A truck bed tent is a unique option for camping enthusiasts. It offers the convenience of a ground tent, but with the added benefits of being elevated in the bed of a pickup truck. Whether you’re worried about water, rocks, bugs, or colder temperatures, a truck bed tent provides a comfortable and convenient camping experience. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your specific truck. That’s why I’ve tested and reviewed some of the most popular truck bed tents to help you make an informed decision.
How I Tested the Best Truck Bed Tents
To find the best truck bed tent for every type of truck bed camper, I tested several options in both my own Chevy Colorado and a friend’s Ford F-150. I considered factors such as materials, fit, and performance in different circumstances and weather conditions.
Best Truck Bed Tents: Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall: Napier Outdoors Sportz Truck Tent
Key Features
- Interior Height: 5.8 feet
- Capacity: Two adults
- Materials: Polyester; fiberglass poles
- Built-in floor
The Napier Outdoors Sportz Truck Tent is a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to set up and provides a sturdy and comfortable shelter. The tent features color-coded poles and matching pockets for convenience, and it comes with a gear loft and rear access panel. The built-in floor separates you from the truck bed, and the awning adds additional covered space. Despite some uncovered seams, the tent holds up well in rain and chilly nights.
Best All-Weather: Kodiak Canvas
Key Features
- Interior Height: 5 feet
- Capacity: Two adults
- Materials: Hydra-Shield 100 percent cotton duck canvas, steel frame
- No built-in floor
The Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent is durable and suitable for year-round camping. Its cotton duck canvas and steel frame make it heavyweight but highly durable. The tent is fully watertight and breathable, ensuring comfort in various weather conditions. It features windows on either side for ventilation.
Quickest Set-Up: Fofana Truck Tent
Key Features
- Interior Height: 6 feet
- Capacity: Two adults
- Materials: Polyester, aluminum poles
- Built-in floor
The Fofana Truck Tent is perfect for campers who value quick and easy set-up. With its pop-up design, you can have the tent ready within five minutes. The tent offers ample headroom and fits a wide range of truck bed sizes. However, the lightweight material is prone to tearing, so caution is necessary.
Best for Hunting: Napier Backroadz Camo Truck Tent
Key Features
- Interior Height: Dependent on truck model
- Capacity: Two adults
- Materials: Polyester; fiberglass poles
- Built-in floor
The Napier Backroadz Camo Truck Tent is an excellent choice for hunters. It offers a spacious sleeping area and sturdy construction. The tent is weatherproof with sealed seams, making it ideal for camping in various conditions. However, it may be challenging to set up for the first time, and it doesn’t provide cab access.
Most Versatile: Rev Pick-Up Tent by C6 Outdoor
Key Features
- Interior Height: 3 feet, 2 inches
- Capacity: Two adults
- Materials: Polyester and nylon, anodized aluminum poles
- Built-in floor with mattress
The Rev Pick-Up Tent by C6 Outdoor is not only a truck bed tent but can also be used as a rooftop tent or on the ground. It offers versatility for campers who like to switch it up. The tent features a built-in foam mattress for added comfort and has multiple setup options. It is fully waterproof and suitable for year-round camping.
Best for Compact Trucks: Guide Gear Compact Truck Tent
Key Features
- Interior Height: 4 feet, 9 inches
- Capacity: Two adults
- Materials: Polyester and polyethylene, fiberglass poles
- Built-in floor
The Guide Gear Compact Truck Tent is designed for compact trucks, providing a good fit for beds measuring 72-74 inches. While it doesn’t offer much headroom, it is lightweight, sturdy, and affordable. The tent is water-resistant and features mesh windows for ventilation.
Best for Full-Size Trucks: Rightline Gear Truck Tent
Key Features
- Interior Height: 4 feet, 10 inches
- Capacity: Two adults
- Materials: Polyester, aluminum poles
- No built-in floor
The Rightline Gear Truck Tent is a floor-less option designed for full-size trucks. It allows you to use the entire truck bed as sleeping or storage space. Mesh panels provide ventilation and offer a view of the stars. However, it is not suitable for cold weather camping.
FAQs
Things to Consider Before Buying a Truck Bed Tent
Materials: Consider the materials based on your camping preferences. Polyester and fiberglass provide lightweight options, while classic canvas offers durability and weather resistance.
Compact or Full-size: Ensure that the tent is compatible with your truck bed size. Measure your truck bed before purchasing.
Floor or No Floor: Decide if you prefer a tent with a built-in floor or a floor-less option. A floor provides additional protection and separation from the truck bed.
Headroom and Footprint: Consider the tent’s height and footprint based on your comfort and space requirements.
Conclusion
Camping in a truck bed tent offers numerous advantages, including elevation, convenience, and comfort. The Napier Outdoors Sportz Truck Tent stands out as the best overall option, offering durability, comfort, and easy setup. However, modifications such as using a canopy or insulating the bed can enhance the camping experience further. Remember to choose a truck bed tent that fits your specific truck to ensure a successful camping trip.