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The 25 Best Lightweight Small Truck Campers

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The lightweight truck camper market has exploded in popularity in recent years, and with new manufacturers popping up (pun intended) constantly it can be difficult to choose one that’s right for your pickup.

In this guide, we’ll cover all the factors to consider when selecting a small truck camper and highlight the 25 best models currently on the market, ordered by cost and weight, so you can choose a small truck camper that’s right for your budget and adventures.

What is a Lightweight Small Truck Camper

The average payload capacity of a mid-size truck in the United States is between 1050-1700 lbs. (you’ll learn more about this below), so we define a lightweight small truck camper as being any truck camper with a base weight under 1400 lbs - with a serious emphasis on lighter-is-better, as well as a focus on ones that have enough interior space for extended camping trips or overland travel. 

While it’s possible to have incredible adventures with a standard small truck topper (we did it for years as a family of three), the small truck camper models we cover in this guide offer more interior space than a standard truck camper shell and enough features to adventure comfortably long term as a couple or small family.

How to Choose a Small Truck Camper for Your Pickup

With such a variety of great small truck campers on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start! Let’s look at 10 different factors to consider when searching for the perfect small truck camper, to help you narrow the scope of your search. 

  • Cost

This will likely dictate your choice the most. While some manufacturers offer financing options, we generally don’t recommend this if it can be avoided. The campers we highlight below are sorted by cost from most budget-friendly to most expensive.

**Caveat emptor: We’ll do our best to keep this post updated regularly, but be sure to check the “More Info” link to the manufacturers’ sites in the descriptions of each camper for the most up-to-date pricing.**

  • Weight

The next most important factor to determine when selecting a small truck camper for your pickup is weight. You can find your truck’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) on its information plate (along with the VIN number, paint code, etc.), in its manual, or on the manufacturer’s website. The GVWR is the total weight including passengers, fuel, gear, etc. that your truck’s manufacturer determined it can safely handle. We recommend taking your truck, filled with fuel, to a certified CAT scale and getting the actual “curb” weight of your truck. The difference between these two numbers is your truck’s real-world payload capacity. While manufacturers will often provide a stated payload capacity, it’s a good idea to check it yourself. 

Once you know your truck’s real-world payload ability, you can then select a lightweight truck camper that will fit within this rating - just remember to account for the weight of passengers, camping gear, etc. as well.

  • Capacity

Capacity refers to roughly how many people a particular small truck camper can sleep, including the sleeping platform dimensions and what size mattress is provided (if one is provided at all). Depending on the design, oftentimes you can build an additional sleeping platform in the bed of your truck to provide more sleeping capacity to your new small truck camper setup.


  • Warranty 

Most small truck camper manufacturers will offer some form of warranty against manufacturing defects in structure or materials for a set period of time from the purchase date. Generally speaking - and in our personal experience - most will want to ensure you are happy with your new truck camper, and will work with you on issues that arise.


  • Installation, Shipping, and Lead Time 

You’ll need to determine where, when, and how you can pick up your new small truck camper once you’ve made your decision. This can vary widely depending on the manufacturer - some offer shipping, some require installation at their facility, and still others have regional dealer networks that can facilitate installation. And while some manufacturers include installation in the price of the camper, others will charge a (sometimes significant) installation fee. 

Although most small truck camper manufacturers will provide current estimated lead times - this is the time from purchase to your camper being ready for install - on their website, it’s best to reach out to them directly for the most up-to-date real-world timeline. 


  • Design

Small truck campers come in two primary categories: topper campers and slide-in campers. Each has a wide variety of designs, and each comes with their own advantages and disadvantages. Below we’ll discuss the most common small truck camper categories and designs you’ll encounter.


Topper Camper vs Slide-in Campers

Topper style truck campers install, in a semi-permanent way, on top of your truck’s bed rails, much like a traditional camper shell, integrating the truck bed space into the camper’s interior space. This design typically makes them more lightweight and, because most do not encroach on your truck’s bed space, allows you to still utilize your truck as a truck when you’re not camping.

Slide-in truck campers are installed inside of the bed rails of your truck, are generally more self-contained, and often have the ability to be self-supported by integrating camper jacks, and are thus slightly more easily removed. However slide-in truck campers are generally heavier and do limit the day-to-day use of your truck bed when installed.


Pop-Up vs Fixed-Wall Campers

Within each small truck camper category, there are two primary designs, those with a pop-up roof or those with a fixed - or stationary - roof and walls.

Fixed-Wall Campers

This small camper design maintains static interior dimensions with hard-sided walls and a fixed roof. The benefit to this design is that there is no setup time, the camper is always ready to enter and use, and they are generally better insulated, more durable, and more efficient in 4-season use.

Pop-up Campers

Most pop-up small truck campers utilize a tent (or composite) material to create an expandable roof that can maximize interior space when deployed, while minimizing the overall profile of the camper when the top is closed. This typically makes them more lightweight than fixed-wall campers, and their shorter profile makes for less of an impact on your trucks fuel economy.

There are three ways most small truck camper manufacturers implement a pop-up into their campers; either a full pop-up in which the entire roof raises vertically, a wedge-style design in which the roof raises at an angle, or a cantilever design in which the roof opens and flips over a full 180 degrees to one side of the camper. 


Full Pop-up Campers

  • More interior space than wedge-style pop-up camper designs (but less than caneliver)

  • Level roof tops allow for easier vent fan installation

  • Depending on the model, and tent window options, full pop-ups can offer better views and cross ventilation 


Wedge-style Pop-up Campers

  • The overall height (on one side), above the mattress, is generally taller than full pop-up campers, so you can sit up in bed easily.

  • Typically easier and faster to pop up, especially with a load on the roof

  • Offer better wind resistance - you can point the roof into the wind, minimizing “tent flap” - unlike full pop-ups or cantilever pop-ups where the wind will hit the tent fabric from all sides


Cantilever Pop-up Campers

  • Maximum interior space - as the roof doubles as the sleeping platform when folded open, this design leaves the full truck bed space open. This comes at the cost of more exposed tent-material, more wind-flap than other designs, and typically less-efficient 4-season utility. 

  • The cantilever roof naturally creates a covered awning below when folded open.


  • Materials

Gone are the days of wood-framed, vinyl-sided campers. The majority of modern small truck campers will utilize some combination of lightweight aluminum sheeting, custom aluminum extrusions, honeycomb composites, stainless steel, or even aerospace engineered manufacturing materials in an effort to provide the most lightweight and durable small truck campers possible.


  • Features

Another thing to consider when trying to select which small truck camper is right for you are the camper’s available features. Most lightweight small truck camper manufacturers include a set of standard features in a base model or price point, and then offer additional features that can be added to your purchase separately. These typically consist of things like:

  • Built-ins - such as cabinetry, with stove, sink and water storage, 12v fridge, etc.

  • Additional LED Lighting

  • 12v outlets

  • T-track, L-track, or other roof track systems for mounting accessories

  • Load bars

  • Additional camper windows

  • Tent window accessories, such as vinyl inserts or insulated layers

  • Climate control (heater, propane mounting, roof-top vent fans)

  • Solar/power systems or pre-wiring for aftermarket solutions

  • A ladder (for upper tent or roof top access when applicable)

  • Awnings or awning brackets

  • Custom mounting solutions for surfboards, SUPs, bikes, etc. 

We highly recommend looking at the up-charge of any additional features and accessories your considering adding to your camper build, and comparing them to prices of 3rd party upfitters or DIY installation - because there is often a good deal of “padding” in the price.

 

  • Load Ratings

Load rating will generally refer to the amount of weight that can be attached to the roof or load bars of a camper while either moving (dynamic load rating) or stationary (static load rating). This information is often not readily available for each camper, so be sure to speak with the camper manufacturer (better yet, someone in their engineering department) directly before making a purchasing decision - especially if you’ll need to travel with or haul gear up top regularly. 

Also, be sure to verify your chosen camper’s sleeping platform load rating to ensure it meets your needs.


  • Accessibility & Storage

Accessibility of a small truck camper generally refers to how easy it is to get into or access the interior of the camper; things like side panel access vs rear-hatch access only, whether or not there are locking entry doors, if there are separate tent access doors, or how easy it is to get into the sleeping platform(s).  

Storage space is premium in any small truck camper, so things like built-in interior storage compartments, drawers, counter space, hanging storage pockets or baskets, or exterior-accessible storage compartments are all things to consider. (We recently put together a guide on How to Build an Aluminum 8020 Truck Bed Sleeping Platform [with Drawer Storage] that can help you add some lightweight and convenient storage to some of the more spartan pop up or wedge style truck campers)

The Best Small Truck Campers

While new camper designs and manufacturers are coming out all the time, our family has personally gone through the process of selecting and purchasing a new small truck camper multiple times over the years. It’s a lot to wade through! So we’ve consolidated the top 25 best small truck campers from our most recent research and experience, in order of base price and weight, to make the process of selecting one that’s right for you that much easier.

1. Lone Peak Camper

Current Base Price: $5,995

Base Weight: Appx 375lbs.

Design: Pop-up Wedge Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people

  • 80x50” bed

  • 4” thick mattress included

Warranty: Lifetime, 2 year on tent

Install/Shipping: Free install at their Wenachie, Washington facility, or shipped to a certified installer or right to your door for self installation

Current Lead Time: 5-6 months

Additional Features Available:

  • LED lighting

  • Roof vent

  • Cab pass through window

  • Gear vault (storage)

  • Grab handles

  • Exterior wiring & solar ports

Description: The Lone Peak Camper is a wedge style pop up camper with locking side access doors and cab/tailgate windows standard. 

It uses a combination of bolted extruded aluminum and aluminum composite panel construction, and has a 32” pass-through from the truck bed to the upper tent portion of the camper while the bed is down. The bed can also be raised up for more standing interior space. 

The tent is made of a polyester canvas with a waterproof polyurethane coating and includes open air tent windows.

More Info


2. Topo Toppers Mesa

Current Base Price: $6,950

Base Weight: 250lbs

Design: Pop-up Wedge Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people

  • 80x50” sleeping platform

  • 2” thick mattress included

Warranty: 2 year

Install/Shipping: Flatpak shipping (5 components shipped ready to assemble) to lower 48 ($995) or free install at their facility in Ventura, CA

Current Lead Time: 12 weeks

Additional Features Available:

  • Interior lighting

  • Awning mounts

  • L-track

Description: Topo Toppers’ Mesa camper includes front and rear acrylic camper windows and two side access panel doors, 3 zippered tent windows (and a rear tent access door), as well as keyed tailgate door locks. 

There’s a minimum of 18” (and depending on truck model as much as 30”) of passthrough space between the truck bed and tent space with the sleeping platform extended. And when closed up, the tent includes four inches of additional space in the sleeping platform for storing your bedding.

More Info


3. Go Fast Campers Platform Camper

Current Base Price: $8450 [as of Feb 2024]

Base Weight: 275 lbs

Design: Pop-up Wedge Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people

  • 90x50” sleeping platform

  • 2” thick mattress included

Warranty: 2 year

Install/Shipping: Shipping to and install at one of their retail locations ($600)

Current Lead Time: 10-12 weeks

Additional Features Available:

  • Tempered glass front and rear windows

  • Side entry tent doors/windows

  • Color choice

  • Ladder for exterior tent access

  • Load bars

  • Exterior bracketry for lighting & antennas

Description: Go Fast Campers include two ventilation tent windows and a large rear access tent door/window, full length (removable and lockable) “cabana mode” side access and rear camper door panels, an integrated third rear brake light, and tons of integrated t-track for adding accessories. The “transform-a-floor” sleeping platform consists of one stationary and three removable panels that can be oriented in a number of ways to suit your camping layout, and when they’re removed allow access to the truck bed space below. Go Fast Campers are also one of the few small truck campers manufactured 100% in the United States.

One of the biggest benefits of the GFC is the awesome community that surrounds these campers; their forum, public meet-ups, cottage industry of aftermarket products, and social platforms continue to add value to their campers long after the initial purchase. We liked these small truck campers so much that we installed them on both of our truck builds over the years (before our family inevitably outgrew them).

More Info


4. OVRLND Campers

Current Base Price: $8,400

Base Weight: 275lbs

Design: Pop-up Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people

  • 80x61” sleeping platform

  • Mattress not included

Warranty: Not Stated

Install/Shipping: Free installation at their facility in Flagstaff, AZ. They’ll also deliver your camper to you for $2.75 per mile (one way) plus a $250 install fee.

Current Lead Time: 16 weeks

Additional Features Available:

  • 2.5” foam mattress

  • Clear vinyl tent window inserts

  • Tent insulation layer

  • Fabric headliner

  • Camper side hatches

  • Rear barn door

  • Anodized exterior skins (Black/Silver)

  • Roof vent fan

  • Exterior wiring & solar passthrough ports

Description: OVRLND Campers are one of the most customizable small truck campers on the market, and they will even tackle custom-built small truck camper applications on a case-by-case basis. 

The camper is all aluminum construction with vertical walls and a honeycomb composite sleeping platform. It comes in either mill (aluminum) or white finish, the 1” aluminum framing can be easily insulated and act as studs to custom build your interior. The camper’s tent material is a PVC coated polyester and comes with 4 tent windows offering plenty of ventilation.

More Info


5. Topo Toppers Badlander

Current Base Price: $8,950

Base Weight: 350lbs

Design: Pop-up Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people

  • 80x51” sleeping platform

  • 2” thick mattress included

Warranty: 2 years

Install/Shipping: Free installation at their facility in Ventura, CA (currently there is no flatpack shipping option available)

Current Lead Time: 12 weeks

Additional Features Available:

  • Sliding/hinged side windows

  • Roof vent fan

  • Interior lighting

  • Awning mounts

  • L-track

Description: Unlike their Mesa camper, the Badlander is Topo Toppers’  full pop-up small truck camper. 

It includes front and rear acrylic camper windows and two large 20”x30” tent windows, and there’s a minimum of 18” (and depending on truck model as much as 30”) of passthrough space between the truck bed and tent space with the sleeping platform extended. 

The Badlander shares the same durable tube aluminum frame construction wrapped in an architectural grade powder coated ⅛’’ aluminum finish as the Mesa.

More Info


6. Harker Outdoors EDC

Current Base Price: $8,999 7,999 [as of Feb 2024]

Base Weight: 300 lbs

Design: Pop-up Wedge Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people

  • 90x58” sleeping platform

  • Mattress not included

Warranty: Not Stated

Install/Shipping: Free install at their facility in Bountiful, Utah

Current Lead Time: 4-6 weeks

Additional Features Available:

  • 240 watt solar/100ah battery/LED lighting package

  • Overland equipment package (includes load bars, rotopax, and shovel/ax/fire extinguisher mounts

  • Roof vent

  • Rear visibility package (includes sliding cab window and rear hatch window (or you can get these a la carte)

  • Side hatch or sliding window

  • Harker bench/cabinet & fridge buildout

  • Side-mount bike rack

Description: The Harker Outdoors EDC uses a fully welded 2” steel tube frame construction skinned in 1/16” aluminum (with carpet backing in the interior), and an aluminum composite roof and side access hatch. The carpeted aluminum composite sleeping platform lifts up and out of the way for added interior space when not in use. 

One unique feature for this small truck camper is that it includes a zip on/off tailgate annex with screen door to extend the usable interior space over the lowered tailgate of your truck. The tent includes two windows with bug screens, and they include L-track exterior accessory mounts too. 

More Info



7. Four Wheel Camper Project M

Current Base Price: $10,995 (without mandatory installation fee)

Base Weight: 358 lbs

Design: Pop-up Topper 

Capacity:

  • 2-4 people

  • 81x66” slide-out sleeping platform

  • Mattress not included

Warranty: 1 year general structural / 5 year material (more info)

Install/Shipping: Install at either of their Rancho Cucamonga, California or Woodland, California facilities or another authorized Four Wheel Camper dealer (there is a mandatory $795 Bolt Down Installation fee)

Current Lead Time: 2-5 months

Additional Features Available:

  • Thermal packs (tent insulation for cold weather)

  • Vent fans

  • Side windows

  • Side access doors

  • Exterior geartrac accessory mounts

  • Interior L-track

  • Exterior wiring & solar ports

  • Camper jacks

  • Load bars

  • 12v fridge

  • Several power solutions (including AGM, Lithium, Solar, etc.)

  • A variety of mounting options for rotopax, maxtrax, and other overlanding gear 

Description: Four Wheel Campers has been a staple manufacturer of small truck campers for decades, but the Project M is their first foray into the pop-up topper style camper design and their lightest small truck camper by a good margin. 

It uses a welded aluminum frame wrapped in aluminum siding, with an aluminum roof as well, and includes LED interior lights with pre-wiring for vent fans, exterior flood lights, and roof-top solar. The main entry door on the camper is a lockable rear hatch-style door over the tailgate, and there is a secondary emergency exit window as well. The pop up tent comes with a vinyl liner and 4 windows.  

While it has a fairly reasonable base price for a bare-bones version (compared to their other small truck campers - which we’ll discuss below) the cost of additional features will add up quickly. We do like that they include safety equipment (fire extinguisher, smoke detector, and carbon monoxide alarm) standard, and that the camper’s attachment design creates a 13” wide shelf on either side of the truck bed rails.

More Info


8. AluCab Canopy Camper

Current Base Price: $11,299 (at Tinyrigco)

Base Weight: 463 lbs

Design: Pop-up Wedge Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people

  • 102x52” sleeping platform

  • 4” thick foam mattress included

Warranty: 2 year structural, 1 year moving parts

Install/Shipping: Installation is performed at an authorized dealer

Current Lead Time: 12-16 weeks

Additional Features Available:

  • 270 awning

  • Bug netting for hatches/rear entry door

  • Rear molle-style gear mounting panels

  • Rear exterior mounted propane storage (requires molle panel upgrade)

  • Rear door spare tire mount (accommodates up to 33” spare)

  • Solar

  • Load bars

  • Drop-down table

Description: The Alu-Cab Canopy Camper is a ruggedly built all-aluminum small truck camper that is manufactured in Cape Town, South Africa. While their campers are designed and tested in the rigors of the African outback, they have been used on overland expeditions throughout the world.  

Its wedge-style tent is made of dual layer canvas with side access doors and windows, with one rear window that has a covered awning so you can still keep ventilation going in inclement weather. The huge flip-away bed gives full use of the truck bed’s interior space when not in use, and the large heavy-duty rear entry door (replaces tailgate) and large side access hatches provide easy access from the exterior. 

It comes standard with roof rails for adding load bars and gear storage, LED lighting, 12v/USB outlets, and solar pre-wiring. The biggest down-side to the Alu-cab Canopy camper is its slightly heftier weight (compared to other wedge-style small truck campers) and its lack of window options in the camper itself.

More Info


9. Snap! Outfitters Treehouse

Current Base Price: $12,299

Base Weight: 340 lbs

Design: Pop-up Wedge Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people

  • 75” x 53” sleeping platform

  • 3” thick memory foam mattress included

Warranty: Not Stated

Install/Shipping: Free installation at their Glenville, PA facility

Current Lead Time: Call or email for current estimate

Additional Features Available:

  • Front sliding & rear camper windows

  • Arctic Tern or static side hatch windows

  • Winter tent liner

  • Third rear-facing tent window

  • French-style or full single (replaces tailgate) rear entry door

  • Solar panel and awning mounts

  • Extra interior and exterior T-track

Description: Snap! Outfitters Treehouse is a tig-welded & riveted fully aluminum small truck camper that is custom built to your truck. 

While they offer a variety of customizable features and changes you can make, the camper comes standard with a single rear hatch door and two side-access hatch doors (option to change to single side hatch doors) on each side. 

The wedge-style tent comes with two windows and a ladder to access the carpeted sleeping platform from the bed of the truck. The sleeping platform flips up against the insulated roof to maximize use of the truck bed’s interior space when not in use. 

It’s wired with USB and 12v outlets, and includes two t-tracks on the roof for mounting load bars and other accessories.

More Info


10. Trailfort Camper

Current Base Price: $12,500

Base Weight: 420 lbs

Design: Pop-up Wedge Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people

  • 78x50” sleeping platform

  • 3” thick mattress included

Warranty: Not Stated

Install/Shipping: Free install at their Loomis, CA facility or an authorized install partner

Current Lead Time: 8 weeks

Additional Features Available:

  • Camper windows

  • Awning brackets

Description: The Trailfort is an expedition-ready wedge-style small truck camper constructed of  ⅛” thick aerospace grade aluminum. It has an integrated storage tunnel with locking exterior access doors that provide additional secure “trunk” space. 

The camper comes standard with a total of 5 lockable utility access “falcon-wing” doors (one rear, two side camper, and two storage tunnel), side L-track rails, a double ripstop waterproof tent, with four triple-layer zippered tent windows (mesh, black-out, clear vinyl). 

The Trailfort’s stand-out feature is its unique windowed front roof dormer that adds interior headroom in the tent space.

More Info



11. Tune Outdoor M1 Camper

Current Base Price: $12,999

Base Weight: 360lbs

Design: Pop-up Topper

Capacity:

  • 3+ people

  • 72x60” (east-west), or 72x80” (with optional king slide-out) sleeping platform

  • 4” thick mattress included

Warranty: 3 year

Install/Shipping: Free install at their Denver, Colorado facility

Current Lead Time: 8-10 weeks

Additional Features Available:

  • Removable vinyl tent window inserts

  • Quarter-inch tempered architectural smoked glass hatch doors

  • Roof vent fan

  • Cab pass through window

  • Goal Zero Yeti solar generator integration kits

  • Coming soon

    • Camper jack adapters

    • Tent insulation kit

    • Heater kit


Description: The Tune Outdoor M1 Camper is a full pop-up small truck camper with a game changing space-to-weight ratio. 

Using a combination of aluminum extruded framing, heavy-duty composite components, extremely robust FRP composite panels, and and ingenious design, the Tune Outdoor M1 manages to integrate a queen-size cab-over east-west sleeping platform that leaves your truck bed entirely open to use or build out as you see fit. Or you can opt for the king-size slide out platform addition that still leaves a 34”+ (depending on your particular truck) passthrough to the truck bed  - all in an incredibly lightweight small truck camper.

The camper comes standard with three aluminum hatch access doors, but you can upgrade to full-length tempered ¼” architectural smoked glass for a small increase in weight. The tent includes a total of 6 mesh windows with fabric covers, there is an insane 440ft of integrated t-track throughout the interior and exterior of the camper for mounting accessories and customizing it to your needs, and they include dimmable LED halo lighting standard. 

After seeing one in person, we liked the Tune Outdoor M1 so much we decided to buy one for our own family overland adventures and you can check out our more detailed Tune M1 Pop Up Truck Camper Review.

More Info



12. AT Overland Summit

Current Base Price: $13,200

Base Weight: 340lbs

Design: Pop-up Wedge Topper

Capacity:

  • 2 people

  • 80x48” sleeping platform (lift assisted)

  • 2” thick mattress included

Warranty: Not Stated

Install/Shipping: Installation at their Prescott, AZ facility or one of their authorized dealers

Current Lead Time: Typically 12 months or less

Additional Features Available:

  • Side windows (choice of Tern acrylic sliding, euro, or hatch door)

  • Fixed rear hatch window

  • Cab pass through window

  • Solar pre-wiring 

  • Solar panel and multiple power storage options

  • Tern roof window with built-in LED lighting

  • Two vent fan options

  • Roof track and multiple roof rack options

  • Thermal liner kit

  • Truma vario heater

  • Propane tank mounts

  • Full interior truck bed build-out options (base-plate with cabinets, stove, fridge, etc.)

  • Awnings and universal awning brackets

Description: AT Overland has been in the small truck camper game for two decades, making a variety of robustly designed campers that use a mix of one-inch lightweight honeycomb composite panels skinned with FRP bonded to 5052 aluminum. 

The AT Overland Summit is their first wedge-style pop-up camper and shares the same high-end build quality of their other small truck campers. It uses a combination of an aluminum and composite construction with an insulated sleeping platform that lifts up to maximize truck bed interior space when not in use, and a carpet-lined interior for a cozy finish. 

The all-season tent comes with three triple-layer windows (no-see-um mesh, clear vinyl, and privacy panel layers) and when closed the roof can handle a static load of 600lbs. It comes standard with interior LED lighting and 12v outlets. 

The comparatively small sleeping platform and lack of included side hatches on their base model are the only quibbles we had with the AT Overland Summit.

More Info


13. Super Pacific Switchback X1

Current Base Price: $13,495

Base Weight: 370lbs

Design: Pop-up Wedge Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people

  • 80x52” bed (total platform 100x52”)

  • Exped Megamat Duo LW+ mattress included

Warranty: 2 year 

Install/Shipping: Free install at their Portland, Oregon facility, satellite shipping ($800) & install ($500) at one of their satellite locations, or they offer an LTL freight option.

Additional Features Available:

  • Tent closure locks

  • Universal awning brackets

  • Interior molle panels

Description: The Super Pacific Switchback X1 is another wedge-style small truck camper with an aluminum extrusion, skin, and composite construction. The removable sleeping platform panels are used to maximize interior space when not in use (similar to a GFC’s design). 

The Switchback X1 camper includes cab-facing and tailgate acrylic fixed windows standard, 3 hatch doors (two side and one rear) for easy access to the truck bed, integrated exterior T-track on the roof and sides, dual 12v outlets, and a third brake light. 

The wedge-style tent is constructed of 4-season marine grade fabric with 3 zippered and screened tent doors/windows, and uses their adjustable Free Flow™ vent system to help mitigate condensation build-up. 

More Info


14. AT Overland Habitat

Current Base Price: $13,900

Base Weight: 340 lbs

Design: Pop-up / Foldover Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-4 people

  • 80x48” sleeping platform

  • 2” thick mattress included

Warranty: Not Stated

Install/Shipping: Install at their Prescott, AZ facility or one of their authorized dealers

Current Lead Time: Typically 12 months or less 

Additional Features Available:

  • Additional flip out sleeping platform (that covers the upper truck bed opening to add room for 2 additional people)

  • An awning room enclosure for the space below the flip out platform

  • Side windows (choice of Tern acrylic sliding, euro, or hatch door)

  • Fixed rear hatch window

  • Cab pass through window

  • Solar pre-wiring 

  • Solar panel and multiple power storage options

  • Roof track and multiple roof rack options

  • Truma vario heater

  • Propane tank mounts

  • Full interior truck bed build-out options (base-plate with cabinets, stove, fridge, etc.)

  • Awnings and universal awning brackets

Description: The AT Overland Habitat is another overland-sentric small truck camper that utilizes a cantilever top that folds out over the rear of your truck - creating a built-in awning and a sleeping platform that doesn’t infringe on the truck bed’s interior space when deployed. This design is very reminiscent of the old Flippac and Wildernest campers (which sadly are no longer being made). 

The AT Overland Habitat uses the same primary camper construction materials of one-inch lightweight honeycomb composite panels skinned with FRP bonded to 5052 aluminum as the primary camper construction materials, just as in their other small truck campers. However, the Habitat’s massive wax-impregnated (and fire retardant) cotton/poly canvas tent is only rated as a 3-season, likely due to its inability to handle snow-load.

It comes standard with a carpet lined interior, LED lighting, and 12v outlets. Worth noting - due to the cantilever roof design, there is no roof vent fan or roof window options on this camper.

More Info


15. AT Overland Atlas

Current Base Price: $14,300

Base Weight: 360 lbs

Design: Pop-up Topper

Capacity:

  • 2 people

  • 80x48” sleeping platform

  • 2.5” thick mattress included

Warranty: Not Stated

Install/Shipping: Install at their Prescott, AZ facility or one of their authorized dealers

Current Lead Time: Typically 12 months or less

Additional Features Available:

  • Side windows (choice of Tern acrylic sliding, euro, or hatch door)

  • Fixed rear hatch window

  • Cab pass through window

  • Solar pre-wiring 

  • Solar panel and multiple power storage options

  • Tern roof window with built-in LED lighting

  • Two vent fan options

  • Roof track and multiple roof rack options

  • Thermal liner kit

  • Truma vario heater

  • Propane tank mounts

  • Full interior truck bed build-out options (base-plate with cabinets, stove, fridge, etc.)

  • Awnings and universal awning brackets

Description: The AT Overland Atlas is the company’s full pop-up small truck camper, and uses the same combination of one-inch lightweight honeycomb composite panels skinned with FRP bonded to 5052 aluminum. 

The insulated two-piece sleeping platform is able to be moved out of the way for maximizing truck bed interior space when not in use, but leaves a 48x38” pass-through to the bed when deployed. 

The all-season tent comes with three triple-layer windows (no-see-um mesh, clear vinyl, and privacy panel layers) and when closed the roof can handle a static load of 600lbs. It comes standard with a carpet lined interior, LED lighting, and 12v outlets, and they also offer a wide array of upgrade options to customize your small truck camper build.

More Info


16. Hiatus Camper

Current Base Price: $15,500

Base Weight: 480 lbs

Design: Pop-up (Hard-sided) Topper

Capacity:

  • 2 people

  • 74x50” sleeping platform (with pass through to bed) - can be customized for taller people)

  • 2.5” thick mattress included

Warranty: 2 year

Install/Shipping: Install is done at their Bellingham, Washington facility

Current Lead Time: 1 year

Additional Features Available:

  • Vertical frame design (increased interior space)

  • Double back doors (replaces tailgate)

  • Side screened slider windows

  • Additional side hatch door

  • Load bars

  • Awnings

  • Vent fan

  • LED lighting and wiring

  • Solar generator integration

  • Exterior wiring & solar ports

  • Propane/heat system

  • Camper jack adapters

  • You can request other customizations, such as an interior build out as well

Description: Hiatus Campers is a small truck camper manufacturer with a unique approach to the traditional pop-up style camper. They use a combination of insulated aluminum skinned aluminum framing with an insulated folding composite (FRP) wall system that eliminates the need for fabric tent walls. 

It comes standard with a slide out sleeping platform with a sectional mattress and pass through to the truck bed space, front and rear windows in the upper pop up walls, a cab pass through window, a roof vent (without fan), locking rear door hatch and side access hatch, plus integrated exterior L-track and Yakima tracks for accessory mounting. 

Because Hiatus Campers offer a wide array of options and custom build their truck campers to each customers’ specific vehicle, specs, and needs, their lead-times are on the longer end of the spectrum.

More Info


17. Skinny Guy Campers

Current Base Price: $15,500

Base Weight: 500lbs

Design: Pop-up / Foldover Topper

Capacity:

  • 2 people

  • 80x40” bed

  • 3” thick mattress included

Warranty: 1 year

Install/Shipping: Install is performed at one of their authorized dealers

Current Lead Time: 2-3 months

Additional Features Available (some included at various “trim levels”):

  • Fresh and black water tanks

  • Heated tank pads

  • DC-to-DC charger & inverter options

  • Solar panels

  • Dinette table

  • Molle rack

  • Propane heater & water heater

  • Hot & cold Bullfinch shower port

  • Flush toilet with heated black water tank

  • Exterior wiring & solar ports

  • Portable UV & carbon black water purification system

  • Awning brackets & roof rack options

Description: Skinny Guy Campers is another uniquely designed small truck camper that fits a ton of utility in a compact form factor. Similar to the old Flippac or the AT Habitat, these campers use a fold-over cantilever pop-up tent made of Aqualon Edge marine fabric atop an ⅛” aluminum camper body construction that maximizes interior space, while maintaining the collapsed form-factor of a traditional truck topper. Plus, the camper’s design keeps everything on top of your truck’s bed rails, so you’ll still have use of the space below the camper for storage.

They offer three different trim levels (Skin ‘N Bones, Skinny Fat, or Kit ‘N Kaboodle), each with progressively more features included. But the base camper comes standard with a PortaPotti beneath an L-shaped dinette, floor drain, USB & 12v ports, interior LED lighting, a side entry ladder, proprietary removable camper jack system, a rainwater catchment system, powder coated cabinetry, fire extinguisher and CO detector, and pre-wiring for non-vented 12v battery charging. 

At the upper end of the trim levels you’ll get all the amenities of a larger truck camper; complete with fresh and black water tanks, flush toilet, cooktop, fridge, and kitchen sink!

More Info


18. Four Wheel Camper Swift and Fleet

Current Base Price: $16,695 (without mandatory installation fee)

Base Weight: 950lbs

Design: Pop-up Slide-in

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people

  • 72x76” cab-over sleeping platform

  • 3” thick mattress included

Warranty: 1 year general structural / 5 year material (more info)

Install/Shipping: Install at either of their Rancho Cucamonga, California or Woodland, California facilities or an authorized dealer (note there are mandatory installation fees for install that range from $795-$1895 depending on the type of mounting system required for your truck)

Current Lead Time: 2 to 4 months

Additional Features Available:

  • Roll-over couch | side-dinette or front dinette (fleet only) (all double as additional sleeping platforms)

  • Awning options

  • Mechanical camper jacks

  • Ax/shovel mounts

  • Surfboard/SUP mounts

  • LED rear flood lights

  • Roof track and load bar options

  • 2nd roof vent fan

  • Roof mounted or portable solar panel options

  • Lithium battery options (135ah or 270ah Dakota Lithium)

  • Propane furnace system

  • Sink

  • Additional small sliding driver’s side window

  • Propane stove options (requires furnace option too)

  • Tent wall thermal packs (single or triple layer)

  • Removable carpet kit

  • Backup camera kit

  • Portable toilet options

Description: Four Wheel Campers are the gold standard of slide-in small truck campers and their Swift (for 5ft short bed trucks) and Fleet (for 6ft bed trucks) are no exception. 

They use a welded aluminum frame wrapped in black diamond plate aluminum siding with a one-piece aluminum roof and a standard wood grain interior. Base features include a 20 gallon fresh water storage tank, 2.5 gal propane tank, 225ah dual 6v AGM batteries, camper jack brackets, LED interior lighting and an exterior porch light, 12v and USB outlets, one passenger side window, and a roof vent fan. 

While they’re not the lightest small truck campers out there, they do offer a ton of space and features in a relatively compact form factor.

More Info


19. Bear Adventure Vehicles Black Bear Camper (Total Composites Lynx)

Current Base Price: $17,200 [“blank slate” shell only]

Base Weight: 540lbs [empty shell - fully built out models range from appx 850-1,450lbs]

Design: Fixed Slide-in Camper

Capacity:

  • 2+ people

  • Sleeping platform varies based on build

Warranty: 1 year

Install/Shipping: Install is performed at Bear Adventure Vehicles’ facility in Santa Paula, California

Current Lead Time: Varies depending on the extent of customization

Additional Features Available:

  • King-size two-piece cab-over sleeping platform

  • Secondary two-piece queen lower sleeping platform

  • Interior LED lighting

  • Diesel heater

  • Portable A/C

  • Mudroom entry with wet-well/shower

  • Roof vent fans

  • Exterior propane mounting

  • Gas stove

  • Cabinetry and dinette

  • Sink & fresh water system

  • Portable toilet options

  • Solar/power systems

  • Exterior wiring & solar ports

  • 12v fridge

Description: Bear Adventure Vehicles is an authorized vendor and upfitter of Total Composites light-weight small truck campers. Their Black Bear model is the smallest slide-in truck camper made by Total Composites (known as the Lynx under their branding). 

The shell is made of a 2” thick fiberglass foam core composite and offers some of the best 4-season weather protection of any small truck camper on the market with an insulating value of R12. This is a great option if you’re looking to create a DIY built interior or want to pick and choose aspects of your camper build a la carte from Bear Adventure Vehicles (for an additional cost). Their 5.0 model fits inside the tailgate of the common Jeep Gladiator or Tacoma, or the 7.0 model offers more space but extends over the tailgate. 

More Info


20. Hower Built BaseCamp V2

Current Base Price: $19,000

Base Weight: 400lbs

Design: Electric Pop-up Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people

  • 78x50” sleeping platform 

  • 3” thick mattress included

Warranty: 5 year

Install/Shipping: Install is performed at their Durango, Colorado facility

Current Lead Time: Inquire via email for current lead times - info@howerbuilt.com

Additional Features Available:

  • Larger capacity lithium battery

  • Load bars

  • Solar panels

  • Insulated tent liner

  • Tern Overland windows or AM auto-sliding windows

  • Cab-side sliding window

  • Larger rear hatch door (replaces tailgate)

  • Double barn door with window options

  • Keypad locking entry

  • Propane tank and mounting

  • Molle panels

  • Awning options and mounting brackets

  • Dometic Go water system

  • Drop-down table

Description: The Hower Built Basecamp V2 is a premium pop-up style small truck camper that uses aluminum framing combined with R5 insulated composite panels to create a robust 4-season camping space. 

The hallmark of this camper is its unique electric driven scissor-lift system for raising and lowering the pop-up (which takes appx 45 seconds). This lifting system also makes this camper a segment leader with a lifting capacity of 300lbs - meaning you can keep your gear up top and still use the camper without unloading it! 

The Basecamp V2 has a waterproof, UV and mold resistant tent fabric, and a queen-size sleeping platform with 6” of space remaining when the top is closed, leaving plenty of room for bedding storage. The camper also comes standard with Rigid LED interior lighting, 4 USB outlets, a 50ah lithium battery (that operates the lift mechanism and is prewired for solar), plus a MaxxAir Vent fan.

More Info


21. AT Overland Aterra Topper

Current Base Price: $20,500

Base Weight: 510lbs

Design: Fixed Topper

Capacity:

  • 2-4 people

  • 74” king-size two-piece sleeping platform

  • 3” foam mattress

Warranty: 2 year

Install/Shipping: Install at their Prescott, AZ facility or one of their authorized dealers

Current Lead Time: Typically 12 months or less

Additional Features Available:

  • Secondary lower sleeping platform/bunk bed

  • Awning brackets & multiple awning options

  • Front cab slider window

  • Truma Vario heater

  • Additional solar & charge controller options

  • Exterior wiring & solar ports

  • Interior cabinetry build-out

  • Fridge/freezer options

  • Partner Steel stove

  • Dometic Go water system

Description: AT Overland’s Aterra small truck camper is a unique fixed-wall honeycomb composite topper that offers a massive amount of space in a relatively light-weight form-factor with a design aesthetic that’s similar to a Total Composites camper. 

The Aterra comes standard with a 185 watt solar panel, built-in dimmable LED strip lighting, four 12VDC power ports, four double USB power ports, four Arctic Tern double-pane acrylic windows with shades and screens, two wall mounted folding tables, molle panels in interior rear corners, mechanical camper jack brackets, and a massive rear hatch door. 

Currently the Aterra is only available for full-size trucks, but they will be coming out with mid-size truck options as well soon.

More Info


22. Kimbo Camper 6 Series

Current Base Price: $22,999

Base Weight: 900-1188lbs (depending on extent of options selected/omitted)

Design: Fixed Slide-in

Capacity:

  • 2-3 people 

  • 74x55” cab-over sleeping platform

  • 3” thick mattress included

Warranty: Not Stated

Install/Shipping: They do offer shipping, or you can pick up your camper at their Bellingham, Washington facility

Current Lead Time: 3 months

Additional Features Available:

  • Multiple power/solar options

  • Wood storage/table unit

  • Wet-well/shower

  • Hanging wall basket storage

  • Kitchen

  • Fridge

  • Propane fireplace

  • Window-style A/C unit

  • Secondary fold-up bed module

  • Thule awning

  • Mounting/storage options for skis/surfboards/SUPs

  • Roof track system

  • Rotopax mounts

Description: The Kimbo Camper Series 6 is a fixed-side slide-in small truck camper. It  installs over the tailgate in short bed trucks or inside the tailgate of 6ft bed trucks. The Kimbo camper uses frameless aluminum construction for the outer shell of the camper, with an R5 insulated interior, covered in a brushed fabric liner. 

The standard three double pane Arctic Tern windows allow for plenty of natural light, the bamboo mud-room entryway provides an easy way to shed outer layers as you enter the camper, the two cushioned benches provide relaxed seating, and a Maxxair vent fan keeps the air circulating. 

The base model also includes external propane storage, a 120V shore power connection, solar exterior perimeter lighting, removable camper jacks and mounts, dimmable interior LED strip lighting, and a roof access ladder. 

While it’s not the lightest small truck camper out there, the Kimbo Series 6 offers a near-full-size-RV camping experience in a relatively compact form factor.

More Info


23. Scout Olympic (with GFC RTT)

Current Base Price: $23,990 ($29,985 with optional GFC Roof Top Tent)

Base Weight: 1,091lbs (built for full size trucks)

Design: Fixed Slide-in, plus wedge RTT

Capacity:

  • 4-6 people

  • 80x52” cabover sleeping platform + (90x50 in the passthrough GFC RTT)

  • 4” thick mattress included

Warranty: 2 year

Install/Shipping: Install can be performed at their Yakima, Washington facility or the camper can be shipped to a partner dealership (reach out to Scout directly for assistance in locating a dealer near you)

Current Lead Time: 3.5 months

Additional Features Available:

  • Passthrough Go Fast Campers RTT

  • Kammok Crosswing awning and/or universal awning brackets

  • Diesel heater

  • Removable camper jacks

  • Bunk windows

  • Portable indoor/outdoor gas cooktop

  • 12v fridge/freezer

  • Hanging bunk extensions (for additional 24x24” north-south sleeping space each)

  • Portable toilet

Description: The Scout Olympic is a lightweight fixed-side slide-in small truck camper built with a rugged fully composite substrate construction and aluminum exo-skeleton framing.  


Scout has a unique partnership with Go Fast Campers as well, that allows for the optional addition of one of their roof top tents with a pass-through access from inside the camper; this effectively doubles the camper’s sleeping capacity. 

But the Scout Olympic on its own offers a TON of standard amenities, like a built-in gear storage locker, Lifesaver 4.9gal water storage system with charcoal filtration, a Goal Zero Yeti 1500x solar generator with 12v and 110 outlets, a 175w Solar Panel, a 4-person dinette that converts to additional 70”x34” sleeping space, Thermal pane windows, a moon roof, 10lb propane tank and vented storage compartment, removable marine flooring, LED strip lighting, smoke, gas, and CO detectors, a 12v vent fan, stainless steel sink, and even a motion sensing solar porch light. 

While the Olympic is our top pick out of their line-up due to the GFC partnership, it’s only available for full-size trucks. Their Yoho model for mid-size trucks offers a lot of the same small truck camper utility, in a marginally lighter (934lbs) slide-in camper, but lacks the additional sleeping space that sets the Olympic apart.

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24. OEV Back Country 5.85 and Back Country 6.85 [Formerly OEV CAMP-M and CAMP-X]

Current Base Price: $45,595 / $48,595

Base Weight: 975lbs / 1,345lbs

Design: Pop-up Slide-In

Capacity:

  • 3 people

  • 75x60” cab-over sleeping platform

  • 4” thick foam mattress included

Warranty: 1 year general structural / 5 year material  (more info)

Install/Shipping: Installation is performed at one of their authorized dealers

Current Lead Time: 3-4 months

Additional Features Available:

  • 77x27 gurney-style bunk bed

  • 200w solar panel

  • Continuous hot water, with Sigiva outside shower connection and hose extension

  • Additional roof vent fan

  • 1500 watt Go Power Pure Sine Wave inverter

  • Passenger and/or driver side molle rack

  • Awning adapters for 180 & 270 degree awnings

  • King sleeping platform extension

  • Roof racks

  • Front light bar (lights not included)

  • Soft storage bags

Description: Overland Explorer Vehicles’s Backcountry Campers (either the 5.85 model for mid-size trucks, or the 6.85 for full size trucks) are some of the most feature-rich rugged small truck campers on the market. They use an extruded aluminum frame combined with R8 insulated composite panel construction to maximize strength and durability while minimizing weight. 

And, as the name implies, they come standard with nearly everything you’d need to take your small truck camper on an overland expedition the day it’s installed. 

This includes a Truma Vario heater w/thermostat, roof vent fan with shade and LED lighting, a 20 gal fresh water tank w/12v pump, stainless steel sink w/flush mount glass cover, 12v aux and dual USB plugs, a battery monitor, LED interior and exterior lighting, Victron DC /DC charger, Reico manual camper jacks, awning mounting brackets, outside shower brackets & adapters, chest style fridge tray (though a 12v fridge is not included), dual pane acrylic window with blinds and screen, aluminum propane cabinet w/10 lb bottle, front east/west dinette that folds down with under seat storage and an adjustable table leg, large locking exterior storage access, a powder coated aluminum interior with vinyl flooring, plus a ton of safety features including a fire rated thermal break kit, fire extinguisher, and LP/smoke/CO detectors.

More Info


25. Supertramp Campers Flagship LT

Current Base Price: $59,975

Base Weight: 1,250 lbs [full-size trucks only]

Design: Pop-up Slide-in

Capacity:

  • 3-5 people

  • 80x60” cab-over sleeping platform

  • 4” thick queen mattress included

Warranty: Not Stated/TBD

Install/Shipping: Installation at their Golden, Colorado facility

Current Lead Time: Currently available for preorder, estimated production TBD

Additional Features Available:

  • Air conditioning 

  • Up to 400 Ah of lithium batteries

  • Truma Combi Eco Plus heater/furnace (has ability to run off propane or shore power)

  • Lagun table

  • 1500W AC inverter

  • 42” Arctic Tern camper window with integrated screen and shade

  • Inside shower (curtain, drain, 5 gallon gray water tank)

  • 23 Zero 180-degree awning

  • Outside shower enclosure

  • Backup camera

  • Additional L tracks

  • Molle panels

  • 3M wrap

  • Bunk bed sleeping platform

Description: SuperTramp Camper’s Flagship LT is a brand new small truck camper for full size trucks that is the near-perfect confluence of high-tech manufacturing, leight-weight materials, and modern features. 

This camper is constructed of vacuum infused composites (used in aerospace industry) with recycled PET foam core insulation. It uses an electric linear actuator system to lift (in only 10 seconds) the pop-up top exposing the insulated triple layer marine grade tent with 360-degree windows and zippered shades. 

This small truck camper includes a complete bamboo countertop-equipped kitchenette with flush stove, marine sink, and 65L Isotherm fridge. The camper also comes with a portable Cassette toilet, a heated storage basement to keep the 24 gallon fresh water tank and 5 gallon gray water tank protected in sub-freezing temps, a Truma Combi on-demand water heater and furnace, an ample L-shaped seating area with adjustable table and tons of built-in storage, a 330watt solar panel array, 100ah lithium battery with Victron DC-to-DC charger, solar charger, and battery monitor, a AC/DC shore power hookup, several 12v USB outlets, dual remote-controlled MaxxAir roof vent fans, removable camper jacks, dual 11lb propane tanks, keyless locking rear entry door, rear molle panel and L-track, and a massive 48” pullout basement storage drawer that’s accessible from the exterior. 


This camper has it all, and while it’s on the upper end of the price and weight spectrum (as far as lightweight truck campers go) it offers all the features and amenities of a standard RV in a small truck camper form factor. We only hope they eventually offer a mid-size truck model too!

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It’s a golden era for small truck campers! With the confluence of technological advances in composite materials, refined manufacturing processes, an ever-growing number of small truck camper manufacturers, and a veritable renaissance in the outdoor equipment and camping industry in general there has never been a better time to outfit your truck or pickup with a small truck camper and explore this incredible world!

And we hope this guide has helped you find a small truck camper that meets your needs, budget, and adventures.


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