Best Truck Camper For Short Bed (2024 Updated)

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If you're in need of a compact and versatile living space for your short bed truck, a truck camper can be an ideal solution. However, with so many options available in the market, finding the best truck camper for short bed can be a daunting task. To help you make an informed decision, here are 5 key points you should consider:

1. Weight and Size: The size and weight of the camper should match your truck's payload capacity and bed size. A camper that is too heavy or too long can cause stability and safety issues while driving.

2. Build Quality: A well-built truck camper can withstand extreme weather conditions and rough terrains. Look for a camper made of durable and lightweight materials such as aluminum or fiberglass.

3. Features and Amenities: Consider the features and amenities that are important to you, such as a comfortable bed, kitchen, bathroom, storage, and entertainment options.

4. Cost: Truck campers can vary in price depending on their quality, size, and features. Set a budget and look for a camper that provides the best value for your money.

5. Compatibility: Not all truck campers are compatible with all short bed trucks. Make sure to check the compatibility of the camper with your truck's make and model.

By considering these key points, you can narrow down your options and find the best truck camper for your short bed truck that suits your needs and budget.

10 Best Truck Camper For Short Bed

1. Fofana Pickup Truck Bed Tent – Automatic Setup For Full Size Beds | Overland Camping Camper Shell | Patents Pending

The FOFANA Truck Bed Tent Automatic Setup is the perfect choice for anyone who loves camping and wants a quick and easy setup, without sacrificing comfort or convenience. The innovative and patent-pending automatic tent is sure to impress, with a roomy interior and waterproof design that comfortably sleeps two adults.

With a six-foot standing height and full sewn-in floor, this truck bed tent provides maximum storage and organization with mega interior pockets and a gear loft. It's perfect for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities and is easy to set up, even for those who are not experienced campers.

The FOFANA Truck Bed Tent Automatic Setup is a universal fit and fits all full-size truck beds, including 5.5 ft, 6.5 ft, and 8 ft beds. It's made to fit like a glove and works with a variety of truck makes and models, including the Ford F150, Dodge Ram 1500, GMC Sierra, Chevy Silverado, Nissan Titan, and Toyota Tundra.

One of the standout features of this truck bed tent is the massive full-height windows that provide a panoramic 360-degree view and a 180-degree celestial sky view. Whether you want to take in the beautiful scenery or zip the window flaps closed for privacy, this tent has you covered.

Take down is just as simple as set up, so you can break camp in record time and have more time to relax and enjoy nature. With no loose poles to wrestle with, this tent for truck bed camper is the ultimate choice for anyone who wants convenience and comfort everywhere they go.

In conclusion, the FOFANA Truck Bed Tent Automatic Setup is an excellent investment for anyone who loves camping and wants to make their outdoor adventures more comfortable and convenient. With its quick and easy setup, roomy interior, waterproof design, and panoramic views, this truck bed tent is a must-have accessory for any pickup truck owner.

2. Live And Sleep Ultra Rv Short Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress – 12 Inch – Cool Bed In A Box For Camper, Trailer, Truck.

The Live and Sleep Ultra RV Mattress is the perfect solution for those looking for a comfortable sleep while on the road. This Short Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress is a 12-inch cool bed in a box that is designed specifically for campers, trailers, trucks, and RVs.

The mattress cradles the body in a deluxe cushion of 2.5” Premium Air-Flow Memory Foam over 1” of Gel-Infused Visco Memory Foam plus 8.5” of High Density Support Base, providing the ultimate comfort. The breathable and plush short queen mattress is made of quality materials, and it is not cheap or made of inexpensive foam. The balanced contouring of the mattress relaxes and cools the body, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a comfortable sleep while on the road.

The top-rated RV memory foam mattress has received rave reviews from more than 95% of customers, and it is designed to relieve pressure points, reduce tossing and turning, and provide a comfortable sleep. The medium-firm HD core is perfect for stomach, back, and side sleepers, making it a great choice for a variety of sleeping positions.

The soft linen cover of the mattress works on any home bedroom furniture bedframe set, box spring, or futon. It is comfortable and has a conforming sensation, making it an ideal choice for those who want to sleep soundly while on the road. The mattress can be used with a bedding pad or protector on any mattress, cot, tri-fold, or guest room bed.

The Live and Sleep Ultra RV Mattress is CertiPUR-US certified, ensuring that it meets the highest standards for quality, safety, and environmental responsibility. The mattress can be used on box-spring, platform, adjustable, or hard floor only, and it comes with a full refund guarantee from a 30-day trial and a 20-year warranty.

Designed in the USA, the Live and Sleep Ultra RV Mattress is the perfect choice for those looking for a comfortable and cool sleep while on the road. It is an ideal solution for campers, trailers, trucks, and RVs, and it offers the perfect balance of comfort and support for a good night's sleep.

3. Supertop For Truck 2 – '16-19 Tacoma; For 6 Ft. Bed

Bestop has recently improved their Supertop for Truck, creating the ultimate solution in flexible storage and coverage for truck beds. This advanced design allows for effortless one-person operation, making it an ideal choice for truck owners who prefer to work independently. The Supertop for Truck has been specifically designed for the 2016-2019 Tacoma with a 6 ft. bed.

The Supertop for Truck is incredibly easy to install, requiring no drilling whatsoever. The top attaches to the truck bed with four clamps, which are included in the package. This straightforward and hassle-free installation process allows you to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

One of the key features of the Supertop for Truck is its removable fabric side panels. This feature allows you to customize the amount of coverage you need for your cargo, giving you greater flexibility and versatility when transporting items in your truck bed. When not in use, the side panels can be easily removed and stored in the built-in storage system, along with the main top.

The Supertop for Truck has also been designed with safety in mind. It includes a functional third brake light (CHMSL) that is sewn into the top, along with a wiring harness for quick electrical disconnect. This feature ensures that your vehicle remains visible to other drivers, even when the cover is fully deployed.

Overall, the Supertop for Truck is a reliable and convenient solution for truck owners who need to transport cargo while keeping it protected from the elements. Its one-person operation and easy installation make it a top choice for anyone who wants to maximize their time and efficiency on the job.

4. Bestop 7630835 Black Diamond Supertop For Truck – 5.0' Bed For 2005-2020 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab

The Bestop 7630835 Black Diamond Supertop for Truck – 5.0' Bed for 2005-2020 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab is an exceptional product that offers a unique blend of style and functionality. Made from the same premium fabric as the Supertop for Jeep CJ and Wrangler, this product features zip-out side panels and is available with optional tinted window kits.

The Supertop comes with improved frame and hardware that ensures easier installation and operation. It features Bestop's original belt rail attachment system, which provides secure mounting for the product. This means that the Supertop is not only easy to install but also ensures that your cargo is safe and protected.

The Supertop for truck is designed to provide both protection for your cargo in the bed and easy collapsibility of the convertible top. This makes it ideal for those who want to enjoy the benefits of a convertible top without sacrificing the protection of their cargo.

The product comes with a 2-year limited warranty that covers any defects in material and workmanship. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you are getting a high-quality product that is backed by a reputable company.

In conclusion, the Bestop 7630835 Black Diamond Supertop for Truck – 5.0' Bed for 2005-2020 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab is a must-have product for anyone who wants to enjoy the benefits of a convertible top while ensuring that their cargo is safe and protected. With its premium fabric, improved frame and hardware, and original belt rail attachment system, this product offers exceptional value for money.

5. Joytutus Waterproof Pickup Truck Bed Tent – 2 Person, Double Layer, Portable, Camping Preferred (Orange)

The JoyTutus Pickup Truck Tent is an excellent solution for outdoor enthusiasts who prefer camping in their pickup trucks. This waterproof tent is made of 150D polyester oxford, which is coated with a PU2000 waterproof coating to ensure that the tent stays dry and rainproof. The tent's bottom features a waterproof layer, which prevents rainwater from infiltrating and maintains a clean and dry interior.

The tent's installation is relatively simple, but users must pay attention when installing the tent poles. It is crucial to ensure that the front and rear poles are tightly connected and seamless to prevent breaking. In case of improper operation leading to pole breakage during installation, JoyTutus provides a one-time replacement opportunity free of charge.

For privacy protection, the tent includes three windows, two for sightseeing and one for hunting or observation. The double-layer design allows users to pull the shading layer when sleeping at night and put it down during the day while leaving the screen layer to prevent debris from entering the tent.

The tent's interior features four mesh bags, making it easy to collect items to keep the space tidy. The tent measures 90.5 x 62.9 x 66.9 inches, and the package includes one tent, one carrying bag, four fiberglass poles, and a user guide. However, the tent does not come with an LED light string, but customers can contact JoyTutus to purchase one.

The JoyTutus Pickup Truck Tent is compatible with pickup trucks with a 5.5-6 ft bed, making it suitable for various truck models such as F150, Ram, Silverado, Tundra, Sierra, Titan, and more.

In summary, the JoyTutus Pickup Truck Tent is an excellent camping solution for pickup truck owners. Its waterproof material, privacy protection, and convenient interior make it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

6. Adco Truck Camper Cover For 8'-10' Queen Bed, Medium Size (193"-213"), In Gray Aqua Shed Material.

The ADCO 12264 SFS Aqua Shed Truck Camper Cover is a high-quality protective cover designed to shield your truck camper from the elements. This cover is specifically designed for truck campers with a queen-sized bed between 8 and 10 feet in length, and it measures a spacious 213 inches in length, 104 inches in width, and 104 inches in height.

The SFS Aqua-shed triple layer top panel of this cover is designed to bead water on contact, making it ideal for use in moderate climates and for short-term storage. This top panel is made from a high-performance polypropylene material that is both durable and resistant to the harmful effects of UV radiation.

In addition to the triple layer top panel, the ADCO 12264 SFS Aqua Shed Truck Camper Cover features high-performance polypropylene side panels. These panels are designed to be both breathable and water-resistant, ensuring that your truck camper stays dry and well-ventilated even during long periods of storage.

The cover is also equipped with a range of other useful features, including reinforced corners and zippered access panels for easy installation and removal. It also comes with a storage bag for easy transport and storage when not in use.

Overall, the ADCO 12264 SFS Aqua Shed Truck Camper Cover is an excellent choice for anyone looking to protect their truck camper from the elements. Its durable construction, water-resistant top panel, and breathable side panels make it ideal for use in a range of different climates and storage conditions. So, if you want to keep your truck camper looking and functioning like new, this cover is definitely worth considering.

7. Paramount Automotive 19601 Full Size Camper Shell Contractors Rack For Long-Short Bed, Black

The Paramount Automotive 19601 Full Size Camper Shell Contractors Rack for Long-Short Bed is a must-have for hauling and transporting heavy-duty equipment. This rack is designed to fit perfectly onto your truck bed without any cutting or drilling required, ensuring easy installation.

Made from heavy-duty steel construction, this rack is built to last and can withstand the toughest of jobs. It is designed specifically to accommodate full-size camper shells and is perfect for long-short beds.

The Paramount Automotive 19601 Full Size Camper Shell Contractors Rack for Long-Short Bed is sold as each and comes with all the necessary mounting hardware required for installation. This makes installation easy and hassle-free, ensuring that you can get the job done quickly and efficiently.

The rack is designed with the needs of contractors in mind, and it is perfect for transporting heavy equipment, ladders, and other tools. Its sturdy construction ensures that your equipment is secure and protected during transportation.

In addition to its practicality, the rack also has a sleek and modern design that adds a touch of style to your truck. Its black finish gives it a clean and polished look that is both professional and stylish.

Overall, the Paramount Automotive 19601 Full Size Camper Shell Contractors Rack for Long-Short Bed is a high-quality and durable rack that is perfect for contractors and anyone who needs to transport heavy equipment or tools. Its easy installation, heavy-duty steel construction, and sleek design make it an excellent investment for anyone looking to improve their truck's capabilities.

8. Napier Backroadz Truck Tent, Grey/green, Full Size Short Bed (5.5'-5.8')

The Napier Backroadz Truck Tent is the perfect solution for outdoor enthusiasts who love camping but prefer the convenience and security of sleeping in the bed of their truck. This tent is designed to fit full-size short bed trucks with a length of 5.5 to 5.8 feet.

The tent features two large windows that offer superior ventilation, ensuring that you stay cool and comfortable even in warm weather conditions. The large interior area provides ample headroom, making it easy to move around inside the tent. Additionally, the full rainfly provides ultimate weather protection, along with additional storm flaps covering the windows and doors.

One of the unique features of the Napier Backroadz Truck Tent is its commitment to sustainability. For every tent purchased, a tree is planted through Napier's partnership with Trees for the Future. This not only helps to offset the impact of manufacturing, but also contributes to reforestation efforts around the world.

The tent is designed with convenience in mind, featuring a gear loft, gear pocket, and lantern holder to keep personal items organized. The added security of being inside the bed of your truck provides peace of mind, especially if an unwanted visitor, such as a critter, strolls by.

The full tent floor keeps you clean from your truck and dry from the elements, ensuring a comfortable night's sleep. Setup is a breeze thanks to the color-coded pole and sleeve assembly, which takes only 10 minutes to complete.

The window material is made of polyester mesh, which is durable and provides excellent air flow. The grey and green color scheme is attractive and blends well with natural surroundings.

Overall, the Napier Backroadz Truck Tent is an excellent choice for anyone who loves camping but wants the convenience and security of sleeping in the bed of their truck. Its superior ventilation, weather protection, and sustainability commitment make it an excellent investment for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Truck Camper For Short Bed FAQs

How can you maximize the space and functionality of a short bed truck camper?

To maximize the space and functionality of a short bed truck camper, consider the following tips:

1. Optimize storage space: Look for creative ways to utilize all available space, such as installing shelves or using storage containers that fit under the bed.

2. Multi-purpose furniture: Invest in furniture that can serve more than one purpose, such as a table that can be converted into a bed or a sofa with built-in storage.

3. Use vertical space: Install hooks or shelves on the walls to store items like jackets or cooking utensils.

4. Compact appliances: Choose appliances that are compact and can be easily stored when not in use, such as a portable stove or collapsible sink.

5. Keep it organized: Implement a system to keep everything in its place, such as using labeled bins or baskets.

By following these tips, you can maximize the space and functionality of your short bed truck camper and make the most out of your travels.

How do you determine if a truck camper is suitable for a short bed truck?

To determine if a truck camper is suitable for a short bed truck, several factors must be considered. First, the weight of the camper must be within the payload capacity of the truck. Second, the dimensions of the camper must fit within the dimensions of the truck bed, including the overhang. Third, the camper must have a design that allows for adequate clearance between the camper and the truck cab during turns.

It is also important to consider the suspension and stability of the truck when carrying a camper. Short bed trucks may have a shorter wheelbase, which can affect stability and handling when carrying a heavy load like a camper.

To ensure a safe and suitable match between a truck and camper, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer or a professional camper dealer. They can provide guidance on weight limits, dimensions, and compatibility based on the specific make and model of the truck and camper.

What are the advantages of using a truck camper on a short bed truck?

Using a truck camper on a short bed truck offers several advantages. Firstly, it provides greater maneuverability and flexibility on the road, allowing drivers to navigate tight corners and narrow roads with ease. Additionally, the compact size of a short bed truck makes it easier to park and store in smaller spaces. Furthermore, the reduced length and weight of the truck camper on a short bed truck can result in improved fuel efficiency, reducing costs on long trips. Finally, short bed trucks can be less expensive than their long bed counterparts, making them a more affordable option for those looking to purchase a truck for camping purposes. Overall, using a truck camper on a short bed truck can provide greater convenience, flexibility, and affordability for camping enthusiasts.

What are the best truck campers for short bed pickups?

There are several great truck campers available for short bed pickups, including the Lance 825, Northern Lite 8-11EX, and Adventurer 80RB. The Lance 825 is a popular option with its lightweight design and ample storage space. The Northern Lite 8-11EX is known for its high-quality construction and luxurious amenities, including a full bathroom and queen-sized bed. The Adventurer 80RB is another top pick, featuring a spacious interior with a large dinette and plenty of storage. Other notable options include the Four Wheel Camper Hawk, Palomino SS-550, and Alaskan 6.5. When choosing a truck camper for a short bed pickup, it's important to consider the weight and size of the camper, as well as the payload capacity of the truck. It's also important to ensure the camper is compatible with the specific make and model of the truck.

What features should you look for in a truck camper for a short bed truck?

When it comes to choosing a truck camper for a short bed truck, there are a few key features to look for. Firstly, the camper should have a low profile and streamlined design to ensure that it fits comfortably on the truck bed without adding too much weight or height. Additionally, it should have a lightweight construction to avoid overloading the truck's payload capacity. Other important features to consider include a spacious and comfortable interior, ample storage space, and a sturdy and durable construction that can withstand rough terrain and adverse weather conditions. It's also important to look for a camper that has a convenient and user-friendly setup process, as well as features such as a bathroom, kitchen, and heating/cooling system for maximum comfort and convenience. Overall, the ideal truck camper for a short bed truck should be practical, functional, and comfortable, while also being lightweight and easy to transport.

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