10 Best Truck Bed Tent For Camping 2024 | Expert’s Guide
If you like to spend your spare time in hunting, camping or traveling in the boondocks with your truck, you will probably search for the best truck tents. Truck tents for camping are amazing substitutes to sleeping on the ground or setting up tents when on vacation.
Truck bed tents for camping are easy to set up and disassemble, hence, you will have the opportunity of taking a nap while on holiday. In addition to this, you will be protected from pests and your privacy will be guaranteed.
However, getting the best truck tents in today’s world is not a piece of cake. The reason for this is not far fetched – there are lots of fake and substandard products around. Consequently, this piece is created so that you will be assisted in making the right choice.
In this guide, you will be exposed to the best truck bed tents to consider this year, factors to consider when shopping for best truck bed tents, matching your tent to the truck, installing you tent, just to mention a few.
How to Match The Tent To Your Truck
Before buying your truck bed tent, you need to be aware that they come in different sizes and other specifications. Some are specifically designed for SUVs while others work best in pickup trucks and minivans.
Your brand of vehicle should be given top priority and you need to measure the bed of your truck before coming up with an ideal product. The measurement will go a long way that in helping you to make the best decision as regards the perfect tent for your bed.
If the accuracy of your measurement is not clear to you, it is advisable to check the manufacturer’s specifications of the product you want to buy. This will help you to match the tent to your truck in order to get a satisfactory result.
Comparison Table of Top 10 Best Truck Bed Tents
After a comprehensive research, we have discovered ten top-rated truck bed tents for you. We engaged several testers so that we will be able to come up with first-class, popular products that have been meeting the expectations of buyers. Here are the top ten.
Image | Product | Max. Capacity | Dimension (inches) |
Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
SportZ Truck Tent (Editor’s Choice) |
2 people Sleep |
29.5 x 9.5 x 9.5 |
Check Price | |
Kodiak Canvas Tent |
2 people |
47 x 9.5 x 9 |
Check Price | |
Napier Backroadz Tent (Editor’s Choice) |
2 people |
30 x 8 x 8 |
Check Price | |
Rightline Gear 110766 |
2 people |
23.3 x 14.2 x 14.2 |
Check Price | |
Guide Gear Tent |
2 people |
26 x 7.5 x 7.5 |
Check Price | |
KingCamp Melfi Plus |
6 people |
29 x 16.9 x 12.5 |
||
DAC Truck Tent |
2 people |
12.4 x 9.6 x 5.7 |
Check Price | |
Guide Gear Compact |
2 people |
26 x 7.5 x 7 |
||
Slumberjack Roadhouse |
3 people |
23 x 7 x 7 |
||
Napier 57122 Tent |
2 people |
30 x 9 x 9 in |
Our 10 Picks of Best Truck Bed Tents Review
We have carefully selected these 10 products so that it will not be difficult for you to select the best pickup truck tent. It is a result of a comprehensive research you will love to read.
1. SportZ Truck Tent Blue/Grey – Best Tent For Great Comfortability
SportZ truck tent is a unique product with so many amazing features. It is easy to assemble and offers a very comfortable resting area.
Design
SportZ truck tent comes with a sewn-in floor so that your comfort will be guaranteed when camping. You will not have to give yourself any headache about cleaning the bed before using the tent. It comes with a sleeping position for two people with 5.6 feet headroom.
In addition, it has a big entrance door as well as a big rear access panel so that access to the tent will be hitch-free. There are two mesh windows with side vents which gives room for adequate ventilation. You will also find a 4” by 4” shade awning which is secured to the tailgate and this gives you the opportunity to set up the tent anywhere without guide ropes.
The poles are color-coded while the sleeve system is unique so that setting up will be easy and fast. There is a set of strap protectors so that your truck will be given an additional protection against the straps of the tent. To cap it up, there is an extensible carrying bag which is very useful for storage.
Performance
SportZ truck tent is very easy to setup and use. You can easily install it in 10 minutes and start having fun for a remarkable camping experience. It is easy to access with the capability of giving you adequate protection during harsh weather.
- Easy to install with color-coded poles
- Sewn-in floor
- Sleeping position for 2 people
- Strap protectors for your truck
- Expandable carrying bag
- Can be costly
Bottom Line
If you really want to have a fascinating camping experience, SportZ truck tent is a product to consider. It is specifically designed so that you will be able to have fun without limit when camping.
2. Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent – Best For Strength and Versatility
If you want a sturdy tent that can stand the test of time, Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent should be on your mind. It is a product that blends versatility with comfort so that you will be able to have a satisfactory camping experience.
Design
Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent is produced with Hydra-shield and 100% cotton which is watertight, durable and breathable. It is designed in a tunnel shape in order to ensure that the interior space is maximized.
The ceiling is 5 feet high and tailgate-down design ensures that useable space is expandable. It also comes with a strong, ¾-inch steel tube frame which is easily connected to the clamp-on rails for a hitch-free mounting on your truck bed.
Performance
Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent gives you an all-year protection, excluding heavy-snow weather. It provides an amazing ventilation with five windows including a cab access window. Easy access is guaranteed with a big D-shaped door with YKK zippers. The product offers additional convenience with a covered entry as well as two gear pockets.
- Produced with Hydra-shield
- 100% cotton
- Tunnel-shape design to maximize internal space
- 5 windows including one cab-access window
- D-shaped door with YKK zippers
- Heavy steel tubing
Bottom Line
Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent is a powerful product that can stand the test of time. You may not be able to get a better deal elsewhere.
3. Napier Backroadz Truck Tent – Best For Those Looking For Affordable Products
Napier Backroadz Truck Tent is a product that is easy on your wallet and it is of high quality. If you want to have an unmatchable campsite on the back of your open-bed truck, this product may just be for you.
Design
It is produced to fit the majority of pickup trucks and even those with toolboxes or bed liners. The tent comes with a full floor for protection from dirt as well as water on the truck bed and this makes it to be very unique.
The interior area is very spacious with more than 5.6 feet of headroom. The color-coded poles, as well as sleeve assembly, make installation as easy as ABC. Within some minutes, you are ready to have fun.
Performance
With Napier Backroadz Truck Tent, you are protected against bad weather with a full rainfly. It is an ideal product for unexpected adventures like camping, fishing, tailgating and so on.
- Comes with a full floor
- Spacious interior area
- 5.6 feet of headroom
- Color-coded poles
- Full rainfly
- Only one pocket on the driver’s side
Bottom Line
When it comes to affordability and reliability, Napier Backroadz Truck Tent is very hard to beat. With top features that make it to stand out, your search for a perfect tent is probably over.
4. Rightline Gear 110766 5-Feet Short Truck Tent – Best Floor-less Design
Rightline Gear 110766 5-Foot Mid Size Short Truck Tent gives you the opportunity to get the best camping experience without pulling out the gear from your bed. With so many features aimed at giving you the best results, this tent is probably a product to consider.
Design
Rightline Gear Short Truck Tent has a floorless design so that you can easily set it up without removing the gear. The heavy-duty straps, as well as nylon buckles, are in place to guarantee protection for your truck’s finish.
In addition, there are two gear pockets, a hook for hanging a lantern, zipper pulls that glow in the dark, and a vent that has a sky view. The poles, as well as pole pockets, are color-coded so that installation can be quick and easy.
Performance
Space is enough to provide sleeping positions for two adults. The size of the headroom is 5 feet and it is water resistant with seams that are tape-sealed. This will give you the opportunity to turn any location into a convenient campsite.
- Floorless design accommodating your gear
- Heavy-duty straps and nylon buckles
- 2 gear pockets
- Color-coded poles for easy and fast installation
- Sleeping position for 2 adults
- Could be difficult to be set up by one person alone
Bottom Line
If you want a product that will accommodate your gear, the Rightline Gear Short Truck Tent is your best bet. It is a product of high quality with additional benefits to make your camping a success.
5. Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent – Best For A High Level of Comfort ability
For a comfortable shelter on your campground, the Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent is a product to watch. With stunning characteristics that make it to stand out among equals, you need to put this product into consideration.
Design
Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent features a sewn-in polyethylene floor and a big interior area with a headroom size of 5.25 feet. It has a big D-shaped door, 2 storage pockets and mesh windows for fresh air so that you will be able to witness a high level of comfortability when camping.
It is lightweight with 4 shock-corded, fiberglass poles so that installation will be easier. The product also comes with tension straps, full rainfly and a waterproof, strong polyester carrying bag. It is produced with 190T polyester having a water-resistant coating of 1500mm.
Performance
Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent performs excellently in majority of full-size beds. The sleeping position can conveniently accommodate two adults.
- Sewn-in polyethylene floor
- 5.26 feet headroom
- D-shaped door
- 2 storage pockets
- Sleeping position for two adults
- The entrance can slope a little low which makes entering slightly difficult
Bottom Line
If you have not tried the Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent, you are probably missing a lot. Your camping may not be complete without it.
6. KingCamp Melfi Plus SUV Car Tent – Best 2-room Tent For The Family
If you truly want to be like a king on the campground, the KingCamp Melfi Plus SUV Car Tent is your best choice. This 2-room amazing product provides the best solution to your family’s outdoor activities.
Design
The KingCamp Melfi Plus SUV Car Tent is specially in designed to up to 6 people conveniently. In addition, it features 2 D-shaped doors, a quick-dry, 190T polyester and PU waterproof rating of 3000mm. The door rainfly can be converted to an awning for advanced protection against the sun and rain.
Furthermore, there are 3 doors for easy access as well as multi-position mesh windows for fresh air. With 6 steel poles, 3 fiberglass poles, 4 steel door poles, 10 pieces of cord pull and 32 pieces of pegs, you can install the tent within 15 minutes.
Performance
KingCamp Melfi Plus SUV Car Tent offers an advanced privacy since it has two rooms. It is very strong and offers protection against harsh weather. You can easily adapt it for sunshine by rolling up the screen and using the flysheet alone.
- 2-room first-class tent
- Accommodates up to 6 people
- 3 doors for easy access
- Easy to install
- Multi-position mesh windows
- May require more than one person for installation
Bottom Line
To be the real king during your next camping activities, you may need to consider KingCamp Melfi Plus SUV Car Tent. It is an excellent product with so many benefits.
7. DAC Full-Size Truck Tent – Best For Those Desiring Flexibility
DAC Full-Size Truck Tent gives you the opportunity to transform your truck into an absolute camping unit. It comes with great features for full-size vehicles as well as SUVs with tailgates.
Design
DAC Full-Size Truck Tent is specially designed with 2 mesh windows behind the doors. It has outer door panels that can be folded up for utmost ventilation and zipped or tied for privacy. With the 2-way zippers, you can get easy access to the back of the truck.
Performance
DAC Full-Size Truck Tent is made to last with roof and walls coated with polyester. Moving the tent from one place to another is made easier with a smashing carry bag. It is easy to set up by raising the back window, lowering the tailgate and placing the tent on the opening.
- 2 mesh windows at the back of the doors
- Foldable outer door panels
- 2-way zippers
- Comes with a carry bag
- Easy to set up
- The internal area may be small
Bottom Line
DAC Full-Size Truck Tent should be considered if you want a product that is reliable. You will not make a wrong choice with this product.
8. Guide Gear Compact Truck Tent – Best For A Conservative Family
Getting you up off the ground requires a tent with rich features. Guide Gear Compact Truck Tent may be your ideal product because of its exquisite, unique features.
Design
Guide Gear Compact Truck Tent comes with a sewn-in polyethylene flooring and a big interior area providing a headroom of 4.75 feet. With 190T polyester and 1500mm water-resistant covering, you are definitely covered in a harsh weather. It has 4 poles, mesh windows, 2 storage pockets, just to mention a few.
Performance
It keeps you dry at all times with a full rainfly and you will have access to a weather-resistant carrying bag. The sleeping position can accommodate 2 adults.
- Sewn-in polyethylene flooring
- Headroom of 4.75 feet
- 190T polyester and 1500mm water-resistant covering
- 4 poles, mesh windows and 2 storage pockets
- Weather-resistant carrying bag.
- Small internal area
Bottom Line
You need to try Guide Gear Compact Truck Tent in order to discover its other rich features. It is highly recommended.
9. Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp – Best Multidimensional Product
Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp is specially made for off-road as well as utility vehicles. However, it can also be used on its own in order to achieve the best camping experience.
Design
Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp is specifically designed an extraordinary vehicle connection system. The system comes with 1-inch webbing as well as side release buckles for connecting the tent to the wheels and luggage rack of your automobile. The tent is made of 68D polyester and a 1200mm covering for weatherproofing.
Performance
The tarp can perform in multidimensional ways because it can be set up in a number of ways. The guy points are fortified while two powerful 8-feet powder-varnished, steel poles are included. A carry bag is also included so that it will be easy for you to carry the tarp.
- Extraordinary vehicle connection system
- 68D polyester and 1200mm covering for weatherproofing.
- Carry bag included
- Guy points fortified
- 2 powerful 8-feet steel poles
- Continuous exposure may result in deterioration from Ultraviolet Light
Bottom Line
Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp is a product of choice if you desire flexibility. If you have not tried this product, you may be missing something.
10. Napier 57122 Full Size Regular Box – Best For Those Looking For Quality
Another product from the stable of Napier, the 57122 Full Size Truck Tent is definitely going to blow your mind. You probably can’t get better features elsewhere.
Design
Napier 57122 Full Size Regular Box 57 Series Sportz Truck Tent is designed with a patented sewn-in floor. The interior area is big with more than 5.6 feet headroom. There are two large windows as well as two side vents so that you can have options when it comes to ventilation. The color-coded poles, as well as sleeve system, are in place for easy installation.
Performance
Napier 57122 Full Size Regular Box 57 Series Sportz Truck Tent performs optimally in wet weather with the presence of full rain-fly. Getting access the cab of your truck is very easy with the back access door.
- Sleeps 2 people
- 2 side vents and 2 large windows
- Color-coded poles and sleeve system
- Patented sewn-in floor
- Over 5.6 feet headroom
- The poles may not be reliable in the long run.
Bottom Line
Napier 57122 Full Size Regular Box 57 Series Sportz Truck Tent is an ideal product for you if your desire quality. A better deal may not be available somewhere else.
Expert’s Guide: Factors to Consider When Buying Best Truck Bed Tents
If you desire the latest truck bed tent, you need to put so many factors into consideration so that you will be able to succeed with your search. Here are some factors to consider.
Type
Basically, there are two types of tents – the ones that can be placed on the bed of your truck and the one that can be attached to the back of your vehicle. Your expectations and vehicle type will go a long way in determining the type to go for.
The tents that can be placed on your truck’s bed will give you more privacy with the opportunity to sit on the floor but you won’t have much space like tents that can be fixed to your vehicle’s back.
Size
Size is very important when buying a top truck camping tent. You need to choose a product that will fit the bed of your truck so that your money will not go down the drain. As a result of this, it is very essential for you to measure the size of your truck before making a purchase.
Budget-friendly truck tents come in various sizes and it is very easy to find one that will fit your automobile. Some tents are flexible and can work with various truck sizes while others can only work with specific brands. If you have an SUV, you may not need to bother about sizes because it comes with a sleeve.
Seasonality
DIY truck bed tents are often graded in terms of the number of seasons they have the capacity of covering. Some products can cover just one season while others can cover two, three to four seasons. However, it is important for you to note that these seasons are usually ranked from warmest to coldest.
As a result of this, when you see a product with a label of coverage for one season, it means the coverage is only for summer. If the coverage is for two seasons, it means the coverage is for summer and spring. A three-season coverage would definitely be for summer, spring and fall. You need to take note of this when shopping for a tent for your truck’s bed.
Height
In order to get the best truck tent camper, you need to take height into consideration. It is not an ideal thing to be restrained while sitting in the tent. This can deprive you of the opportunity to enjoy your camping to the fullest.
That is why you need to check the height of the tent you want to purchase and be sure that it can serve your purpose. You should be able to sit down conveniently in it without your head touching the top. Its design is also very important because some products possess slanty tops and this should be put into consideration.
Length
The best budget truck tent for your camping should have enough length provision for you when you want to sleep. For example, if you are five feet tall, you can’t go for a tent with a length of four feet, except you don’t mind getting cramped when sleeping. Ideally, you should consider a product that is about a foot longer than your height.
In addition, you should consider other stuffs that will be in the tent with you and this should be factored into your length requirement. For example, if your gear will be in with you or a place for changing clothes is required, all these should be factored into your length requirement.
Ease Of Use
If you go for camping regularly, you will be conscious of the fact that some tents can be very difficult to use. Some products are badly designed while others require so much set-up time. If your camping will be for a prolonged period, you should go for a tent that will not take too much time to set up so that your positive camping experience will not be jeopardized.
You should also consider the door and ensure that it is big enough for getting out and coming in. If the door is not big enough, it will not make the use of the tent easier for you. There will be issues when getting in and out during your camping period and this will hinder your fun for the period.
Design
Another crucial factor to consider when choosing a tent is its design. A perfect product should be lightweight and strong. The design of the floor is very essential as there are different ones available. Some floors are sewn-in while others are exposed. With exposed floors, you won’t have to worry about moving equipment out of the way and your airbed as well as camping pad can be accommodated.
In addition, you need to consider the ventilation of the tent before making a purchase. The provision for mesh windows in one product may not be the same with another product. If your camping will take place in a hot climate, it is very essential for you to go for a tent that is properly ventilated and perhaps with storm flaps.
Number Of People
It is also very important for you to consider the number of people that will be in your tent before making a purchase. Majority of truck tents covering only the truck bed can only allow sleeping positions for two people. If you desire more, you should consider other options.
You can go for tents that extend beyond your truck so that you will be able to have more sleeping positions. These spacious tents will also give you the opportunity to have more space for the placement of your items.
Ventilation
A high level of ventilation is very essential in a tent so that you will be able to get enough oxygen while you are in it. The type of climate you will be camping in will determine the best type of ventilation for you. Ideally, a hot climate requires more ventilation than cold climate which requires protection from foreign matters.
Installation
It is very essential for you to consider a product that is easy to install. You wouldn’t want a tent that will take years to install which will spoil the fun of your vacation. However, you need to note that some tents can be more complicated to install than others. Hence, you should check the installation guide before making a purchase.
Material
The material used to make a truck bed tent should be durable, lightweight and easy to use. Cuben fiber is a popular material for tent making because it is very light but may not be very durable. Ripstop nylon is also a popular material with an ideal lightness and more durability.
Built-In Floor
Some tents come with a built-in floor while others don’t. If you go for a product with a built-in floor, you will enjoy the benefit of having a layer of material between you and the bed of your truck. You will also not worry about gaps being created in the tent.
On the other hand, a tent that does not come with a floor have its own advantages. You will not need to clear any equipment from the bed of your truck and this can enhance easy installation.
Extra Storage
The presence of extra storage pockets in a tent can be an added advantage. This will give your the opportunity to get access to your items without any hindrance. However, extra storage may not be as important as you think because your vehicle storage mechanism may be enough for you.
Access
At times, it can be difficult to enter and exit some tents. You may need to crawl in or out of a tent if the door is not wide enough or not properly designed. Consequently, you need to go for a product that is easy to access.
Ideally, a big D-shaped door is your best bet when considering a product. If the tent extends out from the truck bed to the floor, numerous access points are very essential, particularly, when many people will be sleeping in it. This will prevent climbing on top of each other when going in or getting out.
Weatherproof
Your truck bed tent must have the capability of protecting you in all types of weather. It must be water-resistant with the ability to withstand great wind. If you desire a tent that extends to the floor, you can go for one with a bathtub floor in order to get an additional protection from rain, particularly heavy rainfall.
How to Install Truck Tents (Step-by-step Process)
It is very essential for you to ensure that your truck tent fits your vehicle before any installation process can work. You cannot use every tent for all vehicles because their specifications are not the same. Some products are particularly made for pickups while others are made for SUVs.
In addition, you need to check if there will be any modifications to your truck before installation. Hence, you need to be sure that you don’t require extra tools for the installation or whether they are part of your purchase. Your ability to get prepared adequately will save you money, time and frustration when installing your tent.
Most tents are designed for installation on the truck’s bed with an easy process. As soon as your vehicle is properly parked on a level ground, you can start the installation process with ease. Depending on the make and size of your tent, you can carry out the installation alone or engage a second hand to help you, particularly if you are doing it for the first time.
You should plan the installation and ensure that the front door is at the tailgate while the other end faces the rear of the cab. This will give you the opportunity to get into the tent as soon as it is installed.
Step 1
Usually, there are 3 straps attached to the sides a truck bed tent while 3 extra ones are included for the tailgate. If there is a box in the truck, you can attach one of these straps to it. You should then connect the male clips to the female ones so that the tent will be properly secured to place.
Step 2
The poles should then be properly assembled through the insertion of each pole into its corresponding colored sleeves. It is very important for you to note that different manufacturers use different colors but the ultimate goal is that you will be able to match the colors in order to know the location of every supporting pole.
Step 3
As soon as all the poles are in their proper sleeves, you should then slide each of them into their matching pockets. You should avoid forcing the pole through the sleeve if it becomes stuck. You should endeavour to guide it slowly.
Step 4
After the tent has been assembled, you should then fasten the clips to the poles. You should also make sure that the straps are not too tight or loose while all necessary adjustments should be made.
Some truck tents come with a rain fly, gear loft or awning. A rain fly is connected through the straps while the gear loft is fixed with accompanied hooks. It is a bit difficult to connect an awning but you will find the guide that will be used in fixing them in the user manual of the product you purchase.
In majority of cases, you will find poles with the awning which will be mounted into the tailgate before being attached to the material. Straps are used to secure the awning into place and you can make adjustments when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions about Truck Tents
A lot of questions will come into your mind when truck bed tents are the subject of discussion. Some of these questions are answered below.
Q1. What Is A Truck Bed Tent?
Answer: A truck bed tent sits on the bed of your truck. It makes use of the truck floor as a foundation for easy mounting.
Q2. What is the difference between truck bed tent and normal tent?
Answer: Truck bed tents make use of straps for support while normal tents make use of stakes which are pegged into the ground.
Q3. What Are The Benefits Of Using A Truck Tent?
Answer: You will not need to carry your tent to the camp and set it up at all times. In addition, it is very easy to set up truck tents.
Q4. What are other advantages of using a truck tent?
Answer: You can comfortable sleep on the floor without worrying about cold floor. You are also protected from rainfall whenever the heavens open up.
Q5. Do Truck Tents Keep Mosquitoes and Bugs Out?
Answer: Just like every other tent, truck tents have the capacity of keeping hugs and mosquitoes away.
Q6. What other precautions can I take to prevent parasites?
Answer: It is very important for you to take other precautions for preventing parasites by putting off internal light while the door is open.
Q7: Do You Put Together The Tent On The Ground Or On The Truck?
Answer: The majority of truck tents are installed on the truck’s bed. However, there are some tents that are installed on the ground with connectors to your truck.
Q8. Is it easy to place all items on the floor?
Answer: You can easily place your items on the floor so that it will not be difficult for you to plan your installation.
Q9. Will The Tent Work With A Toolbox In The Truck’s Bed?
Answer: If you want to accommodate your toolbox, you can go for a tent that does not come with a built-in floor.
Q10. What should I do if I prefer a tent with a built-in floor?
Answer: Then you should be prepared to remove any item on your bed so that the tent can work perfectly.
Final Thoughts
In order to guarantee successful camping, you need to get the best truck tents. This way, you will be able to have fun without any hindrances or hitches.
Thank you for the informative article.
I want to ask you a question. What is the Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp tent made of?