Along with camper vans, trailers, and RVs, there are a number of people that are looking to start camping with their pickup truck. Some people find it as easy as throwing down a sleeping bag in the bed and calling it a day.
On the other hand, sometimes you might want a few more creature comforts and a more enjoyable pickup truck camping experience. This is we’re having the best truck bed tent for camping becomes a good idea.
If you’re not aware, truck bed tents are a special kind of tent designed to be used exclusively with pickup trucks. They are made to be secured inside the truck bed while offering privacy, additional comfort, and protection from the elements.
Using one of these pickup truck tents makes it possible to sleep comfortably when you’re heading out on an adventure. You can even throw an air mattress and some cozy blankets inside and you might even forget that you’re camping.
In this post, we put together a list of the best truck bed tents for camping that you can use with your pickup truck.
Let’s jump right into it!
Jump Ahead To:
The Best Truck Bed Tents
Truck Bed Tent Comparison At a Glance
Best Overall: Kodiak Canvas Long Truck Bed Tent
The Kodiak Canvas tent stands out as the best overall option.
It’s made of high quality, durable materials, provides the most interior space, and offers excellent weather protection.
The premium materials and construction make it the longest lasting and most comfortable truck bed tent.
Best Value: Napier Backroadz Truck Bed Tent
For the best value, the Napier Backroadz delivers quality and useful features at a more affordable price point.
The waterproof polyester material, spacious capacity, and easy setup make it a great budget-friendly choice.
Most Versatile: JoyTutus Pickup Truck Tent
The JoyTutus tent earns top marks for versatility with its removable floor and multiple entry points to accommodate different configurations. Combined with its quick popup setup and integrated storage, it adapts well to various needs.
Napier Sportz Truck Bed Tent
- Easy 15 Minute Setup
- 1200mm PU Waterproof Material Coating
- Comfortable and Spacious 2 Person Vehicle Camping Tent
- Durable and Sturdy Tent
- High Quality Design
Pros
- Perfect fit with helpful assembly process
- Good construction and fit
- Provides roomy space with adequate ventilation
- Stays dry in rain
- Easy to set up with clear instructions
Cons
- Difficult for one person to install alone
- Flimsiness of poles
- Durability concerns regarding availability of replacement poles
The Napier Sportz Truck Bed Tent provides a comfortable and spacious camping experience for two people. This tent is designed specifically for truck beds, allowing you to turn your truck into a cozy sleeping area while still having access to the cab.
The setup process is quick and easy, taking only 15 minutes to assemble. The tent is made from high-quality materials that are both durable and waterproof, ensuring that you stay dry even in rainy conditions.
One of the standout features of this tent is its large and strong floor, providing a stable foundation for your sleep.
The taped seams add an extra layer of protection against moisture, keeping you dry throughout the night. There are also multiple windows and vents in the tent, allowing for proper ventilation and airflow.
However, some users have reported difficulties when setting up the tent alone due to its size and weight. Additionally, there have been concerns about the durability of the poles and limited availability of replacement poles.
Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent for Camping
- Material: Polyester
- Dimensions: Fits most full-sized beds (79-81 inches)
- Coating: Water-resistant
- Windows: Mesh windows for ventilation
- Flooring: Sewn-in flooring
Pros
- Easy setup with four poles
- Spacious interior with good headroom
- Portable design makes it easy to store in its bag
Cons
- Some concerns about waking up to wet walls
- Instructions could be clearer
You’ll find that the Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent is easy to set up and provides a spacious camping experience in your truck.
This tent is made of durable polyester material and comes with four total poles, making it a breeze to assemble.
It is designed to fit most full-sized beds, ranging from 79-81 inches in length. The water-resistant coating ensures protection from the elements, while the mesh windows provide ventilation and the sewn-in flooring keeps you dry.
Customers have praised this tent for its ease of setup and generous space inside. However, some concerns have been raised about waking up to wet walls in the morning.
Overall, users appreciate the good quality and rain protection provided by this tent but feel that clearer instructions would be helpful.
If you own a ’95 F-150 with an 8ft bed, rest assured that this tent will fit perfectly. The rain fly effectively covers any gaps, allowing you to enjoy a dry camping experience even during rainy weather. Additionally, you can drive under 30mph with the tent safely secured.
In my personal experience using this tent in a Ram truck, I found assembly to be quick and hassle-free, taking only around 15 minutes.
I encountered no issues with water getting inside during rainy nights and was impressed by how spacious it felt inside. Considering its price point, I believe it offers great value for money.
JoyTutus Pickup Truck Tent
- Water-resistant design
- Multiple windows for privacy protection
- Convenient inner space with mesh bags
- Suitable for most truck models
Pros
- Excellent water resistance
- Provides privacy with multiple windows
- Convenient storage options inside the tent
Cons
- Concerns about durability of floor and zippers
The JoyTutus Pickup Truck Tent is designed with excellent water-resistant performance, ensuring that you stay dry even during heavy rain.
It also provides privacy protection with multiple windows, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors while still having a sense of seclusion. The convenient inner space with mesh bags helps keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.
It comes in a size that fits most truck models and includes all the necessary components for easy installation. While some users may initially struggle with tent pole installation, once set up, the tent offers a spacious interior that comfortably accommodates two people.
The fabric and poles are durable, providing peace of mind during your camping adventures.
However, there are some cons to consider as well. Some users have expressed concerns about the durability of the tent floor and zippers, so it’s important to take extra precautions when using it in rough conditions or heavy rain.
Overall, the JoyTutus Pickup Truck Tent is a reliable option for camping enthusiasts who desire both comfort and convenience on their outdoor trips.
KODIAK CANVAS Long Truck Bed
- Made with Hydra-Shield, 100% cotton duck canvas
- Tunnel-shaped design with 5 ft. ceiling height
- Tailgate down design
- Large D-shaped door with YKK zippers
- Covered entry
- Two gear pockets
Pros
- Durable and watertight canvas material
- Spacious interior with tall ceiling height
- Easy access through large D-shaped door
- Excellent ventilation provided by five windows
Cons
- Not designed for heavy snow accumulations
With its durable canvas material and spacious design, the Kodiak Canvas Long Truck Bed offers a reliable and roomy option for camping enthusiasts.
This truck bed tent is made with Hydra-Shield, 100% cotton duck canvas that is not only durable but also watertight and breathable.
The tunnel-shaped design maximizes interior space, providing a tall 5 ft. ceiling height, perfect for standing up comfortably. The tailgate down design expands usable space even further.
The tent features a large D-shaped door with top of the line YKK zippers for easy access and security.
There are two convenient gear pockets for storing your essentials.
With five windows providing excellent ventilation and openness, including a cab access window, you’ll have all the fresh air you need while enjoying the great outdoors.
Napier Backroadz Truck Bed
- Easy 10 Minute Setup
- 800mm PU Waterproof Material Coating
- Comfortable and Spacious 2 Person Vehicle Camping Tent
Pros
- Simple and convenient setup
- Durable and sturdy construction
- Provides protection from rain showers
- Extra storage space on truck bed rails
Cons
- Initial frustration with setup process
When setting up the Napier Backroadz tent in your truck, you’ll appreciate its simplicity and convenience.
The easy 10-minute setup ensures that you can start enjoying your camping experience without any hassle.
Made with a durable and sturdy design, this spacious 2-person vehicle camping tent provides comfort and protection from the elements.
The 800mm PU waterproof material coating keeps you dry during rain showers, while the vent shades help to cool down the interior.
Inside the tent, you’ll find plenty of headroom and even extra storage space on the truck bed rails. The sides of the tent act as shelves for convenient storage.
Fofana Truck Bed Tent
- Made of mesh material
- Imported
- Universal fit for full-size truck beds
- Fits specific truck models: Ford F150, Dodge Ram 1500, GMC Sierra, Chevy Silverado, Nissan Titan, Toyota Tundra
Pros
- Quick and automatic setup
- Convenient and comfortable
- Roomy interior with maximum storage capacity
Cons
- Gap in the back of the tent reported by some customers
- Length issue with rainfly mentioned in negative review
Now that you have learned about the Napier Backroadz Truck Bed tent, let’s move on to another popular option: the Fofana Truck Tent.
This tent is known for its quick and automatic setup, providing convenience and comfort during your camping adventures.
With a roomy interior and waterproof design, you can enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep without worrying about the elements.
The Fofana Truck Tent offers maximum storage space, allowing you to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.
With its easy setup process and positive user experience feedbacks, the Fofana Truck Tent comes highly recommended by satisfied campers.
However, it is worth noting that there are suggestions for improvement such as addressing the gap in the back of the tent and ensuring proper length of the rainfly.
Overall, this truck bed tent provides a comfortable camping experience with ample storage space for all your gear.
The Benefits of Truck Bed Tents
Better Than Tent Camping on the Ground
One of the main benefits to using these pickup truck tents is that you get to sleep comfortably in the back of your truck. This is where you’ll find a flat surface, as opposed to the lump and uneven ground for normal camping.
It’s easier to throw down a mattress and get comfortable through the night when you don’t have to clear out sticks and rocks. You also don’t need to worry about any bugs or other creepy crawlies giving you a surprise when you’re trying to sleep through the night.
Highly Mobile
Another benefit to using one of these truck bed tents is that it makes you highly mobile. Depending where you are, it can be hard to find a suitable campground or campsite for a tent.
With the tent hooked up on your pickup truck, it’s as easy as finding somewhere to park. Getting set up is simple and you’ll be able to relax a lot more quickly compared to a traditional camping setup.
When you’re using a ground tent you’re limited to areas where you can get the tent properly erected. With the truck, all you need to do is find somewhere to park and you’re good to go.
Easy Storage and Transportation
While you will have to put the tent away when you’re done for the night, it’s already stored on your truck bed. This makes it easy to take down and stash away until you need it again.
Unlike a traditional tent that you need to put everything away, it doesn’t need to be done when you’re using it on your pickup. There are also a number of different varieties to choose from so you have a lot of versatility when you’re looking for the right one for your truck.
Reasonably Priced
Compared to equally comfortable ground tents, truck tents tend to be similarly or even more affordably priced. This is because they don’t need to be made using the same materials and come with a sturdier base, the bed of your truck.
It’s possible to spend hundreds and even thousands of dollars on a traditional camping tent. They also need to be properly maintained to get the most out of them.
If you’re on a budget, then the same doesn’t apply when you’re shopping for the pickup truck tent. These tend to be more reasonably priced and are a better option if you’re a budget camper.
What Factors Should You Consider When Buying a Truck Bed Tent?
When selecting a truck bed tent, there are several important factors to consider.
First, you’ll want to think about the size and dimensions of the tent to ensure it fits your truck bed properly.
Additionally, considering the capacity of the tent is crucial in order to accommodate the number of people you plan on sleeping comfortably.
Lastly, don’t forget about weather protection, setup and installation process, as well as the type of doors, windows, and openings available for ventilation and ease of access.
Size and Dimensions
To find the right truck bed tent for you, consider the size and dimensions that will best fit your needs. Choosing the correct size is essential to ensure a comfortable camping experience.
Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Truck Bed Size:
- Measure the dimensions of your truck bed to determine the appropriate tent size.
- Consider whether you have a short or long bed truck as it can affect the available space.
- Tent Height:
- Check the height of the tent to ensure it accommodates your sleeping preferences.
- Some tents offer extra headroom, providing a more spacious feel.
Capacity
You want to make sure there is enough space for everyone to sleep comfortably. Most truck bed tents are designed for two or three people, but larger options are available if you need more sleeping space.
Checking the dimensions of the tent and comparing it with the size of your truck bed is essential to ensure a proper fit.
Some tents also come with additional features like built-in storage pockets or gear lofts.
These features can be useful for keeping your belongings organized and easily accessible during your camping adventures.
Weather Protection
It’s important to consider weather protection when selecting a tent for your truck.
You want a tent that can keep you dry and comfortable, no matter what Mother Nature throws at you.
Here are some key factors to look for:
- Waterproof materials: Make sure the tent is made from a durable, waterproof fabric that can withstand rain and snow.
- Reinforced seams: Look for tents with reinforced seams, as this will prevent water from seeping through the stitching.
- Rainfly: A good rainfly is essential for added protection against heavy rain. It should cover the entire tent and be easy to attach.
- Ventilation: While staying dry is important, proper ventilation is also crucial to prevent condensation buildup inside the tent.
- Sturdy construction: Choose a tent with strong poles and secure anchoring points to withstand strong winds.
Setup and Installation
You want a tent that can be easily installed without any hassle or complicated instructions. Look for tents that come with color-coded poles and clear instructions, making the setup process a breeze.
Many truck bed tents feature a simple clamp-on design that attaches securely to your vehicle’s bed rails, ensuring stability throughout your camping adventure.
Consider tents with quick-release buckles and adjustable straps for easy attachment and tightening.
Doors, Windows, and Openings
Having proper openings in your tent is essential for comfort during camping trips. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Ventilation: Look for tents with multiple mesh windows or vents that allow air circulation, preventing condensation buildup and keeping the interior fresh. Mesh windows can also keep out insects while still allowing you to enjoy the surrounding views.
- Natural Light: Tents with large windows or skylights offer an open and spacious feeling, filling the space with natural light during the day. This creates a welcoming environment, making you feel more connected to nature even when inside your tent.
Durability and Construction
To ensure the longevity of your shelter, look for a tent that is constructed with durable materials and reinforced seams.
The materials used in the tent’s construction should be strong enough to withstand various weather conditions and rough terrains. Look for tents made from high-quality polyester or nylon fabrics that are tear-resistant and waterproof.
Reinforced seams play a crucial role in preventing leakage and ensuring the overall strength of the tent. These seams are typically double-stitched or taped to provide extra durability.
Check for sturdy poles and robust zippers that can withstand continuous usage without breaking or getting stuck.
Additional Features
Look for tents that have additional features like built-in storage pockets and mesh windows to enhance your camping experience. These extra features can make a big difference in your comfort and convenience while camping.
Here are some key additional features to look for when choosing a truck bed tent:
- Built-in storage pockets: Having storage pockets inside the tent allows you to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.
- Mesh windows: Mesh windows provide ventilation and allow you to enjoy the view while keeping insects out.
Price and Budget
Look for tents that offer value for money, with features that align with your needs.
Consider factors such as durability, ease of setup, and additional features like windows and ventilation. Reading customer reviews can also give you insights into the overall quality and performance of the tent within your desired price range.
Intended Use
When considering the intended use of your outdoor shelter, think about how you plan to use it and what activities you’ll be engaging in. The right truck bed tent can enhance your camping experience and provide a comfortable space for sleeping and relaxing.
Leave a Reply