by Joshua Thomas
If you enjoy spending the night outside, then the truck tent is one of the most useful accessories that you can purchase.
As its name suggests, it is simply a tent that you deploy over your truck. It is comfortable, easy to deploy, and protect you much more than a regular tent.
This is because you deploy the truck tent over your vehicle, and it is elevated from the ground. You will be protected from humidity, insects, and bugs, and other animals crawling on the ground.
Without any further ado, let's check out some of the best truck tents that money can buy.
Contents
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|
 | 1. Kodiak Canvas 7218 (Best Overall) |
|
 | 2. Napier Backroadz |
|
 | 3. Guide Gear Full Size |
|
 | 4. Rightline Gear |
|
 | 5. SportZ 570 |
|
When it comes to size, the Kodiak Canvas 7218 is one of the biggest models that you will find in this truck tent review. Indeed, at 8 feet, it is quite large and spacious. It will be able to accommodate multiple people with ease.
Moreover, due to its tunnel-shaped design, it will maximize space inside the tent, and it can even host a tall person because it has a ceiling height of 5 feet. You normally install this truck tent at the back of your truck, and since it is elevated, it will protect you from the humidity underground and other animals crawling.
Installation is very easy, and you get all accessories out of the box. Further, the steel frame of this tent makes it quite sturdy, even in windy conditions.
And when it comes to the built construction, no problem there because this model is made from Cotton Duct Canvas which is a lightweight and durable material. It will last a long time. Further, it is waterproof, so you'll always be warm and cozy inside even during rainfall.
And when it comes to air circulation, this model is one of the best full-size truck tents we have seen. It has no less than 5 windows for superior air circulation. It is ideal for hot and humid environments.
The only problems we have with this tent is that it is not fully enclosed. So, bugs may still enter. It also accumulates snow at the top in snowy conditions. We only recommend this model for hot climates.
Pros
Cons
The Napier Backroadz is an excellent choice for beginners who need an easy to mount truck tent. Various parts of this tent have been color-coded to make it extremely easy to install. Moreover, this unit has a built-in floor despite being mounted on your truck.
This will provide greater comfort and prevent you from making contact with the cold metal floor of your truck. We like the build construction of this truck tent. It is made from an 800 mm PU Polyester Taffeta material that is incredibly durable.
Further, the material is also breathable, and the multiple windows of this tent make the inside quite cool. However, the windows themselves are built-in the tent and cannot be opened or closed.
You can purchase this truck tent in various sizes depending on your need. Whether you need a big or a small tent for your truck, you will get it with this model.
We also like the fact that this tent is quite tall, at 5.6 feet. This is an excellent height for both short and tall users. Just keep in mind that the poles of this truck tent are its weakest link. It cannot support a lot of weight.
But despite this, we can still safely recommend this model as the best truck bed tent on the market.
Pros
Cons
Not everyone can spend hundreds of dollars on a truck tent. This is where models like the Guide Gear comes into play. When compared on price alone, this model is by far the best truck tent for the money.
However, despite being very affordable, it still does not sacrifice quality. Indeed, it is made from 190T Polyester, which is quite durable and long-lasting. It is also fully waterproof as well as weatherproof so you will not get wet during a rain shower.
This model also has a 1500 mm water-resistant coating to prevent water and humidity from entering the tent, keeping it warm and comfortable inside. Pretty neat!
When it comes to the interior, you have a 5.25 feet headroom, which is a decent height. It will not be too short or too tall for an average person. Furthermore, this model will fit almost any type of truck with ease. No problem with the installation because it is very easy to do as well.
All in all, this is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a truck tent. The only issue we have with it is that the number of windows is limited, so air circulation is not the best in this model.
Pros
Cons
What makes the Rightline Gear such a great truck tent is that it comes with a sky view vent. This will allow you to enjoy the sky at night while still getting protection from the outside.
This model is a floorless design, so you will need your own floor cushion. However, it is made in this way to make installation easier by beginners. Also, it is much lighter when compared to other models. Talking about the installation process, the poles are color-coded, so you cannot install it in the wrong manner.
What we also like about this model is that it is fully waterproof. It can be used during heavy rainfall, and it will not get wet inside. This is because it uses a fully water-resistant fabric, as well as the seams, are sealed and taped with a 2000 mm PU material.
Moreover, you have the possibility to purchase this model in different sizes depending on the size of your truck. Pretty neat!
And despite being a little bit expensive, this model is still one of the best truck tent campers out there. It is easy to install, provides you with a great view of the sky and comes in a wide range of sizes to choose.
Pros
Cons
The SportZ 570 is a general-purpose and versatile truck tent that can be used for any type of activity, from angling to camping. It demarks itself from the competition by being very easy to install as well as containing a built-in floor for comfort.
There are large windows in this tent that always guarantees good air circulation. Moreover, the rear is open, and you can quickly and easily gain access to the cab without the need of getting off the tent. This can be very helpful, especially during wintertime.
What we also like about this model is that it has a very decent headroom of 5.7 feet, which makes it one of the highest in this entire review. If you're a tall person, the SportZ 570 is an excellent source for you.
In addition, there is also a large 4 feet x 4 feet awning on the outside that provides you with shade during a hot summer day. Very few models have this functionality. The only real disadvantage with this product is its steep price, and the awning pole clamps are fragile.
But other than this, this model is one of the best truck tents for the money, especially for those who like camping outdoors, whether in the summer or the winter.
Pros
Cons
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a pickup truck tent is ventilation.
This is because, without proper ventilation, the temperature inside the tag will increase significantly, making it uncomfortable.
Therefore, your chosen truck tent must have proper ventilation. For best ventilation, look for at least 2 vents in your truck tent. One for air to enter and the other for it to leave. This is the minimum number that it needs to have.
In addition, you should also be able to enter or exit the truck tent as easy as possible. It needs to have a large entry with enough headroom. In fact, the taller you are, the more headroom you will need.
For the average person, a truck tent with a headroom of 5.6 feet is enough.
The size of your truck tent will directly depend on the number of people that you are willing to accommodate. The more people that will sleep in the tent, the larger the size must be.
If you will be the only one camping in your truck tent, then a model that is at least 5.5 feet is enough. For those accommodating more people, go with a larger model of at least 6 feet. You will find models that are as wide as 8 feet if you need an ultra-big tent.
However, when choosing the size of your truck tent, keep in mind the size of your truck as well because a very large tent will not fit a small truck. It needs to be sized appropriately.
The material used in the built construction of your truck that will decide how durable and long-lasting it is. Most manufacturers choose to go with a material like Polyester, Canvas, or waterproof fabric.
All those materials have almost the same durability and longevity, and you can expect most top-rated truck tents on the market to be made from those materials.
In addition to the material used in the tent, you must also consider the sleeving on the seams.
This is because, during a rainfall shower, water can easily enter the tent if the seams are not protected. They need to be taped from a special heavy-duty waterproof material to keep the tent dry.
You will basically find it 2 types of tents for trucks on the market. One model that has a built-in floor and the other that does not.
The model with a built-in floor works pretty much the same way as a regular camping tent. It has the floor so you can install it everywhere.
The main disadvantage of this type of tent is that since you normally install it on the ground, it comes in contact with humidity and other insects.
With the traditional truck tent that does not have the floor, you install it behind your truck. Since it is elevated, it offers you more protection against humidity, insects, and other animals crawling on the ground.
The poles in your truck tent are what holds the tent in position and give it structure. Therefore, since this is an important part of your truck tent, it must be heavy-duty and very durable.
Check out if the manufacturer makes any mention about the pole and how durable it is.
Additionally, you should ensure that the poles are color-coded as this will make mounting the truck tent easier.
If you want to quickly and easily access the cab of your truck from inside your tent, then you should go with a model that has this feature. Not all truck tents have it.
One of the biggest advantages of a model that has cab access is that you do not have to get out of the tent to enter your truck. This is a big advantage, especially for those camping out in a very cold environment.
The whole point of a truck tent is to be easy to install. You do not want a model that is complicated to mount.
If you have never installed a truck tent before, then choose a model that comes with an instruction's manual.
Additionally, there are many beginner-friendly truck tents out there that have a color-coded part that will make installation significantly easier and faster.
Napier Sportz Vehicle Specific Compact Short Truck Bed Portable 2 Person Outdoor Camping - Walmart Link
Napier Backroadz Truck Tent , Grey/Green, Full Size Regular Bed (6.4'-6.7') - Walmart Link
Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent - Walmart Link
Rightline Gear 110730 Full-Size Standard Truck Bed Tent 6.5', Gray and orange - Walmart Link
Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent for Camping, Car Bed Camp Tents for Pickup Trucks, Fits - Walmart Link
Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 Extended Rooftop Tent RTT - Dark Gray Base with Green - Walmart Link
Napier Backroadz Truck Tent, Grey/Green, Full Size Short Bed (5.5'-5.8') - Walmart Link
Kariyee Truck Tent Waterproof Double Layer Camping Tent | Full Size Short Bed 5.5'-5.8' - Walmart Link
Sportz Truck Tent Blue/Grey (Full Size Short 6.5-Feet Box) - Walmart Link
VEVOR Truck Tent 6.5 ft, Truck Bed Tent, Pickup Tent for Full Size Truck, Waterproof - Walmart Link
Raptor Series 100000-126800 Offgrid Voyager Truck SUV Camping Rooftop Tent with Ladder - Walmart Link
TMBK 3 Person Roof Top Tent with Rain Fly Tan Base & Green Rainfly - Walmart Link
ARB 803804 Simpson Tent Incl. Annex/Ladder Simpson Tent - Walmart Link
Napier Sportz Link Portable 4 Person Truck Bed Attachment Outdoor Camping Tent with - Walmart Link
Smittybilt 2888 Tent Annex - Walmart Link
Smittybilt (2784 8.2' x 6.2' Tent Awning - Walmart Link
Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp - 7.5 x 9.5 Feet, Dark Green - Walmart Link
Napier Sportz Vehicle Specific Compact Short Truck Bed Portable 2 Person Outdoor Camping - eBay Link
Napier Backroadz Truck Tent , Grey/Green, Full Size Regular Bed (6.4'-6.7') - eBay Link
Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent - eBay Link
Rightline Gear 110730 Full-Size Standard Truck Bed Tent 6.5', Gray and orange - eBay Link
Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent for Camping, Car Bed Camp Tents for Pickup Trucks, Fits - eBay Link
Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 Extended Rooftop Tent RTT - Dark Gray Base with Green - eBay Link
Napier Backroadz Truck Tent, Grey/Green, Full Size Short Bed (5.5'-5.8') - eBay Link
Kariyee Truck Tent Waterproof Double Layer Camping Tent | Full Size Short Bed 5.5'-5.8' - eBay Link
Sportz Truck Tent Blue/Grey (Full Size Short 6.5-Feet Box) - eBay Link
VEVOR Truck Tent 6.5 ft, Truck Bed Tent, Pickup Tent for Full Size Truck, Waterproof - eBay Link
Raptor Series 100000-126800 Offgrid Voyager Truck SUV Camping Rooftop Tent with Ladder - eBay Link
TMBK 3 Person Roof Top Tent with Rain Fly Tan Base & Green Rainfly - eBay Link
ARB 803804 Simpson Tent Incl. Annex/Ladder Simpson Tent - eBay Link
Napier Sportz Link Portable 4 Person Truck Bed Attachment Outdoor Camping Tent with - eBay Link
Smittybilt 2888 Tent Annex - eBay Link
Smittybilt (2784 8.2' x 6.2' Tent Awning - eBay Link
Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp - 7.5 x 9.5 Feet, Dark Green - eBay Link
The truck tent is an extremely useful accessory to have for campers or outdoor lovers. You can quickly and easily deploy over your truck and get the full protection of a tent.
It is fully waterproof, weatherproof, as well as provide protection from insects and other bugs. Not to mention that it is very durable and long-lasting. This is not a camping accessory that you must buy every year because it will last you a long time.
If you are planning a day out in your truck, then you need to get one right now from our truck tent review above.
 |
 |
 |
 |
About Joshua Thomas
Joshua Thomas just simply loves cars and willing to work on them whenever there's chance... sometimes for free.
He started CarCareTotal back in 2017 from the advices of total strangers who witnessed his amazing skills in car repairs here and there.
His goal with this creation is to help car owners better learn how to maintain and repair their cars; as such, the site would cover alot of areas: troubleshooting, product recommendations, tips & tricks.
Joshua received Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at San Diego State University.
Just Car Care
