Written by 8:18 pmTents

Best Truck Bed Tents Buyer’s Guide & Reviews

Photo of bed tent at the back of a truck

Just when you thought camping technology couldn’t get any better – introducing truck bed tents! These amazing creations were invented in 1990 by Roman Napieraj, the founder of Napier Enterprises. For years before their official invention, campers had been creating makeshift tents that they could attach to their trucks.

They’re the ideal solution for people who want a low-cost option allowing them to sleep off the ground. By opting for a truck tent you get all the perks and excitement of outdoor camping but with the comfort and convenience of having an off-the-ground sleeping area. They simply pop up inside your truck and there you have your sleeping area for the night.

If you’re new to camping it may be confusing knowing which model to go for. What features should you look for? What size? Can you use a truck bed tent on the ground? We’ve answered all of these questions and more in this useful buyers guide.

We’ve got 10 fantastic tents for you to browse through, there’s something for everyone! No matter if you’re a camping newbie or a veteran in all outdoor pursuits, you’re sure to find the perfect tent for your activities.

The great thing about these amazing inventions is that they tend to be really budget-friendly, from Napier and Guide Gear to Hasika and Kodiak Canvas, we’ve got some great brands for you to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice!

We’ve also included a buyer’s guide, suggesting factors that you should consider before making your final purchase. If you still have some questions, we’ve got a super useful FAQ section at the bottom of this article, so make sure you read on to find out more!

The Top 10 Best Truck Bed Tents

In this section, we’ve got 10 of the best truck tent beds for you to peruse through. With something to suit all budgets and brands of pickup trucks, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your camping adventure. Start your truck tent camping trip now by purchasing a high quality and durable tent from our list!

1. Napier Sportz Truck Tent

Max Occupancy: 2 persons | Item Weight: 20 lbs

Description

Kicking off our list is this Sportz truck tent from Napier. Boasting a head height of 5.6 feet, this 2 person model boasts a sewn-in floor. Enjoy the spacious interior with a full rainfly that features fully taped seams and built-in storm straps on the windows and door, to provide extra wind resistance.

The generously sized rear access panel means you can easily get to your truck’s cab and the large front door, meshed windows, and side vents provide excellent ventilation, perfect for sweltering summer camping. Forget the guide ropes, the useful awning attaches securely to the tailgate, meaning you can set it up anywhere you go.

This tent does not skimp on quality either! The lightweight but strong poles are crafted from fiberglass to provide a super sturdy tent frame. The inner tent body is constructed from polyester taffeta, popular due to it being lightweight but tough. It won’t collapse under the rain and it offers UV protection as well.

Enjoy a super easy and fast set up with the color-coded poles and sleeves, easy even for beginners! The gear loft allows you to keep your belongings organized and safe and the included carry bag means the tent is easy to store and transport. With your purchase you also get a set of strap protectors, to prevent your truck from sustaining any rub marks, or scratches!

Assembling effortlessly in the back of your truck, this is a great budget-friendly model for any camping level, from beginner to experienced.

Features We Like:
  • Affordable price
  • Roomy interior
  • Easy to set up
  • Price includes strap protectors and a carry bag

2. Guide Gear Compact Truck Bed Tent

Max Occupancy: 2 persons | Item Weight: 10 lbs

Description

Are you a newbie camper just starting in the world of truck bed tents? Then why not go for this cheap model from Guide Gear? Perfect for giving truck tent camping a go for the first time, this tent fits most trucks such as Honda, Ford, Nissan, and Chevy.

This best selling model is well made and is packed full of great features, meaning you get excellent value for your money. Ideal if you’re camping with a partner as it’ll fit two people comfortably or it would make a luxurious sleeping area for a solo camper. The three opening points offer top-notch ventilation and can also be closed up to keep the warmth in and provide privacy.

Considering how high the quality is of this tent, you would think the price would be much higher, but this model delivers in both affordability and quality. The inner tent body fabric is polyester making it incredibly breathable. It also boasts a tough polyethylene floor that’s sewn shut to prevent any wetness from seeping in, leaving you to enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep.

Durable mesh side windows and main door allow you great views of the outdoors while being protected from bothersome flies and other annoying insects. Another ingenious feature of this great tent are the straps that attach underneath the truck to give even more wind resistance.

You don’t need to worry about getting wet in this tent either! With the 190T polyester body and the 1500mm hydrostatic coating, this tent is seriously waterproof. Zip up flaps on the doors and windows allow them to be completely closed, preventing rain from leaking into your interior. If you do get caught in a nasty rainstorm, the included rainfly will offer superior waterproofness, thanks to its 1500mm waterproof rating.

Features We Like:
  • Superior protection from rain
  • Fits a variety of truck makes
  • Included rainfly
  • Excellent ventilation

3. Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent

Max Occupancy: 2 persons | Item Weight: 30 lbs

Description

If you’re looking for a strong and seriously durable truck tent, this is the one for you! Tough, extremely waterproof, and compatible with a wide range of truck models, it’s easy to see why it’s a bestseller! The canvas shell is crafted from Hydra-Shield 100% cotton duck canvas which is completely watertight. Ultra-breathable, the canvas allows the air to circulate well and the multiple windows provide excellent ventilation.

The tunnel-shaped design offers maximum room inside with a ceiling height of 5 feet. The large D shaped door provides easy access and the storage pockets offer a convenient way of keeping your possessions tidy and safe. If you’re wanting to camp all year round, this is the tent for you, however, it’s not recommended for use in heavy snowfalls.

Another top feature of this model is the ultra-convenient window that allows you access to the truck’s cab. Truck tent camping is all about increasing the levels of comfort and being able to get to your cab will make your camping trip a whole lot easier.

This cab access allows you to have more storage space, you can keep the most important items with you in the handy storage pockets inside the tent, and then leave everything else in the cab. When you need something, simply open the window and grab what you want, when you want.

This tent was most definitely built to last, with its super-strong frame and tough canvas shell it’s capable of standing up to strong winds, severe rainfall, and even light snow showers.

The Kodiak Canvas truck bed tent even comes with a limited lifetime warranty too, for a worry-free purchase!

Features We Like:
  • Limited lifetime manufacturers warranty
  • Extremely durable and weatherproof
  • 100% cotton duck canvas
  • Built to last
  • Convenient cab access

4. Rightline Gear SUV Tent

Product Dimensions: 26 x 10 x 10 inches | Max Occupancy: 6 persons | Item Weight: 19.8 lbs

Description

The Rightline Gear truck tent allows you to camp with a home from home feeling. The adjustable vehicle sleeve means the tent can connect to the back of any SUV or pickup truck brand, whether it’s got a roof rack or not, ultimate versatility! The design of this truck tent means you can use your truck bed as a sleeping platform or a storage area. The SUV tent could be a specific changing area, or why not invite friends and family and use the tent as a sleeping area for them.

The high-quality weatherproof fabric has taped seams to protect you from the harsh elements, while the sewn-in bathtub floor prevents water and insects from making their way into the tent. Super easy to set up, the truck sleeve easily and quickly attaches to the back of your vehicle.

With your purchase you’ll get the tent body, rainfly, carry bag, and easy to follow instructions on how to install it. The dowel and loop fasteners mean you can easily unhook the tent from your vehicle so you can get on with your day.

This fantastic truck tent has been kitted out with loads of extras to make your camping adventure as comfortable and convenient as possible. Two handy storage pockets offer a safe place to keep valuables, glow in the dark zippers help you locate your tent in the pitch dark and an overhead hook lets you hang a lantern to provide light.

Your purchase will come complete with a 12-month manufacturer’s warranty for peace of mind.

Features We Like:
  • Sewn-in floor
  • Useful storage pockets
  • Sleeps six people
  • Easy to set up

5. ARB 804100 Simpson III Rooftop Tent

Item Weight: 13 lbs

Description

Halfway through our list, we have this rooftop tent from ARB. The Simpson III offers ultimate convenience when camping. This tent offers a sleeping area completely off the ground so you’re fully protected from the weather. It can be easily and quickly packed away and the exclusive bungee cord system keeps the sides tucked in to make it even easier to pack away.

This updated design incorporates new and better materials to offer maximum weather resistance and strength. Crafted from polycotton materials and a polyester rainfly, this rooftop tent is easily attached to the ARB purpose-built roof rack with an aluminum ladder for easy access.

The incredibly strong anodized poles provide extra strength and are corrosion resistant, while the 2.5in foam mattress means you get a good night’s sleep. You’ll also be safe from biting insects thanks to the bug-proof windows and doors. Also comes with a 2-year warranty!

Features We Like:
  • Ultra-convenient and easy to set up
  • Updated and improved design
  • Offers premium comfort and protection

6. Guide Gear Full-Size Truck Tent

Max Occupancy: 2 persons | Product Dimensions: 26 x 7.5 x 7.5 inches | Item Weight: 8.55 Pounds

Description

If you’ve got a truck, choose this tent and you’ll have your own instant camper van! The Guide Gear full-size truck tent sets up in just minutes, giving you a comfortable place to sleep, stat! With its stellar quality construction, great ventilation, and sewn-in polyethylene floor, this tent will make your camping experience as enjoyable as possible.

A spacious interior with a head height of 5.25 feet means two people can comfortably camp out and the 190T polyester shell with a 1500mm waterproof coating means you get extra weather protection. With just four poles to set up, this truck tent is quick and easy to install.

Enjoy great ventilation thanks to the meshed windows and the large D shaped door. No need to worry about the tent coming loose, the fiberglass poles and tension straps secure the tent tightly to your vehicle while the rainfly keeps you nice and dry. The tough, water-resistant carry bag makes it super easy to transport and store your tent.

Sportsman’s Guide needs no introduction, they’re been providing quality camping gear to fellow outdoorsmen since 1977. They pride themselves on offering top-notch products at competitive, affordable prices, and they only sell gear that they would use themselves. Made by campers for campers!

Features We Like:
  • Affordable
  • Excellent ventilation
  • Tension straps for a secure fit
  • Fully waterproof

7. Napier Sportz Avalanche Truck Tent III

Max Occupancy: 2 persons | Item Weight: 1 lb

Description

If you’re a Chevrolet Avalanche owner then you’re in luck, this cleverly designed tent has been designed to fit this vehicle model. Perfect for long trips, this truck tent will ensure that you have a comfortable, restful night’s sleep.

With an ultra-convenient design, set up your tent anywhere right in the comfort of your pickup. A panel at the back offers convenient access to your truck’s cab and the durable waterproof rating offers superior protection from unpredictable weather. The full-floor design offers added waterproofness and the extendable awning provides a place to relax.

This three-season tent has strong poles and a rainfly constructed from 1200mm polyurethane polyester and a big front door provides ample ventilation. The color-coded poles make setting the tent up super easy and the gear loft offers convenient storage for valuables.

The full-coverage rainfly has taped seams and window and door storm flaps to give extra protection in all weather conditions. The floor offers full coverage to keep you dry and the interior clean. Three meshed windows and two ceiling vents offer extra ventilation.

For 30 years Napier Enterprises has been engineering the Sportz line of truck tents. Using the best quality materials, they’ve revolutionized truck bed camping with their ingenious designs constantly being improved and updated. One of the leading manufacturers of vehicle camping gear, Napier is committed to bringing innovative products to campers the world over.

Features We Like:
  • One of the most innovative truck tents on the market
  • Full coverage rainfly included
  • Perfectly engineered to fit Chevrolet Avalanches
  • Color-coded poles make the setup easy

8. Rightline Gear Truck Tent

Product Dimensions : 23.3 x 14.2 x 14.2 inches | Max Occupancy: 2 persons | Item Weight: 7.65 lbs

Description

Looking for an economical tent that doesn’t skimp on quality? This truck tent ticks all the boxes – functional, affordable, and waterproof! It’s available in a range of sizes so you can get the perfect fit for your pickup truck. This is an extremely functional tent that really steps up when exposed to harsh elements.

Its close contact design fits snugly against the truck, keeping moisture and wetness out. Although it’s a two-person tent, it can be extended out by adding the SUV tent. This can either be used to provide more room for additional campers or allow you and your partner more room for storage.

Because it’s easy to set up it’s perfect for newbie campers. However, because of all of its sophisticated extras, it’s definitely ideal for experienced campers as well. The unique sky view vent means you can engage in a spot of stargazing if you wish, as well as providing good ventilation.

The combination of excellent quality, lightweight materials, and a budget-friendly price makes this tent a real winner. The polyester fabric is waterproof, breathable, and features fully taped seams. The heavy-duty straps won’t damage the sides of your truck either. Color-coded poles and pockets ensure the setup is a breeze!

The fiberglass poles make up the tent frame. Lightweight and shock-corded, they’re easy to put up and dismantle. They’re also flexible and strong enough to stand up to strong winds. Mesh windows keep you safe from bugs and they also have storm flaps that you can zip up depending on how much ventilation you want.

Features We Like:
  • Mesh win
  • Color-coded pockets for a simple setup process
  • Can comfortably fit 2+ people

9. Napier Backroadz Truck Tent

Max Occupancy: 2 persons | Item Weight: 8 lbs

Description

The best truck tents offer increased comfort and convenience for campers and the Napier Backroadz tent does just that. Built to last and constructed from lightweight but excellent quality materials, it comfortably fits two people and is compatible with most truck sizes.

Easy to pitch, even for beginners, it comes complete with a rainfly and straps that fasten securely to your truck, making it extremely weatherproof and wind-resistant. Built for three-season use, you can enjoy ample ventilation and easy packability for handy storage.

At 5.5 feet tall, you have plenty of room to move freely around in this tent. You won’t feel restricted and it also makes entering and exiting even easier. No more crouching and awkward bending to do simple everyday things such as changing, reading, or eating, the Backroadz truck tent comes in an impressive five different sizes, so you’re sure to get the perfect fit for your vehicle.

As always, this brand continues to manufacture tents that are smartly designed and built for outdoor shelter in all weather. The shock-corded, fiberglass poles make for a super easy setup and they’re easy to dismantle too. The flexibility of the poles also means you’ll get an incredibly sturdy tent.

The tough, 68D polyester taffeta shell is breathable and won’t sag when it gets wet. Ideal for summer camping as this material offers UV protection and the rainfly is crafted from the very same fabric and is designed to stand up to severe rain. Enjoy a bug-free environment too, with the dense meshed windows and door. It also allows air to circulate.

Features We Like:
  • Long-lasting and durable
  • Great ventilation
  • Spacious interior
  • Mesh windows to keep bugs and insects out

10. Hasika Double Layer Truck tent

Max Occupancy: 3 persons | Item Weight: 13.23 lbs

Description

Last on our list of the best truck tents is this super cheap and cheerful model from Hasika. This would make the perfect first truck tent for newbies or as a shelter for a last-minute trip. Super simple to set up and incredibly versatile, it’s easy to see why this model is popular.

With over 5.6 feet of headroom, it can comfortably sleep two people and is also equipped with a sewn-in floor to keep you dry while you get a restful night’s sleep. The two mesh windows and side vents ensure optimal ventilation.

The optional awning provides extra shade during hot sunny spells and it’s big enough to fit a table and chairs underneath, for ultimate relaxation on your trip. Offering great value for money, it includes a handy carry bag, poles, reflective ropes, and an instruction manual for a seamless setup.

Features We Like:
  • Super affordable
  • Sleeps 2+ people
  • One of the cheapest truck tents on our list

Buyer’s Guide to Truck Bed Tents

In this section, we’ll take you through some important things you’ll need to think about before you purchase your new truck tent. It may seem like a straightforward purchase, but which tent you need depends on many things, such as where you’re going, the type of climate and time of year, and how many people you’re camping with.

These factors are even more important if you’re a first-time buyer and don’t know exactly what you’re looking for. Read on to find out how to make your final decision!

Size

Size is one of the first things you need to think about when you’re choosing your new tent. How many people are going with you? Are you camping solo? Most truck bed tents sleep a maximum of two people as the tent has to fit into the truck bed.

However, some models do have extensions that can be attached, be aware though that these are usually sold separately. These extensions would allow you to bring more people with you on your trip. Or if you’re camping as a duo it would make a great changing/storage area to leave more room in the tent for you.

If you’re camping on your own, you’ll be able to enjoy the luxury of the extra room that a two-person tent offers! Why not opt for the extension as well for even more room for yourself! You could have your own sleeping area and a changing/sitting area all to yourself!

Durability

Durability is really important! When you’re camping, whether that’s ground camping or truck bed camping, you’ll be at the mercy of the unpredictable weather and you need a tent that’s going to protect you. A poor quality and unreliable tent will just result in a pretty miserable camping trip!

Most truck tents are built for three-season use, from spring through to the fall. They’re usually built to provide good airflow through these seasons and it’s for this reason that they’re not the best for winter camping, they just wouldn’t be warm enough!

Of course, if you have access to good thermal gear there’s no reason you couldn’t use them for winter, however, it’s not recommended to use them in heavy snow, as they’re just not built to withstand it.

When looking at the durability, definitely choose a windproof model, you don’t want your new tent blowing off your truck and disappearing with the wind! Truck bed tents should be thought of as an investment, go for the very best model that you can afford and focus on general weather and waterproofness.

Weight

Consider the weight as well. While it may not be as much of an issue as say, a backpacking tent, you still want your truck bed tent to be easy to haul around and to store. When you’re camping you want your tent to be quick to unpack and store away.

A cumbersome, heavy tent is inconvenient and is enough to spoil your trip, especially if you know you’ll be moving from one spot to another. You can’t drive the truck with it set up, you’ll have to disassemble it and assemble it every time you move, so having a lightweight model that’s easy to handle will make life a lot less stressful for you.

Most higher-end tents are manufactured from lightweight but high-quality materials for this reason. You get all the waterproofness and durability without the extra weight.

Set Up

Truck bed tents that are quick and easy to set up will make your camping adventure a lot more enjoyable. Putting up a tent is probably not at the top of everyone’s list of their favorite things to do while camping, but a model that’s easy to handle will make it a more painless task.

Look out for a tent with poles that use a color code system, this will make the setup even easier. Tents with extra straps that fasten under your truck is also a bonus! An instruction manual is invaluable too. It means you can flick through the instructions before your trip so you know exactly what you’re doing.

Ultimately, tents that are easy to install will save a lot of time and hassle, particularly if you arrive at your campsite late in the evening. If it’s getting dark quickly you want to be set up and in your shelter as quickly as possible!

Compatibility

Before you rush out to look at truck tents, you’ll need to make sure that it will fit your particular vehicle. If you happen to have a Chevrolet Avalanche then the Napier Sportz Avalanche is a perfect choice, as it’s been designed to specifically fit that Chevy model.

Most tents come in various designs so you can get the perfect fit. When measuring for your tent, make sure you measure with the tailgate closed, as this will give the most accurate measurement.

Truck bed tents usually fit a range of pickup trucks, from Honda and Ford to Chevrolet and Nissan. However, always be certain that your chosen tent will fit your vehicle. It’s a good idea to check with the manufacturer or retailer to be on the safe side.

Budget

Last but certainly not least, consider your budget. This is particularly important as a tent is an investment. If you’re going camping in the summer then you could probably get away with buying a cheaper model, as things like waterproofness probably won’t be needed as much

However, if you’re heading out in the fall or even in winter, you’ll need to buy the best possible model. Now, this isn’t to say that you need to bankrupt yourself, but camping out in cold, harsh weather is no joke. You need a tent that will protect you and stand up to the elements.

Lightweight, high-quality materials are what you need when it comes to camping in bad weather conditions. These higher-end materials do come with more substantial price tags though, so it’s important to consider your budget carefully. Buy the best you can afford and avoid a disastrous experience!

FAQs

Next, we’ve put together this useful FAQ section for any extra queries you may have. Hopefully, these will help you to make your final purchase and start your exciting camping adventure!

1. What is the best truck bed tent?

This all depends on factors such as what type of camping trip you’re embarking on and what climate you’ll be in. If you’re looking for an all-round super tough model then the Napier Sportz truck tent fits the bill nicely. With a generous head height and a sewn-in floor, the Sportz is a seriously tough tent.

If you’re a beginner looking to purchase your first tent, this truck tent is perfect. The great thing about this one is that the price is low but the quality of the fabric is outstanding. Breathable, tough, and an impressive 1500mm hydrostatic waterproof coating make this tent a real winner! Truck tents this cheap and good quality don’t come onto the market very often!

If you’re splashing out a bit more, why not opt for the ARB 804100 Simpson III? As a rooftop tent, you’ll have a sleeping area that’s completely off the ground for ultimate comfort. The super strong poles make up the tent’s frame and it even comes complete with a ladder and a foam mattress!

2. Are truck bed tents worth it?

Considering how cheap they are compared to other tents, yes they definitely are worth it. Rooftop tents are usually insanely expensive, usually, triple the cost of a truck bed tent. On the flipside, ground tents are less convenient and you could be sleeping on an uncomfortable, hard, and uneven surface.

Truck bed camping offers a comfortable off-the-ground sleeping area where you’re more protected and most of them have a floor so even if your truck bed is wet, you’ll stay dry. It’s an incredibly economical way of camping and allows you much more freedom, as you can drive to places you may not be able to get to on foot.

If you’re looking for a convenient and super economical way of traveling and camping, truck tents are definitely the way to go! They offer all the benefits of a regular tent without a complicated setup.

3. Can a truck tent be used on the ground?

In a word, no. The same way you wouldn’t put a ground tent on the back of your truck, using a truck bed tent on the floor just wouldn’t really work. They are specially engineered to fit the back of your truck so they wouldn’t perform very well on the ground.

Many truck tent brands include optional awnings so you have an area for shelter from the rain or sun. For some tent models, you can even buy extensions separately so that you end up with an extra room. This could be a changing area or a place to keep muddy boots and outdoor gear so that your sleeping area stays clean and dry.

The bottom line is, if you want to camp on the ground, it’s better to buy a specialized ground tent, otherwise if you have a truck, you can reap all the benefits of the cleverly designed truck bed tent.

4. How do you put a tent on a truck bed?

Most tent models come with an instruction manual. It’s a good idea to have a read through it before you set out, that way you’ll know what you’re doing, saving time and stress! Most tent brands manufacture their products with extra straps that fit underneath your vehicle for extra stability.

Modern brands usually design their tents to be easy to install and more often than not, they can be set up by just one person.

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