The Best Camper Shell For Camping In 2024

Chad Waite By, Chad Waite
Updated
Guide Gear Compact Truck Tent for Camping
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Guide Gear Compact Truck Tent for Camping

This compact truck tent is perfect for camping and backpacking trips. From its lightweight construction, to the heavy-duty carrying bag it comes with; this tent will be your traveling companion wherever you go. It features a 1500mm water-resistant coating to keep you dry in all conditions, and mesh windows for ventilation. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Napier Backroadz Truck Tent - Compact Regular Bed (6' - 6'1")

Napier Backroadz Truck Tent is a lightweight, compact and easy to set up truck tent with the capacity of a full-sized bed. Constructed of durable high-density polyethylene, this tall truck tent is designed to fit most pick-up trucks (see sizing chart), including those with a toolbox or bedliner. With color-coded pole and sleeve assembly, setup is as easy as one hand clapping! Read Review

3. Best Compatible: JoyTutus Pickup Truck Tent, Waterproof PU2000mm Double Layer

Perfect for the outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy camping or backyard activities, this tent is made of a double layer waterproof and durable material. The tent's bottom layer is coated with a PU2000 water-proof coating that allows the tent to be set up in the air-filled bed, so no rain will get inside. This will keep your plush pillow from getting wet and your area from getting messy. Read Review

4. Best Convenient: Kodiak Canvas Full-Size Truck Tent - 5.5 to 6.8 ft. Bed

The Kodiak Canvas Full-Size Truck Tent is perfect for the avid truck camper who wants to rough it in style. This 5.5 ft. to 6.8 ft. tent is tunnel shaped, so the interior has lots of space, and a cool 5 ft. ceiling height so tall campers have plenty of height to lounge or stand. The cab access window makes this tent easy to enter and exit from the truck bed, and you can leave the tailgate down for extra space Read Review

When you are going to spend a lot of nights in the outdoors and want to keep yourself comfortable and safe, choosing the right camper shell is important. A camper shell is basically a tent that you can use instead of a sleeping bag when camping out. They come in different shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common - comfort! You see, when it comes to camping, you don’t just get to sit around for long.

Instead, the whole experience is about spending some time outside with your friends or family. That’s why finding the best camner shell for camping should be your top priority before heading out into nature. We’ll help you figure out which type of camper shell would suit your needs best and give you an idea on what to look for.

We have chosen many of the good items currently available, including Guide Gear Compact Truck Tent for Camping - our favorite one. We also provide you with Napier Backroadz Truck Tent - Compact Regular Bed (6' - 6'1") model that you may consider if that product is not your choice.

You will be surprised at the information we are about to share below! Let's explore the special features of products from famous brands including Guide gear, Napier, Joytutus, Kodiak canvas, Fofana, Wise moose, Napier outdoors, Offroading gear, Kariyee right here.

Products Suggest

TOP Choice #1 Guide Gear Compact Truck Tent for Camping
Our Score:
9.7
Guide Gear

SUPER EASY TO SET UP – Fully enclosed full-size bed tent with 2 storage pockets. It will let you take your campsite anywhere with you. 63" x 74"l. Footprint, 57” center height. Weighs 10 lbs.

COMPACT AND LIGHTWEIGHT – Lightweight and easy to set up with 4 total poles, our compact truck tent comes with a heavy-duty, weather-resistant polyester carrying bag and full rainfly to keep you totally dry.

WATER-RESISTANT COATING – Made of 190T polyester with 1500mm water-resistant coating, this truck tent camper features mesh windows for ventilation and a sewn-in polyethylene flooring.

FITS TRUCK BEDS 72-74 INCHES – The compact truck tent for camping fits most truck bed mattresses measuring 72-74". Pickup truck tent for Chevy, Ford, GMC, Nissan, Toyota, and more pickups.

TURN YOUR TRUCK INTO A CAMPER – Turn your truck into a camper with the truck tent for camping. With a large interior area with 4.75' of headroom and a large D-shaped door, the truck bed tent sleeps 2.

Color-coded pole and sleeve assembly, makes setup a breeze

Napier offers the only truck tents on the market with a full floor, keeping you clean from your truck and dry from the elements

Excellent Waterproof Performance: JOYTUTUS pickup truck tent made of 150D polyester oxford, with PU2000 water-proof coating, rainproof and waterproof can be achieved without install the canopy extra. The bottom of the tent has a waterproof layer to avoid rainwater infiltration, can be placed in the air-filled bed, the inner space always keeps clean and dry.

Compatibility: The truck bed tent will fit for pickup truck with 5.5-6 ft bed. Compatible with F150, Ram, Silverado, Tundra, Sierra, Titan etc.

*Installation Tips: Pay attention when you install Tent Poles, check the front and rear poles are tightly connected and seamless, otherwise the poles will be broken easily. (If during installation tent pole breaks due to improper operation, we will provide one-time free opportunity to replace the pole)

Specification: tent size--90.5 x 62.9 x 66.9 inch, package included--1 x tent, 1 x carry bag, 4 x fiberglass pole, 1 x user guide ( does not come with LED light string, if you need it, pls contact us)

Privacy Protection: The tent has 3 windows, 2 for sightseeing and 1 for hunting or observation, all double-layer design, when you sleep at night, you can pull the shading layer, put it down in the daytime after leaving the screen layer can effectively prevent the sundries fell into the tent.Convenient inner Space: With 4 mesh bags in the tent, easy to collect sundries to keep the inner space tidy.

Sturdy, 3/4-inch, steel tube frame connect to the clamp-on rails that easily mount on truck bed for secure fit.All-season use year-round, but not designed for heavy snow accumulations

Five windows provide excellent ventilation and openness, includes cab access window

Full rainfly provides ultimate weather protection, along with additional storm flaps covering the windows and doors

Gear loft, gear pocket, and lantern holder to keep personal items organized

MAXIMUM UTILITY - Mega interior pockets and gear loft to store your necessities so you stay ORGANIZED. Zippered ACCESS PORT to run charging cables from the cab or inflate your air bed mattress. Popup camper shell makes overland truck camping a synch.

MORE SPACE - Cavernous interior with 6 FOOT STANDING HEIGHT gives you room to stretch and makes changing a breeze. Comfortably sleeps 2 ADULTS. Plus there's a full sewn in floor to keep you dry and clean. Easier tailgate access than a roof top tent.

UNIVERSAL FIT - If you've got a FULL SIZE truck, this truck tent will fit! Made to fit 5.5 ft bed like a glove. Also fits 6.5 foot and 8 foot 8ft beds. Fits Ford F150, Dodge Ram 1500, GMC Sierra, Chevy Silverado, Nissan Titan, Toyota Tundra.

BETTER VIEWS - Massive full height windows give you a PANORAMIC 360 degree view and 180 degree CELESTIAL SKY VIEW. You'll have the best view of nature you can get from a pickup truck bed tent. Or zip the window flaps closed for privacy.

FASTER SETUP - Our automatic pole structure sets up QUICK and EASY, so you have more time to relax and enjoy nature. Take down is just as simple and let's you break camp in RECORD TIME. No loose poles to wrestle with our tent for truck bed camper.

PROUD AMERICAN COMPANY – Our innovative and patent pending automatic tent is sure to impress. We make quality a priority to ensure your complete satisfaction. Contact us with any questions, concerns, or if you need any help!

⛺ STURDY & RELIABLE - Our tent for truck bed has extra-thick yet flexible fiberglass poles that are made to last. The tent also has a thick 120G PE floor for extra protection. No more broken poles or torn floors!

👫 ROOMY & PROTECTED - Turn any 6.3–6.6 ft truck bed into a comfy truck bed camper – it easily sleeps two adventure-loving adults! Plus! With 2 layers of water & wind resistant Oxford fabric, you'll stay dry in even the heaviest rainfall.

👌 LIGHT, COMPACT, & EASY TO SET UP - This lightweight truck camping tent packs down into a 9x8x24 inch waterproof bag. With the instructions sewn into the truck camper bed carry-bag along with the color-coded poles, it’ll always be easy to set up & take down this tent.

☂️ EXTRA DRY & AIRY - This tent bed comes with a well-constructed rain fly that will protect you from the weather while letting fresh air in through storm flaps. No matter the conditions, you’ll always wake up feeling refreshed.

Full rainfly provides ultimate weather protection, along with additional storm flaps covering the windows and doors

Gear loft, gear pocket, and lantern holder to keep personal items organized

Large interior area with ample headroom

2 large mesh windows offer optimal ventilation

Full tent floor keeps you clean from your truck and dry from the elements

FRONT AWNING INCLUDED - Includes front awning to keep you dry and cool when entering and exiting the tent.

FITS NEARLY ANY 6.5’ BED TRUCK – This Granville II truck tent fits nearly any short-bed pickup truck with a 6.5’ box and comfortably sleeps 2 adults. Easy to setup with color coded poles, elasticized straps, scratch-free clips, and more.

INTEGRATED FLOOR – Features an integrated waterproof floor to keep you dry and clean when resting soundly in your truck

REAR ACCESS WINDOW – Rear access window unzips completely to allow access to your truck cabin. Great for grabbing items from your truck cabin or running cords into your tent!

THREE PRIVACY WINDOWS WITH MESH WINDOWS– Every window can be zipped up for ultimate privacy even without the rainfly on. Each window also features mesh windows.

2 large mesh windows offer optimal ventilation.This tent is designed to fit Full Size Long Bed 8'-8.2', Measure your bed with the tailgate closed.

COMFORTABLE- The sewn in floor means dirt from your truck bed won’t get into the tent and a rainfly is included for use in wet conditions.

A color-coded pole and sleeve assembly makes the 10 minute set-up a breeze

UPGRADED – The superior ripstop grade material is super durable and long-lasting, plus the tent features a lantern hook and inside storage pocket to enhance your night out.

Large interior area with over ample headroom. Center height -58 to 62 inches Full rainfly provides ultimate weather protection, along with additional storm flaps covering the windows and doors

What to Look For in a best camper shell for camping?

The best camper shell for camping is influenced by a multitude of factors, including all those stated below. Depending on the sort of product, the learning process differs. We'll be ready to aid you and propose solutions since we're here to support you.

It's necessary to remember the following ones before selecting best camper shell for camping:

Roof Rack Installation

Consider whether you would like your truck cap with roof rails installed already or if you wish to install them yourself. It is easier to have them installed prior to you put the truck cap on.

Warranty

Truck caps that are top-of-the-line will come with a lifetime guarantee. Some manufacturers may not offer this incentive. Consider purchasing a truck cap with a lifetime warranty if you plan to use your product for many years. Truck caps that do not come with lifetime warranties might not last as long as those of higher quality.

Waterproof

A truck cap should be waterproofed as protection from the elements is one of the main reasons you buy it. To create weatherproof bonds, the cap should not only be sealed but should attach to truck bed rails. The best truck caps will prevent moisture from getting in your truck bed.

Windows

Truck caps can be fitted with side or rear windows. Windows in your truck caps can allow for easier access, particularly if your truck is being used for business or work. Windows make it easy to access the truck bed and are great for your pets.

Lining

You may be interested in the different types of lining that you are able to install, depending on what type of truck cap is chosen. If you plan on using the truck as an apartment or have pets, soft liners and insulation will be ideal. If you have a lot to transport, heavy-duty liners may be able to help.

Size

If truck caps don't match your vehicle they will be ineffective. Not only is the width and length important, but so too are the height. Truck caps that are large enough to fit in your truck bed allow for more transport.

Security

Two ways must truck caps be secured: they should secure your valuables and clamp securely to your truck bed. Side windows on truck caps are made so that the windows cannot be opened inside of the bed. To create an environment of security, however, back windows should be fitted with matching keys and a locking mechanism. To keep your truck cap in place, the best ones use heavy-duty clamps.

Off-Truck Storage

It is crucial to properly store your truck cap when you take it off. Tonneau covers and soft caps often roll out of sight and can be kept in an outdoor shed or garage. To store your truck caps, it might be worth considering building or buying a wooden pallet or base.

Durable Materials

Truck caps, whether hardened or softened, should be constructed of tough materials that can withstand outdoor abuse. They should be machine washable, using a pressure washer as well as an automatic car wash. Truck caps that are durable and won't easily tear or rip will be the best.

FAQs

How Heavy Are Truck Caps?

The majority of truck caps are between 20 to 200 pounds. Some truck caps can be heavier or lighter depending on what materials they are made from. We recommend choosing a soft-top over a hardtop for those who are concerned about weight. The softer material is likely to be lighter than the hardcap.

Do You Need Special Tool To Attach The Truck Cap To The Bed?

Not necessarily. You should be able lift the truck cap up to the height of the cab and you will probably be able install it quite easily. All tools required by most manufacturers are included.

What's The Most Secure Type Of Truck Cap?

It doesn't necessarily mean that one type is the best. The most secure lock should be locked at all times.

How Do Truck Caps Attach To The Truck Bed?

Clamps are the most common way truck caps can be attached to the truck bed. The clamps are placed under the truck bed rails and the cap's lip. You may need to drill holes into your truck bed depending on which type of truck cap is chosen. For installation, the best truck caps do not require drilling.

Do They Make A Universal Truck Cap?

They don't. A truck cap for a Toyota Tacoma may not fit another Chevy Silverado, or a new truck. Make sure you know what the dimensions are of your truck bed before ordering.

How Long Do Truck Caps Typically Last?

A variety of factors affect the life expectancy of truck caps, such as frequency of use and climate. The average truck cap should last for five years, depending on the material you use and how it is treated.

Is Every Truck Cap Lockable?

No. No. Hard truck caps often have a rear door that acts as a lock mechanism. Most truck caps have a T-handle lock, with a hidden lock underneath the rubber exterior coating.

Can You Easily Remove Truck Toppers?

It depends on which type of truck cap is chosen. Most of the products in our buying guide can be installed and removed easily. Sometimes, however, truck caps that are heavier can be more difficult to take off. For emergencies, always have an extra hand.

Overall, we will research and update new info for the list of best camper shell for camping regularly. On a frequent basis, please check our websites for the latest changes and updates.

Aside from best camper shell for camping, we can bail you up. If you want further support, please do not hesitate to contact us.


2 ratings

About Chad Waite

Chad Waite
Hello and welcome my loyal readers and first-time visitors to The Daily Derbi. Here you will find a flurry of articles covering anything from industry news to driving tips and the newest gears.

Read Chad's full bio