. This diminutive camper packs a real punch in the camping world. Its standard features include an east-west facing queen-size bed, with more under storage than you could ask for. It holds a 5-gallon horizontal propane tank for ample gas supply.
It holds a 30-gallon freshwater tank, which is vital for extended vacations or weekends away with the family. The refrigerator is 3.6 cubic feet, which is enormous for this class of pop-up truck camper.
You would expect Northstar to have a full range of accessories, and they will not disappoint you. Options include a six-inch deep memory foam mattress for those long, lazy sleepovers. If you’re heading off-grid, Northstar can supply you with a 160-watt solar panel for all your power requirements.
If you like to camp out when the weather is changing, you can opt to buy the “subzero package.” This will give you an insulated canvas to keep the cold elements at bay. The windows are also insulated to prevent heat loss through thermal conduction.
Would I buy the Northstar 650? This really is the essence of a great little camper. Northstar provides you with a durable body that can withstand the rigors of camping for many years. The accessory packages fit the camper and the user’s style. Yes, I would buy the Northstar 650. Its price point is perfect, and its functionality matches the price.
13. Northern lite 8-11 EX
This is another fantastic camper for short breaks or even full-time RV living. The Northern Lite competes with some of the more expensive and luxurious campers in today’s burgeoning camper market.
The camper feels spacious because it is spacious. This camper provides the owner with an RV living experience at a fraction of the cost. The camper has a queen-size bed that matches the best of the more expensive campers.
The Northern Lite offers an exclusive shower stall for privacy. This is a unique feature of this particular camper and one you will soon come to appreciate when you need it.
The camper has some of the best illumination found in any of the campers being offered today. The lighting provides a homely feel during your short break or excursion.
As you would expect, a camper of this quality comes with a fully fitted kitchen and an attractive dinette. The camper is both comfortable and functional. You will have a 30-gallon freshwater tank for all of your water requirements. Greywater is stored in a 20-gallon container.
A large class-leading refrigerator is installed as standard equipment, along with stainless steel sink and drainer units. One-piece molded countertops give the camper an elegant and functional appearance.
I like that when entering the camper, there is no need to stoop; the camper has a full-size entry door with steps leading to the door.
Would I buy the Northern Lite? This is an excellent camper for those looking for the RV live experience. The camper is well-appointed, as one would expect for 50k. The seats are comfortable, and living in the camper is an enjoyable experience. However, I feel the overall external dimensions of the camper are large enough for me to like. I prefer to leave the camper on the truck all year round, so I want to store my camper in a garage. I don’t think the Northern Lite would pass under a standard garage door.
This camper is without a doubt everything you need, but I would not buy it for the reason stated.
14. Lance 650
For campers who require a robust truck camping unit, the Lance 650 is certainly worth a serious look. This camper will suit many potential buyers. This pop-up truck camper could have easily been number one. Are we saving the best for last? You can be the judge of that.
The camper feels spacious overall, and its exterior has a sleek, aerodynamic design. It is fitted with large windows that allow plenty of light to enter the space.
A toilet unit is fitted for the user’s convenience, and the camper boasts memory foam mattresses as a standard feature, giving the occupants an unrivaled sleeping experience while camping.
The Lance 650 would provide high-quality living for a family or a hunting party in the wilderness. The kitchen has everything needed for an extended vacation, and the appliances have a quality feel.
Would I buy the Lance 650 camper? I would certainly give it serious consideration. The price point is correct for the quality and build of this camper. I like the sleek design, and I am a fan of utilizing space effectively. The over-cab sleeping area provides excellent use of space that is often at a premium in this type of camper.
Overall, this is a great unit that prospective buyers should not overlook.
Important considerations when buying a truck camper
All of the campers above have their own little quirks, and it’s just a case of finding which pop-up truck camper suits you best. But one important fact to consider is your vehicle. You need to understand the weight limits of your vehicle. For trucks like the Ford F-150, your maximum payload will be approximately 100 pounds. Going over this weight limit may put you and your family in jeopardy.
You can easily find your vehicle’s payload. It is normally in plain sight on the driver’s door pillar. If you cannot find it there, you should be able to find the payload limits in the vehicle handbook that came with the vehicle.
You will also need to consider your tire’s weight rating; most tires fitted as standard are not nearly good enough for hauling heavy loads such as campers. I recommend purchasing an original equipment manufacturer tire but choosing a light truck tire with a D rating. This should cover you for all eventualities and keep you safe.
Pop Up Truck Campers with Bathrooms
Most pop-up truck campers don’t come with a bathroom, but some do, so it’s worth considering what’s important to you. Only two models that offer bathroom facilities come to mind: the Phoenix Mini Max and Bundutec Wild.
If the camper you’re keen on doesn’t include a bathroom and is a must-have, you might want to consider retrofitting one or utilizing an alternative, such as a portable toilet and an outdoor shower. If you set your mind to it, there are a few ways to do this.
Used Pop-Up Truck Campers
If you’d like to save some money, there’s no reason not to look at buying a used pop-up truck camper. It’s a great way of getting a good deal, but only if you research and know some of the potential issues with buying a used pop-up truck camper. To help you get a great deal, we’ve compiled a checklist to help smooth the buying process.
- Check the roof for signs of wear and tear.
- Check seals and latches to ensure they fit snugly.
- Ensure the roof lifts smoothly without being forced and there are no signs of stuck mechanisms.
- Check that the doors close and seal correctly.
- Check any folding furniture or bunks to ensure they work as intended.
- If the camper contains a cooker, run gas through it and check for leaks with the soapy water mixture.
- Check the walls and floors for signs of water damage, condensation, or mold.
- Make sure all lights work correctly.
- Check to make sure all drawers and cupboards are open.
- Walk the entire length of the camper to check for soft spots (rot).
- Check for rust on any metal frames.
Are Pop-Up Truck Campers any good?
They are. They are aerodynamic compared to many other truck campers, are lightweight, cheap to buy and maintain, and can go almost anywhere. I recommend pop-up truck campers.
What is the lightest Pop-Up Truck Camper?
The Leentu UTE Pop-up Camper weighs an incredible 240 lbs, which is simply outstanding. It’s by far the lightest pop-up truck camper we’ve encountered.
How much do Pop-Up Truck Campers weigh?
Pop-up truck campers can weigh anywhere from 240 lbs to 2,000 lbs. Most average around 1,500 lbs.
Final thoughts
The pop-up truck camper industry has increased exponentially over the past decade, with more folks taking more economical vacations and avoiding hotel and flight charges. However, the camper market is a minefield of special offers and super deals on finance that can lead us to make the wrong choice. Make no bones about it: campers are expensive, and they should be treated as a long-term investment.
If you choose the correct camper for your needs, you will enjoy years of great weekends away in the wilderness or camping with friends at your favorite campsite. If you take care of your camper, you will be able to resell it into the used camper market, which is growing stronger every month. Currently, good used campers are selling well.
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