If you like exploring roads less traveled, a truck camper is the way to go. Small footprint, when traveling, best maneuverability, and basically you can go where ever your truck can go. If you stay anywhere for more than one night and you want to tour the area, it's very easy to unload the camper and use your truck as a touring vehicle. Then of course you do not have to register your truck camper since it's considered a payload entity carried by your truck. But mostly, if you don't like the crowds caused by endless RV'rs with motor homes, 5th wheels and travel trailers, a truck camper is the way to go. It all comes down to personal camping lifestyle. ,

@mangos1346

3 жыл бұрын

well he said its not as easy to go around as some people think. Now I don’t know who to believd

@phil763

3 жыл бұрын

@@mangos1346 In my case you are not going to go exploring some logging road with a trailer behind because if you need to back up with a trailer on some crappy narrow road you are screwed. So for exploring any remote, unknown areas to me is the one big plus of a truck camper. That said, I have had things bounce around a lot in the camper that I did not expect, so you need to make sure that everything is nice and secure. I usually fold the laptop computer I carry in the comforter on the bed for example. But that said :) with the stiff suspension on my GMC 3500 I actually find the ride a lot smoother with the camper on. This I guess because the springs are so stiff without a load that it is a much nicer ride with a load.

@paulne1514

3 жыл бұрын

Exactly. I have parked on city streets, just pulled my mirror in. Went to New York City to see the tall ships back in 1976. And if I go to the lake or river, I can pull my boat. Newer campers have a higher center of gravity.

@stevejeffrey11

3 жыл бұрын

yea I have had a few camper vans & want to get a truck camper next...van can't handle logging or forest service roads to get to the beautiful, remote, quiet spots

@alive4082

Жыл бұрын

More work unloading the truck camper

Depends on what you expect from the truck camper. It is more difficult to slid the camper off the truck but I keep it on the truck because ti is always ready to use. I did own an Airstream for about 10 years but every time I wanted to use it I had to go to the storage lot and hook up. The result: little usage. The one big factor is I don't have to maintain another set of 4 wheels, tires and brakes.

I'm interested in going on the road full time. I'm learning that there are drawbacks to each and every type of camper available. It obvious there is a trade off one must make when considering any of these types of mobile shelters. I'm also learning to watch a lot of videos like this one. It opens one's eyes up to the pitfalls of every option available. Thanks for an informative video. Keep up the good work!

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

You're exactly right John! Every setup is going to have pros and cons. It really comes down to what type of camping you're going to be doing/how you intend on using your RV. I hope you find something that works for you. Thanks for watching!

Hey Camperman, I've full timed in 5th wheels etc. The truck camper is the best. You just need to take the time to get your rig set up. I have a 1 ton Dodge Cummins, then I added overload springs to the rear, air bags front and rear (custom front) 14 ply rated 19.5 rated tires. No sway and my camper is 14 ft./ with a slide/ air/ generator, 4000 lbs. Electric jacks with a fob will raise and lower the camper all at once so easy to drop or load. You can tow, I tow a Jeep and sometimes a boat. You can drive into the 7-11 and park in a car slot! You can stop at every overlook! The slide makes the floor space huge. Watch Craig's List, I bought my totally loaded Arctic Fox for $5000.00 in winter in Oregon. Happy trails.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

Sounds like you have a solid setup there! I have nothing against truck campers, just wanted to share some perspective on what I don't like.

@thehomeplatespecial597

7 жыл бұрын

Ron Dye Channel, Based on your description you definitely should show your truck camper setup to give tips and techniques to help us.

4x4 truck camping and off road driving is awesome I did it for 2 years I could go where others couldn’t

@ColoradoCamperman

Жыл бұрын

For sure, it is definitely a huge positive of the truck camper. Thanks for watching!

I have over 50 years of camping experiencing. From backpacking, Tent, Camper, Travel Trailer, Class A, B, &C. They all have good and bad. Many times it boils down to what you can afford to what works at the time. I have had several truck campers including a cab over on a Ford Courier. I even took my 53 Ford PU and put 2 ft high sides, a window and we went camping in the Rockies in Colorado with a 3 month old baby. My last camper was for my 91 Nissan extended cab. When I got my new Frontier in 2007 I had to build a spacer to raise it up. It worked OK we are just getting to old. I have never liked hooking and unhooking a trailer but that will probably be our next. Something light for my Frontier to pull. (it has a V6) at 66 and 64 we just don't like climbing up to an overhead bed. They all work if you need them to.

Two things i'd like to add. First when attached and depending on your type of truck, the camper can sit pretty high off the ground so the stairs design is an important issue to consider. Make sure to assess how well you can get in and out of the camper while it is attached and also when it is on the ground. Second, pay attention to the tank drain height. Because the camper sets high off the ground, your tank drain can be elevated so much that an accidental disconnect while draining the tank can be ....well, more disgusting than you can imagine.

@ColoradoCamperman

2 жыл бұрын

Great points Eldon! Thank you for the comment and watching!

Good commentary about pros and cons. I just recently purchased a Northstar 12 STC truck camper and love it. Being semi-retired, I use it at least once a week camping in the New England area. We have very small and tight roads up here; some of the trailheads I go to, there is no way to even get a small trailer into them. Yet I often park my TC overnight and ready to go first thing in the morning. I have had my TC for 4 months and have not paid a single dollar to camp overnight. Another benefit is ocean beach camping; some places do not allow trailers on the beach. 4WD is definitely the way to go to traverse the sands and dunes. Not many Class C or Class B offer 4WD campers. Also I plan to continue camping in the winter months and many trailheads are not plowed out very well. My truck in a RAM 3500 diesel dually 4WD which has no problem with the 3500 lb Northstar and should make it in and out of snow packed camping areas (thinking of installing a 20,000 lb winch if I ever get stuck). Regarding the moisture buildup under the mattress, before winter I am planning to upgrade and purchase the Froli mattress system which allows air flow under the mattress. Moreover, most folks I have talked to which have this system also like the comfort as well. The con of the Froli system is cost as the dealer told me is quite high compared to other mattress systems. Once I get the Froli and toss out the existing mattress, I plan to treat the plywood underside (as well as interior cabinets and cavities) with a mold inhibitor such as those containing Chitosan (crab shell). A $10 Zep 32oz should be enough to coat these interior surfaces. Yet one more pro (or con depending on circumstances) regards towing capability of a TC system if properly equipped. I purchased the Reese Titan 4' hitch extension which supports a 500lb tongue weight and 5000lb towing capacity which my RAM 3500 can easily accommodate even with the camper. I plan to carry my mountain bikes and additional gear on this hitch. The Titan is completely supported by the truck hitch and exerts no load on the TC. I paid $200 for the Titan and $100 for the electrical splitter and 4' cable extension. Should I upgrade to a Torquelift Supertruss, the ratings for this system are 1200lb tongue weight and up to 14,000lbs towing capacity. I met a fellow camper who uses his 4' Supertruss extension to carry a BMW F800GS motorcycle at roughly 500lbs plus and inflatable kayak. I actually stood on this hitch with the beemer and gear and this thing was rock solid.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

Rick Thompson Thank you! I like the sounds of the setup that you have! I do have to say, the mobility and smaller size of a truck camper is the best benefit. And with 4wd you can drive much safer in winter conditions. I was unaware of the froli mattresses. That makes sense that they would make those. That is also a great idea about the ZEP, it looks like I will still have my truck camper for this winter so I will have to try that. I have seen those hitch extensions and wondered what would be best. Thank you for sharing that information!

@garylytle7185

7 жыл бұрын

Rick Thompson

@garylytle7185

7 жыл бұрын

Rick Thompson

@thehomeplatespecial597

7 жыл бұрын

Rick Thompson I hope you share truck and camper videos because it sounds like you have a great setup and plans.

@blanquitopapito7778

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for writing that Rick

I know the feeling about getting out of the truck camper to get in the truck, I wish my condo had a secret hatch so I could go from my living room to garage to avoid the front door & god forbid my neighbors !!

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

Lol, that would be amazing! That's like batman/secret agent stuff there! Thanks for watching.

We travelled from Calgary to Vancouver and back, and found the truck camper great! We had our home with us at all times. The only thing is there were restrictions to where and how late you can park on a night out, like when we were in Jasper. We did love that we could park on the road easily.

Lot a good comments here. I bought a Cirrus from Nucamp it has the Froli spring system that eliminated the possibility of moisture build up. Secondly the heating system is the Alde heating system that heats Glycol liquid that is radiator system and it uses electricity or propane and there isn't any heating element like a typical propane system thus no moisture. The other benefits is that your hot water is heated on demand no hot water tank to worry about. The Nucamp Cirrus is the only one like it on the market at this time. I looked at every truck camper on the market and the Cirrus in my opinion is the best out there. It also is not the least expensive nor is it the Most expensive. I remember when the truck campers in the 70s were popular but they were wood frame and very poorly constructed. The Alaskan Camper is probably the oldest and I had considered it until I started looking at its features and came to the conclusion they are far behind the times and in my opinion your not getting a very good value.

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

I've looked at the Cirrus campers once, I was definitely impressed. They seem like great campers. Thanks for sharing your experience and watching!

@RetrieverTrainingAlone

3 жыл бұрын

A new Cirrus 620 is $38,000-$40,000 in US.

Mount it on a flat deck 14-15' trailer use plywood and 2x4's to build a surround around the bottom of the bunk section boom lots of storage enough room for 2 quads (one in box one on trailer) and my gold prospecting equipment 🤘

@ColoradoCamperman

5 жыл бұрын

I like your style! That would be a sweet setup. Thanks for the comment and watching! Have fun prospecting btw.

Pop up campers are the way to go IMO for off road adventure. If I was a full time boondocker off the beaten path camper I would own a pop up! Condensation is a major issue. I have to open my skylight every morning and turn on the Fantastic Fan to ventilate and dry out the interior every morning in the damp Oregon coastal climate which starts around this time of year. Great points buddy! Appreciate the friendly shout out.

@vagabond-yj8pn

7 жыл бұрын

Are you talking truck pop up slide in or pop up pull behind?

@WestCoastRoller

7 жыл бұрын

truck camper pop up

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

I would love to test drive a pop-up TC and see how it handles in comparison to a hard-sided TC. Have you owner both WCR? Is it only when you sleep that you get all that moisture build-up in the upper bunk? No problem on the name drop! You have a great channel with a lot of useful info on TC's and full time living, I think a lot of people could benefit from watching your videos.

@WestCoastRoller

7 жыл бұрын

I haven't owned a pop up. I met a guy on my trip south over the winter who full timed in a Four Wheel Campers pop up, Tundra truck & cargo trailer, and I was impressed. He mostly camps on public lands for long periods. Keyword...lightweight! The rear door takes some getting used to....you have to duck all the time entering and exiting the camper.

@steedsful

7 жыл бұрын

super light weight. but also not worth the price point unless you're an avid camper. i couldn't imagine spending that much. it was 30,000-33,000 ish canadian if i got one of those. i'd rather buy a bit heavier and pay half the price. but if i had money to through around, i'd def. get one.

I live in a 26' Travel Trailer, and I have the same moisture issues. Cooking, breathing, and propane heat make it tough. I run a dehumidifier (for a house) in my camper and dump two gallons every other day. If I don't run the dehumidifier, I have standing water in my window tracks and mildew build up everywhere.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

Holy smokes! What part of the country do you live in?

@FernbarkFrist

7 жыл бұрын

Western Washington. Very wet here in the winter.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

Yeah, definitely!

@watchmanonthewall14

7 жыл бұрын

Wow, that's a lot of humidity.

@SPLINTBLIGHT

7 жыл бұрын

Fernbark Frist Would it be possible to install a Fantastic Fan in your truck camper? I have a friend with a Skoolie, and they installed three, one over the kitchen area to pull heat and cooking smells out, one over the sleeping area to circulate air for comfortable sleeping and one in their tiny bathroom to vent moisture/odors. That actually works so well they have a clothes drying rack in there, and they close the door and turn on the fan, and clothes dry really fast. I don't remember any condensation issues in their bus at all. Worth looking into. They had to cut thru the roof for install, but they sealed it up right...no leaks.

The problem with moisture is from condensation. A propane stove is part of the problem; the combustion of propane creates carbon dioxide and water vapor. I see no moisture barrier in MOST of these camper, trailers and RVs. Plus as we breathe we expel water vapor also. So, the water damage is not always from a leak ☹️

@malekodesouza7255

2 жыл бұрын

Especially in cold temps. Same on our boat. Diesel heat with an exhaust was the answer.

Low center of gravity is WHY i got a pop-up lightweight truck camper vs. A hardside...But Everyones situation is different and each has pros&cons.. Amazing the difference in agility and stableness I have vs. A full hard side big truck camper. Also having screen windows the lenth of my camper and front and back in conjunction with the sliding glass windows provide Exceptional airflow and view ..2 fantastic fans . Also factory rooftop air if needed. Also can get in with roof down and still have windows to open sleep in couch bed access to stuff stealth camp. I prefer solo camping no pets its perfect for ME ! I can accommodate 4 adults to sleep or eat in.. 1-2 adults is ideal. I prefer having a quick set-up outside screened room for hanging in if mosquitos are bad or on a rain day..or a simple tarp attached to camper & 2 poles...yes everything has pros& cons but folks like us ONLY some type of truck bed camper will do. Love i can park anywhere at Walmart with it like any other vehicle..NOT having to tow a trailor . I am one with my truck camper. Happy Trails to you...

@ColoradoCamperman

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your input on the pop-up camper. I have never owned one but I have heard they are much better while hauling. I also like some of the pros that you just listed when it comes to pop-up style truck campers. Thanks for watching and the comment! Happy camping!

Everything has its pros and cons including RVs. I agree with you Brian, truck campers generally have the highest price per square foot in the industry. Us humans even while sleeping make a lot of humidity. This happens in tents and rvs and in homes. Opening a tent flap or a window a little helps with the humidity issue. There are also roof vents and power roof vents that help. The height of some of the campers make even off roading an issue due to tree limbs overhanging the road. There are pop-up truck campers that do fold down that minimize the height issue somewhat. If a person has mobility issues like bad knees, hips, etc. stepping up into a truck camper and then into the bunk could be an issue. They are ideal for singles and couples; any more and it would be crowded in a hurry. Like I mentioned pros and cons. Keep up the good work on the videos and happy camping.

Brother.....I know this is an old video , but gawd dang , it is SUPER informative! I'm at a cross roads myself right now , on the type of truck / camper / trailer.....ect combo I need for what I want to to do. You hit on some topics that really made me re-think what I was looking at. I was almost dead set on a badass Dually with a nice camper and towing a 14' off-road Cargo trailer for all my fun stuff. But now , I'm thinking about a big Dually , with a tall canopy and like a 24' - 28' RV trailer. LOTS of money can be spent here.....only to find out later that you screwed up! My best move here is to keep figuring out what my best combo would be.

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

Glad the video could be helpful! I'm sure as you have found out doing research, there are pros and cons to every set up. It definitely pays to do as much research as you can ahead a time to help you assess what setup would be best for you. Good luck with finding the right rig for you and thank you for watching!

@Kurt1969

4 жыл бұрын

Did you ever come up with a solution? After months of research, I was going to order an F 250 next week to go with a FWC Hawk but now having second thoughts. I just can't see myself towing anything even though you get much more bang for the buck. The truck camper seems the most versatile to me. You get to select vehicle, you can dis connect, and you can get in and go. Plus you have to store the trailer which wouldn't work for me...anyhow, just curious before I drop a lot of money ;) Edit: great video as it made me think.

Very well stated. One of the best "things I don't like" videos I've seen. All of the research I've done didn't make me realize exactly how much moisture can be a problem. Thanks.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

Jon Howard Thanks for watching!

Everything that you've states are part of the reasons I have been searching for a quality, used class b mortorhome. It's the best of both worlds, especially if you get a good product.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

Mark Gailmor Thank you for watching. Never owned a class B, but I would agree!

Thank you for the honest criticisms, that is super helpful. Great video! -Brad

@ColoradoCamperman

5 жыл бұрын

You're welcome, thank you for watching!

On board boats it's nice to have "must have" a small wood burning fireplace. Seriously, alot of small wood burning stoves/heaters remove moisture. To dry foul weather gear, heat and hot water for coffee, tea and soups. Plenty of very small fireplaces available. Camping is alot like sailing. Same hook ups parts and pieces for boats could also work great for campers.

@ColoradoCamperman

5 жыл бұрын

I agree with you and had a kept my old truck camper I probably would have installed a wood burning fireplace. Thanks for watching!

I needed this. Funny how most people don't mention the negatives. Thank you!

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

You're welcome! I figured I did a video on what I like, why not do a video on what I don't like. I thought this could help a lot of people out who are considering purchasing a truck camper.

Everyone seems to complain about condensation in the truck camper. There are ways around that. Since cold weather makes it worse, I bring a tent with me and sleep outside the camper when condensation might be an issue. In the morning, I enter the nice warm and totally dry camper, keeping it fresh and like new. You just have to be resourceful.

@ColoradoCamperman

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment and watching.

if your truck has a sliding rear window then you can just leave that window unlocked and crawl through the window of your camper that butts up against the window of the truck. When I was a kid my sister and I used to ride in our truck camper and we would sometimes slide that window open and say things like "are we there yet" Lol

@watchmanonthewall14

7 жыл бұрын

Exactly. Great idea. And sort of fun to do.

@killingoldgrowthsince

5 жыл бұрын

Only problem is it's illegal to ride in a trunk camper.

If you're going somewhere to stay for weeks - or visiting people and parking in the yard - a travel trailer is really nice. It's a little cottage. A truck camper is more of a closet to live in.

@ColoradoCamperman

3 ай бұрын

I agree, thanks for the comment and watching.

Also moisture is an easy fix. I can't recall the name of the product, but it's a 1-2 inch thick nylon Brillo pad mat that fits under the mattress. It allows for air to circ under the mattress. Also crack the fan or use a tiny battery fan to force air throughout cabin. Works wonders.

On any kind of camper the roof is the most important thing. We had a new RV and I would go over every seem and vent before each trip. If you're at a RV park or a place with electricity try using a 120V electric heater, we used two smaller heaters in our 32ft RV and it was fine above 32 degrees.

@ColoradoCamperman

6 жыл бұрын

BulletSpoung That is wise to go over the roof that often. I do the same and seal cracks almost every year. I can see why so many campers have water damage because I don't think most people are like you and I! Thanks for watching!

You need air bags. I 4 wheel all the time. Arctic fox 992.

@celestepalm6949

3 жыл бұрын

That's the one I keep looking at! One of the few 'smaller' rigs I find roomy enough. Agreed, airbags & suspension upgrade are a must. Even sway bars are good idea for winds.

I agree 💯,I bought one and didn't do my homework,and I regretted it,no off road top heavy, you were very limited,better off with small lifted teardrop camper,or a shell cap, I e seen nice 4wd vans to, but no slide inn

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Yeah, I agree with your options. I've heard the four-wheel pop-up truck campers are pretty capable off-road because they only weigh 1,000lbs or so. But I haven't had any first hand experience with them. Thanks for watching!

I am seriously considering buying a truck camper. Thanks for your thoughts.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

You're welcome. BTW, I still love truck campers! Just wanted to make sure I share both pros and cons from my perspective :)

@SDsailor7

7 жыл бұрын

You forgot the gas mileage, poor.Great video! very informative.Cheers

@phil2559

6 жыл бұрын

I had a 2003 elk horn no slide out lots of just little issues as you would expect I used it year round from soccer tournaments to hunting in the snow.pulling my quads or my boat . Hated like you said the amount of time it takes to unhook everything if you just want to run in to town. My buddy has a new truck camper with the fast disconnect tie down to the nice remote that raises the camper evenly for you. I love my old truck camper but I am buying a new one this year !!!! well worth it to have all the new toys it comes with and how easy it is you can sit in a chair lift the camper and lower the camper with a beer in my hand. Truck camper is the only way to go if you are a sportsman. You are definitely not taking a motor home or travel trailer in the places I drive my truck camper It’s time to up grade!!!

@richardspahn

5 жыл бұрын

@@SDsailor7 my tc gets better milage than my last two motorhome and pulling a fifth wheel

Whoa, thx for that important information Colorado Camperman! I’ve been watching Van conversions and truck campers and after this video, I’m leaning more towards the vans.

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

You're welcome, glad the video helped! Thanks for watching!

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

@Rae Vandenberg That's a sweet little Class C! I really dig the layout. Thanks for the comment and watching!

travel trailer you have to register and insure them and also replace tires and breaks and if you have tonstop at a store you can't just stop anywhere has to be a big parking lot and in alot of small towns ur screwed also with the truck camper I just get a tent site n pay a much cheaper rate state camp grounds its like 12 to 15 dollars also if your sight seeing and your 50 miles away I just look for another camp ground I don't have to waste gas and time going 50 miles back

Agree on many points with you, considering to own a TC. Been to British Columbia twice. Once rented a regular RV and this August a truck camper. I definitely would rent the TC anytime again. It just gives so much more fun to drive in a decent pick up truck and much comfort too. So renting yay, owning, not sure.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

I do have to say, driving the truck camper is really nice in comparison to other campers. It is also very nice to park in a normal parking spot and maneuver around. I didn't know you could rent them though! Good to know, thanks for watching!

I'v had one class A and five Truck campers. I must say for me the truck camper set up is much easier better all around simpler. And the moisture thing happens in all of your different RV set ups. And as for setting up a camper for a truck most people don't want to spend the money to set the truck and camper up properly.. When a person does it properly you will not have the troubles you have mention.. Sorry if i'm sounding negative it wasn't intended.....happy trails..

For those prices and extra cost in gas hauling it I put long travel and king shocks on mine and can stay at a hotel cheaper. Doing 70 mph without spilling your drink over 3' whoops you crawl over saves money too. For the 3 days you take to make through the 150 mile trail with a camper or trailer I am at the motel the 1st night and on to the next passing 20 jeeple traffic jambs in the desert dirt trails doing 5mph at 45 mph.

@robnorman102

6 жыл бұрын

anybody know what this guy is talkin bout ??

1) Create a "pass-through" from truck cab and camper, so that you wouldn't have to get out of the truck to get to the camper. 2) Buy a couple of crystal dehumidifiers for the inside, to alleviate some of the moisture build-up. Can get them at Amazon for $15 each. There are pros and cons to EVERY RV choice, as you well know. Everything's a trade-off. Cheers.

A One ton truck is not supposed to go off road whether you have a truck camper on or not. One thing I didn't hear you point out is that travel trailers when you unhitch you have to balance the trailer. With truck campers they're pretty much balanced as soon as they come off your truck.

@ColoradoCamperman

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching

I’m wondering how many times a bear might wander in your camp? I was up in Alaska with my truck camper and one morning there was a grizzly about 100 feet away but no worries. In all my years of camping I never had to escape without going outside. I know you know all this but people are worried about the wrong things. Haha good video

As a person who has built serious off road vehicles can I would like to suggest that you extend your back spacing on your rims a few inch . By either using rim spacers or different rim with a deeper offset. That with a larger / wider tire would make the world difference. You wont feel or be so top heavy.

The unloading and loading depends on how long you're staying in one spot. You'll need airbags or overload spring or timbrens with a sway bar for the rear. And everything needs maintenance

@ColoradoCamperman

5 ай бұрын

For sure, I added Timbrens to my truck and I love them! Thanks for watching.

Thanks for the heads up on the moisture problems. We just bought a 2001 Lance 820 (pristine condition) for a special trip we plan to make to Alaska this summer. We've camped in just about everything over the years, but never a truck camper. We have a 32' fifth wheel which we are keeping, but last year we took a long trip out west and felt hampered by the size. We think the truck camper will be perfect, but I've already noticed the moisture beading problem. I'm not too alarmed because in our tenting and pop up days we had the same issues. In a very small space, even the respirations of two people can cause the beading. The Lance is tight and well insulated. Just cracking a window will help I think. I'm considering your suggestion about elevating the bed a couple of inches even though I hate to give up the headroom. Really am appreciating the videos. Thanks.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

EZpeazy Thank you for watching! Cracking a window always helps. Most of my truck camping was done in the winter with temps all the way down to -30 fehrenheit. That is a much different animal then when it is warmer and you can crack a window. I hope you are enjoying your camper!

Im looking to get a pickup camper cause im pulling a 13k pintle flatbed trl so im grossing 22k. Im gonna have to built a custom frame to put it on my 11ft x 8ft flatbed trk. Leaning will never be an issue even though trk bed is close to 3.5 ft high since im a dually with 9k of rear spring without counting overloads. So wide stance with heavy springs

@ColoradoCamperman

5 жыл бұрын

If you need to pull a trailer, a truck camper is the way to go! Good luck with everything, thanks for watching!

I just have to say that have made a a product for truck campers since the 70s called a doughnut. Basically it's an inflatable ring that seals between the opening in the middle of the Cab rear window and the front window of the camper to allow for travel between. But I digress you have to have the right camper window and the right rear truck window for it to work.

@ColoradoCamperman

5 жыл бұрын

Huh, I've never heard of that. Thanks for sharing! Yeah, I've always found that those "pass-through" windows are so small only a kid could fit through them. I had one on my old truck and truck camper but there was no way I could have fit through them. It would be more plausible if they would make the damn openings bigger, lol! Thanks for watching!

I have 4 door cab and I take both parts of the back seat out the back and the bottom of seat and this will save a 100 lbs+ and that wi give you a ton of space and save all that weight.

@ColoradoCamperman

Жыл бұрын

Heck yeah, that is a huge space in the back of your truck! My seats have always folded up but if the seat was gone completely, that would make a huge difference! Thanks for the comment and watching!

It’s all how you travel and what your doing. I like the idea of a TC for hauling a boat but for work it’s the big debate hauling tools for me.

@ColoradoCamperman

Жыл бұрын

Agreed, thanks for watching.

Thanks for sharing this topic. Very informative, especially for those of us who are in the looking phase of our RV venture! Great video.

@ColoradoCamperman

6 жыл бұрын

miles andcoffee1 You're welcome, thanks for watching!

We built our own Truck Camper. It holds six 10 foot kayaks inside it on the road, along with our camping gear and it sleeps 5 people at the camp site. It cost us about $3,000 to build it brand new. Including the solar system and battery bank. All Truck Campers are not equal. We call ours the Yak Rack Camper.

I prefer the truck camper because it's a great weekender camper, I can take 3 day weekend fishing trips, plus pull a boat. And also keep the camper on my truck in the driveway all spring, summer and fall. Versus a pull behind that I'd have to pay to store until I wanted to use it.

@ColoradoCamperman

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment and watching.

I appreciate this information. thank you!

Ok make this video a drinking game (water of course cause you need the hydration). Every time he says "truck camper" take a drink. I counted 28 times :D

@ColoradoCamperman

Жыл бұрын

Lol, that is a lot of times! Thanks for watching.

So glad I found your channel. I am going to be purchasing my very first camper this Saturday.

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

Glad you found me! Heck yeah, congrats! What kind of camper are you getting?

@carrielogan7105

4 жыл бұрын

@@ColoradoCamperman 1995 Weekender by Skyline. Not new, but pretty much in perfect condition. Fully self contained.

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

@@carrielogan7105 That's exciting! Nothing wrong with buying a used rig. Enjoy!

I think a cab over design on TC allow moisture to be trapped and promotes condensation since it's the highest space in the camper. TC with good insulation helps some, but when it's cold outside it's unavoidable. Just think of a cold glass of ice water sitting in a warm room but in reverse. I have a Camplite travel trailer that was built using only aluminum, even all the cabinets and the floor. And I do get a bit of moisture inside. But with no wood in the construction, there's no mold or mildew problems. Just let it air out once in a while and it's good to go. There are pros and cons with both TC and TT. Ultimately, you need to really ask yourself how and where you are going to use it.

In my experience... a truck camper is not the way to go... for all of the reasons you stated and numerous more. I think the best way to go is to buy a 16 ft. tandem axle cargo trailer and convert it into a camper... exactly as you want it... with plenty of insulation and windows... and a window A/C. Then, have a 1 ton crew cab pickup truck to tow it with. In the bed of the pickup truck, you have a motorcycle covered with a tarp. You have a electric start generator mounted in the pickup truck bed and you have a steel frame canoe rack for a canoe. With this set up... you have a lot of storage in the 1 ton crew cab truck. You have a motorcycle... a generator... a canoe or kayak... and everything else you need or want to enjoy the great outdoors.

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment. That would definitely be a good setup and a great way to go. The customization of that setup would be really nice. Thanks for watching!

Awesome info! Thanks dude.

I agree about it being more work than it's worth to take the camper off the truck when camping. Mine never comes off the truck when I travel.

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

Yeah, I never took my truck camper off the truck when I camped. Thanks for watching!

Absolutely invaluable video. Thank you so much for helping me to understand the drawbacks of a truck camper.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

Klem Keely You're welcome, thanks for watching!

Thank you for making this video! Definitely helped me make up my mind.

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

You're welcome, glad I could help!

To me driving a 5th wheel is more complicated then a truck camper also I've talked with a lot of women especially on this (think highway lane changing, backing up, turning around in a dead end road or turning around in general and hooking up by yourself is a pain I know I've owned an airstrea. Travel trailers sit really low unless you invest in off roading trailers and they are mostly popups Now if you like RV parks they are good for that

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

That is true, driving a truck camper is simple. Thanks for watching

I laughed when you said: "repair those issues," but I got what you meant and appreciate your video. Thumbs up! Thanks.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

Lol, thanks for watching!

I've owned multiple truck campers. I completely rebuilt my Caviler truck camper due to rotten wood. If you can't keep your camper under a carport, garage, barn, etc don't buy one.

@ColoradoCamperman

2 жыл бұрын

Yeah, covered storage would be amazing and definitely a game changer for the longevity of the camper. Thanks for watching!

Was just in the process of deciding Very helpful! Thank you

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

Glad I could be helpful! Thanks for watching!

@Lotuslaful

3 жыл бұрын

I’m looking at a Northstar 9.5 igloo Hard time finding a truck to fit Also notice last review of it 12 yes ago Have you heard much about them?

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

@@Lotuslaful I've hear good things about them. You also rarely see them up for sale, so either they are failing apart on people or nobody is getting rid of them, lol!

thanks for sharing. I give up the idea to buy a truck camper

@ColoradoCamperman

5 жыл бұрын

Lol, thanks for watching! Yeah, there's pros and cons to every style camper.

One extra point: they are harder to park when you go shopping or out to dinner. Be prepared to park farther away because they can easily take up 4spaces. Regarding the tie-downs. We had Torklifts on ours. They cost a lot of money. But they were no match for the series of construction dips we hit on I-40 in Amarillo,Tx. We tore three of them right out of the frame and the camper was totaled.

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

Yeah, if you have a large truck camper and a big truck, you're not going to fit in a normal parking space. Maybe if you have a Tacoma with a four wheel pop-up camper. Man, sorry to hear about your camper! I gotta say, that was one aspect I never liked about a truck camper - the tie downs! The first trip we went on after we bought a different truck, we thought we secured the truck camper down. We went up a big hill around 3 miles from our house and the truck camper started to slide back out of the truck! Luckily we were close to home so we went back and had to make some modifications. We were good after that, but talk about a situation that could have went south quickly! Thanks for the comment and watching.

@firemarshal17

4 жыл бұрын

Colorado Camperman Wow. You were lucky. Love your channel. Keep it up. We have a little 18’ Satellite Comet TT now and love it.

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

@@firemarshal17 Yes, we were definitely lucky! Sounds like a nice setup. Thanks for watching!

The bed over the cab need a ton of insulation under the bed when built and why all builders don’t fill this area with closed cell foam. And if you don’t know the name tells you their story open cell is like a sponge and closed cell is just what it says closed will not soak up water. So I have never seen a reason to use open cell because it will make a good place for black mold to grow and Bigfoot has 1 1/2” of closed cell foam but they do not put enough closed cell foam in the structure of the part of the camper that hangs over cab.

@ColoradoCamperman

Жыл бұрын

I agree with you 100%. It always comes down to cost and weight. Functionality seems to take a back seat on RV's. Bigfoot's are pretty solid but there is always room for improvement. Thanks for the comment and watching!

enjoyed the video.....have been looking at Arctic Fox TCs but waiting for my next truck purchase......appreciate the neg side pointers !

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

Joseph voytus Thanks for watching, it is always good to know both sides of the coin!

Maybe I misunderstood but, you still have to leave your trailer or fifth wheel to get to your pick-up cab, the security issue is still the same uless you have a slide window in your cab and camper and you are small enough to crawl through and for most of us I don't rhink so. My pick up doesn't have a slide back window.

W.C.Roller said it all,get a fan.We have a pop up 1300lb go any place with my half ton 4x4.

@ehsoule

7 жыл бұрын

Carl Trustrum what camper do you have that weighs 1300lbs, the lightest I could find is 1700lbs?

@carltrustrum8858

7 жыл бұрын

sorry about the time, we are living in it now building a home. It is a pop up from sun valley that went out of bus. in 2010 it is a 2009 at1320lb. We are in northern ont canada and yes it is snowing. Thanks

I have a truck camper that extends about two feet beyond the read bumper of the truck. The truck exhaust has burnt the lower quarter panel (the part that extends) of the camper and is now rotting off. It's a surprise that the camper didn't catch fire. Additionally, a roof leak developed while in storage that destroyed half of the interior ceiling and caused the siding to delaminate.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

Oh man, that is a design flaw. Glad to hear it didn't catch fire! I know a lot of those TCs that extend beyond the rear bumper have issues. My neighbor bought one and his was rotted out simply because of all the water and crap that the tires kicked up into that area. The manufacturer did a horrible job of sealing and protecting that area so it was bound to happen over time. Seems like the newer campers are getting better at fixing this issue.

@AllAmericanDreamChaser

7 жыл бұрын

Colorado Camperman That water problem I found even in truck campers without the front window. I say it's a issue of poor quality at the manufacturer. They slap these things together in a matter of hours and sometimes even minutes. Very little quality if any. Just make it look nice & sell it!👍

@ralphshouse

7 жыл бұрын

I really like the truck camper features and set up but this Lance was disappointing due to the issues I posted. When I go on vacation I usually go to some body of water (ocean, lake, river) so trailering my boat makes a truck camper necessary. I can drop my camper in a matter of minutes using the remote control jack system. Currently, I'm shopping for a new TC that is quality built, unlike this Lance.

@gabfest53

7 жыл бұрын

Look at the Northwood Arctic Fox.

Hey CC, thanks for the videos. Your channel is the only one I have found for true winter camping. I am heading up to Targhee to ski this weekend. One big question I have is how much power will my propane furnace pull and any tips on keeping my power needs to a minimum and keep warm. I know your life has changed 2nd to impending arrivals but I hope you are getting to the MTNS still. Cheers.

The weight on your truck, high center of gravity, bad wind resistance and slow attaching are the only things I have a problem with, otherwise, they're great.

@ColoradoCamperman

5 жыл бұрын

Agreed! Thanks for watching.

One cool thing about a truck camper is you don't have to pay for any tires. Or brakes, or title / registration fees, or license plates, or really anything. It's really just go until it breaks and then fix it. Unlike a trailer which could cost you a lot of money and time in general maintenance.

@fit4ya1975

6 жыл бұрын

Plus 95% of Travel trailers and 5th wheels are built like crap, and fall apart. Truck Campers are built like tanks. I looked at 100's of trailers and 5th wheels, a TC seems like the way to go for on the go traveling and convenience

A couple of points from my perspective .... you mention that with a TC you have to put stuff away before hitting the road. My experience has been (with 3 previous TTs) that you have to put stuff away as well. I also think that a TT bounces more on rough roads and displaces "stuff" more than a TC. Secondly, condensation follows natural laws of nature and doesn't discriminate one camper design over another. Granted, warm air rises and can collect in the bunk area but cracking the vent (even a little) and additionally a window for cross flow helps a lot. The actual amount of condensation internally is tied more closely to surface area so a conventional TT can actually collect more water (volume) even though it's not concentrated in one area. Larger TTs usually have more inhabitants which in turn contributes to condensation. I also think that the construction of the camper has a lot to do with condensation build up. A 4 season camper with well insulated walls will produce substantially less condensation than a fiberglass surface with little or no insulation. Just thought that I'd add my 2 cents worth :-) Pop-up campers do seem to be quite expensive relatively. They also don't often come with A/C as it makes raising the roof quite difficult. Some do have side mounted units but they're rare.

@jasoncrandall73

2 жыл бұрын

Wouldn't damp rid (they make hanging pouches with a hanger hook) also help out in removing moisture from the TC?

I am wanting a truck camper so I can bring my boat too. Many states you can not triple tow.

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

That makes sense. If I was wanting to tow a boat and camper, I'd probably do a truck camper versus the triple tow. Thanks for watching!

Truck camper is really just 2 adult camper maybe a kid. Those actic fox camper seems to be double in insulation thickness. They might have less condensation issue.

@ColoradoCamperman

5 жыл бұрын

Very true, I've had 4 people stay in my old truck camper and it was super tight! We made it work, but it wouldn't be my first choice with that many people. Artic Fox campers are great, but I knew a guy who had one who had the same issue. Cracking open the roof vent or opening a window seemed to help. Also, I've hear of people running a dehumidifier. Sorry for the delay in response, I was on a bit of a hiatus. Thanks for watching!

@zhoulin5255

5 жыл бұрын

@@ColoradoCamperman btw how is ur fuel economy with the truck camper. And have u tried those rubber shackle thing for ur rear suspension.i heard they obsorbs most of the small vibration from rear end, make ur 1ton ride like 1/2ton.

@ColoradoCamperman

5 жыл бұрын

@@zhoulin5255 kzread.info/dash/bejne/f22ZyNlxqLWfdMY.html 8:25 I show you on my trip. I also made a video with my old 454 Chevy about this topic: kzread.info/dash/bejne/Z3Z_2tCQfbnMptY.html

I have a popup on my f-250 and don't have any trouble with lean but I do find myself driving a lot slower on rough roads out of concern for beating up the camper.

@richardspahn

5 жыл бұрын

did you let air out of the tires. 25lbs is recommended on rough back roads and slow

I'm guessing a non-slide in flat bed truck camper would be ideal for off roading.

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

A pop-up truck camper would really be the best for off roading IMHO. Thanks for watching!

Yikes! I WAS considering buying a truck camper; however, now I must consider other options. Thanks for your professional/detailed video.

@watchmanonthewall14

7 жыл бұрын

Pros and cons to EVERY RV choice.

@PaulVanGeel

6 жыл бұрын

I live in a 36 foot 5th wheel full time and moisture is the number one problem. This is true of any type of RV. People exhall a lot of moisture and it has to go somewhere. We always leave a roof vent open, year round.

@watchmanonthewall14

6 жыл бұрын

I bought a few crystal dehumidifiers from Amazon. They are small and inexpensive and can be plugged in and dried out and reused for years. They do not completely solve the moisture problem, but it definitely helps a good degree.

Repairing jacks on an old camper is no joke and should be taken seriously! I bought a 1969 griffin truck camper and it was..rough..to say the least; I'm in the process of rebuilding it now. I went to load the camper to move it to the back yard and (2nd time ever getting in my truck) it nearly killed my dad because the camper tried to collapse on him. However, we just finished rebuilding the jack supports and now we are starting on the loft! It's definitely been a journey..lol

@Threewulphmoon

7 жыл бұрын

started a restoration and just went full rebuild. sturdy as a rock now.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

Good to hear your Dad is ok! I agree with you 100%. The first truck camper I ever bought, one of the corner jacks was broken and the guy I bought it from made light of the situation. Me being naive and having no experience with truck campers believed him. I had damn near the same thing happen to me when unloading it at my house! I hope the rebuild goes well for you. Thanks for watching!

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

+Threewulphmoon Full rebuild on the old camper or from scratch? My neighbor started restoring his old truck camper........it has now turned into a full rebuild, lol! It's always worth it in the end though.

Thumbs up. With the moisture issue, why not get a dehumidifier?

All good points to consider. I went with a small trailer to have the mobility once I set up camp.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Yeah, that is one huge reason we love our travel trailer vs the truck camper.

Great video I am remodeling a 1972 caveman camper and I have ran into some of those problms . I did install a wood stove that took care of the moisture related problems I'm documenting at all my KZread channel if you want to take a look as well. thanks so much for the video I am super excited to hit the road !!

Do you have Torklift stabilizers to prevent sway? They fixed my problem.

@rja12

4 жыл бұрын

@VIPE actually he's talking about these: www.torklift.com/rv/stableload

Thank you. very thorough and helpful.

@ColoradoCamperman

7 жыл бұрын

tipperary links You're welcome, thanks for watching!

Very informative thanks.

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

You're welcome, thanks for watching!

You say with a truck camper you can't turn off your engine, walk back to the camper & get in. So explain how do you get in the camper? As for moisture why won't a pull-behind camper get moisture in it? A fifth wheel has an overhang just like a truck camper.

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

I mean you can't walk straight from the cab to camper like in motorhome. We have never had moisture issues in our travel trailer like I did in the truck camper. I was also using my truck camper almost exclusively in the winter time. Thanks for watching.

A small trailer will solve storage issue. Stabilizer bar will improve ride

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

Both true statements. Thanks for watching!

The price of truck campers is fucking insane. I wanted a truck camper but ended up buying a travel trailer because for the same price as a tiny ass truck camper, I got a 30 foot trailer

@ColoradoCamperman

6 жыл бұрын

I agree with you 100%, I love truck campers but the prices out there are crazy. Glad you got something to fit ya, thanks for watching!

My opinion is truck camper are good for two people and limited to summer time. One had to be die hard to camp in winter.

For moisture all you need is a small dehumidifier, dump the water into the sink from time to time. Problem solved as its not a very big space to deal with. Air bags also make a huge difference when driving off road. You also have to realize exactly what a cab over camper is and what it is not. Its made for a couple, or a single, not seeing how many people one can stuff into it. Most have limited storage, but realize what you have in a pickup bed...kitchen, bathroom, bed, heat and A/C. It is what it is and no RV of any size is perfect. Also unloading a camper now is very easy with electric jacks and the tie downs are not that much work at all.

@DesertButterfly

7 жыл бұрын

What is it about air bags that cause a difference?

@frankvanw1

7 жыл бұрын

Monica, Air bags give you a smoother ride, like springs in the suspension. The big rigs all have air bags now.

the big thing i looked for when i bought an older truck camper was an aluminum framed one to help mitigate weakness like in the upper bunk

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

That makes a world of difference! It seems like most new RVs these days have all switched over to aluminum framed. Thanks for watching!

@RyanMurraythereal

3 жыл бұрын

@@ColoradoCamperman mine is a 1990 Western Wilderness. Which has held up pretty good before i owned it. Spent all last winter putting nice floor in, my wife sewed all new interior, at 11' with a top that goes over a crew cab its a big one. I got everything to working order and installed a new dometic fridge. Its been a project. Ordering a superhitch was a pill to swallow but when doing the math it was about the only way i was going to tow a car trailer with a samurai and quad on a 4' extension. 3 weeks till maiden voyage. We will see if im still in good spirts LOL

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

@@RyanMurraythereal That's great that a camper over 30 years old was aluminum framed! Sounds like you guys have been doing some good work. You're going to enjoy your trips a lot more since you put so much work into the camper. Good luck on the trip!

@RyanMurraythereal

3 жыл бұрын

@@ColoradoCamperman it will be interesting to see how my 3/4 ton srw duramax will handle it. ive towed more but thats spreading the weight onto to the truck a bit more. Western Wilderness were apparently a well built camper in PNW back in the day or so my dad tells me. may you have a good camping season!

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

@@RyanMurraythereal I'm sure you will be able to tow it! Your payload is going to be pretty high with the truck camper and the tongue weight of the trailer. I will have to check out Western Wilderness, I have not heard of them. Thank you, I hope you have a great season too.

I know some resorts(not parks) it has to stay in truck.

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the tip, I did not know that! Thanks for watching!

My Palomino had remote control jacks and I could load/unload in under 10 minutes. It was no problem to drop it at a site then do our running around. The biggest downside to me was when the wife says "I gotta pee". Had to stop and let her climb into the camper. I have now converted a Chevy express cube van into an RV and like it much better.

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

Lol, yeah, I think having an open cab to the back camper would be very convenient. Thanks for watching!

Thanks I did not think about that.

@ColoradoCamperman

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

To be fair I have a 1990 S&S slide in camper with a “Stable Lift” I can have my camper on or off safely in 5-10min by myself

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

Heck yeah, that is nice! Thanks for watching.

@SteelDogFab

3 жыл бұрын

@@ColoradoCamperman solid content

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

@@SteelDogFab Thank you! I appreciate the compliment and you watching!

Thanks for the video! Great info!

@ColoradoCamperman

4 жыл бұрын

You're welcome! Thanks for watching!

Good work man!

@ColoradoCamperman

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Andy! What up man? How you been?

Colorado Camperman! Great video!

Install a removable cargo net from one end of the mattress to the other. Boom. Tons of storage space that wont fall all over when driving.

On the subject of Storage, don't states that disallow double towing not count Truck Campers as trailers? Since the stuff is designed to be as space-efficient as possible and it uses space like the cabover that even Fifth Wheels can't utilize, it's probably the best solution for storage if you also get an enclosed trailer along with it.

@ColoradoCamperman

3 жыл бұрын

I'm not certain on that. I would think that since it sits in the bed of the truck, that would not be considered a trailer. Thanks for watching!